Carteret BPO Elks 2235

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Invitation &amp; RSVP Details While we’d love to celebrate with everyone, our venue has very limited capacity. As such, we’re only able to accommodate those who have received a formal invitation. If you’ve received one, please be sure to RSVP—the sooner, the better—so we can plan accordingly. We truly appreciate your understanding and can’t wait to celebrate this special day with our invited guests. A Gentle Reminder As we gather to celebrate this special day, we kindly ask all guests to remember that we are visitors at a shared venue. Please help us show respect by keeping the space clean, being courteous to staff, and treating the venue with care. Most of all, come ready to laugh, dance, and share in a night full of joy, love, and unforgettable memories. Your presence means the world to us, and we can’t wait to celebrate together!

 Event Details (Invitation, RSVP & Gentle Reminder)

We met in 2018 at work— not exactly the setting of a romantic movie, but it worked. Between coffee runs and side work, we became fast friends, bonding over our sarcasm, late shifts, and questionable diner playlists. For a while, we both pretended it was just friendship (even though everyone else saw right through us). Then, on November 25, 2019, we finally gave in and started hanging out outside of work… and basically never stopped. From that point on, it’s been laughs, love, and a lot of food. Over the years, we’ve grown together, supported each other through life’s ups and downs, and built a bond that’s full of inside jokes, spontaneous adventures, and deep conversations (sometimes about what’s for dinner). Julio brings out the best in me, and I bring out his softer side — even if he won’t admit it. We balance each other out in the best ways and wouldn’t trade our journey — from coworkers to best friends to soulmates — for anything. Now, we can’t wait to celebrate with all of you as we say “I do” to forever… and to continuing our never-ending debate about who made the first move.

Our Love Story

Our Story

Meet the Couple – In Our Own Words From Rachel:What I love most about Julio is his heart. He’s patient, loyal, and has a way of making everything feel calm, even in the middle of chaos. He’s the one person who can make me laugh when I’m stressed and feel safe when I’m unsure. I’m most looking forward to building a life full of love, laughter, and new memories — side by side with my best friend.

From Julio:Rachel is my rock. She’s strong, passionate, and full of love — and somehow still manages to put up with my jokes. I love the way she loves the people around her, how she never gives up on what matters, and how she brings light into every room. I can’t wait to start this next chapter together, creating a home filled with respect, joy, and probably too much coffee

Meet The Couple

We couldn’t share this special day without introducing two very important pieces of our hearts — Sydney and Bella. They may not be walking down the aisle (though they’d definitely steal the show), but they are very much a part of our story and the life we’ve built together. Sydney and Bella bring joy, laughter, and a whole lot of love into our home, and they’ve taught us what it means to care, to protect, and to grow as a family. They’re a big part of our “why” — the reason we work hard, love harder, and dream bigger. And as we begin this new chapter in marriage, one of the things we’re most excited about is growing our family even more in the years to come. We’re so thankful to have them in our lives, and even more thankful to have you celebrating with us as we step into this next chapter — together, with our whole hearts (and our whole pack).

Our Little Family

Cultural &amp; Family Traditions Our wedding is not only a celebration of our love, but also a reflection of where we come from and the families who shaped us. Throughout the day, you’ll notice a few special traditions and touches inspired by our cultural roots and family values. Whether it’s the music we dance to, the food we serve, or small moments during the ceremony, each piece is meaningful to us. We’ll be incorporating music that reflects both of our backgrounds — songs that bring back memories from childhood parties, family gatherings, and celebrations filled with joy. You might also catch a few traditional dishes that have been passed down through generations — food made with love, just the way our families always made it. Most of all, our wedding will carry the spirit of togetherness, community, and gratitude — because family isn’t just who you’re related to, it’s everyone who shows up with love in their hearts. Thank you for being part of ours.

