Photo by @teambenitezphoto

Love and elegance intertwined as Amaliya Shakirova and Carlos “Chuck” Oreta exchanged their vows in a wedding that felt like a scene from a fairytale.

The couple embraced the wonderful world of wedded bliss on January 11, 2025, with a ceremony held at the historic Nuestra Señora de Gracia Parish Church in Makati, Philippines. The significance of the church extended beyond aesthetics as it was a heartfelt recommendation from Carlos’s father, symbolizing endurance, strength, and love—much like the couple’s own journey. “Like the church we chose for our wedding, our relationship has endured trials and hardships and yet, here we are stronger than ever,” Amaliya said in an Instagram post.

The journey to their big day began at Discovery Primea where Amaliya prepared with her bridal party in a setting straight out of a dream. Wearing a breathtaking prep dress by Manny Halasan, who also designed her wedding gown, she instantly looked like she had just stepped into the pages of a divine love story. “At first, I didn’t realize it, but this dress made me feel like I had just stepped out of Greek mythology. But when I saw it, I understood his vision and absolutely agreed to his choice,” she stated.                                                        

The bride's beauty team, led by the talented Christopher Reondanga Fajardo, worked their magic, ensuring she looked nothing less than radiant on her big day. Meanwhile, her dream team of bridesmaids, including her closest friends and loved ones, gathered to celebrate and capture every joyful moment alongside the skilled photographers of Team Benitez Photo and videographers of Forevermine Wedding Films.                                                        

One of the most emotional moments came when her dream bridal bouquet arrived. Though peonies were out of season, FJ Sionson Flowers and Events managed to make the impossible happen, delivering the bouquet she had always envisioned.  

Dressed in a Manny Halasan masterpiece, with every intricate detail carefully perfected, Amaliya took a deep breath before stepping into her next chapter. The grand reveal of her wedding look to her parents and bridesmaids was met with pure joy and awe. “None of them saw me in my stunning dress by Manny Halasan,” she shared.                                                        

The church had been transformed into an ethereal dreamscape by The Love Garden with delicate white baby’s breath and classic roses lining the aisle, creating an atmosphere of timeless romance. Following the heartfelt ceremony, the newlyweds and their guests made their way to Blackbird at the Nielson Tower, an exquisite choice for the reception.                  

Amaliya and Carlos’s first dance, choreographed by Lowell Louie, was a true highlight of the night. “Days and nights of rehearsals paid off!" she shared. Thanks to Miss Lai, who let them rehearse at Dollar Studio, the couple executed a flawless routine that left guests in awe.        

Throughout the night, heartfelt speeches from their parents, groomsmen, and Amaliya’s man of honor brought tears and laughter to the room. Their words were filled with love, wisdom, and well wishes for the couple’s future. As guests indulged in the delightful wedding cake—complete with charming cartoon toppers by Mosk Cakes PH—the newlyweds couldn’t help but smile at how perfectly their day had unfolded. “Chuck and I tried the cake for the first time during the event, and we’re happy to hear our guests found it delicious. I personally adored the cartoon-style cake toppers of Chuck and me,” Amaliya mused.                                                        

Live music from Quartet Manila added an extra touch of romance to the evening, serenading guests throughout the dinner and leading into the night’s lively celebrations. The festivities continued well into the night with a spirited dance party led by Gerard Antonio.                   

In his heartfelt tribute to his bride, Carlos expressed, “You are my best friend, my confidante, my love, my huneychkin. You are the reason I wake up, the calm in the storm, and the ground beneath my feet.”                  

Cheers to a lifetime of happiness, Mr. and Mrs. Oreta!                     

Photos by @teambenitezphoto