It was a few weeks after the proposal and just a few days before I was due to fly to Manila. Jan mentioned during a phone call that he found a church he really liked to get married in. (*Jan thanks Ninang Carmela who gave the heads up.) He said he would take me there as soon as I get to Manila. I was unfamiliar with Nuestra Senora de Gracia in Guadalupe, even though for around seven years of my life the jeep I rode home frequently passed it by.
Finally, I got to Manila and he took me to the church. The moment the car turned the gate and I saw the facade, I immediately fell in love with it. It was simply beautiful. I loved how it seemed to bring you back in time. Never mind the cars parked, instead of the horse carriages. "Yes, I'd like to get married there!" I haven't even checked the inside. Hehe!
This pic from another blog, and some more info in it too.It was timing that we arrived there while a wedding was going on. We snuck inside and watched. The lighting was beautiful in the inside, perfect for dramatic pictures. Then I remembered to check the aisle. Perfect! Not too long. I dread walking a long aisle in heels. And just enough time for me to revel in the people, look at the groom and not want to run back to my mother (except she would already be there waiting by the aisle. hehe!)
We reserved the church right then and there. Jan and I both felt that it the place we wanted to have our ceremonies. Our reservation was timing, too! When we paid the weekend after our visit, the rates just increased! If we didn't reserve beforehand, we'd have been covered by the new rates. *Cringe*
It was only during our third visit that we realized it was a bit warm. So for those who will join us in the ceremonies, kindly bring fans. There are electric fans available, but it may still be a little uncomfortable.