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When Brian and Michael imagined their wedding day, they envisioned a celebration surrounded by the people they loved most—those who had shaped them into who they are today. It wasn’t just about their love for each other, but also about honoring their Filipino and Colombian heritages and their LGBTQ+ pride. They wanted their wedding to be a space where their guests could bring their authentic selves, celebrate through dance and music, and reflect the vibrant cultures that had shaped their lives.
The Perfect Match
Brian and Michael’s connection began in 2019, through a simple swipe on Tinder. Brian, delivering cultural attire to Parangal Dance Company in San Francisco’s Japantown, found himself within Michael’s radius in the Fillmore. Both had been skeptical about online dating but decided to give it one last try.
Brian was drawn to Michael’s photo of him at a wedding in a dapper suit, while Michael was captivated by Brian’s singing talent at a wedding. Their shared experiences sparked an instant connection.
Their first date took place in Golden Gate Park, where Brian, warned about San Francisco’s notorious microclimates, showed up in a denim jacket and quickly regretted his fashion choice when they were enveloped in chilly fog. Despite the cold, they enjoyed exploring the De Young Museum and sipping hot green tea in the Japanese Garden. Dinner was a bit more awkward—seated far apart between two other couples in a loud, bustling restaurant—but Michael expressed interest in a second date, and Brian happily agreed.
During their second date, Michael opened up about his plans to move to San Diego, a conversation that could have pushed them apart. But Brian embraced the vulnerability, and they agreed to take things one day at a time. That moment of honesty laid the foundation for their relationship—a relationship built on trust, understanding, and the shared desire to explore what love could bring, no matter the uncertainty.
A Wedding that Celebrates Identity
On their wedding day, Brian and Michael wanted to express their authentic selves, and their ceremony reflected that beautifully. The couple worked with Lindsay at 828 Planning to bring their vision to life. Instead of a traditional entrance, the couple made their way down the aisle as part of a runway show, proudly showcasing their unique styles. Their walk to the altar was an expression of who they were—bold, confident, and unapologetically themselves.
Honoring Loved Ones
As a tribute to those who had shaped their lives, Brian and Michael included a beautiful and meaningful moment in their ceremony: they honored their loved ones through dual remembrance tables. Each table featured candles that were lit by the couple and their families, creating a peaceful and heartfelt moment of reflection. The candles represented the memories of those who couldn’t be with them on their special day but were always in their hearts. During the dinner reception they participated in plating of the ancestors as another way to honor their loved ones throughout their special day.
Filipino Drummers and Colombian Dancers
To celebrate their union and the blending of their cultures, Filipino drummers played lively rhythms during the ceremony, setting a joyful tone. As the ceremony came to a close, the couple was joined by Colombian dancers, whose vibrant movements filled the space with energy and excitement, marking the beginning of their new chapter together.
A Fusion of Cultures in Style
The wedding was a fusion of Brian and Michael’s Filipino and Colombian backgrounds, which was reflected in every aspect of the day—from the décor to the celebration. The couple chose a sophisticated color palette of natural greens, neutral tones, and pops of navy. Lush botanical greenery filled the venue, adorning the tables and corners of the space. Candles were strategically placed throughout the venue, casting a warm, romantic glow and adding to the serene ambiance. One of the most memorable details was the ceiling installation filled with an abundance of disco balls and rattan/glass lanterns. This whimsical yet botanical design helped set the stage for a lively and unforgettable evening.
Fashion, Fun, and Expression
True to their desire for creativity and individuality, Brian and Michael incorporated a fun fashion show into the celebration. Guests were encouraged to showcase their personal styles, which included everything from traditional Filipino / Colombian attire to vibrant colorful glittering fashions. Guests strutted their stuff in bold sparkling outfits. This lively and stylish twist added even more flair to the celebration and allowed everyone to embrace their inner fashionista and fun dance moves.
Special Performances
The wedding was filled with special performances that kept the energy high. A Filipino dance troupe performed a traditional *Tinikling* dance, where dancers gracefully moved between bamboo poles. Later, Colombian dancers filled the floor, celebrating the joy of their culture with salsa, merengue, and cumbia music.
The Hora Loca Surprise
As the night progressed and guests settled into the reception, Brian and Michael surprised everyone with *La Hora Loca* (The Crazy Hour)—a fun and unexpected moment to get everyone up on the dance floor. The celebration reached a whole new level as vibrant sunglasses, neon lights, fans, whistles, and upbeat music filled the space. The couple and their guests danced wildly, creating an electric atmosphere that invited everyone to join in the fun, encouraging the party to keep going well into the night.
A Feast of Cultural Delights
True to their heritage, the couple served a feast that reflected both Filipino and Colombian cuisines. The spread was a beautiful mix of flavors, bringing a taste of their cultures to the table and giving guests a deeper connection to the couple’s roots.
For dessert, guests were treated to indulgent churros and ice cream. Later in the evening, the couple surprised their guests with late-night tacos—a fun and delicious addition that got everyone back to the dance floor for another round of celebration.
Creating Lasting Memories at BRICK
The day was filled with laughter, heartfelt speeches, and unforgettable moments. In the end, Brian and Michael’s Filipino-Colombian wedding was a testament to the power of love and self-expression. Their wedding wasn’t just an event—it was a beautiful fusion of their heritages and a celebration of who they are, inside and out.
Venue + Beverage: BRICK
Planning: 828 Planning
Catering + Dessert: The Wild Thyme Company
DJ/MC: San Diego Best DJ’s
Rentals: BRIGHT Event Rentals
Rentals: Cedar & Pine Events
Lighting: Adore Folklore
Ext. Restrooms: Posh Privy
Florals: Kendra’s Floral Design
Photo: Sarah Zimmerman
Video: Blue Tiger Films
Filipino Dancers: Parangal Dance Co.
Columbian Dancers: Mendoza Productions – Esmeraldas de Colombia
Photo Booth + Audio Guestbook: Fete & Capture
Late Night Snack: Taquizas Jose
Hair & Makeup: Mobile Beauty Team
