Wedding Party
Nathan and Ryan
Aisle Escort
Thirty years ago, my dad walked me down this very aisle to hand me off to Greg—who, thankfully, hasn’t returned me since! Now , our two boys, Nathan and Ryan, will walk me down the same path, but this time, they’re the reason we’re celebrating. They’re the “fruits” of our love. They are our greatest blessings, and this moment is proof that Greg and I did at least two things right!
Marc Mercado
Best Man
Marc isn’t just Greg’s baby brother—he’s also our neighbor, living above in the hills of Chino Hills. He keeps us laughing and brings the family together in his weekend coffee runs. To our kids, he’s Uncle Marc, and he does an amazing job at it!
Ton De Guzman
Best Man
Our nephew has become like a son to us, sharing a special bond with Greg that feels just like father and son. Whenever he visits, he lights up our home, eager to spend quality time with his Tito Greg, whether it’s sharing stories, laughing at Tito Greg’s stupid jokes or working on projects, or just ridding the bus with homeless people around LA.
Mache Torres- Ackerman
Matron of Honor
She started as a friend but has become so much more—a true sister to me and a second mom to our boys. She’s been there through every high and low, always caring for our family as if it were her own. Her support, love, and dedication have meant the world to us, and it would be an honor to have her walk down the aisle with as we renew our vows.
Mylene Tiu
Maid of Honor
She’s like a daughter to us and a loving older sister to our boys. She’s been there through every milestone, sharing in our joys and challenges, and guiding our sons with kindness and strength. Her presence brings warmth and unity to our family, and she’s cherished not only for the care she gives but for the genuine connection she shares with each of us.
Long and Manolette
Primary Sponsors
Long and Manolette have been our family-raising gurus. Our boys are practically theirs, and their daughters are like ours. We feel so close now that we don’t even think twice about letting our boys march over to their house for “time out” on their spotless white couches—muddy feet and all—without packing emergency snacks. They’re truly family, and we’ll always be grateful for them.
Mia Bautista Peneyra
Sponsor 1/Candle
Thirty years ago, she stood by my side as Maid of Honor, a true friend lighting the way. Now, she will walk down the aisle once more, bringing her strength and warmth to illuminate our path again. Her presence is a beautiful reminder of the enduring bond we share and the years of memories that have shaped us.
Raffy Maramag
Sponsor 1/Candle
Another brother from another mother. He will escort Mia in lighting our path once again.
Gina and Alain Duminy
Sponsor 2/Cord
My best friend has become like another mom to my boys. Whether she’s in Manila, Europe, or anywhere in the world, we know we always have family to come home to. Having her and Alain by our side is a true honor, a testament to the bond and love we share.
Maricar and Romeo Manalo
Sponsor 2/Veil
Maricar and Romeo have been our dear friends since college, serving as Ninong and Ninang to our children. Romeo played a significant role in our wedding 30 years ago, and it’s a heartfelt honor to have him back by our side this time, alongside Maricar, who has become like a second mom to our boys. Their love and support have been invaluable to our family, and we cherish the deep bond we share with them.
Pam and Johannsen
Bridesmaid and Groomsmen
Our college friends, who have become Ninang and Ninongs to our boys, have been ever-present and constant in our lives. They’ve stood by us through every season, bringing love and support to our family. It will be an honor to have them walk down the aisle with us once again, a beautiful reminder of the friendship that has grown into family.
Vicky and Allan Keaton
Bridesmaid and Groomsman
Allan and Vicky have been our second family through all these years, sharing in every high and supporting us through every low. Their unwavering presence has been a source of strength and comfort, and we’re deeply grateful for the love and loyalty they’ve shown.
Gaye and JT Topcio
Bridesmaid and Groomsman
JT and Gaye have been cherished friends in our lives, Together, they have celebrated all our life milestones, offering unwavering support and joy along the way. Their presence in our lives is a testament to the enduring friendship and love that has shaped our family.
Rachel and Ivan cruz
Bridesmaid and Groomsman
Rachel is like our big sister my business partner. Over the years, she’s become our Chicago family. It’s an honor (and a little bit of chaos) to have her and Ivan by our side, walking us down the aisle again!
