Testimonials

Two cultures - Filipino and French - came together like a melodious symphony when Cha Yabao and JB Brunet tied the knot at the Heart of Station Zero&nbsp;When two cultures come together, one usually expects a cacophonic clash as elements from one would tend to run opposite to those from the other. Differences in opinion, especially among members of a bridal party, also pose a challenge that could cast a damper over the celebration.&nbsp;But this wasn’t the case when Filipino bride Cha Yabao said “I do” to her French beau JB Brunet. From an exquisite beachfront ceremony that brought happy tears to everyone’s eyes, to a delectable buffet reception which guests savored to their hearts’ content, and even to excellent accommodations and service rivaling the world’s best, the team at Crimson Resort and Spa Boracay made sure that everything fell into place, merging into a harmonious whole.&nbsp;

"When it came to the wedding ceremony itself and the arrangements, they were flexible since modern Filipino culture is already quite westernized," JB says when asked about how they went about planning the big day. &nbsp;Cha agrees with this, pointing out how her own family and friends were flexible and ready for anything as far as her wedding was concerned. "My advice is to understand the cultural background a bit to blend traditions well," she suggests for those who find themselves in a similar cross-cultural union. "Even simple gestures like beso-beso [cheek kissing] or casual greetings can make a big difference. One ought to pay attention to communication styles, too."&nbsp;For Cha and JB, what made the merry match-up of cultures easier was the great deal of similarity between France and the Philippines. Considering the geographical distance between nations, Filipinos and the French find common ground in a surprising number of things, including their appreciation of good food and the finer things in life, a mutual love of natural beauty, as well as an emphasis on familial bonds.&nbsp;

Finding Common Ground 

For both Filipino and French families, it is ideal to hold one’s wedding at a church as the atmosphere lends a solemnity to the occasion. Thus, it came as a bit of a surprise for JB’s family when they discovered that the couple meant to take their vows on Boracay’s sunlit shoreline.&nbsp;&nbsp;"There are no beaches in France," JB says with a wry smile, "and weddings are customarily held in churches. Our beach wedding stood out because it was so different from the traditional set-up."&nbsp;In contrast to most beach weddings, however, Cha adds that there was a prayerful touch to theirs. "Here, the ceremony is given more prominence, and there are prayers included," she says of the memorable ceremony on the shore.&nbsp;Likewise, while Cha's relatives came to the wedding in simple yet chic white polo shirts, JB's clan came dressed to the nines. But despite this difference in attire, the couple was pleased by how well everyone got along during both the ceremony and the reception. the language barrier notwithstanding.&nbsp;

A Departure from the Ordinary 

The couple found a great deal of stress taken off their shoulders by Crimson Boracay's on-site events team who proved themselves accommodating and helpful from start to finish, going so far as to regularly check on Cha, JB, and their guests to see if their needs were being met and that they were having a good time.&nbsp;On top of the staff's professionalism in the face of such a hectic event, guests also appreciated the little gestures that made all the difference, creating a truly memorable wedding. Where else, after all, could a bride and groom find a little sailboat with their names on it to serve as a sweetly picturesque accent to the tropical setting? Or even fire dancers bringing light, energy, and drama to an evening - something that left foreign guests spellbound? And, of course, guests from both nations enjoyed the international spread of delights offered at the reception buffet.&nbsp;"When it comes to beach gatherings, I believe Crimson was the best choice," JB declares enthusiastically. "For beachfront weddings, Crimson offers the best spot in Boracay. If we return to the Philippines for another vacation - either with kids or to host another family event - we would certainly choose Crimson again." &nbsp;

Cha and JB: A Harmonious Fusion in Crimson Boracay

Cha and JB: A Harmonious Fusion in Crimson Boracay