Debuts
Gabbi Garcia
Manila Marriott Hotel
Looking every inch a fairy tale princess, Gabbi Garcia welcomed her coming of age at the Diplomatic Hall of Manila Marriott Hotel. Attended by her family, friends, and fellow GMA artists, the Encantadia star’s 18th birthday bash was nothing short of magical as she projected the quintessential image of a girl blossoming fully into womanhood.
To her liking, the debut, dubbed “#SincerelyGabbi,” had a “modern minimalist” theme, with guests requested to come in black or white. Designer Mark Bumgarner prepared two gowns for Gabbi to wear for the occasion—one silver; the other, emerald green. “For her main gown, Gabbi wanted something in silver white, so I designed a ball gown with an eight-panel skirt and high neckline to emphasize her beautiful profile. It consisted of layers of tulle, and was painstakingly encrusted with Swarovski crystals,” revealed Mark. Later, Gabbi donned the second emerald serpentina gown which was reminiscent of her role as Alena in Encantadia.
Floral and event designer Teddy Manuel transformed Gabbi’s debut venue into essentially a modern zen zone. Strips of white ribbon together with silver foil were hung from the ceiling. The tablescape had white Ecuadorian roses, viburnum, calla lilies, and pine leaves.
Following the conventional debut program, Gabbi had 18 roses with Kapuso stars that included Rocco Nacino, Carlo Gonzales, Pancho Magno, Kristoffer Martin, and Jerald Napoles. Participating in the 18 candles ceremony were her Encantadia co-stars Glaiza de Castro, Kylie Padilla, Sanya Lopez, and best friend Julia Barretto, the only Kapamilya star in the guest list. Taking part in 18 treasures were director Mark Reyes plus husband and wife Dingdong Dantes and Marian Rivera.
Entertainment was provided by Christian Bautista and Aicelle Santos. Gabbi revealed her rocker side through a mash-up of “Come Together” and “Royals” while playing the guitar. The dancing that capped the evening’s celebration featured the Powerhouse band and DJ Patty Tiu.
Photography:
BluFish
Event Stylist:
Teddy Manuel
Videography:
Jason Magbanua
Gowns:
Mark Bumgarner
Makeup:
Jason delos Reyes
Hair:
Mark Rosales
Fashion Stylist:
Kat Cruz
Cake:
Honeyglaze Cakes
Music:
Powerhouse Band,
Dj Patty Tiu
Photobooth:
Team OSS
Souvenirs:
Instamug
Invitations:
Amis Print
Hosts:
Donita Rose, Tim
Yap and Atom Ungson