Convento Capuchinas

Wedding Day - Ceremony & Reception

Ceremony

Formal Attire Requested - Adults only

Our Wedding

It’s often said that love has a way of finding us when we least expect it, and for Emilio and Carina, their story is proof that timing truly is everything. Carina and Emilio's story began in 6th grade, when they first met at school and became fast friends. Life was simple then, and so was their bond — natural, effortless with endless conversations about everything and nothing at all. After a few years Emilio moved to a different school, and despite the change their friendship continue. But as life moved forward, their paths began to diverge. After high school, Emilio moved to Portland, drawn to its charm and creativity, while Carina’s journey took her to Guatemala and, eventually, to Houston. They were miles apart, building separate lives, chasing their own dreams. They went more than 20 years without seeing each other, letting their childhood friendship fade into a sweet but distant memory. The years flew by, and it wasn’t until 2019 that they saw each other again. Their friendship picked up right where it left off. But just as they were reconnecting, the pandemic arrived putting everything on hold, and once again, distance kept them apart. Finally, in 2021, Emilio visited Carina in Houston. They swapped old stories, laughed about childhood memories, and shared the experiences that had shaped them over the years, realizing how much had changed—and how much still felt the same. Yet it wasn’t until June 2023 that they realized something had changed– this was no longer just a friendship. The connection they shared was unexpected, but real, and worth exploring. Now, as they prepare to start on this new chapter together, Carina and Emilio are filled with gratitude. Their journey is a testament to the power of timing and patience. Sometimes love doesn’t follow the path we expect, but no matter the years or distance, it finds its way back into our lives, exactly when we need it most. We are so excited to share this next chapter with all of you. Thank you for being a part of our story, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you on our special day!

Our Story

Wedding Party

Q + A

Situated in the heart of Central America, Antigua Guatemala is a charming colonial city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, renowned for its well-preserved Spanish Baroque architecture and rich history. Founded in the 16th century, Antigua once served as the capital of Guatemala until a series of earthquakes in the 18th century led to its relocation.Today, its cobblestone streets, colorful facades, and breathtaking views of surrounding volcanoes make it a truly magical destination. We can't wait for you to experience the beauty and history of Antigua with us!

Antigua Guatemala is around 30 miles (45km) from Guatemala City. For international travelers, you must fly into&nbsp;La Aurora International Airport (GUA). Guatemala does not require a visa for most countries and all the major airlines offer flights to Guatemala City. Upon arrival, passengers must complete <a href="https://farm2.sat.gob.gt/declaDelViajeroGt-web/pages/public/declaracionViajero.xhtml#no-back-button" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the electronic Guatemalan Immigration form</a> The drive from the airport to Antigua ranges from 1 to 2 hours depending on traffic.&nbsp; We have partnered with Antigua Tours, a private transfer service that offers airport pickup/drop-off. To book this service, please visit the customized portal linked below, which is specifically designed for our wedding weekend! <a href="https://antiguatours.net/weddings/carina-emilio-wedding/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://antiguatours.net/weddings/carina-emilio-wedding/</a>

Or drive from San Salvador, El Salvador approximately 155 miles (250km) that takes around 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic and border crossing times.

Antigua is a very walkable city, enjoy strolling the scenic streets. If you'd prefer not to walk, there are also Ubers and tuc-tucs available around town for a quick and convenient ride.

Travel & Transportation

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~HOTELS~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Our wedding venue is in a very central location, making it easily accessible for all our guests and most hotels are within walking distance. There are plenty of different hotels and Airbnb's in Antigua to choose from, here are some suggestions.

15 min walk from wedding venue

Posada del Angel

4 min walk from wedding venue

Las Cruces Boutique Hotel

Mesón Panza Verde

5 min walk from wedding venue

San Rafael Hotel, Antigua Guatemala

13 min walk from wedding venue

Porta Hotel Antigua

10 min walk from wedding venue

Good Hotel Antigua

3 min walk from wedding venue

Casa Santa Rosa Hotel Boutique

Accommodations

Antigua Guatemala is a walkable city where the best way to explore its charm is on foot, strolling along its cobblestone streets lined with stunning colonial architecture filled with charming boutique hotels.The city is home to breathtaking churches, museums, ruins, and majestic volcanoes like Agua, Acatenango, and Fuego, offering adventurous hikes and incredible views. Food lovers can enjoy a variety of restaurants serving both traditional Guatemalan dishes and international cuisine, while charming coffee shops and vibrant bars provide the perfect spots to relax or enjoy Antigua’s unique nightlife. A walking tour is a great way to kick off your visit to Antigua, <a href="https://www.freetour.com/antigua/antigua-guatemala-city-free-walking-tour" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">click here</a> for a high-rated free walking tour option.

