Debby Nalawagan & Massimo Peters
Our Story
We met in person for the first time in Fall of 2007 when Massimo hosted a pig roast at his home. A mutual friend recommended that Massimo call me to inquire about roasting equipment he was trying to find. Being that I was born and raised in Hawaii, she thought I'd have some connections!
That began a series of phone calls back and forth a month prior to the pig roast. Although I was not able to locate or produce pig roasting equipment, I was invited to join the festivities along with about 75 or so of Massimo's family, friends, coworkers, and neighbors. The evening was fun and filling with more potluck side dishes than you could imagine. Yes, you know me...I was in hog heaven! (Pardon the pun)
The following week, several friends met up for music and dancing. It was our second meeting in person and again, another large group setting and in a noisy bar, not exactly conducive for one-on-one conversation.
A couple weeks passed before Massimo called and found the courage to ask me out on a date, or as he put it, "Just" a nice dinner. For the first time, we were by ourselves, enjoying light conversation and a chance to get more acquainted. We went on our second date the following day and attended evening mass. Massimo fondly remembers this as the first time I let him hold my hand when we said the Lord's Prayer.
The following month was filled with many more dates, the excitement of holidays, hanging out with friends and enjoying each other's company. Ten months later, on August 8, 2008, Massimo proposed in St. Augustine during a very romantic evening that he planned in great detail. However, between inept service staff and inclement weather, things didn't quite go exactly as Massimo planned. But, the end result was a great and comical story to tell, priceless memories and a "Yes!"
And, here we were today, almost a year later and only eight weeks until we become Mr. and Mrs. Massimo Peters!
Our Wedding
The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine will be the setting for our 7:00 p.m. wedding on Saturday, August 8, 2009. We chose to marry at this church as it is where we celebrated or first Easter mass together and this date is special being the anniversary of our engagement. For additional information on the Cathedral, visit http://www.thefirstparish.org
Our Reception
Get ready to party! We will be hosting a reception immediately following the ceremony at The White Room, conveniently located within walking distance from the church. There will be lots of food, fun, libations, music, and dancing.
As we entered this facility during our search of party venues, we knew immediately that this is where we wanted to have our reception. The hardwood floors, gorgeous (and huge) mahogany bar, balcony overlooking St. Augustine's bayfront, and white grand columns seemed the right place to have our perfect celebration! To view our venue or obtain additional information, visit http://www.ocwhiteroom.com
Travel Arrangements
St. Augustine, Florida is located approximately thirty-eight miles South of Jacksonville, Florida’s First Coast City.
If you’re arriving by air, the best airport to fly in and out of would be the Jacksonville International Airport. If you’re driving from South Florida, head North on I-95. Or, if you’re driving from North of St. Augustine, take I-95 South.
The historic downtown area offers various lodging facilities, many of which are within walking distance of the church and the reception hall. There are also many hotels/motels available in St. Augustine Beach, approximately five miles from the historic district.
If you plan to stay in St. Augustine for our wedding, we kindly ask that you please e-mail/call to let us know the name of your lodging facility and your check-in date.
A Special Message From Us
As family or friends of ours, we are blessed to share this special occasion with you! Our wedding will symbolize our love and commitment to one another and will reflect our tastes, personalities, and our value of important relationships. We are excited about our special day and hope that you will join us as we say, “I DO!”