Filipino Wedding Wedding Checklist

Schedule Pamamanhikan

Arrange the formal proposal visit where the groom's family visits the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage. This is also when wedding logistics and budget contributions are discussed.

Select and Invite Sponsors (Ninong and Ninang)

Choose and formally invite principal sponsors (typically 6-12 couples) and secondary sponsors for the candle, veil, cord, and coin ceremonies. Brief them on their roles.

Complete Legal Requirements

Obtain marriage license from Local Civil Registrar, PSA birth certificates, CENOMAR, and complete any required family planning seminar.

Book Catholic Church and Priest

Reserve the church and confirm the priest for the nuptial mass. Complete required Pre-Cana marriage preparation classes/seminars.

Purchase Wedding Cord (Yugal)

Obtain a silk, braided, or rosary-style cord fashioned in a figure-eight shape for the cord ceremony.

Obtain Ceremonial Veil

Purchase a large white ceremonial veil (mantilla) that will cover both the bride's head and the groom's shoulders during the veil ceremony.

Purchase Arrhae Coins

Obtain thirteen coins (arrhae) for the coin ceremony. Coins are typically gold or silver and come in a decorative box, pouch, or basket.

Obtain Unity Candles

Purchase or personalize a unity candle set (one central candle and two smaller candles) for the candle ceremony.

Arrange Dove Release

Book a dove release service with trained white homing doves for after the ceremony. (Optional)

Prepare Wedding Program

Create a printed program explaining Filipino ceremony elements for all guests, especially non-Filipino attendees.

Set Up Karaoke for Reception

Rent or arrange a karaoke machine with microphones and a comprehensive song catalog for the reception.

Prepare Money Dance Supplies

Purchase safety pins, tape, decorative sashes, or a collection bag/money tree for the money dance.

Plan Reception Menu

Coordinate Filipino culinary traditions including lechon, pancit, lumpia, and other dishes. Decide on plated, buffet, or kamayan-style service.