Mara Angela Antiojo has a straightforward philosophy: trust the team, stay present, and let the moments unfold. As Events Coordinator at Discovery Boracay, she works closely with couples to bring their vision to life on one of the Philippines’ most celebrated islands. We asked her what makes a Boracay wedding special – and what couples should know before they start planning.
Venue Snapshot
Venue: Discovery Boracay
Location: Boracay Island, Philippines
Website: https://www.discoveryboracay.com/
In five words: Elegant. Tropical. Romantic. Scenic. Unforgettable.
The Venue
What are the main reasons couples choose Discovery for their destination wedding?
The ocean views are the obvious starting point – breathtaking in the truest sense of the word. Beyond that, it’s the combination of a romantic tropical atmosphere, genuinely personalised wedding experiences, and a team that guides couples through every step of the planning process. Families and friends get to enjoy a relaxed island getaway at the same time; the wedding and the holiday become one experience.
Where’s your favourite spot at the resort for a stunning wedding photo?
The beachfront at sunset. That golden light reflecting off the ocean creates a backdrop that’s both naturally romantic and completely timeless – the kind of image that doesn’t need any filters.
What’s the most Instagrammable spot at the resort?
The oceanfront infinity view area. Endless blue sea, tropical surroundings, dramatic sunsets – it’s the shot that makes everyone back home stop scrolling.
What’s the best room for the wedding night and why?
The Premier Suite. Spacious, elegantly appointed, with stunning views and a genuine sense of calm – exactly what a couple needs after a full and emotional day of celebrating.
What’s the one thing couples get at Discovery that they won’t find anywhere else?
That particular combination of breathtaking natural scenery, warm Filipino hospitality, and wedding experiences that are tailored to each couple. Boracay is beautiful; the resort makes it personal.
What are some of the chef’s specialities for a wedding menu?
Fresh seafood, grilled specialities and locally inspired flavours are where the kitchen excels – and Mara has a particular word of advice: don’t skip the desserts.
What’s the most glamorous experience a couple can enjoy at the resort?
A private dinner by the beach, arranged exclusively for the two of them – personalised service, beautiful décor, the ocean right there. Grand and quietly intimate at the same time.
The Planner’s Insights
What’s the biggest misconception couples have about planning a destination wedding in Boracay?
That it will be stressful and complicated. With an experienced events team supporting you through every step, the process is far smoother than most couples expect – often more so than planning a wedding at home. The team’s job is to carry the complexity; the couple’s job is to enjoy the result.
What’s the strangest wedding request you’ve ever had – and did you deliver?
A surprise flash mob during the reception – the couple wanted their guests to suddenly break into a choreographed dance right after the first dance. Mara coordinated with the guests and the DJ in secret, and when the moment arrived it turned into one of the most fun and unforgettable moments of the night.
What do wedding couples almost always forget?
Writing their vows, comfortable shoes for the reception, and nominating someone to look after their personal belongings during the event. Small things – but the kind that matter as the evening wears on. Mara reminds every couple well in advance.
What’s your best piece of advice for couples planning their destination wedding?
Trust your team and focus on the experience rather than chasing perfection. The magic of a destination wedding is in the moments that feel authentic and personal – and often it’s the unplanned ones that you remember most. Hand over the details and be present for what actually matters.
What’s the most memorable thing a couple has ever said to you after their wedding day?
“Thank you Mara – this was more beautiful than we ever imagined.”
That’s the moment, she says, that makes all of it worthwhile.
About Mara
Mara has always been drawn to life’s biggest celebrations – the planning, the creativity, the attention to detail that makes a single day feel genuinely extraordinary. “Seeing the joy and love on their faces when everything comes together – that’s what makes this work rewarding.” It’s a sentiment that shows in how she approaches every wedding she coordinates.
If your best friend called you tomorrow and said she was thinking about a destination wedding, what’s the one piece of advice you’d give her that she won’t find on any website?
Don’t stress the small stuff. The magic isn’t in perfection – it’s in the moments that feel real, joyful and personal. Focus on what truly matters to you and your partner, trust the people you’ve hired, and let the unplanned moments happen. Those are usually the ones you’ll talk about for years.
Mara’s Insider Tip for Boracay
Take a quiet walk along the coastline at dusk. The soft light, the gentle breeze, the sound of the waves – it’s one of the most romantic ways to absorb the beauty of the island and settle into the feeling of the day. Most guests never do it; the ones who do never forget it.
For wedding enquiries at Discovery Boracay, contact Mara at mara-angela.antiojo@discovery.com.ph