I think the biggest expectation in a wedding in the Philippines comes from the extended family and friends. They think that now a westerner is marrying into the family that the ceremony has to be a lavish and exuberant affair.
Little do they know that it takes a long time to save not only to go to the Philippines but for all the expenses once there. I think that our respective wives/fiancees and girlfriends know the score and understand 'our' situations as far as money is concerned.
My wife and I had a small ceremony, married by the Mayor of our town in the municiple building. But what counted for me was that my wife looked absolutely stunning in her dress and we both had a great day and we are so happy to be together forever.
I guess what I am saying is that you do not need to spend a lot to be happy, don't be fooled into thinking that you need to feed the five thousand just because you are a westerner.
Our wedding day:
