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693 days

since we tied the knot!
Welcome to Christian and Janica’s wedding website!

Join us as we say ``I do'' in a lovely town in Denmark on 03 June 2023.

Here, you can read about our meet-cute that ended up in a wave of immense love that brought us to promise our lives to each other.

As a lot of you will be traveling, we want you to be prepared, feel comfortable, and -- most importantly -- have fun! We have included travel tips, lodging details, and things you can do around the area. We will also be updating this site with important information and details about our big day!

So, enjoy reading our love story, get to know our dearest bridal party, view our registry, and make sure to RSVP!
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The Unlikely Match

Would you ever think that politics and engineering would ever get along? A very unlikely match. 

But, in the year 2016, at the State University of New York at Buffalo, two unlikely characters met and fell madly in love. Christian, a Viking exchange student at the Department of Mechanical Engineering meets a tiny dayang dayang, Janica, who was getting her graduate degree at the Department of Political Science.

One night, the Graduate Student Union threw a soiree where Janica and her friend, Rebecca, represented the Political Science department, and Christian and his friends stumbled in, looking like lost boys waiting for the after-party.

We all know that first impressions last and could even be love at first sight. Christian made an impression on Janica who, let’s be honest, has buried her nose in books and papers her whole life, so you have to be noticeable to get her attention. And she noticed this tall, blonde, blue-eyed guy. She looked at him from head to toe, and made a wager with Rebecca, ``Gay or European?'' (Janica edit: To be fair, Christian was wearing skinny jeans -- in 2016 BUFFALO!) But the wager we’ll have is, was it love at first sight for her?

On the other hand, Christian was immediately captivated by Janica’s happy, carefree dancing. And in true bro code, his friend Rishab, after knowing Christian finds the damsel cute, did his duty of being a great wingman and got Christian a chance with Janica.

It was a whirlwind romance that, by the time Christian was heading back home, two people from very different backgrounds, cultures, and schools of study couldn’t get enough of each other. 

So, they decided to take a leap of faith that everyone saw blossom beautifully into a marvelous relationship. The unlikely match found they complemented each other after all. 
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The Proposal

Brännö is an island in the Southern Göteborg Archipelago, famous in the Icelandic sagas as the place where Vikings met for important assemblies, as well as the location of important decision-making by kings, nobles, and merchants. The inhabitants of Brännö is also believed to be the same as the Brondings -- the Germanic tribe in Beowulf and Widsith! Thousands of years later, it becomes very important in the love story of a certain Viking and a princess from a far-off land.

As the summer approaches in Brännö on 10 April 2021, the two lovers decided to have a romantic picnic up the island's highest point, where they enjoyed the views over Vinga and the harbor. Janica, the unassuming damsel in the story prepared the charcuterie, while the Viking, Christian, tried his best to hide his nervousness. 

The universe gave these two a beautiful backdrop for a romantic picnic. A sunny day with clear blue skies and winds perfect for a cozy hug to chills and kilig from a moment that will change their lives forever.

As they looked for the perfect picnic spot, the surroundings reflected what they have -- blue ocean as deep as their love and hills that survived the test of time as their relationship did -- the perfect location for the next natural step of Christian and Janica's relationship. 

As the wind blew, Christian got down on his knee, took out the ring that he's been hiding since Janica arrived from Texas, and asked the love of his life to marry him. Janica, who's been looking at engagement rings using Christian's Instagram, made the most important decision in her life and said yes to the only boy she's ever loved. 

The excitement, the outburst of love, the surprise, the nerves -- all were factors in a moment that only the two of them remember and will know. And we, the outsiders who follow their love story, will only see their love unfold in their wedding and witness it grow for the rest of their lives.

Maid of Honor

Maui Rabuco

What's the best way to meet your first ever friend in university? Maui and Janica will tell you it's to chat (instead of paying attention lol) throughout college orientation. Then, 16 years later, you have yourself a dear friend and the most amazing maid of honor! In fact, the wedding prep would probably have been a nightmare for Janica if not for Maui's skills in event planning (and life)! With Maui and Janica together, expect non-stop talking, laughing, and vibing!

Best Man

Johan Olsson

Johan is Christian's oldest and dearest friend. They have been joined at the hip since they were six years old. Christian and Johan grew up a few streets away from each other in Västerås. Their friendship even created strong bonds between the Larsen and Olsson families! Nowadays, despite living in a different city, Johan remains Christian's closest friend (and the unofficial third wheel of Christian and Janica's relationship (Janica edit: I'm actually the true third wheel!)). Johan is, and will always be, Janica's ``Brohan''.

