No occasion in your lifetime will rival the significance of your wedding day. It stands as a momentous celebration of your union with your significant other, symbolizing the commencement of your shared journey as a married couple. Choosing a venue for such a profound event becomes a crucial decision—one that warrants a distinctive and unforgettable setting etched into your memory for years to come.
In the contemporary landscape of weddings, destination celebrations have become a prevailing trend. Couples now willingly go the extra mile in pursuit of the perfect venue, even if it entails a higher cost compared to traditional options like a church or local city hall. Saving up for your dream wedding becomes a worthwhile endeavor to secure a premium and picturesque location.
Discover below some of the foremost wedding venues in the Philippines, aiding you in selecting the perfect setting to exchange your vows.
Best Wedding Venues in the Philippines
The Philippines boasts numerous excellent locations for gatherings and events. Here, we’ve curated a selection of some standout venues:
Garden Wedding Venues
Ever envisioned strolling down the aisle with the sweet melody of birdsong in the air, surrounded by expansive, verdant scenery? If lush green landscapes are your preference, explore these choices for an intimate garden wedding venue in the Philippines:
The Forest Barn – Cavite
The Forest Barn (Facebook)
The Forest Barn, situated on a sprawling six-acre property in the woodlands of Alfonso, Cavite, exudes vintage and rustic charm, making it an idyllic venue for a forest wedding in the Philippines. Every aspect of this locale echoes the tranquility of the countryside, boasting a tavern basement, a gazebo, and a prominent red barn nestled within a grove of towering trees.
Conveniently located just a short distance from Tagaytay, The Forest Barn enjoys a cool climate and a cozy atmosphere. With the capacity to host up to 300 guests, you can exchange vows in this picturesque setting, where your attendees will relish the crisp air and refreshing ambiance while witnessing the joyous celebration of your union.
El Jardin de Zaida – Batangas
El Jardin de Zaida (Facebook)
Batangas, with its diverse landscapes of beaches, mountains, and forests, offers a serene escape for weddings away from the urban hustle. For a picturesque garden ceremony, consider El Jardin de Zaida. This Batangas wedding venue spans 11 hectares of stunning landscapes, providing an ideal setting for intimate celebrations.
El Jardin de Zaida is a unique combination of a resort, spa, and events space, offering a comprehensive experience in one location. Boasting a villa, pool, restaurant, and captivating features such as a bahay kubo, a scenic bridge over a man-made lake, a gazebo, and a calamansi orchard, this venue ensures a memorable experience. The focal points remain the private gardens and pavilions, accommodating gatherings ranging from 20 to 500 guests.
Jardin de Miramar – Rizal
Jardin de Miramar (Facebook)
Located in Antipolo, just a short distance from the Metro, Jardin de Miramar offers a convenient wedding getaway without the need for extensive travel. This Rizal wedding venue presents 12 themed wedding spots, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Whether you lean towards a modern Filipiniana motif, an elegant floral concept, or an Intramuros-inspired theme, Jardin de Miramar provides the flexibility for you to infuse your personal style into the venue. With its heritage charm and lush greenery, this venue brings paradise within arm’s reach for your wedding day.
Island or Beach Wedding Venues
Achieving an affordable beach wedding in the Philippines is certainly attainable. However, for those willing to indulge a bit more, here are some of the finest beach wedding venues in the country:
Mithi Resort and Spa – Bohol
Mithi Resort and Spa (Official Website)
Mithi, located in Bohol, stands out as a stellar resort with a plethora of amenities, including a spa, fitness gym, swimming pool, tennis court, bar, and restaurant—ensuring your guests a delightful experience. The resort offers various wedding packages to cater to all your needs for your dream wedding.
What truly distinguishes Mithi as an exceptional venue for a beach wedding in the Philippines is the Dream Islet, a small private island accessible by a quick boat ride from the resort. The Dream Islet can accommodate up to 200 guests, providing an intimate setting for your sacred vows surrounded only by close family and friends. Throughout the ceremony, you’ll be treated to a 360-degree view of the sea, with glimpses of white shores on one side and a clear horizon on the other, all set against crystal-clear waters. It’s a truly enchanting location for a memorable celebration.
