High School Sweethearts Say I Do in Paradise

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Joshua and Eloise met each other in high school when they were just 15 years old. They even went to prom together and were each other's first loves. While Eloise became a doctor, Joshua travelled to be with her in Manila and worked in sales while she was still in medical school. They got engaged back in 2019, and after two years of planning, they finally decided to tie the knot! The couple could not wait to finally get married to each other after being together for so long! This wedding was truly a product of perseverance, faith, and teamwork. Make sure to scroll down to read about how the bride and groom put together this gorgeous day, with help from photographer Efjay De Leon Photography and the incredible Club Paradise Palawan.

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Elle and Jok, as they are so fondly called, decided not to hire a wedding planner to help create the destination wedding of their dreams. They were absolutely hands-on with everything— from the modern, to the monochromatic theme, the orchids strewn along the chapel aisle, and the custom wedding favours, down to the reception program and music. The task seemed daunting at the beginning. They had doubts about whether they could pull off a destination wedding with unpredictable travel restrictions, flight cancellations, weather changes, and last-minute setbacks. But in the end, all invited guests were able to make it and they were greeted with the loveliest sunshine throughout the three-day festivities.

The ceremony was held in a small chapel in a beautiful, secluded island in Club Paradise Palawan with only 34 of their nearest and dearest in tow. The couple had Club Paradise Palawan to thank for setting up the mouthwatering buffet, the gorgeous chapel and reception design by the beach front, and the amazing resort accommodations. They also provided the wedding cake composed of three layers of strawberry and blueberry cheesecake through their in-house pastry chef.

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Efjay De Leon Photography captured Elle and Jok's best, candid moments through his lens. The bride wore a wonderful lace strapless White by Vera Wang gown with detachable puff sleeves, while the groom looked dashing in his Bianca Cordero suit paired with a floral necktie. The wedding bouquet and boutonnieres made of orchids were also provided by Club Paradise Palawan. This wedding was definitely one for the books and marked an epic celebration of 11 long years of love.

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Our MVP's (Most Valuable Pieces - of advice!)

1) Don't be afraid to take charge of your own wedding-- you might be surprised with what you can achieve with the right lists and the right suppliers!

2) Set a budget and stick to it. You'll figure out your non-negotiables that way.

3) Remember that the wedding is all about the bride and groom. Do what you like and celebrate your way! The people who matter will always have your backs.