Ardovino's Desert Crossing

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Fall

Our Wedding

Once upon a time, in the world of dating apps and endless profiles, Karina found herself swiping on a chilly December night. She wasn’t expecting much; real connections felt rare in a world of quick swipes. But then, a profile caught her eye—a man named Jesus, with a warm smile that made her pause. She felt a spark, so she swiped right.To her delight, Jesus had already swiped right on her, too. From the moment they connected, something just felt right. Their first date arrived, and Karina’s heart danced with anticipation. When she saw him waiting with not one but two bouquets of flowers, his face lighting up as she walked toward him, she knew this was no ordinary first date. They spent the evening talking, laughing, and discovering a connection so easy and warm that it felt like they’d known each other forever. When Karina got back home, she couldn’t contain her joy—she picked up her phone and called her mom immediately, her voice bubbling with happiness. “Mom, I think I met someone special,” she said, a huge smile on her face. Their love story blossomed from there, filled with unforgettable moments. Together, they found a favorite little hotel, a place that became their haven. It was where they returned time and again, a setting that held their sweetest memories, late-night talks, and endless dreams. That hotel became their place, filled with memories that felt like home. Then, one special day, Jesus decided to turn that beloved hotel into the setting for the next chapter of their story. He brought Karina back to their treasured spot, and when she entered, she saw the faces of their family gathered around them. Surrounded by the people who meant the most to them, in the place that held so many of their memories, Jesus knelt down and asked Karina to spend her life with him. With tears of joy in her eyes, she said “yes,” knowing this moment would become her most cherished memory. From that day on, their love story continued—a journey shared with family, woven with laughter and rooted in a promise made in the place that meant the most to them.

Swiped Right Into Forever

Our Story

Photos

This is my amazing sister, Lili — my matron of honor, partner-in-crime, and the one who’s been by my side through all the ups and downs. Growing up, it was just the two of us, so we became experts at making our own fun (and sometimes trouble). Whether it was making up ridiculous songs, staying up way too late talking about our future plans, or fighting over who got the last slice of pizza, we were always there for each other — even when we were driving our parents crazy. Now, as she’s about to step into the wild world of motherhood and prepare for the arrival of her first baby, I couldn’t be prouder of the amazing woman she’s become. Lili, I know you’re going to be an incredible mom — mostly because you’ve already been the best sister and friend anyone could ask for. I can’t imagine my wedding without you standing next to me, and I’m so excited to see what the future holds for us — especially with a little one on the way to make more memories with!

Lili

José isn’t just my brother — he’s been my right hand for as long as I can remember. Growing up, we shared everything: a room, a childhood, and what felt like an entire lifetime of inside jokes, fights, and late-night conversations after our parents told us to go to sleep. There are way too many memories to count over the 20+ years we’ve spent side by side, but nothing beats those moments — just the two of us, talking for hours in the dark, figuring out life the way only brothers can. We’ve both grown and gone our separate ways in life, and now we live far apart, but that bond has never changed. I miss how close we were as kids, but I know that connection will always be there. José’s the person who’s seen every version of me, from the best to the worst, and no matter where we are, I’ll always count on him — just like I know he can always count on me. Having him stand with me on this day means more than I can explain. He’s not just my brother — he’s been a constant, a teammate, and someone I’ll always be proud to have by my side.

Jose

This is my cousin Hannah — or as we like to call ourselves, Dumb and Dumber (I'll let you guess who's who). We've been partners in crime since the beginning, causing chaos at family gatherings, laughing until we cry, and making memories that usually come with a “you had to be there” explanation. She’s always been the life of the party — truly the party of the bunch — bringing energy, laughter, and joy wherever she goes. Every year, seeing her at Christmas is a tradition I look forward to with all my heart. It’s when we reconnect, share all the updates, and laugh until our sides hurt like no time has passed. Hannah isn’t just family — she’s my built-in best friend, my hype girl, my confidant, and the one who knows all my embarrassing stories (and still agreed to be in the wedding). I couldn’t imagine saying “I do” without her standing by my side.