Shangri-La Boracay – Aklan
Shangri-La Boracay (Official Website)
When contemplating wedding venues in the Philippines, few locations rival the pristine beaches of Boracay. This destination remains a top choice for couples, drawing both local and international pairs seeking the perfect setting for their intimate or grand celebrations.
Among the premier Boracay wedding venues is Shangri-La, a five-star resort renowned for offering tailored wedding packages to bring your dream wedding vision to life. Shangri-La boasts two private beaches exclusively accessible to guests, providing an idyllic backdrop for exchanging vows—whether on the beach itself or within a cliffside pavilion overlooking the sea. As a luxury resort, Shangri-La’s offerings are premium, requiring careful budgeting and saving to access this high-end venue. Explore various saving tips for couples to help manage their budgets effectively.
El Nido Resorts in Lagen Island – Palawan
El Nido Resorts (Official Website)
A practical travel tip for couples, particularly those aiming to save, is to coordinate their travels with other errands, activities, or occasions. Combining a wedding with a travel getaway is a clever idea, striking a balance between the excitement of wedding preparations and the relaxation of a trip.
For a tranquil wedding getaway by the beach, consider booking El Nido Resorts in Lagen Island, Palawan. This destination offers a private island with an unspoiled beach exclusively for you and your guests. It’s an ideal setting for an intimate beach wedding in the Philippines. Picture exchanging vows in a secluded cove surrounded by limestone walls, with the soothing sound of the sea providing a natural melody. After officially tying the knot, you can seamlessly transition into vacation mode with your loved ones.
Church Wedding Venues
If you wish to honor tradition and exchange vows in a church, you’ll find a plethora of options to consider. Here are a few noteworthy ones:
St. James the Great Parish – Muntinlupa
St. James the Great Parish (Philippine Roman Catholic Churches Facebook Page)
St. James the Great Parish stands out as a premier venue for a solemn and intimate church wedding in the metro. Nestled within a subdivision in Alabang, this church offers the security and exclusivity essential for your wedding day.
The architectural grandeur of St. James the Great Parish evokes the timeless elegance reminiscent of the old churches in Rome. Beyond the ceremony, the church provides a landscaped courtyard adorned with a fountain, serving as an enchanting backdrop for your post-wedding photoshoot. Additionally, a multipurpose hall on the lower ground, accommodating up to 100 guests, is available for your wedding reception. For those seeking a more spacious venue, nearby options cater to larger celebrations, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience.
Mt. Carmel Chapel – Batanes
klorenzooo (Travellers Point)
Nestled in the highland village of Tukon, this picturesque chapel graces the hilltop with Mt. Iraya as a stunning backdrop. The architecture draws inspiration from Ivatan culture, featuring a stone facade and a warm wooden interior. The unique charm extends to the ceiling and altar, adorned with frescoes depicting the six municipal patron saints of Batanes.
This one-of-a-kind church creates an enchanting ambiance, making it an ideal setting for a Batanes church wedding. The surrounding area offers additional attractions for your wedding photoshoot, reception, and other activities, including the captivating Marlboro Hills and Boulder Bay.
San Agustin Church – Manila
San Agustin Church Manila (Hotels.com)
In Manila, numerous small chapels provide intimate settings for wedding ceremonies. However, for those seeking a grander and historic ambiance, the San Agustin Church in Intramuros stands out as an iconic choice. Not only is it the oldest church in the Philippines, but it also holds the prestigious distinction of being a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alongside three other churches in the country, it is officially recognized as one of the “Baroque Churches in the Philippines.”
San Agustin Church, constructed in 1607, has withstood numerous earthquakes over the centuries, becoming a symbol of resilience in Manila. This rich history and architectural significance make it a favored choice for couples looking to celebrate their union in a venue that encapsulates both grandeur and cultural heritage.
Final Thoughts
Indeed, the choice of your wedding venue significantly shapes the overall atmosphere of your celebration. A fun and hip venue will naturally set a lively mood, while a solemn and majestic setting will evoke a more formal ambiance. It’s crucial to carefully and deliberately choose a venue that aligns with your desired tone, significance, and budget.
While it’s tempting to splurge on certain aspects, it’s equally important to rein in spending wisely. Conserving funds allows for more financial flexibility as you embark on the next chapter of your lives, including finding the perfect home for newlyweds and building a life together as a married couple. As you plan for your wedding, keep in mind that it marks the beginning of a new future, full of exciting opportunities and shared adventures.