Wedding Day

Iglesia Hay Esperanza 

Ceremony

Club Unión de Panamá

Reception

Our Wedding

Our Story

Photos

Ana Rosa isn’t just my older sister — she’s been a role model and a second mom to me for as long as I can remember. I honestly don’t know where I’d be without her. From editing every college and job application essay to patiently walking me through retirement plans and investing (because let’s be real — finance is not my thing), she’s guided me every step of the way. If one day I can become even half of the wife and mother she is, then I'll know I must be doing something right. I'm looking forward to celebrating this special day with my sis 🌟💃. Love you to the moon and back!



Ana Rosa Giannareas

Jitty and I met through mutual friends during my freshman year of college. Though we weren’t especially close at first, we took a leap of faith by deciding to become roommates in our sophomore year and have been inseparable ever since.

She has always been my rock — the one who pushes me to work hard and keeps me grounded when life gets overwhelming. From spontaneous trips to see each other to a car accident (which, yes, was totally my fault — sorry!) to more than a few heartbreaks, we’ve truly been through it all together. I can't imagine living the best day of my life without her by my side 💖.



Jitty Synn

Ana (or "Tribi") is one of the kindest and most genuine people you’ll ever meet. It’s rare to catch her in a bad mood, and she has a heart for serving others with the same grace and selflessness that Jesus did. What I love most is that our friendship has stood the test of time — over 20 years across so many different places: Panama, Florida, Connecticut, Ohio, Oxford, and Coventry.  And every time we reunite, it’s like nothing has changed. We still laugh at the same old jokes and can read each other’s minds before one of us even speaks. She’s like the younger sister I never had — not because she’s actually younger, but because she somehow doesn’t age at all. How blessed am I to get to spend my wedding day next to her ❤️.  

P.S. She looks like a real-life Moana.

Ana Gabriela Tribaldos

Ana Gabriela has been one of my closest friends for as long as I can remember. She’s the kind of friend whose house I can walk into and open the fridge like it’s my own, and to this day, hers is the only home phone number I still remember by heart (because that’s how often we used to call each other). Even with the whirlwind of her medical career over the last 10 years, she has always made time for me whenever I’m back in Panama. I don’t think I would have survived school without her Type A energy—especially when it came to arts and crafts projects (because your girl is not an artsy person). That’s probably why she’s been such a lifesaver with all the wedding decoration ideas I’m too lazy to plan myself (LOL). I can’t wait to celebrate this day with you!  Love you always 🫶 .

Ana Gabriela Intriago

Loreli and I met in 2019 when we were doing our Master’s in Clinical Embryology at Oxford. We always chose each other as lab partners—though we definitely got scolded more than once for speaking Spanish during practicals—and we ranted endlessly about anything and everything course-related.  Now, I love that we both work as embryologists and can still count on each other for a good old-fashioned job rant.



What I didn’t have on my bingo card, though, was that Loreli was secretly working as a matchmaker the whole time 👀—talking about me with my future husband, Fidel (okay, technically he asked her about me first after seeing a photo of us on Facebook, but still!). In 2023, I met Fidel in person for the very first time at Loreli’s wedding. Thus, having her now be part of my wedding truly feels like a full-circle moment. Te quiero mucho, mi Lorelai/Lorelilu 🤩.

Loreli Mejía

Katie was one of the first people I met at Christ Culture Church back in 2021, and we’ve been good friends pretty much ever since. As someone who had just arrived in a brand-new city (i.e., Cleveland), having a friend like Katie felt like a breath of fresh air and such a relief—because let’s be real, making friends as an adult is hard. Katie has some of the weirdest childhood anecdotes I’ve ever heard (I won’t get into that here 😂), and she’s famously known as the “mom” of our Young Adults group—mostly because she plans nearly every outing… even when she doesn't plan to show up (LOL). I love that our friendship inspires me to be more kind, more creative, and more anchored in Jesus. I’m incredibly grateful to God for crossing our paths, and I’m so excited to have her be part of my special day! 🎉

Katie Lee 

Wedding Party

For outfit inspo, check the following Pinterest board:<a href="https://pin.it/1ZKX3TPGS" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://pin.it/1ZKX3TPGS</a>

Q + A

A complimentary shuttle will be offered for guests who decide to stay at Hotel Bristol. Shuttle will take guests in groups of 25 from the hotel to the ceremony and from the ceremony to the reception. In addition, we have obtained a discounted room rate for guests staying here :) Please get in touch with Jesús Socorro by email at reservation@bristolpanama.com and mention our wedding name and date to make your reservation!

