About a month ago, environmentalist friends Rina and Don tied the knot at Casa San Pablo in Laguna. I found their wedding venue so great that I ended up interviewing owner Boots Alcantara after the dinner reception for this article published in Sunday Inquirer Magazine.
It was our first time to visit Casa San Pablo, which is one of the destinations in the famous Viaje del Sol route, a popular art, culture and foodie destination tour.
Casa San Pablo has sprawling gardens, Baguio-like pine trees, vine-covered trellis hanging from the balconies and beautiful blooms, making it an ideal place for a garden wedding.
The venue provides a fun, homey, laid-back vibe. There are loads of picture-perfect spots ideal for pre-nup or wedding photography, from the wooden hammocks in the garden, spiral staircase, and colorful cottage doorways.
Aside from the natural beauty of the place, quirky country details and well-placed decorations add a unique charm.
Boots styled the event himself, using Paete-style taka, fresh flowers from the garden, and other decorations they had on hand that matched the Filipiniana theme.
The food was also excellent. I particularly liked the lechon and the tilapia in beer batter with mango salsa. Guests who arrived early were also treated to suman and hot chocolate.
Small candles in jars were strung on trees and lined the pathways at night, adding to the romantic atmosphere.
It really was a lovely wedding. Rates are pretty reasonable too. For those interested, check out Casa San Pablo’s website for details and instructions how to get there.
Casa San Pablo is located at Barrio San Roque, San Pablo, Laguna, Philippines · 0917-8126687 · Fax 724-7023 · info@casasanpablo.com/casasanpablo.boots@gmail.com
Wedding photos by Kara Santos; Photobooth pics by MyPartyRocks Photo Booth.