We’ve created <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/d/u/0/viewer?mid=1UKtKsMOEVPLalWfqAwyJsoVDmWTo1lg&amp;hl=en&amp;ll=14.55525179379168%2C-90.75185199999999&amp;z=14" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">CARINA &amp; EMILIO MAP</a> to help you make the most of your time in Antigua! Whether you're looking for popular sightseeing spots, great restaurants, cozy cafés, or lively bars, our map highlights all the best places to visit. Check it out and start planning your adventure—we can't wait to celebrate with you!

Sightseeing:﻿ Parque Central - Catedral de San Jose (Catedral de Santiago)Cerro de la Cruz - Arco de Santa CatalinaConvento de las Capuchinas - Iglesia de la MercedConvento Santa Clara - Mercado de Artesanias El Carmen - Tanque de la UnionMuseo Casa del Tejido Antiguo - Mercado Municipal de ArtesaniaIglesia de San Francisco El Grande - Convento Recoleccion Food - Coffee - Drinks Tartines - Bistrot Cinq - Rincon AntigueñoRestaurante Meson Panza Verde - SansaraSobremesa - El Cazador Italiano - WeltenLe Comedor - 27 Adentro - Angie AngieLa Pasta Nostra - Amanecer Juice Bar &amp; CoffeePor Que No? Café - AM BKFST - Artista de Café12 Onzas - Fat Cat Coffee House - Union CaféCafé Café Guatemala - La Casa del RonUlew Cocktail Bar -&nbsp;Maxan - Antigua Brewing CompanyLas Vibras -&nbsp;Whisky Den &amp; Coffee BarTabacos y Vinos La Antigua - El BarrioAntigua Cerveza El Bosque - El Ilegal ...and more Doña Maria GordilloChoco MuseoDulceria El RosarioMaya Cacao ChocolateriaDulces El Sombreron When visiting Antigua, Guatemala, one of the sweetest ways to experience its rich culture is by trying "dulces tipicos". These traditional Guatemalan sweets are a delicious part of the city’s heritage, made with locally inspired ingredients and time-honored recipes. Be sure to enjoy a taste of this local delight during your stay!

There are plenty of exciting things to do in Antigua, Guatemala.If you are seeking to hike a volcano or take a day trip to lake Atitlan, here are some tour options:&nbsp; <a href="https://oxexpeditions.com/tour-category/volcano-tours/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://oxexpeditions.com/tour-category/volcano-tours/</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://adventureguatemala.com/volcanoes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://adventureguatemala.com/volcanoes</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://lava-trails.com/pacaya-day-trip-lava-trails" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://lava-trails.com/pacaya-day-trip-lava-trails</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.viator.com/Antigua/d4599-ttd" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.viator.com/Antigua/d4599-ttd</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Whether you're seeking adventure, culture, or relaxation, there is something for everyone to enjoy in and around Antigua!

Things to Do

Money and Currency Guatemala’s official currency is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ).&nbsp;The current exchange rate is approximately $1 USD = 7.50 GTQ.&nbsp;Most places accept US Dollars and/or credit cards, but if you need cash, ATMs and currency exchange offices are available across town.&nbsp; Weather&nbsp; Antigua Guatemala enjoys a mild climate year-round, with temperatures typically ranging between 60°F to 80°F. Evenings can be cooler, with lows dropping into the 50s. Although May marks the beginning of the rainy season, showers are often brief, and the weather remains pleasant.When packing for Antigua, Guatemala, consider lightweight breathable clothing for daytime exploring and a light jacket or sweater for the cooler mornings and nights. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the city streets are cobblestone.&nbsp;

Carina & Emilio

Carina & Emilio

C&E

Wedding Day - Ceremony & Reception