John landed in New Orleans with one mission: celebrate one of his best friend Joel’s wedding. But before the welcome reception that evening, he squeezed in a quick round of golf—because, priorities. Meanwhile, April had flown in one of her best girlfriend Lauren’s big day, and her schedule looked more like a track meet. She was racing from hors d’oeuvres prep to a frantic outfit change, then back again to help set up for the welcome party. And somewhere in the middle of all that chaos—bam—their story officially began. But rewind: their first almost-meeting was at a friend’s 50th in Rochester, 2023. John spotted April across the room, but her friends whisked her away before anything could happen. Fast forward to September 2024. The buzz was all about Joel and Lauren’s wedding in New Orleans. WhatsApp group chats were popping off to keep everyone organized, and friends and family trickled into the hotel in groups. Amid all the frenzy, John spotted a familiar face. Thanks to that WhatsApp photo (and his memory from Rochester), he recognized April. Their official first meeting went something like this: April came flying in from rehearsal, still juggling setup duties for the welcome party, when she bumped into John. Fresh off the golf course, John casually said, “I just got back from golf and I gotta shower.” April didn’t miss a beat—she gave him a playful backhand slap on the chest and shot back, “You better hurry up.” Cue the pause, the look, the spark. Then April grinned and added, “Yeah, I slapped your chest… and I’ll do it again.” And just like that—the story that almost started in Rochester found its spark in New Orleans.

Our ceremony will be held in a small space and dinner is limiting in space. With regret, we are unable to accommodate all guests for the ceremony and mini dinner, but we lovingly invite you to join us afterward at the reception after 9pm as we continue the celebration. The MassKara Festival is an annual cultural celebration in Bacolod City, Philippines, where April and her siblings spent part of their younger years. Held each October, the festival is known for its vibrant street dancing, colorful masks, and lively parades. It embodies the city’s spirit of resilience and joy, with its iconic smiling masks symbolizing the optimism of the people despite the hardships they faced, particularly during the 1980s.