Bridesman

Raymond Zabala

Raymond is probably the only person who willingly tolerates and supports Janica's arte (aka extra-ness). Case in point: Raymond flew to College Station and supported Janica's quest for a Christmas tree -- driving to two Walmarts and decorating the tree (while Janica slept on the couch)! Their friendship started during college and continued to their postgraduate days where they spent many nights as study buddies in Starbucks. Now, Raymond is a lawyer and Janica has a Ph.D. but, just like in the old days, when they're together, anticipate loads of chaotic fun! 

Groomsman

Oskar Grankvist

Oskar has been Christian's friend since their days in ABB high school in Västerås. In college, both took up Mechanical Engineering (and Masters in Systems, Control, and Mechatronics) at Chalmers in Göteborg. At one point, they were both living in the same dorm at Johanneberg. It is safe to say that Oskar has been a constant and dear friend. Both Christian and Oskar talk a lot about robotics and automation -- but don't let that scare you, they are very nice and well-adjusted people!
The Wedding Venue
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Strib Kirke

Vestergade 93, Strib

Strib Kirke is a cozy little town church with a lot of personal history. In fact, Christian's great-great-granduncle was one of the bricklayers who built the church in 1910!
Janica's first Christmas mass with Christian's family was in Strib Kirke. It was also where Christian's parents, Peter and Birgitte, got married in 1990 (as well as Christian's piblings, Lotte and Henrik, in 1994). 
When we decided to have our special day in Denmark, it was a no-brainer that Strib Kirke is the place to tie the knot!
(Hot tip: Check out the boats hanging from the church ceilings -- a nod to Strib's importance as a ferry town connecting Fyn and Jylland, Denmark's biggest island, from the late 1600s through the 1930s.)
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Kasmoselund

Kasmosevej 3, Røjleskov

Kasmoselund's history dates back to 1894. Yep, 1894! Kasmoselund is older than the Philippines' independence from Spain! 
For over 110 years, Kasmoselund functioned as an active and well-run farm. Nowadays, apart from being the site of many wedding celebrations, it is also a part of a micro-roastery. 
Christian and Janica fell in love with Kasmoselund because of its countryside location and very intimate vibe. Surrounded by greenery, we thought it is the best place to celebrate our special day with our loved ones!
(Hot tip: Bring your bathing suits and try the Scandinavian sauna!)
How to get to Strib

Kastrup Airport

Lufthavnsboulevarden 6, Kastrup

Scandinavia's largest airport is located approximately 8 km southeast of Copenhagen's city center. 
For our family and friends from abroad, flying to Kastrup via any of the major airlines is highly recommended.
(Hot tip: Hopper is a great app to scan the best prices for flights!)

Copenhagen Central Station

Bernstorffsgade, København

From Copenhagen, head to Strib by taking the train from the Central Station (København H) to the Middelfart Station. You can book tickets in advance through DSB. 
The Central Station is accessible from Kastrup -- just walk straight out of arrivals and take the escalator upstairs, which is where the train leaves. You can get tickets from the ticket machines there. (Yep, the Scandinavian public transport system is awesome!)
While waiting for your train, you might want to check out Tivoli, the third-oldest operating amusement park in the world. It's a 4-minute walk from Central Station.
Where to stay in Strib

Hindsgavl Castle

Hindsgavl Alle 7, Middelfart

Fancy a stay on castle grounds from the 18th century? If yes, then Hindsgavl might be the choice for you! Hans Christian Andersen certainly thought so! He once said that Hindsgavl has ``the most beautiful view on Fyn, maybe in all of Denmark.'' With 4-star ratings, a room in Hindsgavl costs about USD 250 (SEK 2600) per night.

Sixtus

Teglgårdsvej 73, Middelfart

If you like the waters, Sinatur Hotel Sixtus in Middelfart might be the best place for you. With the view of the picturesque Fænøsund, you can take a walk along the coast or settle down in the garden overlooking the Lillebælt bridge. With a 4-star rating, a night stay in Sixtus costs around USD 200 (SEK 2100).

Comwell Middelfart

Karensmindevej 3, Middelfart

Comwell is a neat and homey hotel close to Strib. It offers everything you would need for a comfortable stay, and there is a McDonald's across the street if you're feeling a late-night snack! Rated 4 stars, Comwell charges around USD 100 (SEK 1050) per night.

