Coppa Bar and Tapas

The Eve

Casa de Abuela (Carolina's Grandmother's House)

The Wedding

Salón Eventos

The Party

Las Casitas Grill

The Lunch

Our Wedding

Our story

Our story began in 2012... Two Tumblr-obsessed kids who connected over their love of music, science (geology – wink, wink), and beer. Yes, we met through Tumblr and became instant friends. Carlos lived in Río Piedras, and Carolina in Mayagüez, so our (mostly virtual) interactions kept us texting nonstop, WhatsApping, sharing Vines, movie recs, and playlists. Whenever we did meet in person, we enjoyed beers and good food, duh. Most importantly, we talked. We talked so much that everyone in our families knew about each other without ever having met. Carolina's brother called him El fantasma, ever present but not visible. Carlos' family called Carolina: Carolina. Clearly, Lionel was more creative. Fast forward five years, and our undeniable chemistry led us to actually, and perhaps finally, start dating. Our amazing foundation, based on friendship, has been one of our strongest and bestest blessings. We started dating in 2017 – lowkey. In that year, Carlos confessed his feelings for Carolina; she thought he was crazy, reconsidered, had a big fight about it, and agreed to a date. OBVIOUSLY, she liked him from the moment she met him; this is not a secret. 2017 was also the year María hit Puerto Rico. As devastation swept through the island, we kinda-sort-of solidified our dedication to each other. When the decision was made to move to the mainland U.S., without a doubt, we were doing it together. We could go into detail about all since then, but the gist of it all is that SINCE we moved, we haven't been apart. Heck, we haven't been apart since we met, technically... Carlos proposed in 2023, in Stanardsville, VA.Carolina said yes. After a couple of years of preparation, savings, unexpected family losses, and other considerations, we are finally having our wedding. And you get to be a part of it. Thank you for contributing to our story. Thank you for being in our lives. Thank you for witnessing our love and commemorating it with us. With love, Your favorite Gems, Carolina and Carlos. PS. If you have any questions...buy us a beer, and we'll answer them. :p

Love Story

La pelirroja de mi corazón. My soulmate. Hemos vivido de to'; viéndonos crecer y cargándonos mutuamente durante cada etapa. Nuestra amistad la atesoro con MI VIDA. Es la persona más inteligente, empática, amorosa, perseverante, divertida, hermosa y admirable al 100% (y la lista sigue). Le tengo todo el amor interminable del mundo y nuestro confetti trail ha infectado todo USA (iykyk) y así continuará hasta la muerte, beibi.

Krislie ♓

Mi RIDE OR DIE. La Moniquiqui y Monibunny, la wifey, la amo desde que la vi. Mi crush de la universidad y la mejor amiga que Maya y Río me pudieron haber dado. Desde las escapadas pa' Vieques, jueves de jangueo, movidas y todo in between, es quien admiro por su creatividad y la inspiración para ser mi yo más auténtico. No me imagino una vida sin ella como amiga. 

Monica ♈

HERMANA que la vida me regaló (y Lionel, gracias). Jessica es impresionante. Aventurera hasta el fin, siempre andando por algún lugar del mundo. Me encanta su estilo, su amor y dedicación por nuestra familia, y el hecho de que siempre brinda su sinceridad y humildad, con un estilo hp si puedo decirlo. O sea, sin su opinión no había boda. Excelente persona, 10/10, no hay mas na' que decir. 


Jessica ♓

The Gemini Moon to my Gemini sun. Chave GETS IT. Otra hermana de la vida (vía Carlos), Chave es quien me recuerda que la intencionalidad de las cosas es importante. Su energía terrestre nos mantiene arraigados, pero nunca aburridos. Mi recuerdo favorito de ella es de cuando la conocí:  yo dándole un abrazo fuerte en el aeropuerto antes de presentarnos, y luego ver su cara de who the fuck are you? 
A friend, I aspired.

María Isabel ♍

La bebé de la casa. Mi única prima materna, la rubia más bella. Mei es inteligente cc y atlética a otro nivel. Desde que la cargué en mis brazos a mis catorce (quince?, eah), hasta tenerla ahora en mi séquito, la vida nos ha mantenido juntas hasta en la distancia. No puedo creer que me acompañes en esta etapa, y no podría estar más feliz de eso. 

