Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

To help you prepare, we've put together a detailed travel guide that will help you plan your trip and answer any questions you may have. The guide includes all wedding information such as the wedding schedule, event dress codes, restaurant information, packing checklist, and a few other helpful tips to make traveling easy! Please click the link below to access the "one stop shop" travel guide. <a href="https://weddings.justbookittravel.com/charles-and-sydney-s-travel-guide?st-lid=18652343" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">TRAVEL GUIDE</a>

Travel Guide

In a world of dating apps and social media deep dives, Charles and Sydney's love story began in a delightfully unexpected and timeless way — a blind date. Yes, a real blind date. Totally 1950s, right? The spark was ignited not by a chance encounter, but through the intentional coordination of two parents with big hopes. Charles' father and Sydney’s mother, both working at the Department of Children and Family Services, happened to be chatting during a work meeting when the conversation turned to their children. Something stirred — perhaps divine intervention, perhaps parental intuition — and just like that, the Lord began writing the first lines of a much bigger story.In an unusual show of commitment (and a lot of trust), Charles and Sydney promised not to look each other up beforehand. No social media snooping, no Googling, no peeking. They let anticipation build, and on Saturday, July 16, 2022, at noon, they met for the first time at Kalaveras in Rancho Cucamonga. That first date? It went well. Conversation flowed, laughs were shared, and they agreed to see each other again.But then came date number two — July 23, 2022, at Javier’s in Newport Beach. Let’s just say…it didn’t go as planned. Strong personalities, deep convictions, and passionate perspectives collided in a tense dinner conversation. The evening ended not with butterflies, but with a mutual agreement — over text, no less — to call it quits.And that’s where the story should have ended…if it weren’t for the Author behind it all. Nearly a year later, on June 24, 2023, Sydney’s best friend — and true holy push — Terryn stepped in at just the right time. Sensing that the story might not be over, Terryn gently but persistently persuaded Sydney to invite “the Firefighter” — yes, Charles — to her summer party. If it weren’t for Terryn’s wisdom, her encouragement, and her perfectly timed nudge, that door might have stayed closed. But thanks to her — and God’s gentle stirring — Charles showed up… As it turns out, Charles had been at a baby shower that same day with two of his friends when he received Sydney’s message. He read it, paused, and thought to himself,&nbsp;“Well, we’re already out… let’s go and see what this is about.”True to his laid-back and slightly mischievous nature, Charles didn’t respond to the invite — he just showed up. No warning, no confirmation. And if you know Charles, that is right on par with his humor. Though they didn’t say much to each other that night,&nbsp;the atmosphere was warm, familiar, and quietly meaningful. in the months following, something began to stir in Sydney’s spirit. Though she hadn’t spoken to Charles since the party — and truthfully, didn’t know him all that well — she couldn’t shake the feeling that she was supposed to invite him to church. For the next six months, that quiet tug from God kept nudging her heart. So, in faith and obedience, Sydney reached out and invited Charles to a few Young Adult events at her church. Each time, he declined. Charles, in his mind, was thinking,&nbsp;“What’s going to be different this time around?”&nbsp;He was content in the season he was in — settled, maybe even a little guarded. The invitations, though kind, weren’t enough to move him. The timing just didn’t feel right… yet.. Enter Chelsie — Sydney’s other best friend and her second holy push. The two were sitting across from each other at lunch when Chelsie, sensing Sydney’s hesitation after being turned down twice, said, “Okay, you’ve done enough being obedient — let’s just send one last message.” Despite Sydney’s reluctance, Chelsie took the lead — opened her phone, drafted a message to Charles, and with a smile and a little dramatic flair… hit send. It wasn’t just a text — it was a faith-fueled nudge. And this time… Charles said&nbsp;yes. He happened to be off that day, the timing aligned, and something in him said,&nbsp;“Why not?”&nbsp;So, he decided to go. On December 6, 2023, they met at a Wednesday night service at Patria Church. Something clicked. Slowly and with purpose, they began to talk, spend time together, and eventually date. Four months later, on April 18, 2024, Charles officially asked Sydney to be his girlfriend. Their love deepened over long talks, laughter, prayer, and many, many beach days. They said “I love you” for the first time on June 18, 2024. On November 18, they went ring shopping together — a quiet promise of the future. And on March 18, 2025, Charles got down on one knee and proposed to Sydney on the beach, with the waves as their witness. Now, on May 16, 2026, nearly four years to the day of their very first blind date (July 16th, 2022), Charles and Sydney are saying “I do.” They chose to marry on a sun-kissed beach in the Caribbean Sea — a place that represents both Sydney’s Belizean roots and Charles’ love of tropical beauty. It’s only fitting. So many of their favorite memories — from Newport and Oceanside to San Diego and Belize — have been wrapped in ocean breezes and golden sunsets. The beach has been their place of peace, of growth, and of love. Charles and Sydney’s story is one of divine timing, second chances, and a love that bloomed not in perfect circumstances, but in obedience, patience, and grace. From a blind date to forever, this is just the beginning of their greatest adventure yet.

