Jhonilyn's sister, Analou, asked us to help plan the former's wedding since she was based in the US. It was going to be a quite and intimate wedding for family & close friends at the Peninsula beach of Plantation Bay.
When Jhonilyn's wedding day came, it started raining very early in the morning. But, Jhonilyn was still all smiles. When I discussed my concerns about the weather with her and her family, she said cheerily, "It's okay. It's up to you, Jan. We trust you." Of course, that just put more pressure on my shoulders.
I checked the back-up venue but it seemed too dismal for a beach wedding. I had them do a skeleton set-up there. But, I directed all plans to proceed at the Peninsula beach. The staff at Plantation Bay were very supportive, but I knew they had their misgivings and doubts. As did I.
Meanwhile, Hank and Jhonilyn, who were both relaxed and all-smiles, toured around Plantation Bay with the photo-video team and got some spectacular shots. My favourites were of them on the
tartanilla, (horse-drawn carriage).
Though I usually go with the team to the church, this time around I saw them off and elected to stay at Plantation Bay, in case there were any last minute changes.
I kept watching the skies that day. At about 330pm, our worst fears came to fruition and it started to drizzle. I almost gave the go signal to pull back.
Luckily, I got an impromptu lesson from their "weather man", their F&B manager. He said, "Look there. Those dark clouds are bringing the rain but they are moving fast. Past those clouds, lower towards the horizon, you see clear skies. Those skies will be here at about 5pm and you'll have good weather until about 7PM."
Everyone wanted us to pull back, but I hoped Mr. weather-man was right. By God's grace, he was! The skies broke clear at about 5PM, just as they arrived back from the hotel.
We started the reception ahead of schedule to make the most of the good weather while we had it. When it was time for pictorials, the team posed with our lovely couple. As we approached their table at the stage, Jonilyn pulled me into a hug and said, "It's so beautiful, Jan.
Wala gyud mi nagmahay na we got you." (We didn't regret that we got you.)
Praise God for the lovely weather that lasted the whole night! Thanks to Hank & Jhonilyn for allowing us to be a part of their rainbow-themed wedding.