Hannah

This is my best friend since elementary school — Brandon, or as my family calls him, my second brother. We grew up side by side, playing endless games of soccer in my yard, laughing until we couldn’t breathe, and creating the kind of bond that doesn’t fade with time. Some of my favorite memories are of the three of us — me, Brandon, and my brother — sitting around the table after a long day of school and soccer, sweaty, starving, and completely happy. Even though we ended up at different schools and on different career paths, our connection has always stayed strong. Brandon is now a U.S. Marine and has spent the last few years traveling the world and protecting our country. Even when he’s stationed across the globe — sometimes 12 hours ahead of me — I know I can always count on him. He’s that kind of friend: dependable, loyal, and always just a call away when I need him most. From our elementary memories to showing up for each other in adulthood, Brandon has been part of every chapter of my life. I always joke about his crooked nose, but the truth is, I admire the man he’s become. I couldn’t imagine getting married without him by my side — a lifelong friend, a true brother, and a hero in every sense of the word.

Brandon

This is my gorgeous best friend, Taylor — the girl who turned what was supposed to be just a nail appointment into one of the most meaningful friendships of my life. At first, we bonded over polish colors and small talk, but it didn’t take long before our conversations got deeper and the connection felt like something truly special. Those hours in the nail chair became therapy sessions filled with laughter, life updates, and the kind of girl talk that makes your heart feel lighter. Taylor has been there for me in ways that go far beyond friendship — offering advice when I didn’t know I needed it, cheering me on when I doubted myself, and reminding me of my worth every step of the way. She has this calm, caring presence that makes you feel safe, seen, and deeply understood. I’m so grateful for her constant love and support, and I couldn’t imagine saying “I do” without her right there beside me.

Taylor 

Alexis and I met just two years ago at the Border Patrol Academy, but it didn’t take long for him to go from class leader to one of my closest friends. From the start, we just clicked — whether we were dealing with the stress of training or planning weekend trips to El Paso to blow off steam bar hopping and just enjoying life. Those memories from the academy days are some of the best — long training days, loud laughs, and plenty of stories we’ll keep between us. A retired Marine and now a fellow Border Patrol agent, Alexis is the kind of friend who shows up, brings good energy, and makes everything around him better. He’s originally from Florida but now lives in San Diego — which, if I’m being honest, I fully plan on using as an excuse to visit as often as possible. We’ve only known each other for a short time, but it already feels like one of those rare friendships that’ll last for life. Having him stand beside me means a lot — not just because of what we’ve shared already, but because I know there’s a lifetime of more memories ahead.

Alexis 

This is my beautiful best friend, Angel — the one who brought sparkle, sass, and a whole new level of confidence into my life. We met while I was student teaching, and from the moment we connected, she took me under her wing like a big sister. Whether it was helping me survive the chaos of the classroom or pulling me out of my comfort zone, Angel was always there — steady, stylish, and full of love. She’s the one who introduced me to my love for country bars and helped shape my style into something that finally felt like me. I had the honor of watching her walk down the aisle, and now having her beside me as I do the same means the world. Angel has always looked out for me — lifting me up, reminding me of my worth, and showing up whenever I needed her most. Her friendship is one of the biggest blessings in my life, and I’m so lucky to have her standing by my side on such a special day.

Angel

I met Abram a little over two years ago, right at the start of my relationship with my fiancée. One of our first double dates was actually a bit of a test — she brought me out for drinks with Abram and Angel to see if I’d get the stamp of approval from her closest friends. Thankfully, I passed… and what started that night turned into a friendship I truly value — and the beginning of what I’m sure will be a lifetime of endless double dates. Abram currently serves in the United States Air Force, and like me, he relocated to a small town to answer the call of service. Despite our different branches and duties, our lives have taken similar paths — we both care deeply about our small families, travel as much as possible, and share a love for our dog companions. Many weekends are spent heading back to El Paso to reconnect with home, and in between, we’ve built a friendship grounded in shared values and mutual support. He’s thoughtful, grounded, and one of those people who makes it easy to talk about anything — serious or stupid. I’m proud to call him a friend and even more proud to have him standing with me on this day.

Abram

This is my incredible best friend, Michelle — the one who’s been there through thick and thin, even when distance now separates us. We met as first-year 5th grade teachers, both diving headfirst into the chaos of our first year, and quickly became each other’s support system. We survived lesson plans, classroom struggles, and everything else that came our way by laughing, leaning on each other, and knowing we’d always have each other’s backs. Even though we’re now separated by distance, Michelle’s friendship has only grown stronger. She was one of the first people to celebrate with me when I got proposed to, and I’ll never forget how excited and happy she was for me. From surviving our first year of teaching to now navigating life’s big moments, Michelle has been the constant I can always count on. I’m beyond grateful to have her by my side as a bridesmaid, and no amount of distance will ever change how important she is to me.

