Barceló Puerto Vallarta

Wedding Day

Wedding

Reception

Timeline of Events

Ceremony:

5:30 PM - 6:00 PM&nbsp;



Playa El Quijote 



Cocktail&nbsp;Hour:



6:00 PM - 7:00 PM



The Deck 



Reception:



7:00 PM - 11:00 PM



Los Arcos 



After Party!



11:00 PM - 01:00 AM



La&nbsp;Cantina

Our Story

Details

Our Wedding

How it all began

Barbara and Jose Luis met at the University of Texas at El Paso as their mutual interests in engineering and&nbsp;outdoor sports led them&nbsp;towards building a concrete&nbsp;canoe&nbsp;(yes, it floated!)&nbsp;as part of the&nbsp;engineering&nbsp;organization, ASCE.&nbsp;They soon discovered they both had a knack for&nbsp;music&nbsp;and soon after started up a band with a couple of friends. Although Barbara will deny it,&nbsp;the band&nbsp;was all part of her clever plan to&nbsp;charm him&nbsp;with her tunes &mdash; seeing where we are today, her plan worked to perfection.

After countless hours of homework and projects, restless&nbsp;all-nighters, midterms and finals, we finally made it.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/barbara-aguilera-and-jose-luis-mena-oct-2019/photos/1721938" target="_blank">Graduation</a>!&nbsp; With minds full of knowledge we were ready to venture to the real world.

Let's hit the road

With&nbsp;packed&nbsp;bags and&nbsp;one last&nbsp;hurrah, we said our goodbyes and <a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/barbara-aguilera-and-jose-luis-mena-oct-2019/photos/1721937" target="_blank">ventured&nbsp;east</a> to a new adventure:&nbsp;living&nbsp;together. We must admit that sharing a bed was a bit of an adjustment&nbsp;&nbsp;(one of us is a snorer), but&nbsp;truly, with&nbsp;every moment together we fall more and more in love&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;quirks and&nbsp;snores&nbsp;included. 











As we grew together in Maryland, we had many new&nbsp;adventures,&nbsp;made&nbsp;some <a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/barbara-aguilera-and-jose-luis-mena-oct-2019/photos/1721936" target="_blank">amazing&nbsp;friends</a> and shared many wonderful moments together.

But alas, after a few years in the blue crab state, our hearts longed&nbsp;to be closer to our families while still having the work and play options you can't find in&nbsp;El Paso.&nbsp;So we packed our bags&nbsp;and headed back west towards our new home &mdash;&nbsp;Denver, CO.&nbsp;

One Ring to Rule them All

Some of you have asked what's up with our rings. Definitely not the traditional style... But the again, we don't&nbsp;do&nbsp;normal.

Our rings actually carry more tech than the Apollo,&nbsp;no joke. We&nbsp;wanted something that not only represented our love for each other, but that also represented who we are: Nerdy weekend-warrior&nbsp;engineers.

Oh, and the "real ring" is yet to come. One of the reasons we know we&nbsp;are made for each other is that neither of us is really into material&nbsp;items. We value moments and memories instead. For that reason, Barbara's engagement ring is not the traditional&nbsp;diamond, but rather a ring around the world. A grand trip to kick off our new adventure.

Our little adventures

One of&nbsp;our favorite activities is to travel and <a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/barbara-aguilera-and-jose-luis-mena-oct-2019/photos/1721935" target="_blank">explore the world</a>. To meet new people, try different&nbsp;foods, immerse into unfamiliar cultures, and have a few laughs along the way.&nbsp;

We see&nbsp;life&nbsp;as a great&nbsp;adventure where we get to&nbsp;cherish&nbsp;moments of joy and passion,&nbsp;challenge&nbsp;and heartache,&nbsp;but above all, moments&nbsp;filled with love from our family and friends. That's why we couldn't be more&nbsp;thrilled that you'll&nbsp;be joining us on this new quest and we thank you&nbsp;from the bottom of our hearts.



















