April 25, 2024

From Texas, USA to the Aisle – Mariyen’s Filipiniana Journey

When Mariyen first reached out, she spoke of a vision—something Filipiniana, but different. A two-piece ensemble or an A-line dress, something she could wear again and again, long after the wedding day.

Based in Houston, Texas, she and her fiancé Gillian were warm, thoughtful, and intentional with every detail. I still remember our measurement consultation, with Gillian sweetly helping out. We had to be careful not to reveal too much of the design while he was around—then as soon as he stepped out, Mariyen and I dove into the finer details, giggling like co-conspirators. What we created together was something deeply personal: timeless, versatile, and beautifully her.

February 22, 2024

From California, USA to the Aisle – Meryl’s Filipiniana Journey

Meryl’s Elegant Ivory Filipiñana Reception Dress

When Meryl reached out from California, she had a soft and graceful vision for her rehearsal—an ivory Filipiñana inspired by our Sonya design. What was meant to be a rehearsal look eventually became her reception dress, and we worked together closely to bring it to life completely online.

There was even a sweet moment when her fiancé helped with her measurements—a memory I’ll always cherish. Despite a few fabric hurdles along the way, her gown came together through hand-sewn lace details and heartfelt care, resulting in a one-of-a-kind piece that truly reflected her warmth and heritage.

October 29, 2024

From California, USA to the Boracay, Philippines Aisle – Dionna’s Filipiniana Journey

When Dionna reached out with a vision of turning our fully beaded Mayvellin gown into a fun and glamorous reception mini dress, I knew this would be something special. Together, we reimagined tradition with sparkle, skin-tone illusion lining, and intricate beadwork—creating my first-ever reception version of a couture Filipiniana piece! Despite a typhoon on their wedding day in Boracay, Dionna and Ron radiated joy, love, and laughter. This dress was heavy in sparkle but light in spirit—just like their love. ✨

Read the full story behind this radiant, one-of-a-kind creation below.

April 1, 2025

From Maryland, USA to the Aisle – April’s Filipiniana Journey

A Touch of Magic and a Hint of April Fools: April & Juan’s Quirky, Dreamy Filipiniana Wedding

Some brides leave a sweet impression, and others leave you smiling every time you remember them—April did both. From the moment she shared that her wedding date was April 1 because of “Juan” (yes—Juan on April One!), I knew I was in for a special journey with a one-of-a-kind bride. Quirky, sweet, and full of heart, April trusted me to bring her Filipiniana bridal vision to life—and what we created together was nothing short of magical.

April 12, 2025

From California, USA to the Aisle – Jeanel’s Filipiniana Journey

From the very first message Jeanel sent, I knew this wasn’t going to be just another bridal project—it was going to be something truly special. Sweet, sentimental, and so full of love, Jeanel reached out from California with a vision: a modern Filipiniana dress that honored her heritage while celebrating her unique style. Over the span of a year, we worked closely together—through consultations, fittings, and emotional updates—to bring her dream gown to life. From her surprise engagement in the Philippines to the heartfelt letter she later sent me in the mail, every part of her story was woven with love, intention, and joy. And when I finally saw her dancing and celebrating in her dress, it was like watching a dream unfold—one filled with tradition, beauty, and pure happiness.

March 29, 2025

From Sydney, Australia to the Aisle – Psalm’s Filipiniana Journey

From the very first call, I knew this journey would be special. She was running errands during our first meeting, but what stood out most was her sweet spirit and the way she said, “I just want to feel like a princess.”

Originally from the Philippines and having moved to Australia at 9 years old, she knew how important it was to honor her roots — especially on her wedding day as she married Lucas, her Italian fiancé.

The moment she saw the Fairytale Dress — the same one that went viral on TikTok — she knew it was the one. We worked together for over a year to bring her dream Filipiniana wedding dress to life, and later, we added a magical twist: a custom reception look inspired by Dirty Dancing (yes, we made it happen!).

She’s truly one of the sweetest brides I've ever worked with — and it’s been an honor to be part of her love story and cultural celebration.

October 14, 2023

From Toronto, Canada to the Aisle – Emma’s Filipiniana Journey

When Emma reached out from Toronto, she wasn’t just looking for a dress—she was searching for a piece of home to wear as she walked down the aisle in the Philippines.

She fell in love with the Sonya design, even before it existed in white. With care, we reimagined it together—selecting a new lace, refining the silhouette, and crafting her one-of-a-kind ceremony gown.

As one of my very first Filipina brides, Emma’s trust helped shape the foundation of Maria Gabriela Couture. Her journey marked more than a milestone—it became a symbol of cultural pride returning home in full bloom.

August 15, 2023

From Washington, USA to the Aisle – Christian’s Filipiniana Journey

One of my most memorable brides to date, she was truly a vision of individuality and style. Based in Seattle, Washington, she came to me with a bold and unconventional vision for her wedding dress. She didn’t want the traditional white gown, instead dreaming of a stunning nude and brown-toned design that reflected her unique personality. Her dress was the first of its kind for me, and creating it sparked a new passion for unconventional wedding designs that I absolutely love.

What made her journey even more special was how she wore her dress for not one, but two days – a ceremony on one day and a reception the next – showcasing her stunning versatility. The process was made even more heartwarming when I had the pleasure of meeting her mother during our measurements consultation, who was incredibly supportive and hands-on throughout. She’s been a delight to work with, and I will always cherish the memories of creating a dress that truly told her story.

January 28, 2023

From Vision to Victory: Designing Alex’s Ms. Philippines 2023 Gown from New Jersey, USA

When Alex Gamboa first reached out to me, her message instantly resonated. She wasn’t just looking for a gown—she was searching for a symbol. Competing in the Ms. Philippines 2023 pageant in NJ-NY, a celebration of Filipino heritage across universities, she shared how this year’s theme was “Lumaban”—to rise, to fight, and to find beauty and strength in adversity.

Alex had a clear vision: a gown that radiated fire, resilience, and elegance. Drawing inspiration from Catriona Gray’s iconic Mayon Volcano gown, she imagined rich blends of red and black—colors that spoke of passion, power, and the fierce love we hold for our roots. But what touched me the most was her intentionality in choosing a Filipina designer. She believed the gown’s story could only come full circle if it were created by someone who shared her culture—and I was deeply honored to bring that vision to life.

November 19,2022

A Starfall Dream: Ryan’s Custom Gown for a Night to Remember from Ohio, USA

Back in the early years of Maria Gabriela Couture—when the brand was still growing into its identity and not yet exclusively focused on Filipiñana bridal—I had the honor of working with a client who truly left a mark on my heart. Her name is Ryan, and she reached out to me with a vision for a custom gown inspired by the theme “Starfall.” The event was to be held in a grand, historic library in Baltimore—a setting that felt like something straight out of a fairytale.

Ryan wasn’t just sweet and graceful—she was incredibly creative. She knew what she wanted: something magical, elegant, and unique that reflected her story. It was during this time I realized how powerful design could be. Seeing how my creativity could help another woman feel radiant and confident—to create unforgettable memories and feel like the star of her own story—was both humbling and inspiring. Ryan’s dress, and the journey to bring it to life, is one I’ll never forget.