Meilyn ♎

Noemi fue la mejor sorpresa cuando me mudé. Siempre quise una hermana con la cual vivir, y Noemi, siendo mi hermanastra, became exactly that. I miss our late-night convos, our gossip, and sharing makeup and perfume; thank you for being a true sister. No podría imaginar una boda sin Noemi, who was also the first witness to Carlos and me falling in love. A true no-brainer addition to our wedding party. I mean, are we even getting married if Noemi isnt there to see it?

Noemi ♑

El hermano mayor que me regaló la vida. El ejemplo a seguir y el role model pa' las cosas cool y geeky. TMNT, LOTR, Star Wars, X-Men y las Pepsi cards. Lucha libre en la piscina y balconeando con las cervecitas en Río Piedras. En las buenas y en las malas, siempre conmigo. Quien carga la responsabilidad de vida sin haberlo deseado y quien comparte todo conmigo excepto los deportes. De eso solo sabe de Michael Jordan y Toni Kukoč. 

José ♊

Mi otra mitad con apellido distinto. El Gumby de mi vida. “¿tú crees que podamos con catorce McChickens y cuatro papitas grandes?” Mi diario de vida con pulso y los consejos entre líneas pa' ser diplomático. Pxndx, Kit Fisto, Magic, Tony Hawk's Pro Skater, y Ska-P a to' jendeL con los limbercitos por la tarde. Fanático del Arsenal pero nadie es perfecto... El Section 106 a mi NEPA.

Osvaldo ♒

El individuo más avispa'o que he conocido en esta vida. Mi primera llamada si algún día hay que resolver un conflicto, con palabras o de otra manera. Llegó de Pastales pa' quedarse pa' siempre después de tomar la decisión de meterle a los estudios generales. Fan de D-Whistle y los Bronx Bombers. La Escort como herramienta de tumbar propaganda política y correr. Amigo, housemate, y hermano de vida in all the area codes.

Luis ♊

El primero en cargar el título de mejor amigo, desde la cuna. Un sábado en mi casa y el otro en la suya. LEGO, Pokémon, N64. Los mejores cumpleaños y visitar a Pablo en su jaula. Donitas y amarillos fritos. Siempre presente. De primer grado hasta la maestría en la UPR- pa' los estudios y los desahogos. Molinelli, CINA3005, las canequitas de chichaíto, las medallitas, y las empanadillas a las tres de la mañana.

Ricky ♒

Mi lil bro. Fuera de su prime en Smash Bros pero resiliente como él solo. Cerquita en Puerto Rico y cerquita en Virginia. SNES, basket, y béisbol en CBA. Nuestro textos de los viernes pa’ saber pa’ dónde vamos. Los viernes de Andy's Pizza y District Commons en Atlas + los rants del gobierno y las caminatas largas en el DMV. Más biking y kayaking, please! My favorite football fan, pero los alemanes SÍ pierden en penales. 

Ranier ♈

El aficionado de los cafecitos y los spots de comida cuando le caemos a San Juan. De las canciones indie en Español, los récords, los relojes, la vida perruna, y la vida gatuna. De los reels caóticos y las bromas dark. Con el que hablo de to’ esperando que tire leña al fuego. En fin, un buen tipo, compañero de vida pa' las cosas buenas  y familia presente.

Lionel ♎

Politólogo por excelencia y licenciado por naturaleza. Tremendo conversador pa’l purito con barrilito y una de las primeras paradas en nuestras travesías. Mapa viviente de América Latina y biblioteca ambulante de temas controversiales. Izquierdista problemático como un puño al corazón del Invader.

Francisco ♐

Our dearest kitties (front to back):Sakura: the og. My 13th-year-old eternal baby. Sassy as ever, lovely and chunky, my real-life peluche. Sakura will live forever.Hylia: the chosen heroine. As two Legend of Zelda lovers, Hylia was as calm as the lake (and goddess) she was named after when we found her in a shelter in Guaynabo—a true cuddle-bug.Kuro: the COVID child (in every sense). Demanding but sweet, and a true scaredy-cat, he glows a warm brown in the sunlight. His one functional eye is part of his charm.