Scripted by Heaven: The Love Story of Charles & Sydney

Our Story

Engagement Photos

Registry

This page answers many common questions in regards to the wedding, traveling, and logistics. If you have a question that is not answered below, <a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/team/valeria-barreto" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Vale</a>, <a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/team/eddy-alce" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eddy</a>, <a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/team/alejandra-moguel" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ale</a>, <a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/team/eduardo" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lalo</a>, and <a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/team/shonte" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shonte</a> of Just Book It Travel, are available to help and can assist with finalizing your RSVP. Please email them at info@justbookittravel.com. Our RSVP deadline has passed. If you haven’t booked yet but would still like to attend, please contact us directly to check availability. ﻿Please note that any bookings made outside of us will not be accepted for the wedding DO I HAVE TO BOOK WITH JUST BOOK IT TRAVEL?Yes.&nbsp;In order to attend the wedding events, you must book your stay through&nbsp;Just Book It Travel. They manage the guest list, room block, transportation, and event logistics—providing group rates, concierge-level support, and easy payment options. UNABLE TO JOIN US?We’ll miss you, but we completely understand! Please let us know by clicking below: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhOEqiysBp_yn2ak2TPLkBsvXRKP7GPpDEuv0oVzkHNQMyuQ/viewform?usp=dialog" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">➡️ KINDLY DECLINE</a> ARE KIDS INVITED?This is an adults-only celebration.Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres is an&nbsp;18+ resort, and children are not permitted on property or at wedding events. WHAT IF I WANT TO STAY SOMEWHERE ELSE AND BRING A CHILD, CAN I STILL COME TO THE WEDDING FOR THAT DAY?In order to attend wedding events and the wedding, you have to book through JBIT and stay at Secrets Playa Blanca for 3 nights minimum. If you stay anywhere else or don’t book through JBIT, you will not be able to attend the wedding. WHAT ARE THE SUGGESTED TRAVEL DATES?While the wedding is on&nbsp;May 16, 2026, we’d love for you to enjoy a vacation too!We recommend&nbsp;May 15–18, 2026&nbsp;to make the most of the resort, wedding events, and excursions.Group rates apply for up to&nbsp;7 nights, subject to availability.There is a minimum of 3 nights that you have to stay to attend the wedding, but you can stay longer if you desire! CAN I BRING ADDITIONAL GUESTS?Yes! Guests can bring a travel companion (plus one).Please confirm with Charles and Sydney prior to adding a plus one. I DON’T WANT TO PAY FOR A SOLO ROOM, BUT HAVE NO ONE I CAN BRING. CAN I BE ASSIGNED A ROOMMATE?If you are rooming alone and would like to have a roommate to decrease the cost, please reach out to Charles or Sydney. They can help coordinate a potential roommate for you. WHAT IF I’M UNSURE OF MY EXACT TRAVEL DATES?Book now and finalize later!Changes are&nbsp;penalty-free until December 22, 2025.If in doubt, reserve a longer stay—you can reduce nights before the final payment deadline (based on availability). HOW LONG DO I HAVE TO ADD A PLUS ONE/COMPANION?If you would like to bring a companion, please let Charles and Sydney know prior to November 1st. Any plus 1 changes will not be accepted after. You must still confirm the plus one with Charles and Sydney before booking. WHAT IS THE PAYMENT SCHEDULE?•	$150 per guest deposit confirms your RSVP•	Optional monthly payments (not auto-drafted)•	Final balance due: December 22, 2025•	After this date, all payments are non-refundable unless you’ve purchased travel protection. IF WE WANT TO UPGRADE OR CHANGE OUR ROOM IN THE NEXT COUPLE OF MONTHS, HOW WOULD WE GO ABOUT THAT?It’s super easy! Just send us an email at&nbsp;info@justbookittravel.com&nbsp;with the changes you’d like to make to your reservation, and we’ll get back to you within 1–2 business days. CAN I PURCHASE TRAVEL PROTECTION?Absolutely—and it’s&nbsp;highly recommended!Protect your investment from the unexpected.You can purchase at the time of booking or within 10 days. Independent coverage is also accepted. WHAT IS THE CANCELLATION POLICY?•	Before December 22, 2025: Only $50 of the $150 per person deposit is non-refundable—unless you have travel protection.