She is his, and he is hers.

Two years ago, I shared with you this wonderful love story of Justin and Arlene. Even though my friend Justin and I belong in different departments at the office now, I still consider him one of my closest friends and I have nothing but good words to say about him. We rarely get the chance to talk and catch up, but when we do I am always left amazed. He has this light that radiates from within, and I am blessed he is my friend. I knew him even before he met Arlene, and I can honestly say that she has made him an even better person. He smiles more now, he has mellowed a bit, and he has become generally happier. I know that as with other relationships, they've been through some rocky roads as well, but I've always known they will soldier on. 

And that's why I am very glad to announce that they are now happily married and I am honored to be one of the selected guests invited to grace the occasion.

The ceremony was held at the Sto. Domingo Church last April 14, exactly two years after I wrote this (click the link if you haven't yet, I promise you their story will make you swoon ♥) It was a beautiful wedding and they were surrounded by people who love them.

I wore a cream-colored lace dress.
In the photo: gold purse from Accessorize, turquoise and gold nails, and gold "Mockingjay" ring from Anagon Collection

Here is a short video from the day itself:

And here are their personal vows:

"Abay, you are a gift I don't deserve. A precious gem like you - I don't have anything that would match your value. When you came into my life, I was overwhelmed. When you came into my life, I was shaken from my life of meaninglessness. Your mystery unraveled detailed intricacies dispelling my seemingly perennial doubt. When you came into my life, I was reaffirmed the existence of a Good God. You are the clearest mystery of all. In you I found my peace.

I am rambling, trembling and babbling. There are no words to fully give justice as my vow for you. But let me take you back to Davao when you gave me your "I'm yours," I said, "I'll cherish." And when later you said, "I do," I say, "I WILL." Even when there seems to be no future, I WILL. Even when passion dies down and familiarity sinks in, I WILL. Even when there are no reasons anymore, I WILL. I WILl remain faithful. I WILL for God and His Church raise a family serving the Lord and His Church. For you, I will. With you, I will.

Mahal na mahal kita Abay. Sa hinaba-haba nito, mahal na mahal kita. Ito'y hindi lamang pakiramdam kundi isang desisyon. Habambuhay kitang iibigin."

- Justin

"Justin, what can I say to you that I haven't already said. Since we have been together, you have provided me with strength, security and confidence, honesty and love. When I have questions, you answer them and ease my doubts. When I'm scared, you make me feel safe. You always tell everyone, "Walang kahit sino ang pwedeng magpaiyak kay Arlene, kasi lagot kayo kay Justin." And so now, I tell you, Justin, how much I love you. 

I know we have some tough times together but I know we enjoy the journey more than anything else. 

You're the only other half that makes me whole. I changed a lot and I can proudly say I'm a better person now, because of you. 

I promise to love and care for you and I will try in every way to be worthy of your love. I will always be honest with you, kind, patient and forgiving. But most of all, I promise to be a true and loyal wife to you. I love you."

- Arlene

Photo from their pre-nup shoot

What a wonderful thing to witness :) They are now in Bali, Indonesia now enjoying their honeymoon, and I couldn't be happier for them :)

Thank you, Justin and Arlene, for sharing with us your wonderful story and for inviting me to your wedding. Congratulations and best wishes again, and may you have more wonderful stories together ♥