Away from the throngs of Christmas shoppers and holiday revelers, we've listed some options for solemn Catholic wedding ceremonies in Manila during this festive season.

1. Fernbrook Gardens

Portofino South, Daan Reyna, New Alabang, Muntinlupa City
Fernbrook Gardens is a favorite wedding venue in the South, as it is the only place that has spots for both the wedding ceremony and reception in the vicinity. Inspired by European glass gardens, the complex offers a myriad of reception venue choices from the romantic to the grandiose after your ceremony at their mini basilica.

2. Archbishop's Palace

Villa San Miguel, 438 Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong City
Fairly hidden from the maddening Christmas traffic, two chapels found inside the official residence of the Cardinal and Archbishop of Manila are the perfect venues for intimate ceremonies. The lawn is ideal for pictorials, too. Note that weddings can't be held here on Sundays, and be mindful of the strict dress code.

3. Santisimo Rosario Parish Church (UST Chapel)

University of Santo Tomas, España St., Manila
Established in 1942, this was one of the first churches in the Philippines to be built within a university. Now equipped with air-conditioning, this venue is a sentimental favorite of the Thomasian community, as well as for those who want a solemn ceremony before heading off to nearby reception venues in Manila.

4. National Shrine of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish

Dona Juana Rodriguez Ave., Broadway, New Manila, Quezon City
Formally consecrated as a shrine to the Lady of Mt. Carmel in 1964, this church has been a long-cherished choice for weddings in this area. The parish also offers complete wedding packages (and even accepts online payment!), with the reception held at Mt. Carmel's Fr. Horan Hall and services provided by its partner suppliers.  For more information, check out Mt. Carmel's official site.

5. Church of the Holy Sacrifice (UP Chapel)

University of the Philippines Campus, Diliman, Quezon Cit
The UP Chapel is recognized as a National Historical Landmark by the National Historical Institute and was designed in 1955 by the late National Artist Leandro Locsin, in collaboration with four other National Artists. It was the first circular church in the country, where all the supporting columns are all in the church's periphery--allowing your guests to easily see you seal the wedding deal with a kiss from any pew.