The most important of all...

The VIPs

Please avoid wearing white or black — this day is all about color, joy, and celebration. Our theme is Whimsical Tropical, which means we’re embracing happiness, togetherness, fantasy, and festive energy in every direction. Think bright, fresh colors, sparkles, fun textures, breezy fabrics, tropical romance, and outfits that move beautifully on the dance floor.If it feels magical, vibrant, playful, or slightly over-the-top… you’re probably doing it right.

Outfit Inspo

Dress Code

If you're wondering what to expect, here's a rundown... 3:00 PM – Coffee HourGuests arrive, grab a coffee, settle in, and ease into the day with light bites, music, and mingling. 4:00 PM – CeremonyJoin us as we say “I do” and make it official. 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM – Moving TimeThis relaxed window is for traveling to the reception venue in Salinas, Puerto Rico. Please make your way over, find your ride, and take time to transition into the next part of the celebration. 6:00 PM – Cocktail HourKick off the reception with drinks, music, and appetizers as the celebration begins. 7:00 PM – Welcome SpeechWe’ll officially welcome everyone to the reception and kick off the evening festivities. 7:15 PM – First DanceWe share our first dance together to begin the celebration on the dance floor. 7:30 PM – Toasts &amp; SpeechesFamily, bridesmaids, and groomsmen will share their words, along with a few moments of thanks from us. 8:00 PM – DinnerDinner service begins, followed by shared moments and continued celebration with family and friends. 9:00 PM – Dancing &amp; CelebrationThe dance floor opens up for nonstop music, dancing, and celebration. 11:00 AM – Last CallThe night comes to a close, but the memories continue long after. Warning: Prone to change? :p

The Party Plan

We want everyone to experience a real Puerto Rican cuisine, which of course it's our favorite food forrrreeeeever! Expect both hot &amp; cold smaller plates, drinks (both non-alcoholic &amp; alcoholic!), and the main culinary adventure of: Arroz mamposteadoArroz con gandulesPollo con bacon en salsa de vino tintoSalmón asadoLechón asado (seasoned by the groom's father!!🤘🤘🤘)Ensalada verdeMajado de viandas aaaaaand some surprises D:

The Feast

Arriving to Puerto Rico! 🇵🇷🌊🌴🌞 Welcome home. We are so happy to have you all! The island has three airports that act as international hubs. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU), Rafael Hernández International Airport (BQN), and Mercedita International Airport (PSE) are your options to get here! We recommend flying into SJU or PSE as they are the closest options - BQN is an option if you plan on visiting the western part of the island while you wait to celebrate with us on October 24! Your best option for cheaper flights is likely to be SJU, with a big offering of rental cars right as you exit the airport doors. Uber options are available but quite limited outside the metropolitan area. Guayama and Salinas, the towns in which the ceremony and reception will be hosted, are approximately an hour and thirty minutes (with good traffic) from San Juan (SJU), two hours and twenty minutes from Aguadilla (BQN), and forty-five minutes from Ponce (PSE). There are plenty of Airbnb with ocean views, pools, and great food nearby in San Juan (for travel logistics), Guayama, Salinas, and Utuado (Carlos' hometown that is a biiiiit up the mountains). Please follow the links to specific towns to book your stay! Guayama:1. Brandemar Hotel &amp; Restaurant: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/brandemar-hotel-restaurant/3517" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/brandemar-hotel-restaurant/3517</a>2. Gran Hotel<a href="https://www.instagram.com/granhotelpr/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/granhotelpr/</a> Salinas:1. Hotel Vista Bahía<a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/hotel-vista-bahia/16115" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/hotel-vista-bahia/16115</a>2. Full Moon Hotel &amp; Restaurant<a href="https://full-moon-restaurant.puertorico-hotels.com/en/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://full-moon-restaurant.puertorico-hotels.com/en/</a> San Juan:1. Casa Isabel Bed &amp; Breakfast<a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/casa-isabel-bed-breakfast/1756#profile-overview" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/casa-isabel-bed-breakfast/1756#profile-overview</a>2. Hilton Garden Inn<a href="https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sjusjgi-hilton-garden-inn-san-juan-condado/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/sjusjgi-hilton-garden-inn-san-juan-condado/</a> Utuado:1. Casa Grande<a href="https://casagrandepr.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://casagrandepr.com/</a>2. ¡Otros!<a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/es/articulo/donde-alojarse-en-utuado" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/es/articulo/donde-alojarse-en-utuado</a> Please refer to the "Things to Do" section for some tourism-based recommendations from Caro &amp; Carlos! :D

