Miogi and Rhea's Civil Ceremony

A couple of weeks ago Justin's cousin, Miogi tied the knot in a civil ceremony. Miogi and his blushing bride, Rhea, are planning on having their church ceremony in the Philippines next year, but they opted to also have an intimate, local, civil ceremony with close friends and family ahead of the church ceremony. The festivities were held at L'Auberge Chez Francois and although we were hit with snow the day before, you couldn't have asked for a prettier day!

 

They reserved the side room at Chez Francois for the civil ceremony. The architecture of the entire restaurant was so cute. It looked like a European villa both inside and out. Here comes the ring bearer! 

Here's a shot of the couple exchanging their vows, and a picture of Miogi's sister, Maha, reciting a poem in honor of their union.

 

 

Miogi and Rhea lighting their unity candle...

 

Now it was time for the Filipino paparazzi...LOL, I mean pictures ;) First one of the groom's side...

 

And with the Honorable Judge Mann who presided over their ceremony....

 

 

Here's my picture with the happy couple!

After we took pictures it was time to eat! Here is a picture of the reception area with its high ceilings and dark wood beams.

  

 

Now for some food porn...some of which I may or may not have taken a part in. ;) Here's the beautiful wedding cake with the wedding favors on the side. The favor was a wine stopper/pourer, which I thought was really cool!
 

The inside of the cake was so colorful. Full of rich Filipino flavors of buttercream, pandan (young coconut), and ube (purple yam).

Here is a shot of the hour d'ourve tray with a bunch of tasty nibbles!

The braised beef cheeks were a popular choice at my table. 

And you couldn't go wrong with the roasted meats as an entree (i.e. lamb and beef)

That was our first wedding of the year, and we have many more to come in 2013 (four more to be exact).  I can't believe Miogi's married! Although, Justin couldn't make it to this one, we both want to wish you so much happiness in your married life together!