•	On/After December 22, 2025: All payments are non-refundable.Refunds can be claimed only through your travel protection provider. WHAT TIME IS CHECK-IN?Check-in begins at&nbsp;3:00 PM.If you arrive early, enjoy the pools, restaurants, and amenities while your room is prepared.Pro tip: Pack beachwear in your carry-on! WHAT DOES “ALL-INCLUSIVE” MEANS?• Unlimited gourmet dining (buffet &amp; à la carte)• Unlimited cocktails, beer &amp; non-alcoholic beverages• 24/7 room service• Pool &amp; beach wait service• Daily activities, nightly entertainment &amp; shows WHAT’S INCLUDED WITH MY BOOKING?• Concierge support from Just Book It Travel• Flexible monthly payment plan• All taxes &amp; fees—no hidden charges• Optional travel insurance• Peace of mind: we’re here to help every step of the way! ARE THERE RESERVATIONS REQUIRED AT THE RESTAURANTS ON THE RESORT? No, the majority of the restaurants are walk-in and “first come, first serve”. The only exception to that is the restaurant called Himitsu. They require reservations for the Hibachi/Teppanyaki, but not for the other dining options there. If you are Preferred, it is easier to get a reservation through your Butler/Concierge. Preferred also allows you to dine at some restaurants that non-preferred members are not able to. DO WE NEED TO DO PREFERRED? WHAT DOES THAT INCLUDE AND MEAN?Booking a Preferred Club suite at&nbsp;Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres&nbsp;offers an elevated experience with exclusive amenities and services designed to enhance your stay •	Private check-in and check-out&nbsp;for a seamless arrival and departure.•	Butler and concierge services&nbsp;to assist with reservations and special requests.&nbsp;•	Preferred Club Lounge&nbsp;offering premium drinks, snacks, and desserts throughout the day.•	Preferred Club Beach Bar&nbsp;with top-shelf liquors.•	Private infinity pool and beach area&nbsp;featuring Bali beds and cabanas.•	Exclusive dining&nbsp;at the Preferred Club Beach restaurant.•	Suites in prime locations&nbsp;with ocean, pool, or tropical views.•	Enhanced in-room amenities, including upgraded mini-bars and bath products.•	Aromatherapy options and pillow menu&nbsp;for personalized comfort.&nbsp; IS THERE A DRESS CODE FOR THE RESORT?For the wedding, the dress code is Formal. At the resort, most restaurants have the dress code as Casual Elegance (Sneakers/tennis shoes or sandals and dress shirts with short sleeves or shirts are required. Long pants are required for men. No sleeveless shirts or flip-flops allowed). HOW CAN I FIND GOOD FLIGHT DEALS?We recommend setting Google Flights alerts and booking directly through the airline for flexibility.Flights to Cancun (CUN) are typically available 10–11 months in advance. WHICH AIRPORT DO I FLY INTO?Cancun International Airport (CUN)It’s the closest airport to Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres. IS AIRPORT TRANSPORTATION INCLUDED?Not automatically, but we’ve arranged a&nbsp;special rate of $70 USD round trip per person&nbsp;for our wedding guests.It’s a direct, shared service exclusively for our group—no long stops! Add transportation when booking your room or email:&nbsp;info@justbookittravel.com Once you've booked your flights, be sure to submit your flight details at least 40 days before travel using the following link:<a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf37oAoptFso-jvqKdoR-nW3uUEuOc_XQ4l2xwEIR7gTsHXOw/viewform" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Shuttle Request Form</a> DO I NEED A PASSPORT?Yes!All guests need a&nbsp;valid passport&nbsp;to travel to Mexico.Double-check the expiration—it must be valid for the entire duration of your stay.If you don’t have a passport yet, apply early! Expedited processing can still take up to 12 weeks. WHAT SHOULD I PACK OR PREP FOR?We’ve created a helpful&nbsp;Pre-Travel Checklist&nbsp;for all guests, especially those who haven’t traveled internationally recently. Confirmed guests will receive a full travel guide 7–10 days before departure.<a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/pre-travel-checklist" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pre-Travel Checklist</a> DOES JUST BOOK IT TRAVEL LOVE REFERRALS? Yes! Just Book It Travel is a&nbsp;woman-owned, referral-based business&nbsp;built on trust and outstanding service.If you loved your experience, spread the word!For feedback, suggestions, or improvements, please email:&nbsp;info@justbookittravel.com <a href="https://www.facebook.com/JustBookItTravel1/reviews/?ref=page_internal" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Just Book It Travel Facebook</a><a href="https://www.instagram.com/justbookittravel_?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA%3D%3D" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Just Book It Travel Instagram</a>

