Mariyen

Mariyen’s Modern Filipiñana Love Story

When I first heard from Mariyen, she messaged with such a calm confidence:
"Hello, I would like to do something Filipiniana, either a two piece or a short A-line dress by the ankle."
And just like that, we were off on a beautiful design journey.

Based in Houston, Texas, Mariyen and her fiancé Gillian were planning their wedding for April 24, 2024. From the start, she knew she wanted a Filipiniana piece she could wear again long after the celebration. Something meaningful, something stylish—and something unmistakably hers.

design sketch for Mariyen ♥

We worked together for a few months, crafting a design that allowed her to honor her heritage and her individuality at the same time. She decided on separates—elegant, timeless, and versatile. Of course, we added pockets (a non-negotiable favorite!), and when I finally saw how she styled the Filipiniana top with her pants after the wedding... I was in awe. She wore it with such ease, grace, and pride.

During one of our consultations, I had the chance to meet Gillian too. He was helpful and kind—exactly the kind of partner you hope your bride has by her side. When he was around, I kept my design talk vague to preserve the surprise, but once it was just us girls, we had fun diving deep into the vision.

Measurements Consultation with Ella, Mariyen & Gillian ♥

This was still during a season of MGC where I didn’t yet offer mock-up fittings, so we relied entirely on careful measurements and trust. Every inch of fabric, every seam sewn by hand, was intentional. I poured my heart into her dress, knowing it would not only walk down the aisle—but live on in the everyday moments she chose to wear it again.

Mariyen’s dress wasn’t just for a wedding—it was a love letter to her culture, her story, and the new chapter she was stepping into.

“I can’t believe that you have created my dream wedding dress into reality. I am beyond grateful for this, and you have no idea how blessed I am that I have found you to be able to include in our special day!

Thank you so much”

Her words truly warmed my heart and made every moment of the process so worth it. Knowing that I had played a part in making her dream dress come true was one of the most fulfilling moments of my work.