To honor Arlene's Filipino heritage, a few Filipino wedding traditions will be incorporated into the ceremony.
Coin Bearer
The Coin Bearer carries on a pillow a basket of coins that the bride and groom exchange after the exchange of rings. It symbolizes a hope for prosperity for their family and their mutual commitment to take care of each other and their family.
Primary Sponsors
Primary Sponsors are Godparents for the marriage. They are generally family or close friends who the bride and groom look up to and admire. They will join the priest in extending hands over the bride and groom during the nuptial blessing.
Secondary Sponsors
Secondary Sponsors will be performing certain duties during the ceremony. They are usually family and close friends of the bride and groom.
Candle Sponsors light the altar candles at the start of the ceremony. It symbolizes the lighting of the way to the marriage altar.
Veil Sponsors drape and pin a veil over the bride and groom after the exchange of rings and coins. It symbolizes being clothed in their new life together as husband and wife under God's protection.
Cord Sponsors loosely drape a cord in the shape of an infinity symbol around the bride and groom after the veil is put on. It symbolizes binding them in their new life together for eternity.