Q + A

<a href="https://www.justbookittravel.com/hotels/secrets-playa-blance" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Welcome to Secrets Playa Blanca!</a> Escape to Secrets Playa Blanca, a brand-new, all-inclusive adults-only paradise where we’ll celebrate love in style! This stunning resort, set on the pristine beaches of Costa Mujeres, is the perfect place for a romantic and unforgettable wedding experience. REMEMBER You must book through this site using our room block to be included on the guest list

Restaurants &amp; Bars Indulge in a culinary journey with a variety of gourmet restaurants, offering international flavors: •	Market Café – Delicious buffet with global cuisine •	Bordeaux – Elegant French dining experience •	Portofino – Authentic Italian flavors •	Himitsu – Asian fusion with sushi and teppanyaki •	Seaside Grill – Fresh seafood &amp; grilled specialties by the beach •	El Patio – Traditional Mexican flavors with a modern twist •	Coco Café – 24-hour coffee shop with snacks •	Barefoot Grill – Casual poolside bites •	24-Hour Room Service – Because cravings don’t have a schedule! Bars &amp; Lounges: From lively poolside cocktails to sophisticated lounges, enjoy unlimited premium drinks at the resort’s stylish bars!

Gym &amp; Spa •	Fully equipped gym with state-of-the-art equipment and ocean views&nbsp;•	Yoga &amp; fitness classes to keep you feeling great during your stay•	World-class Secrets Spa by Pevonia® offering rejuvenating massages, hydrotherapy, and beauty treatments Activities &amp; Entertainment Whether you want to relax or stay active, there’s something for everyone: •	Infinity pools &amp; swim-up bars for the ultimate tropical vibes&nbsp;•	Live music &amp; themed nights to keep the party going•	Water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding &amp; snorkeling&nbsp;•	Cooking &amp; cocktail-making classes for a fun interactive experience•	Beach &amp; pool volleyball for a little friendly competition&nbsp;•	Excursions &amp; tours to explore the beauty of Costa Mujeres&nbsp;

Suites &amp; Preferred ClubEach ocean-inspired suite offers a private balcony or terrace, spa-like bathrooms, and a complimentary minibar. Upgrade to the Preferred Club for extra perks like: •	Exclusive lounge access with premium drinks &amp; snacks&nbsp;•	Upgraded room amenities &amp; oceanfront views&nbsp;•	Private pool &amp; beach area for a VIP experience AND MOST IMPORTANTLY…IT’S PERFECT FOR A FAMILY AND FRIENDS GROUP CELEBRATING LOVE AT OUR WEDDING!!WE WILL CREATE MEMORIES THAT WILL LAST A LIFETIME!&nbsp;

The Resort

5 EASY STEPS TO RSVP 1️⃣ Click the link below.2️⃣ Choose your desired room.3️⃣ Consider adding travel protection and ground transportation.4️⃣ Make a $150 deposit per person.5️⃣ Stay tuned! The JBIT team will send your confirmation email within 1–2 business days. Please note, flights must be purchased separately. Feel free to choose the airline and schedule that work best for you! RSVP as soon as possible&nbsp;to guarantee your spot! ➡️ <a href="https://traveljoy.com/bookings/e3kkqC9Pw1YaffvpMgDxQWLw" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">RSVP / BOOK MY ROOM</a> ﻿ UNABLE TO JOIN US?We’ll miss you, but we completely understand! Please let us know by clicking below: <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhOEqiysBp_yn2ak2TPLkBsvXRKP7GPpDEuv0oVzkHNQMyuQ/viewform?usp=dialog" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">➡️ KINDLY DECLINE</a>

RSVP/Book My Room

“I’m Jaylen, Sydney’s cousin who’s had the ultimate pleasure of growing up with her. That's my sista!”

