When I first received the invitation last year that my best friend wants me to be his best man, I did not take that seriously. I am not fond of social events and sorry to say this because of the pandemic restrictions, I am not sure how things will go. Of course, I want the best for the couple. First of all, they're my friends! But the uncertainty caused by the pandemic gets me.
Thankfully, local restrictions were lifted and we've seen a glimmer of hope! After several reschedules and adjustments to the wedding preparations, and tons of prayers for the event, finally the wedding is about to happen, and so does my role.
The preparation
All the groomsmen and bridesmaids were booked in Cobo Pavillion where the necessary preparations has to be done. Well, preparations for the bride, groom, and the bridesmaids because they are the ones who need to put on makeup. Unlike us, groomsmen, a little face powder can do the job.
For the picture taking, we had our PJs for the creative shot and our black suit for most of the video and pictures. I am not a photo buff and I feel awkward at videos, so I'm very glad I pulled it through. My blooper: I wasn't able to secure personal shots of how fun our photoshoot went but it was a moment to remember! The groomsmen, except for one, are my friends since childhood and this event served as our reunion.
The wedding
When we arrived at the Our Lady of the Abandoned church for the wedding ceremonies, we thought we will not be allowed to enter the premises because vaccination cards are required. We left our cards at Cobo. Luckily, after a few negotiations, everything went smoothly.
As the best man, I was the first to walk in the processional. As an introvert, I feel overwhelmed by the number of people witnessing the ceremony. But it's not about me! I love the moment when my best friend first saw his bride on her white wedding gown - with tears in his eyes. It was a sight to behold!
The ceremony went a little bit different from the usual. The vows were not broadcasted, and there was no "kiss the bride" moment. This pandemic is a KJ. But still, when the priest pronounced them as husband and wife, everyone is excited!
And then my role commenced. Together with the maid of honor, we had to make all the principal sponsors sign the marriage contract for the validity and legal processing of their wedding.
The reception
To cap off the night, we went to Theodore's Place for the wedding reception. Beforehand, we were asked to prepare a short dance number, the groomsmen and bridesmaids in pair, while we enter the reception. We were given BTS songs to dance along with. We were no dancers, to begin with, but for the love of the couple, we did our best! If it can be considered best! Haha! So when we made our entry, it was exhilarating on the part of the audience, and humiliating on our end.
We also prepared a dance number. And one of us wasn't even able to attend at least one practice! So all eyes are on him! Haha! But that doesn't save us from the humiliation we had because we can't even synchronize our movements with the song. And perhaps I'll never dance again!
When I was called for the best man's toast, I asked the audience to declare blessings for the couple. I wished them "to live as long as they want, and not to want as long as they live".
I'm very happy for my best friend, now a full-fledged husband to his wife.
*Note: Due to the request of the couple, taking pictures is discouraged because they have hired professional photographers for the event. I only took some snaps for this blog. *