Culture Movers in Focus: Algel and Patrick's Journey to Each Other

"We honestly just wanted something simple for our wedding. I searched the web for design inspirations and later decided to go for classic wedding bands. We asked Sesotunawa to create the rings for us and we loved it! We even had it engraved with our wedding date from a small jewelry shop here in our province." - Algel and Patrick

It was love for music that brought Algel and Patrick together. After meeting at their high school band training in 2009, this lovely couple became good friends. Eventually, their relationship evolved and they became lovers who are now committed to spending the rest of their days together.

As we close the month of February, we are putting a spotlight on Algel and Patrick's love story and how Sesotunawa became part of their journey.

1) How did you get to know each other?

We met during high school band summer training last 2009. He's one of our commanding officers. We got along with each other and became good friends. I even asked him to pretend to be my boyfriend so that my ex would leave me alone, LOL. The next thing we knew, we made everything official.

2) Tell us about your engagement.

We didn't have an engagement party. The decision to get married is mutual. Besides, we've been together for more than a decade, been living together for a couple of years, and invested in some properties already. So we decided that on our exact 12th anniversary, we'll get married. We also took advantage of the current situation to have a small wedding with only about 75 guests.

3) How did you hear about Sesotunawa?

We were on a budget and as an artist myself, it has always been my dream to DIY almost anything that I can in my wedding -- from invitations, wedding signages, to giveaways. I did them all. I also wanted to support and promote local artists and small businesses. Our entourage accessories were made by two of my artist friends. My bouquet was made by my florist cousin. Our gifts for the principal sponsors were made by a local soap maker. Some of our wedding decor like the Anahaw leaves were harvested from our farm. When it came to our rings, we inquired at a local jewelry shop and we were quoted more than 30k for a pair of wedding rings. For someone who's on a strict budget, we had to think about it. So I searched on Instagram for local artists/shops who sell rings, and that's when I came upon your account. I went through your profile and website, I was inspired and amazed by the art of Temwel, the craftsmanship, the tradition, everything! That's when I decided to reach out.

4) Why did you decide to have your wedding band created by Sesotunawa?

We honestly just wanted something simple for our wedding. I searched the web for design inspirations and later decided to go for classic wedding bands. We asked Sesotunawa to create the rings for us and we loved it! We even had it engraved with our wedding date from a small jewelry shop here in our province.

Photo Credit: Malaya Photography (https://web.facebook.com/Malayaphotos/?_rdc=1&_rdr)