Nadine and Walbee Tolentino
Bridesmaid and Groomsman
Nadine and Walbee came into our lives a bit later, but they quickly became part of our family. We share a special bond, with Greg and me proudly stepping into the roles of older brother and sister. It’s an honor to be godparents to their daughters, Addie and Lillie, and we cherish the love and connection we’ve built together as a family.
Addie and Lillie Tolentino
Flower Girl
Who better to choose as our flower girls than our two adorable godkids? Their innocence and joy will bring such sweetness to the occasion, and having them play this special role will make the day even more memorable for our family.
Cathy Manlapaz
Bridesmaid
Tita Cathy, also known as Dyosa, must be part of this celebration after 30 years( she’s only 28 so do the math) because she has been a cherished member of our family throughout the years. Her unwavering support and presence in every milestone and celebration in our lives have made her an integral part of our journey. It wouldn’t feel complete without her by our side, sharing in this special moment.
Tem Barksdale
Bridesmaid
Tem my highschool bff has been part of our lives she’s basically become an honorary Mercado! She’s been there for everything, from our son’s med school graduation proudly rocking her “Tita” status.
Eula Santos
Flower Child
Eula, my niece, was our flower girl 30 years ago, and we are thrilled that she will walk down the aisle with us once again. Her return to this special role brings back cherished memories and adds a beautiful touch to our celebration, reminding us of the lasting bonds of family.
Raymond Ritchie
Singer/ Host
Raymond serenaded us 30 years ago, playing a significant role not just in our wedding but in our lives as a whole. His joyful presence and uplifting spirit always fill our hearts with happiness whenever he’s around. He brings so much positivity into our lives, and we are grateful for the love and warmth he continues to share with us. He is always a phone call or text away. Love him so much!
Brandon Grey
Ring Bearer
Brandon, our grandnephew, will carry our 30-year-old wedding rings to be blessed, and we couldn’t be prouder. His enthusiasm for this special role adds a delightful touch to the ceremony, and we can’t wait to see his charming antics as he brings his sweet spirit to this memorable occasion.
Basti Grey
Bible Bearer
Basti, our first grandnephew, has brought us so much joy as Lola and Lolo. We are excited to see him carry the Bible for us during the wedding, a meaningful role that reflects the love and connection we share as a family. His presence will make this occasion even more special for all of us.
Ria and Rory Torres
Virtual Flower Girls
Their mom was our flower girl 30 yrs ago so it’s just right that We’ve created a special role for our two grandnieces to ensure they feel included in this occasion. Although they won’t be able to walk down the aisle with us, they will be at home, celebrating in spirit and remaining a cherished part of our family festivities. Their involvement, even from afar, will make the day even more meaningful for all of us.
Pia and Jinky
Readers
Pia, my best friend since kindergarten, has been a constant presence throughout our journey, sharing in countless memories and milestones. Jinky, though newer in our lives, has quickly added her own warmth and joy, enriching our circle in a special way. Both of them bring a unique and cherished connection to our celebration.
Pilar and Miren
Flower Girl
Pilar and Miren will be strutting down the aisle with us! These two gorgeous gals are not just our nieces—they’re also our fabulous godchildren. They’ve got VIP access to our home in California whenever they drop by!
Sophia and Henri
Junior Bridesmaid and Groomsmen
Sophia and Henri, our wonderful niece and nephew, are making this day even more special by walking down the aisle with us. Though distance often keeps us apart, today we’re together, and that makes our hearts so full!
Pilar Luisa Poniente
Head Wedding coordinator / Make up Artist
Piyab, our baby sister, is the head coordinator of the entire wedding. With her incredible talent in hair and makeup, she works pure magic, ensuring this wedding will be a day to remember.
Malu De Guzman
Wedding Planner
Malu is our ultimate wedding planner—who else could pull this off but my incredibly talented sister? I’m so grateful for her dedication and patience in bringing everything together. This is truly a labor of love.
Beth Poniente Santos
Stylist
Ate Beth became the entourage stylist, taking the time to ensure everyone had the perfect outfits. It’s yet another labor of love from my dear sister, who spoils us and showers love on everyone we care about.