Bristol Panama, a Registry Collection Hotel

JW Marriott Panama

Courtyard Panama Multiplaza Mall

Sortis Hotel, Spa & Casino

Residence Inn Panama City

Hotel Riu Plaza Panama

InterContinental Miramar Panama by IHG

Hilton Panama

Sheraton Grand Panama

Le Méridien Panama

Hotel La Compañia - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt

American Trade Hotel & Hall

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo - Panama City

Central Hotel Panamá Casco Viejo

Accommodation

This is the place to come if you want to see how ships transit through the Panama Canal locks. It is located 8.6 km from the city center (20 min by car). The visiting hours are from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, and the cost ranges from $7.22 to $17.22 for non-residents, which includes access to the Canal Museum, a tour of the locks, access to the restaurant, and the IMAX Theater.&nbsp;

Miraflores Visitor's Center

This is the historic district of the city, and it holds the oldest buildings and much of Panamanian history. It's also one of the best places to buy local souvenirs. Additionally, it features various hotels and restaurants, such as The American Trade Hotel, Central Hotel, Hotel La Compañía, Casablanca Restaurant, Fonda Lo que Hay, and Diablicos Restaurant. Pro-tip: take an Uber! Parking is limited.

Casco Antiguo

This is the place to come if you want to learn the history of the construction of the Panama Canal&nbsp;in its various stages, featuring the initial French construction attempt, the later construction by the United States, and the eventual transfer to Panamanian control. It's open from Tuesday to Sunday from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, and the cost ranges from $7.50 to $15 for non-residents.

Panama Canal Museum

It is a peninsula with views of the Canal and the Panama City skyline, making it a great place to enjoy scenic walks or bike rides. Additionally, it represents a causeway that connects several islands with seafood restaurants and outdoor terraces, such as Mi Ranchito and Restaurante Pencas.

Causeway Amador

This museum, designed by famous architect Frank Gehry, focuses on the natural history of biodiversity in Panama and the region. Located at the beginning of the Amador Causeway in Panama City, it welcomes visitors from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm (Tues-Fri) and from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm (Sat &amp; Sun). Cost ranges from $16-20 for non-residents.

Biomuseo

Panamá Viejo ("Old Panama") is an archaeological site where the first city of Panama was founded. Located ten (10) minutes from the city center, it welcomes visitors from 8:30 am to 5:30 pm (Tues to Sun) with an admission cost ranging from $7 to $17 for non-residents.

Old Panama

This is a stretch of road with sea views that connects the Paitilla neighborhood with the Casco Antiguo. Access is free, and you can visit the famous Mercado del Marisco (Seafood Market) to see&nbsp;the day’s fresh catch and then enjoy a delicious meal right there. Pro-tip: try a freshly made ceviche!

Cinta Costera

The place to be if you are an adrenaline junkie! Fidel and I went last year and loved it (see pic hehe). It has a bunch of activities, including climbing, ziplining, and swinging, as well as a skydeck with one of the best views of both the modern and the old Panama City (Casco Antiguo).

Poin Panamá

If you are looking to do some shopping while here, Multiplaza will probably get you covered, from luxury brands like Cartier, Gucci, and Hermes to good old Krispy Kreme for an afternoon sugar treat. Other shopping malls are Albrook Mall, Soho Mall, and Altaplaza.

Multiplaza Panamá

Isla Taboga, known as "The Island of Flowers," is just a 30-minute ferry ride from Panama City. Its tranquil beaches and laid-back atmosphere make it ideal for a weekend escape. In addition to swimming and relaxing on the beach, you can explore its picturesque village, hike to the Cerro de la Cruz, or enjoy spectacular ocean views.