Michelle

I met Michael shortly after I began dating my fiancée, as he is the partner of one of her closest friends. From our first conversations, we connected over our shared background in computer science — both of us having graduated in the field — and quickly discovered we’re on opposite ends of the soccer spectrum. Michael is a loyal Barcelona supporter, while I proudly stand with Real Madrid… the best team in the world, now and forever. The rivalry is constant, but it’s all in good fun. Over time, Michael has become a great friend — someone who brings sharp wit, good energy, and a lot of fun to every moment. We’ve shared some memorable double-date trips, and there’s truly never a dull moment when he’s around. I’m also thankful for the easy, playful friendship between all four of us — and especially for the way he lets me bully his girlfriend, just as much as she bullies me back. I genuinely admire his drive and character, and I look forward to seeing how far he’ll go in life. It means a lot to have him standing with me on this day, and I know we’ll continue building more memories — and exchanging plenty more soccer banter — for years to come.

Michael

Philip and I met two years ago at the Border Patrol Academy, and although we’re both from El Paso, we somehow never crossed paths until our careers brought us together. What started as a professional connection quickly turned into a close friendship, and life had a funny way of aligning us at just the right time. When we both made the move to Tucson, we took a shot and decided to live together — and that one year became one of the most memorable chapters of my life.
From going out to bars, cooking and eating together, to the occasional argument about who was being too loud, we shared a lot more than just an apartment. We were both adjusting to a new job and a new city, learning, growing, and figuring things out together. He became more than just a roommate or coworker — he became one of my best friends. We now work side by side every day, and through all of it, I’ve always known I could count on him just like he could count on me. Some of the funniest memories I have with Philip are the nights I convinced him to come out for a drink — and that’s when the real Philip made an appearance. He’s loyal, grounded, and always ready to back me up, whether it’s on duty or on the dance floor. I’m grateful for the friendship we’ve built, and even more grateful to have him standing beside me on this day.

Philip

Wedding Party

Q + A

Hotel Paso Del Norte, Autograph Collection has free bikes, a fitness center and a sun terrace with swimming pool and buffet breakfast in El Paso. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, free shuttle service and room service, along with free WiFi throughout the property. The property has evening entertainment and a 24-hour front desk. There's an in-house bar and guests can also use the business area. El Paso Museum of Art is a few steps from the hotel, while Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 2.1 miles from the property. El Paso International Airport is 6.2 miles away.

Hotel Paso Del Norte, Autograph Collection

The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park features a fitness center, shared lounge, a terrace and restaurant in El Paso. This 5-star hotel offers room service, a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi. The property provides evening entertainment and an ATM. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms with a desk, a coffee machine, a fridge, a minibar, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a shower. Guest rooms in The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park are equipped with free toiletries and an iPod docking station. The daily breakfast offers à la carte, continental or American options. El Paso Museum of Art is a 3-minute walk from the accommodation, while Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 2 miles away. El Paso International Airport is 6.2 miles from the property.

The Plaza Hotel Pioneer Park

Located in El Paso, a 7-minute walk from El Paso Museum of Art, Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown by IHG has accommodations with an outdoor swimming pool, private parking, a fitness center and a terrace. With a bar, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The property provides room service and a 24-hour front desk for guests. All rooms at the hotel come with a seating area and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. All guest rooms feature a desk. An American, vegetarian or vegan breakfast is available at the property. At Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown by IHG you'll find a restaurant serving American, Mediterranean and Mexican cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options can also be requested. The accommodation also provides a business center and guests can use the on-site ATM machine at Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown by IHG. Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 2.1 miles from the hotel, while Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium is 2.3 miles from the property. El Paso International Airport is 6.2 miles away.