 

See you in Puerto Vallarta! We'll toast&nbsp;to the many&nbsp;adventures to come!

Our Story 1

Photos

Charity: Water

We truly appreciate you joining us on our special day and wanting to show your affection with a gift. But really, your presence at our wedding is more than enough.&nbsp;If you are still in the giving mood, how about you give to those that really need it. The link&nbsp;below will take you to our campaign where you can make a donation.

<a href="https://my.charitywater.org/barbara-and-jose/barbs-mena-wedding" target="_blank">Donate to Save a Life</a>

<a href="https://my.charitywater.org/barbara-and-jose/barbs-mena-wedding" target="_blank">Donate to Save a Life</a>



Most of us have no idea what it's truly like to be thirsty. We have plenty of water to drink&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;even the water in our toilets is clean!

But many people around the world don’t have that luxury. Every day, about 1,400 children die from diseases caused by unsafe water and poor sanitation. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are simple solutions like drilled wells, spring protections and BioSand filters that help provide clean water to communities around the world.

























Your donation will help charity: water build these types of projects around the world.&nbsp;We are donating our wedding registry because we have more than enough and nothing would bring us greater joy than sharing this opportunity with you to help those that truly need it.&nbsp;&nbsp;

























Please&nbsp;<a href="https://my.charitywater.org/barbara-and-jose/barbs-mena-wedding" target="_blank">donate</a>&nbsp;to our campaign&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;anything you can give is a huge help.

100% of the money will be used to build clean water projects, and when they’re complete, charity: water will send us photos and GPS coordinates so we can see the exact community we helped.





Finally, we want to thank those who donated to Round 1 of our Campaign. We raised $150 which is now being used to drastically improve 5 lives around the world. That is amazing. Let's keep it going with this next round! 

















Thank You

Our Registry

Miguel (aka Scrappy) is the little brother I never had. I still remember&nbsp;many of the&nbsp;antics we'd get&nbsp;into as little (and not so little) kids, but above all I look back and reflect at what a stand up guy he is. He is a little guy with a huge heart; a man who has time and time again been there for me and I am honored to have him by my side on this great day.

Scrappy

Ale is my best friend of 25&nbsp;years! We grew up sharing tears, laughter and accomplishments. She would also always let me borrow her&nbsp;clothes even though she'd say I never asked (I always asked). Clothes, advice, late night hot dog runs --&nbsp;I can count on her for anything and everything.&nbsp;Her beautiful soul and kindness inspire me to be a better person.&nbsp;I am so blessed&nbsp;and so proud to have Ale as my sister and matron of honor.&nbsp;

Alejandra Aguilera

Luis and I have been friends since elementary school and since then have gotten into our share of trouble. Be it sneaking into the movies, falling off a mountain cliff, midnight streaking, or the many other shenanigans, Luis has definitely made life interesting. He's a hell of a guitar player, a fellow adventurer, and a true friend.

Luis Sanchez

With her optimistic outlook and tremendous sense of humor, it's hard to not have a blast with Laura. She is warm-hearted, a great listener and one of the best people to have a good laugh with.&nbsp;In finding my partner in life, I&nbsp;am also gaining&nbsp;&nbsp;a sister who I can talk to about anything.&nbsp;

Laura Mena

I've known Valeria&nbsp;since elementary school. Even though she didn't like to share&nbsp;her hot cheetos, she has always been of noble heart and has the kind of energy that uplifts you no matter what. She also has one of the most contagious laughs! She is a true friend, who is always there when&nbsp;I need advice, or just a good talk. Valeria's&nbsp;friendship means a lot to me and so does that she will be&nbsp;standing by our side&nbsp;on our special day.&nbsp;

Valeria Chapa

I'm very fortunate to call Danny my bother-in-law. Not just because he is so great for my big sis, but he is a funny, upfront guy who you can always count on. Aside from his questionable sports teams &mdash; Colts?... Come'on Danny &mdash; I love this guy and am very blessed to have him in my life.