Taboga Express Fast Ferry

Isla Contadora, located in the Pearl Islands archipielago, is famous for its white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters. This exclusive destination is perfect for those seeking a blend of luxury and natural beauty. You can enjoy water sports, relax on pristine beaches, snorkel, or explore its nature-filled trails. The island can be reached by ferry, approximately a 1.5-hour ride from Panama City. Pro-tip: also a popular site for whale watching season from July to September! 🐋&nbsp;

Sea Las Perlas Ferry Booth

With reservations and a fee, you can plan a trip to these breathtaking islands located on the Caribbean coast of Panama. They are part of the comarca (region) of Guna Yala, governed by the indigenous&nbsp;Kuna people. They are renowned for their pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs, making them ideal for snorkeling. I recommend San Blas Adventures if you want to schedule a day or multi-day tour from Panama City.

San Blas Islands Panamá

Where to eat 

With multiple locations in the city, this is the place to go if you want a taste of traditional Panamanian cuisine. For breakfast, make sure to try the bollos de maiz nuevo, bistec encebollado, and Panamanian fritters like hojaldras, corn tortillas, carimañolas, or almojábanos. My favorite is the emparedado de ropa vieja on a corn tortilla or hojaldra base. For lunch, make sure to try our famous chicken soup "sancocho"!

El Trapiche San Francisco

Located inside Casco Antiguo, come here to enjoy delicious Panamanian food like sancocho and seafood dishes, the unique flavors of Creole cuisine, and a live performance of Panama's traditional folkloric dance!

En La Fonda, Panamá

Dim sum for breakfast is a beloved tradition in Panama City! This custom reflects the country's rich Chinese heritage, dating back to 1854 when Chinese workers arrived to work on the Panama Railroad. Servers push carts with a variety of dishes—such as shrimp dumplings (jakao), pork buns (hampao de puerco), fried wontons, and siu mai—allowing diners to select their favorites as the carts pass by.

Palacio Lung Fung

Known as the only restaurant-museum in Panama, this place offers delicious Mediterranean fusion dishes along with an impressive exhibition of antique cars dating back to 1916. Pro-tip: make reservations in advance and try their brunch!

Casa Catedral | Restaurante

Currently nominated as #25 on Latin America's Best Restaurants, this place offers a range of reimagined Panamanian dishes, including ceviches, chuletón de cerdo (pork chop), and sides like arroz con coco (coconut rice) and plátano maduro (sweet plantain). Reservations are recommended.

Cantina del Tigre

Located within Ciudad del Saber, this is the perfect weekend spot to recharge with a few baked goods, like the classic cinnamon roll, indulgent pecan caramel sticky buns, or flaky chocolate almond croissants. For a savory bite, the pizzas here are always a win.

Gamboa Baking Company

This chef-operated bakery creates outstanding artisanal breads, burgers, and desserts. For something savory, a favorite is the Americana Burger, served with a choice of fries sprinkled with fresh rosemary or sweet potato fries topped with honey. For a sweet treat, make sure to try their Lava Cake de Dulce de Leche or their chocolate chip cookies.

Miranda Bakery & Cafe

Located inside Casco Antiguo, this restaurant/bar is renowned for its fusion of traditional Latin American and seafood dishes, earning rave reviews for its octopus and fresh ceviche. It is also a popular spot for happy hour, as it has an extensive bar selection offering refreshing cocktails at fair prices.

La Pulpería - Casco Antiguo

This is a popular spot for many travelers seeking to try authentic Afro-Panamanian dishes. Its playful menu includes light bites, such as plantain tart and chicharrones, and bigger bites, such as jerk chicken and oxtail stew. Picture: torrejitas de bacalao (cod fritters) and One Pot Colonense.

La Tapa Del Coco

Founded by world-renowned chef Mario Castrellón, Maito is a regular on Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants list. Sourcing sustainable products from indigenous communities, he creates colourful dishes based on traditional cuisine, such as shrimp wonton dumplings and local staple sancocho soup. Pro-tip: make reservations and try their fresas con crema for dessert!

Margarita & Fidel