FROM LONG DISTANCE TO FOREVER TOGETHER

CHERSON AND ISHEL

Who says long-distance relationships don’t work? Ishel and Cherson’s love story proves that true love can conquer any distance. With a shared passion for art and an unwavering love for each other, their story is one for the books.

Love Takes the Crown

Love has its own way of taking center stage, and for Cherson and Ishel, it happened at a beauty pageant. Cherson thought he was there just to support his cousin who was vying for the crown. Little did he know that fate had something else in store for him. Ishel was also a contestant that night, and neither of them expected that they were about to meet their soulmate. This is the story of how a chance encounter in a beauty pageant brought Cherson and Ishel together and started their romantic journey towards forever.

DMs and Belated Birthday Wishes

If Cherson had been a judge at that fateful beauty pageant, he would have given Ishel a perfect score in every category. Little did he know, Ishel was also giving him points from afar, admiring his artistic creations on social media, and realizing they share a love for all things geeky, including Marvel and Disney films. It was a perfect match. Cherson and Ishel definitely ticked all the boxes on the compatibility chart.

After receiving a DM from Cherson's cousin, who confessed Cherson's affection for her, Ishel finally came clean about her crush just before her birthday. She hoped for a response, but she was still taken aback when she received a belated birthday greeting from him. Cupid's question during the pageant night was finally answered, and their love story began to unfold, fueled by their mutual admiration for each other's art and shared interests in geek culture.

The Marvelous First Date

Ishel and Cherson's first date was a nerve-wracking experience for both of them. As two people who had never been on a date before, they were understandably excited and apprehensive. Their first outing was to watch the Marvel movie "Doctor Strange," and Cherson let Ishel take the lead in conversation as he was feeling a bit shy. As the evening progressed, they ended up extending their date at a board game cafe with a private karaoke room. While Ishel's song choice was questionable, it was during her rendition of Salbakuta's "Stupid Love" that Cherson had a eureka moment. For him, a lifetime with Ishel was anything but a foolish idea, and he knew in that moment that she was the one.

Saturday Bucket List

With a busy schedule that included work and school, the two lovebirds always found time for each other every Saturday. They had a special bucket list of activities that they enjoyed doing together - from leisurely walks in the park, museum dates, and exploring the city's tourist spots. Trying out new things was their mantra, but they also relished in simply enjoying each other's company in cozy cafes and indulging in different Japanese restaurants to find the perfect bowl of ramen. One of their favorite activities was going on art dates, where they would stay in cafes and draw together, enjoying each other's creativity and talent. Even when they were apart during the weekdays, they made sure to stay connected through video calls. This Saturday routine became their tradition for three years, a testament to the strength of their love and commitment to each other. 

A Love Stronger Than Distance

The couple's Saturday date habit was forced to a halt when Cherson had to work abroad, leaving Ishel behind. The pandemic made things even more difficult, prohibiting Cherson from returning home for two and a half years. Despite the distance, the couple persevered with hard work, patience, and a whole lot of love. Many tears were shed from longing, but their commitment never wavered. Their time apart made it crystal clear for Cherson and Ishel that they simply could not imagine a lifetime without one another.

Two Failed Attempts and One Successful Proposal

During the pandemic, Cherson and Ishel were separated by miles, unable to reunite due to travel restrictions. Ishel attempted to fly and be with her beloved, but was offloaded by immigration officers not just once, but twice. As she waited for her baggage to be returned to her on the second attempt, she video called Cherson to share the news of her unsuccessful journey. Despite the distance and obstacles, their love for each other only grew stronger. In that emotional moment, Cherson asked Ishel to be his forever, and without hesitation, she said "Yes'' to spending the rest of her life with him.

Wedding Planning on Fast Forward

After waiting for what seemed like forever, Cherson and Ishel finally decided to tie the knot in just two months! The first order of business was setting a budget and researching for suppliers and venues, but luckily for them, both their parents stepped in to help with the wedding planning. Cherson's father, a pastor, and Ishel's father, a wedding photographer, contributed their skills and expertise. Additionally, their friends from the wedding industry also offered their assistance, making the planning process smoother than they expected.

Despite the short timeline, Cherson and Ishel's wedding day was nothing short of amazing. They opted for a rustic theme that beautifully maximized their budget and made the most out of their limited planning period. Looking at their stunning photos, it's hard to believe that it all came together in just two months!

Planning from Afar

The distance was no match for the love between Cherson and Ishel, who planned their dream wedding despite being in different countries. Late-night video calls were a common occurrence for the couple, with Ishel sacrificing sleep to make sure every detail was perfect. Despite juggling their full-time jobs, the duo remained composed and was grateful for the unwavering support from their loved ones and trusted wedding suppliers. From start to finish, Cherson and Ishel's journey was a testament to the power of love and the importance of a strong support system.

From 'See You' to 'I Do'

The day they had been waiting for had finally arrived! Cherson and Ishel couldn't contain their excitement as they prepared for their big day. As they dressed up from separate floors, they exchanged loving shouts of "I love you" and "See you" to each other. When Ishel made her grand entrance down the aisle, their excitement only grew stronger. In that moment, they only saw each other, and it was as if the rest of the world had vanished into thin air.

After overcoming the challenges that come with a long-distance relationship, Cherson and Ishel exchanged their heartfelt I do’s in front of an intimate gathering of their families and close friends. Their lovely wedding took place in the enchanting Kubo De Abuela in Rodriguez, Rizal, surrounded by an abundance of lush greens that provided the perfect backdrop for the overflowing love felt on that day. It was truly a whimsical celebration of their love that will forever be etched in their hearts.

Cherson and Ishel's love story is a testament that true love truly knows no distance. Their names, when combined, form the word "cherish," which perfectly encapsulates the depth of their love for each other. It's a love that stood the test of distance and time, and one that they continue to cherish every single day. Despite being oceans apart, their shared love for art and all things geeky brought them even closer together. With hard work and patience, they were able to overcome the obstacles of a long-distance relationship. And in just two months, they pulled off a wedding that was not only breathtakingly beautiful but also whimsical in every sense of the word. Today, Cherson and Ishel are happily married, and they continue to create art and make memories together, proving that love truly is the most magical force in the universe.

Special thanks to the wedding suppliers:

Catering, Flowers, Decor, Sounds, Bridal Car - Chef Lynn Catering Services

Emcee - Ms Bangs Zaldivar

Invitations - Boon Prints Enterprises

Venue - Kubo De Abuela

Photo & Video - Jun Garcia, Chito Cleofas, Val B Bunao, One Hello Photography

Gown - Elizabeth Saddi Couture

Hair and Makeup - Hmua Jeah EL

Live Streaming & LED wall - Exposure Photo & Video

Succulents (Souvenir) - Jamella Mendoza