Hotel Indigo El Paso Downtown, an IHG Hotel

Located 6.6 miles from El Paso Museum of Art, The Hotel at Sunland Park Casino El Paso, Ascend Hotel Collection offers 2-star accommodations in El Paso and has a fitness center, a terrace and a casino. The property is around 8.5 miles from Ciudad Juarez Cathedral, 8.7 miles from Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium and 10 miles from Chamizal Park. Free WiFi and an ATM are offered. Rooms have air conditioning and a TV, and certain accommodations at the hotel have a safety deposit box. Speaking English and Spanish at the reception, staff are always on hand to help. Monumento a la Mexicanidad is 13 miles from The Hotel at Sunland Park Casino El Paso, Ascend Hotel Collection, while La Rodadora is 13 miles from the property. El Paso International Airport is 14 miles away.

The Hotel at Sunland Park Casino El Paso, Ascend Hotel Collection

Located in El Paso, a 4-minute walk from El Paso Museum of Art, Courtyard By Marriott El Paso Downtown/Convention Center has accommodations with free bikes, private parking, an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center. With a shared lounge, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, each with a private bathroom. The hotel provides a terrace and a 24-hour front desk. At the hotel, rooms contain a closet. The rooms at Courtyard By Marriott El Paso Downtown/Convention Center come with a seating area and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. An American breakfast is available each morning at the accommodation. Guests can use the business center or relax in the bar. Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 2.3 miles from Courtyard By Marriott El Paso Downtown/Convention Center, while Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium is 2.5 miles from the property. El Paso International Airport is 6.2 miles away.

Courtyard by Marriott El Paso Downtown/Convention Center

Located in El Paso, a 6-minute walk from El Paso Museum of Art, Stanton House El Paso provides accommodations with a fitness center, private parking, a shared lounge and a terrace. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property has an ATM, a concierge service and luggage storage for guests. American and vegetarian breakfast options are available at the hotel. At Stanton House El Paso you'll find a restaurant serving French and Mexican cuisine. Vegetarian, dairy-free and vegan options can also be requested. There's an on-site bar and guests can also use the business area. Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 2.1 miles from the accommodation, while Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium is 2.3 miles away. El Paso International Airport is 6.2 miles from the property.

Stanton House

Located 6.6 miles from El Paso Museum of Art, Best Western Sunland Park Inn has rooms with air conditioning in El Paso. The property is around 8.3 miles from Ciudad Juarez Cathedral, 8.5 miles from Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium and 10 miles from Chamizal Park. The hotel has an outdoor swimming pool and a 24-hour front desk and free WiFi throughout the property. The rooms will provide guests with a fridge. A buffet breakfast is available at the hotel. Best Western Sunland Park Inn has a sun terrace. Monumento a la Mexicanidad is 13 miles from the accommodation, while La Rodadora is 13 miles from the property. El Paso International Airport is 14 miles away.

Best Western Sunland Park Inn

Located in El Paso and with El Paso Museum of Art reachable within 6.7 miles, Holiday Inn Express - El Paso - Sunland Park Area by IHG provides express check-in and check-out, non-smoking rooms, a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, free WiFi throughout the property and a fitness center. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and a business center. Chamizal Park is 10 miles from the hotel and Monumento a la Mexicanidad is 13 miles away. All guest rooms at the hotel come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer. Guest rooms will provide guests with a fridge. Ciudad Juarez Cathedral is 8.4 miles from Holiday Inn Express - El Paso - Sunland Park Area by IHG, while Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium is 8.6 miles away. El Paso International Airport is 14 miles from the property.

Holiday Inn Express El Paso - Sunland Park Area by IHG

Located within 6.3 miles of El Paso Museum of Art and 8 miles of Ciudad Juarez Cathedral, Holiday Inn El Paso West – Sunland Park by IHG provides rooms in El Paso. With a bar, the 3-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. The property features an outdoor pool, fitness center, hot tub and restaurant. Guest rooms in the hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV and a hairdryer. Guests at Holiday Inn El Paso West – Sunland Park by IHG can enjoy an American breakfast. The accommodation also provides a business center and guests can use the on-site ATM machine at Holiday Inn El Paso West – Sunland Park by IHG. Speaking both English and Spanish, staff at the reception can help you plan your stay. Benito Juarez Olympic Stadium is 8.2 miles from the hotel, while Chamizal Park is 9.2 miles away. El Paso International Airport is 13 miles from the property.

Karina & Jesus

Karina & Jesus

Q + A

What’s the dress code?

Where is the ceremony and reception taking place?

What time should I arrive?

Can I bring a plus one?

Are kids welcome?

Does the venue have parking?

Will there be an open bar?