Jaylen Adams

“Hi it’s ya girl Terryn! I’m 30 yrs old and I live in atl, Georgia! I’m a mental health therapist who specializes in substance abuse treatment. Sydney and I go wayyyy back to the single digit days! I’m thrilled to be apart of this wonderful celebration.”

Terryn Okungbowa

“Syd and I first met over 10 years ago in high school through our mutual bestie and matron of honor Terryn. However our friendship truly blossomed after one magical trip to the happiest place on earth 🐭♥️ and we’ve been inseparable ever since! Being a witness to Sydney and Charles’ relationship since the inception, it is an honor to now be able to stand by her side on her big day. Now let’s get these lovebirds down the aisle!!”

Alexis Santiago

“I’m Calleigh! Getting to know Sydney through my relationship with her brother Shane has been such a gift, and she’s a beautiful example in family and love. I can’t wait to celebrate this special day with her!”

Calleigh Winberg

“Syd and I bonded quickly once she started dating my older brother. I just knew we’d get along! We’re the same age, she’s beautiful, kind, and so much fun to be around. Safe to say, my brother picked a winner… and now we get to be sisters for life!”

Camille Flowers

"Sydney and I have known each other for as long as I can remember. Our dads are best friends, so from day one, I had a built-in bestie. From childhood days playing soccer side by side, to endless sleepovers and those legendary breakfasts of cinnamon rolls and turkey bacon (the breakfast of champions) she’s been part of every season of my life.

As we grew older and life got busier, college athletics pulled us in different directions. But faith has a way of bringing people back together. Going to the same church rekindled not just our friendship, but a deeper sisterhood.

I couldn’t imagine my life without Syd. She’s more than a friend, she’s family, the kind of girl every woman deserves in her corner."

Chelsie Baham

"Hi! I’m Jess, and while Sydney is technically my sister in law, through Stephen, she’s genuinely always been like a sister to me since we met. I’m soo very excited, honored and grateful to celebrate her and Charles + their love story. As a mom of a toddler, and nurse life is super busy and chaotic for me/us here in Michigan which gives me all the more reason to look forward to get to Mexico to enjoy this perfect time to slow down and be part of the celebration & season with Sydney, Charles and the whole fam!”

Jess Johnson

“ My name is Kayla Makkar, I am pursuing a doctorate in occupational therapy , I LOVE Jesus and I know the lovely bride because her fiancé (soon to be husband) is my boyfriend’s brother !!” 

Kayla Makkar

"Hello, my name is Emmanuel Flowers. I am blessed to be the grooms baby brother and his best man. Growing up we were inseparable and he is my day 1 best friend. I’m a Christ follower and business owner who loves learning more about God, spending time with family, staying active, and building my clothing brand, Revelate."

Emmanuel Flowers

“I’ve known Charles for almost 20 years, first meeting him my first year playing pop warner football on the Chino Broncos. Reconnecting in high school, playing football and as well as competing in track and field together, Charles and I have stayed close friends and now work together for the LAFD. He’s always been a brother to me and excited to have Sydney in the family.”

Bryan Mendez

“I’ve know Charles for over 13 years. I view Charles more as another older brother than just my friend. USMC veteran. Exited to welcome Sydney as part of the family. Congratulations !!”

Jonathan Azucena

"Grounded in loyalty, with a love for entertaining and creating, fatherhood has added a whole new level of purpose to life. I spend a lot of time focused on becoming a better version of myself — but joining Charles on this special day is about family, and it means a lot to stand beside him.

As his older cousin, some of my best memories are from our childhood — always running around, laughing, and finding something to get into. Life has taken us in different directions as we’ve grown, but the respect and appreciation between us has always stayed. I’m truly proud of the person he’s become."

Leo Boateng Jr.

"Me and charles met when I started at CHHS and immediately became brothers. Now we work together in the department and I’m happy to see my boy move forward in life with Sydney."

Mo Lee

"I’m Shane Johnson, the bride’s little brother. I’m a travel-lover, nature chaser, and lifelong sports fanatic. I studied at UC Irvine and now live in Rancho Cucamonga, where I work as a general contractor. Happy to be here celebrating with all of you."

Shane Johnson

"Gemini, 
I know Charles Flowers through the LAFD"

Stephen Fossett

“Hi, I’m Stephen Johnson, Sydney’s older brother. I’m 31 years old, a father to my daughter, Jameson, and a husband to my wife, Jess. We live in Ann Arbor, Michigan and I work as a salesman.”