Cebu City backs wedding expo

CEBU, Philippines — Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival expressed the city government’s support for the 10th Cebu Wedding Expo, citing its contribution to Cebu’s tourism, events, and hospitality industries.

Speaking during the media launch at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, Archival congratulated the organizers for sustaining what has become the longest-running hotel-based wedding expo in the Visayas.

“It is a pleasure and a privilege to be here at this very important event,” Archival said.

The mayor said initiatives such as the Cebu Wedding Expo generate opportunities not only for the wedding industry but also for businesses that rely on tourism and events.

“I would like to express my support for the endeavor that you are undertaking because your success will also be our success,” he said.

The expo, now in its 10th year, will be held from September 4 to 6 at Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino and is expected to gather leading wedding suppliers, designers, photographers, caterers, stylists, event coordinators, and other service providers in one venue.

The hotel’s General Manager Ali Banting said the milestone celebrates a decade of partnerships with exhibitors and suppliers while helping couples plan their weddings through a one-stop event.

“This marks the beginning of a celebration that honors a decade of love stories, enduring partnerships, and unforgettable moments,” Banting said.

Kristelle Armamento, the hotel’s Group Sales Manager, said this year’s edition carries the theme “10,” highlighting the expo’s 10-year milestone through special activities, recognition of 10 Cebu wedding industry icons, and promotional giveaways for participating couples.

She said exhibitors will receive complimentary booth spaces for the first time as Waterfront’s way of recognizing their continued support.

The three-day event will also feature the recognition of Cebu wedding industry icons on September 5 and the return of the Weddings at the Waterfront Fashion Show on September 6 featuring Filipino designer Patis Tesoro.

She added that couples who book participating exhibitors or hotel wedding packages during the expo will have the chance to win wedding rings, bridal styling, bridal car services, honeymoon staycations, photography and videography packages, wedding coordination services, and other prizes.

The grand prize will be a complete wedding package from Waterfront Cebu City Hotel & Casino, including the venue and banquet reception, which will be awarded free of charge to one lucky couple.

Jilson Lantaya, officer-in-charge manager for conventions and events, credited the hotel’s exhibitors, suppliers, and employees for helping sustain the annual event over the past decade.

The Cebu Wedding Expo has become an annual gathering of industry stakeholders, offering engaged couples access to a wide range of products and services in preparation for their weddings. — (FREEMAN)