Danny Hanson

Of all my groomsmen, I've known Victor for the shortest amount of time, but in that period I have learned what an exceptional man he is. Victor is the type of man who steps up to the occasion.&nbsp;He is someone who gives to others without expectation for anything in return&nbsp;and above all a man of his word.&nbsp;He continues to inspire me as the type of man I hope to embody&nbsp;and I am very honored to have him by my side.

Victor Salas

I got to know Theresa in high school, where we&nbsp;&nbsp;bonded over silly cartoons we'd pass to each other during geometry. The following years would include countless and endless conversations over our traditional "sandwich and soup" get togethers, our attempts at jamming sessions, and geeking out on Flight of the Conchords (and The Beatles, of course). She is thoughtful, honest and giving. I am fortunate to have Theresa "in my life", and accompany us on this day.&nbsp;

Theresa Rodriguez

Wedding Party

Q + A

Celia is our destination wedding travel advisor and she is&nbsp;here to&nbsp;help make&nbsp;attending our wedding easy and affordable. She has setup a travel period from 10/21/2019 - 10/31/2019 to book with our discounted rate. Feel free to call or email her to help you with your travel arrangements.

For those who prefer to book their own travel, you can use the link provided to go to Celia's travel agency site and get the same discounted rate.





 



Key Points:











<ul><li>If booking yourself, ensure that your package&nbsp;includes the discount code:&nbsp;&nbsp;GPBARBSMENA</li><li>Please note that&nbsp;Celia can book both flight and hotel for those traveling from the USA, however can only book hotel for those traveling from outside the USA.</li></ul>

venue name

We will be staying at&nbsp;the beautiful&nbsp;Barceló Resort, an All-Inclusive&nbsp;Mexican-style hotel&nbsp;on the shores of Mismaloya beach, south of Puerto Vallarta. During our stay you will be surrounded by breathtaking mountains while enjoying the relaxing sounds of the Pacific Ocean. All-inclusive Resort: 

<ul><li>Enjoy&nbsp;wide range of cuisines, which include traditional Mexican dishes&nbsp;as well as&nbsp;international Spanish, Italian, and Japanese specialty dishes</li><li>Open bar&nbsp;at any of the 4 swimming pools or on the semi-private beach</li><li>In-room mini bar</li><li>24 Hour room service</li></ul>



























 Important Information: 



























<ul><li>If you book directly with the hotel, be sure to get the discount rate by using the code:&nbsp;barbara - joseluis</li><li>You can also work with our <a href="https://www.theknot.com/us/barbara-aguilera-and-jose-luis-mena-oct-2019/details#travel-agent-info">travel agent</a> for hassle free booking. More information about her&nbsp;in the section below.</li><li>Please note that we've made the accommodation arrangements at&nbsp;Barceló Resort, however there are plenty of other <a href="https://www.tripadvisor.com/HotelsNear-g150793-d153550-Barcelo_Puerto_Vallarta-Puerto_Vallarta.html" target="_blank">hotel</a> and <a href="https://www.airbnb.com/s/Puerto-Vallarta--Mexico/homes?refinement_paths%5B%5D=%2Fhomes&checkin=2019-10-21&checkout=2019-10-31&adults=4&children=0&infants=0&guests=4&pets=false&place_id=ChIJf8hjUGNFIYQRdFK_hZm_z3k&query=Puerto%20Vallarta%2C%20Mexico&toddlers=0&allow_override%5B%5D=&s_tag=HHGSITd7&irgwc=1&irclid=wX-WtERUVQ4tTPw0S30xGWfoUkg25kztR1-hxk0&ircid=4273&sharedid=&af=49497874&iratid=9627" target="_blank">Airbnb</a> options for those who prefer to stay outside of the resort.</li></ul>

Travel

No Registry

We want everyone to have a fantastic time while visiting the beautiful city of Puerto Vallarta. Whether you are an adventurer, a foodie, or a little bit of both we are sure you'll find something amazing to fit your style. Below we've included information about some fun things to enjoy.