Milling Hotel Park

Viaduktvej 28, Middelfart

Milling Hotel Park is 100 meters away from the Middelfart Train Station, and a 10-minute walk to the heart of downtown Middelfart. The beautiful hospital building from 1916 exudes a cozy and idyllic vibe. A 3-star hotel, Milling costs around USD 80 (SEK 840) a night.
What to do in Strib

Porpoise Safari

Middelfart's history is closely linked with the world's smallest whale -- the porpoise.
For several centuries (with the earliest recorded history tracing back to the 16th century), the hunters' guild sailed their 10 boats to hunt porpoises, supplying the rest of Denmark with porpoise flesh. The hunters also extracted oil from the porpoise fat layer, which people then used as lamp oil! The porpoises, which are often observed in the waters between Strib and Fredericia, were so popular that the vassal at Hindsgavl supplied them to the king in 1520.
Nowadays, porpoise watching is a popular attraction for people who like nature and history! Check out the tours onboard Mira III or AVENTURA for more details.
(Hot tip: If boats are not your thing, check out the Henner Friisers Hus, a Renaissance house built in the 1500s, instead!)

Countryside Bike Ride

If you are feeling adventurous, rent a bike and ride through the woods at Staurby, which is rich in wildlife and stories from prehistoric times to modern Denmark.
You can also take the porpoise trail from Kulturøen in Middelfart through the beautiful deer park at Hindsgavl Peninsula and the Lillebælt’s beautiful coastline in Strib.
A trek to Røjle Klint is highly advised for those who want to see the unique geological effects of the Ice Age in Denmark. Check out the slopes, glacial sand, and black volcanic ash created millions of years ago. If you are lucky, you might even find shark teeth and walrus bone fossils!
(Hot tip: If you're not up for a bike ride, go hiking instead!)

Lillebælt Bridge Walk

Walk above a bridge, learn architecture and history, and enjoy the view!
Up to 60 meters over the water -- and 20 meters over the rails and the cars speeding on the road lanes below you -- the walk over the bridge is truly an experience!
Check out and enjoy the view of Lillebælt, Jylland, and Fyn! Over the bridge, you can also look at (and learn about) the old Lillebælt bridge.
For more details, visit www.bridgewalking.com.

Downtown Middelfart

Take a stroll and explore the old downtown of Middelfart. The narrow streets, cobblestones, and views of the sea offer a very hygge vibe.
Check out the stores and grab some Danish design goodies. (Yes, you can go shopping!)
When you are thirsty, grab a drink from Holms -- a bar that dates back to the late 1500s.
Don't forget to visit the marina, too!

Legoland

A short 45-minute drive away, you can visit the first Legoland in the world.
Opened in 1968, the Legoland in Billund is right next to the original Lego factory. It is a beautiful and fun amusement park to explore. It also houses extravagant Lego exhibitions, including the Miniland, where you can check out famous buildings and cities built out of more than 20 million (!!!) Lego bricks!

H.C. Andersen Hus

The Little Mermaid. The Ugly Duckling. The Emperor's New Clothes. Ring a bell? These fairy tales (and many others) are written by Hans Christian Andersen, who was born in Odense in 1805.
In under 45 minutes, you can drive to his hometown and visit the H.C. Andersen Hus, a whopping $62 million homage of interactive museum, curious garden, and public park.
Schengen Visa
Filipinos (unfortunately) are required to obtain a Schengen tourist visa to visit Denmark. To apply for a Schengen visa in the Philippines, check out this list and prepare the required documents accordingly.
Then, fill out the online application form and pay the visa fee. (The Visa Application Center also charges a service fee that you will need to pay in cash when you hand in your application.) Once you have filled out your application form, book an appointment at the Visa Application Center. (If you are part of a family or group, you have to book individual appointments for each member of your party.)
Attend your (in-person) scheduled appointment at the Visa Application Center (in Cebu or Manila) and bring a printout of your completed application form and other required documents. You can track your visa application status online. Please note that the processing time is at least 15 business days. You can apply for a Schengen tourist visa 6 months before you intend to arrive in Denmark.
Note: If you intend to visit several Schengen States, you must apply at the Consulate of the country whose external borders you will cross first when entering the Schengen area.
We are so excited to share our big day with you and we truly appreciate whatever gift you choose to give us!
Although we have a few traditional gifts on our registry for some household upgrades, a contribution towards our honeymoon fund instead of a gift is much appreciated. 
The biggest gift of all, however, is your presence on our big day. Thank you for your love and support!

Household Items

View registry

Honeymoon Fund

View registry