Travel

There are many things to do in Puerto Rico, but what the heck can we do in Guayama? Here are some links and personal recommendations from Carolina: Guayama Tourism Link: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/regions/south/guayama" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/regions/south/guayama</a> Touristy Stuff:1. Museo Casa Cautiño: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/museo-casa-cautino/8570" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/museo-casa-cautino/8570</a> 2. Central Aguirre:<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1178660-d17464538-Reviews-Antigua_Central_Aguirre-Guayama_Puerto_Rico.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1178660-d17464538-Reviews-Antigua_Central_Aguirre-Guayama_Puerto_Rico.html</a> 3. Ruta Gastronómica: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/article/guayama-ruta-gastronomica-de-la-costa" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/article/guayama-ruta-gastronomica-de-la-costa</a> 4. Nothing beats a beautiful sunny beach: Punta Guilarte <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/WtSpbHoQUUiaZmPQA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/WtSpbHoQUUiaZmPQA</a> 5. Roadtrip a Guayama (online article in Spanish):<a href=" https://www.plateapr.com/que-hacer/road-trip-guayama-donde-comer-que-hacer-ciudad-bruja" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> https://www.plateapr.com/que-hacer/road-trip-guayama-donde-comer-que-hacer-ciudad-bruja</a> Food: 1. Gallo Pinto: <a href="https://elgallopinto.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://elgallopinto.com/</a> 2. Rex Cream (obvio): <a href="https://www.instagram.com/rexcream1964/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/rexcream1964/</a> 3. Pa'l café - Wunjo: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/wunjo_pr/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/wunjo_pr/</a> 4. El Sabor de Mi Tierra: no link, but a personal FAVE 5. Hecho en Casa: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/resthechoencasa/?rf=138770072852991" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/resthechoencasa/?rf=138770072852991</a> 6. Las Casitas Grill Restaurant: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/53quQsfGdTYvmG2n6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://maps.app.goo.gl/53quQsfGdTYvmG2n6</a>We've had dates here. Here are some links and personal recommendations from Carlos in Utuado: Utuado Tourism Link: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/regions/central-mountains/utuado" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/regions/central-mountains/utuado</a> Touristy Stuff:1. Tanamá River Adventure: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/tanama-river-adventures/9590" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/tanama-river-adventures/9590</a> 2. Batey Zipline: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/batey-adventures/9546" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/batey-adventures/9546</a> 3. Río Abajo State Forest: <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/rio-abajo-state-forest/9061" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/rio-abajo-state-forest/9061</a> Food:1. Hijos del Josco (a favorite of mine growing up!) <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/hijos-del-josco/3126" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/hijos-del-josco/3126</a> 2. Tavo's Pizza <a href="https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/tavos-pizza/4944" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.discoverpuertorico.com/profile/tavos-pizza/4944</a> 3. Hicotea Brunch, Bar and Restaurant by Las Tortugas<a href="https://wanderlog.com/place/details/14139846/hicotea-brunch-bar-and-restaurant-by-las-tortugas" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://wanderlog.com/place/details/14139846/hicotea-brunch-bar-and-restaurant-by-las-tortugas</a> 4. Pollos El Típico<a href="https://share.google/skImkiVAS9QYFgMjx" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://share.google/skImkiVAS9QYFgMjx</a> 5. COFFEE! Hacienda La Tradición Coffee Plantation<a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1236992-d33017714-Reviews-Hacienda_La_Tradicion_Coffee_Plantation-Utuado_Puerto_Rico.html" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g1236992-d33017714-Reviews-Hacienda_La_Tradicion_Coffee_Plantation-Utuado_Puerto_Rico.html</a>

Carolina & Carlos

Carolina & Carlos

C&C

The Wedding

The Party