Straight out of a vintage Sampaguita movie

The event was so much like a fairy tale, straight out of a Sampaguita movie (Wedding Bells, Siete Amores, etc.) that lorded over the tills almost half a century ago, two decades before the groom, Congressman Edward Maceda (of the 4th District of Manila), was born, and same with his bride, Dr. Mary Giselle Lazaro (a dermatologist). On the place were shot most of Sampaguita’s romantic films (starring the likes of Gloria Romero, Susan Roces and Amalia Fuentes as blushing brides in designer gowns).

Edward, the grandson of the late Starmaker Dr. Jose R. Perez and his wife Azucena “Nene” Vera-Perez, swapped “I do’s” with Giselle last Jan. 21 at near twilight at Sampaguita Gardens (the former Sampaguita Pictures Studio, at #33 Valencia Street, New Manila, Quezon City). He’s the son of the late Sen. Ernie Maceda and Ma. Azucena (Marichu) Vera Perez Maceda; and she, of Dr. Pacita Serrano Lazaro.

Here’s how Edward’s niece, Samantha Maceda described the setting: “(It) was stunning with a walkway that had a white swinging bench, with the top covered with blooming white flowers designed by Lola Marichu. Ahead of the swing was an arch with sheer white curtains tied to the sides of it. The altar was marvelous, more so that the rest. Colorless paper flowers in various sizes crowded the half wall, surrounding the sign that once more had ‘E&G’ in cursive.”

“This is the classiest wedding I have ever attended,” gushed former Speaker Joe de Venecia, husband of Pangasinan Rep. Gina de Venecia, “from the set-up to the décor and the food!”

It was, like a Sampaguita movie, star-studded, with the guests dressed to the nines reminiscent of Big Broadcast, the company’s first anniversary offering touted as “in Eastman Color.”

Said Gloria Romero, Sampaguita-groomed star, “Since Edward is the youngest and the last to get married, it made it more special and memorable because I have seen him grow into a fine gentleman. Congratulations to the newly-weds!”

Susan Roces, another original Sampaguitan: “The Sampaguita Gardens, where the ceremony was held, was overflowing with love. Every detail of the setting, floral arrangements and the backdrop of the exchange of vows was Mom Marichu’s labor of love for her youngest son, Edward, and his beloved Gel. It was indeed an enchanting evening not only for the couple but for us guests as well.”

Congresswoman Rosemarie “Baby” Arenas (one of the ninangs): “The wedding of Edward and Gel was the perfect culmination of a beautiful courtship between two loving, kind and God-fearing people who were meant for each other. Family and friends of the couple came in full force to shower them with best wishes. It was a magical moment of love and solidarity.”

Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada: “Maganda lahat at masarap ang pagkain.”

Boots Anson-Roa-Rodrigo: “Edward and Gel’s resonated with the couple’s easy self-assurance and abiding faith in each other spawned by years of deep friendship and partnering. King and I observed them with much comfort and delight.”

Samantha reported that after the cocktail hour, the reception followed: “An opening prayer was said by Pangasinan Rep. Christopher de Venecia before Erwin Maceda, the brother of the groom, began the program. Shortly after, the entourage surprised the audience with a dance to Justin Timberlake’s Can’t Stop The Feeling. Uncle Edward and Aunt Giselle then followed, dancing as well before the song switched to a slower song. The two waltzed gracefully before ending with a kiss, sealing their new beginning as husband and wife. More exquisite food by Bizu was served after the newlyweds began to take photos at each table.

“Then, the bride’s relatives gave speeches before the groom’s brothers (Emmanuel, Ernest, Erwin and Edmond) serenaded the couple accompanied by the Kundirana. Aunt Giselle’s daughter Patrica Gabrielle ‘Gabbi’ Campos (from her first marriage) gave a speech and joined a performance with her brother Jake. More speeches were given, as ‘80s music filled the air.”

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