Experience an adrenaline rush like never before on an adventure through Puerto Vallarta's jungles and beaches. Rappel down waterfalls, zip into freshwater pools, hop onto a mule for a mountain trek, tackle trails on a 4x4, and slip down an 846-foot (258-m) waterslide.

After getting picked up, hop on a speedboat and cruise to Boca de Tomatlan, a secluded beach on the southern shores of Banderas Bay. A 4-wheel-drive Mercedes Benz unimog picks you up and motors to the Sierra Madre Mountains&mdash;2,000 feet (610 m) above sea level. When you arrive, saddle up a mule for a spellbinding ride higher into a subtropical forest.











Under the canopy, feel the heart-dropping plunge of swooshing across the longest and highest zipline in Mexico. Traverse obstacles and cross aerial bridges and then take a final ride into a freshwater pool. Follow up your big splash with a rappelling excursion down a 90-foot (30-m) waterfall, and then cap off your day with a ride down an 846-foot (258-m) waterslide sure to keep your heart pounding all the way back to your hotel.

<a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/ultimate-outdoor-adventure-waterfalls-zipline-waterslides.a205462.activity-details?startDate=2019-10-22&endDate=2019-10-30" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>

Ultimate Outdoor Adventure Waterfalls, Zipline & Waterslides

Feel the rush of adrenaline as you coast over a canopy of green near the Sierra Madre mountain range. Soar through the air at heights of up to 709 feet (216 m) while soaking in views of the lush landscape below. End the day with a ride on the back of a mule and a tasting of locally made tequila.

Make your way to 1 of 4 convenient meeting locations and be shuttled off toward your zipline adventure. Upon arrival, your instructors greet you, give you a brief overview of your activity, and safely fit your for a harness and helmet.







Once you're in your gear, you're ready to fly. Follow your instructors through the course of 11 ziplines, designed to get higher and faster as your confidence builds. Feel the sensation of defying gravity as you sail over the tops of trees, reaching speeds of up to 34 miles per hour (55 km/h).







Your zipline experience ends back on solid ground, where a friendly mule is waiting to take you on an amusing ride through the rainforest. Toast to your adventure with a tasting of locally made tequila before being driven back to your starting destination.

<a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/zipline-tour-with-mule-ride-tequila-tasting.a462017.activity-details" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>

Zipline Tour with Mule Ride & Tequila Tasting

Spend a relaxing day at Las Caletas Beach, one of the Puerto Vallarta area's most secluded and pristine hideaways. Plenty of opportunities to sunbathe, snorkel, and paddleboard makes this serene pocket of Jalisco the picture-perfect place to while the day away.

Board a spacious vessel that whisks you across the shimmering waters of Bahía de Banderas toward Yelapa, where you disembark and head to Las Caletas, just a short distance away. Arrive at this postcard-worthy beach and marvel at views of its warm, white sand being kissed by breaking waves of turquoise water. It's steep and lush mountain backdrop only adds to the beach's unspoiled majesty.









Once you're settled on the shore, you can either kick back and relax or try your hand at a variety of activities. The use of snorkel gear, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards is all available, as well as a scenic nature walk and admission to Kids' Adventure Park for the young ones. Hit the water with a paddle, or don snorkel gear to check out the area's abundance sea life. You can even explore a cove or swim out to an offshore platform to practice your diving skills.









Away from the beach, you can seek out plenty of other fun activities including cooking classes, jungle walks, and orchid gardens. No matter your age, you're sure to have a great time during this getaway, whether you want to just relax or get your thrills.<a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/las-caletas-beach-hideaway.a425192.activity-details?semcid=US.MULTILOBLX.GOOGLE.AT-c-EN.LX&semdtl=a11345517908.b178728843484.r1.g1dsa-802368727822.i183257577576.d1377689229444.e1c.j19028789.k1.f11t2.n1.l1g.h1b.m1&gclid=CjwKCAjw2qHsBRAGEiwAMbPoDI-Es6S8OsEMVq-tHyUQxVlQ57lzXgp_Uq8WhHLhuW3cyY3lLHUTtxoCHNAQAvD_BwE" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>

Las Caletas Beach Hideaway

Experience the culture, scenery, and cuisine of Puerto Vallarta on a comprehensive tour of the city's must-see sights. Check out architectural and artistic landmarks around town, admire the coastline from the beach, and relax over lunch and a tequila tasting in the rainforests of the Sierra Madre.

