Valeen Montenegro and Riel Manuel Photography by Amady

Valeen Montenegro and Riel Manuel just got married, and their wedding looked beautiful and well-curated in the dramatic portraits by photography team Amady.

The dreamy event, as bridesmaid Dasuri Choi said, 'was really perfect until the after party.' As it turned out, it wasn't only picture-perfect, it was also a heartwarming event that highlighted the reason everyone there was gathered in the first place: the union of two adventurous souls. That the guests saw and felt the love put into executing the event was proof that the wedding unfolded the way the couple wanted it to.

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Related Story: 5 Things We Love About Valeen Montenegro and Riel Manuel's Wedding

In an interview with Metro.Style, Valeen and Riel’s wedding planner, Cha Andrada, said the couple wanted a “seamless and uncomplicated” wedding. These also happen to be the perfect words to describe her collaboration with the two.

“It was clear from the start that we were all on the same wavelength. Their flexibility and easygoing nature set a great tone for our relationship moving forward,” Cha told us. “Their initial requirements were quite straightforward. They wanted an event that could unfold without hitches, with every detail carefully orchestrated to contribute to an unforgettable experience.”

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As with any wedding planning process, challenges are inevitable but they’re nothing that can’t be handled with communication, transparency, and openness.

Cha shared, “Certainly, planning a January wedding can have some unique challenges. December is indeed a hectic month for many people with the holidays and end-of-year events, so scheduling important meetings with all necessary parties during this time can be quite difficult. Everyone's calendar is often packed, and it can be hard to find a time that suits all. Given that Valeen and Riel had a clear vision of what they wanted for their wedding, their openness to ideas was a plus because it allowed for flexibility and creativity in the planning process.”

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Wedding planner Cha Andrada

Cha Andrada has some tips for couples who may be overwhelmed by the idea of planning a wedding:

'As a wedding planner, our team always prioritizes an in-depth consultation to delve into the couple's dream wedding. From the theme and color palette to the overall vibe, every element is discussed to ensure that it aligns with their vision. Planning stage can be a challenging and exciting time for couples, so here are some tips to help navigate the process.'

1. 'Create a mood board so your wedding concept can be identified. This step can filter your options for suppliers.'

2. 'Establish a realistic budget early on and stick to it. Discuss your priorities and allocate funds accordingly.'

3. 'Research and choose vendors that align with your vision and budget. Read reviews, check their social media, and ask for recommendations to ensure they understand your vision and can deliver on your expectations.'

4. 'Be open to new ideas and be willing to adjust your plans as needed. Flexibility is important when dealing with unforeseen circumstances or when alternative options present themselves.'

5. 'Don't hesitate to ask for help from friends, family, or professionals when feeling overwhelmed. Whether it's seeking advice from married friends or hiring a wedding planner, receiving guidance and support can alleviate stress. By approaching wedding planning as a collaborative effort and embracing the opportunities for growth and unity, couples can navigate the process with patience, understanding, and a sense of shared purpose.'

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Cha also noted how wedding trends have shifted significantly in recent years. With all the new ideas cropping up, what stands our for her are the personal touches that make weddings extraordinary. She said, 'Couples are increasingly seeking personalized experiences, not just for themselves but also for their guests. It's about creating a memorable event where every moment feels curated and intentional. This interest in smaller, more intimate weddings allows for more budget to be spent on unique experiences and often results in more time for the couple to spend with each guest.'

Valeen Montenegro and Riel Manuel tied the knot on January 12, 2024, with the ceremony held at Santuario de San Antonio Parish in Forbes Park, Makati and the reception at The Conservatory at The Peninsula Manila.

Lead photos by Amady and courtesy of Cha Andrada

Related Story: Designer Banggo Niu Talks About Valeen Montenegro's Stunning Wedding Gown