Filipino Wedding Checklist

Schedule Pamamanhikan

Arrange the formal visit where the groom's family goes to the bride's family to ask for her hand in marriage. Wedding logistics and budget contributions are usually discussed at the same time.

Select and Invite Sponsors (Ninong and Ninang)

Choose and formally invite your principal sponsors (typically 6–12 couples) and your secondary sponsors for the candle, veil, cord and coin ceremonies. Tell each of them what their role involves.

Complete Legal Requirements

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

Book Catholic Church and Priest

Reserve the church and confirm the priest for the nuptial mass. You will also need to complete the required Pre-Cana marriage preparation classes or seminars.

Purchase Wedding Cord (Yugal)

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

Obtain Ceremonial Veil

Buy a large white ceremonial veil (mantilla). During the veil ceremony it covers the bride's head and the groom's shoulders.

Purchase Arrhae Coins

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

Obtain Unity Candles

Buy or personalize a unity candle set for the candle ceremony, with one central candle and two smaller ones.

Arrange Dove Release

This one is optional. If you would like a dove release after the ceremony, book a service with trained white homing doves.

Prepare Wedding Program

Create a printed program that explains the Filipino ceremony elements. It is most useful for guests who are not Filipino.

Set Up Karaoke for Reception

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

Prepare Money Dance Supplies

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

Plan Reception Menu

Plan the Filipino dishes with your caterer, such as lechon, pancit, lumpia and others. Then decide whether the meal will be plated, a buffet, or kamayan style.