Get picked up from your hotel and start your tour in Puerto Vallarta's marina. Check out the luxury yachts in the harbor, and pass by bustling shops and restaurants before making your way to the city's so-called "urban estuary." Here, mangrove swamps and canals are the perfect habitat for migratory birds and even river crocodiles.







Then, head downtown to admire the beautiful brick architecture of the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and step inside to see the marble altar crowned with an image of the Virgin of Guadalupe painted by artist Ignacio Ramirez. Swing by City Hall and make your way to the pier to see statues and sculptures by local and international artists, including The Friendship Fountain by James Bottoms.







Stop to cool off with a popsicle and a sweet-and-sour tuba drink made with coconut cream, and continue on to the Old Town and the beach at Mismaloya, a seaside viewpoint that looks out over the offshore rock formations known as Los Arcos. Finally, venture up into the tropical rainforest of the Sierra Madre, where you can take in the scenery over a delicious lunch of Mexican cuisine, washed down with a mango margarita and a sampling of locally made tequilas.<a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/guided-city-tour-with-lunch-tequila-tasting.a205438.activity-details" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>

Guided City Tour with Lunch & Tequila Tasting

Discover Puerto Vallarta's delectable side as you taste its authentic flavors. Choose between 3 exciting food tours led by charismatic local guides, featuring genuine tacos, sweets, and artisanal ice cream. This memorable experience combines delicious bites, history, culture, and sightseeing.

The Original Downtown Vallarta Tour
 Embark on a comprehensive 3-hour tour that takes you to 10 tasting locations, including small, family-run restaurants and taco stands. The following mouthwatering eats&mdash;enough for a lunch&mdash;and drinks are included:







<ul>
<li>Traditional soup from the state of Michoacán</li>
<li>Tacos de birria (meat stew marinated in chiles) and de carne asada (grilled beef)</li>
<li>Ceviche (fish or seafood cooked in lime juice)</li>
<li>Fresh tortillas, directly from the conveyor belt</li>
<li>Mole sauces (consisting of numerous ingredients) and tequila, of course</li>
<li>Tuba (a refreshing coconut drink)</li>
<li>Mexican candies and artisanal chocolate</li>
</ul>







The Street: An Evening Taco Adventure
 This tour is the perfect introduction to Mexico’s universal dish&mdash;the taco. Hop on a city bus to explore the best taquerías in downtown Vallarta, where you can enjoy an interactive and entertaining dinner spread across 9 different locations. Get ready for a variety of yummy tacos, including fish, carne asada (grilled beef), cabeza (head), and the famous pastor (marinated pork). In addition, taste the pozole soup, and sip some mezcal, which is similar to tequila, before wrapping up the evening with a sweet churro.







The Taste of Pitillal Food Tour
 Head off the beaten path by venturing to the Pitillal neighborhood, a part of town less frequented by visitors. Follow your guide to 9 tasting locations, where you indulge in carnitas (slow-cooked pork), tacos de carne asada, birria (marinated meat stew), and fresh seafood. La Tianita restaurant serves delicious tamales, an ancient dish that originated in the Mayan Empire.







Sweeten up your afternoon with fresh paletas (popsicles), churros, and organic fruit and vegetables.<a href="https://www.expedia.com/things-to-do/the-original-downtown-puerto-vallarta-food-tour.a266547.activity-details" target="_blank">Visit Website</a>

Barbara & Jose Luis

Barbara & Jose Luis

Photos