Inside Zeinab Harake and Bobby Ray Parks Jr.’s dream wedding

On a cool Tagaytay afternoon last 1 June, content creator Zeinab Harake and Japan B.League basketball star Bobby Ray Parks Jr. exchanged heartfelt vows in an intimate yet elegant ceremony surrounded by family, friends, and some of showbiz and sports’ most recognizable faces. But what was meant to be a celebration of love quickly found itself at the center of online chatter—rife with speculations, exaggerated figures, and viral snapshots.

'Not P20 million'

Netizens were quick to assume that the dreamy wedding cost upwards of ₱20 million, citing the grand venue, bespoke gowns, celebrity guest list, and the elaborate floral arrangements. But the couple set the record straight.

“O.A.,” Zeinab laughed, addressing the online claims. “Kasi masyado nilang pinapalaki. Even the cake, naging ₱2 million daw. Hindi naman po talaga.”

She clarified that the actual costs were significantly less, thanks in part to the generosity of their principal sponsors.

Bobby Ray chimed in, admitting that while he felt humbled by the public’s perception, the exaggerated figures were far from the truth. “Na-humble po ako and blessed at the same time, kasi ganun po kataas ‘yung tingin nila sa amin,” he shared. “Pero hindi po talaga umabot sa ₱20 million.”

The paper plate controversy

Another trending topic? A photo of Toni Gonzaga and Paul Soriano eating off a paper plate at the wedding reception. Critics were quick to question the couple’s decision, but Zeinab, ever candid, set the record straight.

“Kaya may paper plate, dahil sa cocktail area,” she explained. “After the ceremony, before mag-fireworks, para hindi mainip ‘yung aming mga bisita, nag-ready kami ng mga pika-pika.”

The disposable plates were used in a casual setup meant for light bites before the formal dinner—a common, practical choice often overlooked in luxury wedding setups.

Their vows

But beyond clarifying rumors, the couple’s Fast Talk appearance also revealed a side of their relationship that fans and followers rarely see: the depth of their commitment.

“I promise to always be a great wife and mom to our future kids, and to our two children now,” Zeinab said with sincerity, her voice steady and warm.

Bobby Ray, often reserved, opened up with emotion. “I promise to love you through the ups and the downs. I will always support you and have your back… You’ll never have to worry about me doing anything foolish. I will remain faithful.”

No baby...yet

And what about those pregnancy rumors that surfaced shortly after the wedding?

“No! Nooo!” Zeinab exclaimed with a laugh, shutting down the speculation. “Saan galing ‘yan?”

While they may be used to the attention, Zeinab and Bobby Ray’s appearance on Fast Talk made one thing clear: theirs is a partnership built not on spectacle, but on sincerity.