Cultural & Family Traditions

&nbsp;Q + A with Rachel &amp; Julio Q: How did you two meet?A: We met in 2018 at work, working side by side through late-night shifts, spilled coffee, and questionable song choices. At first, we were just coworkers, then we became best friends… and eventually realized we didn’t want to do life without each other. Q: So… who made the first move?A (Rachel): He definitely started texting me more first.A (Julio): She definitely flirted first.Together: It was mutual… but we’re still arguing about it. Q: When did it become official?A: November 25, 2019. That’s the day we finally admitted what everyone else already knew — we were in love (and a little obsessed with each other). Q: Who said “I love you” first?A: Julio said it after our first kiss being an official couple, rest is history. Q: What’s your favorite thing about each other?Rachel: Julio’s heart. His support, his laugh, and his ability to make even the worst day better.Julio: Rachel’s drive, her loyalty, her kindness and the way she makes everything feel like home.Together: And the way we balance each other out — she plans, he relaxes. It works. Q: What are you most excited about for the wedding?Rachel: Dancing the night away with the people we love most.Julio: Having a Great Celebration with both friends and family.Together: Oh — and the Desserts. Definitely the Desserts. Q: Is there a dress code?A: Dress to impress — and to dance! Think wedding-chic, but comfy enough for a full night of celebration. Julio may or may not change into sneakers halfway through.&nbsp;DRESS TO BE COMFY! Q: Are kids invited?A: Yes! Bring the little ones — we can’t wait to see them out on the dance floor showing us all their moves.

Q + A

&nbsp;Travel &amp; Lodging We intentionally planned our wedding to be local so that travel would be easy and convenient for most of our guests. For those of you coming from out of town, we’re so grateful you’re making the trip — and we’ve got you covered! There are several hotels in town and in nearby areas, all offering great nightly rates and comfortable stays. Many are just a short drive from the venue and surrounded by awesome spots to grab a bite the next morning (we personally recommend a good diner breakfast — it’s tradition!). Restaurant List: GREAT BREAKFAST SPOTS: - Manny's Diner *ALSO GREAT FOR DINNER * (Clark NJ) -Bus Stop Diner (Carteret NJ) - Reo Diner (Woodbridge NJ) GREAT DINNER SPOT: -Strickland’s Steakhouse (Woodbridge NJ) -Apple's Restaurant and Lounge (Carteret NJ)

Located nearby Interstate 95, this Carteret hotel offers free WiFi and a 24-hour front desk. Newark International Airport is 11 mi away. A flat-screen TV is provided in each traditionally decorated room at Hotel Executive Suites. Tea and coffee-making facilities are also included. A microwave and refrigerator are available upon request. Guests can workout in the fitness center or use the business center that offers fax and photocopying services. Laundry facilities are also available. Jersey Garden Outlet Mall is 9 mi away from Hotel Executive Suites Carteret. New York City is 21 mi away.

Hotel Executive Suites

The Comfort Suites at Woodbridge, located off Route 1/Route 9 South in Avenel, is a hotel for both business and leisure travelers visiting the New Jersey area. This smoke-free hotel is located just eight miles from Newark Liberty International Airport, and near many popular attractions, including Liberty State Park and New Jersey Performing Arts Center. New York City is 20 miles and Atlantic City is 80 miles from the hotel. Your amenities and features at this hotel include free high-speed Internet access, free local calls and an exercise room. Business travelers will appreciate executive work desks in all rooms and access to copy and fax services. The hotel also has a business center and meeting room facilities. All suites feature refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, irons, ironing boards, hair dryers and cable television with HBO. Keep your electronic devices charged with the recharge device including AC and USB outlets provided in all guest rooms.

Comfort Suites at Woodbridge

This Avenel, New Jersey hotel offers free Wi-Fi and rooms with cable TV. This hotel is 4.5 miles from the New Jersey Turnpike and a 20-minute drive from Newark Airport. A gym and an indoor pool are on-site at the Woodbridge Holiday Inn Express. The hotel offers laundry facilities on-site as well. Every spacious room at the Holiday Inn Express Woodbridge includes coffee facilities and a work desk. Each room is equipped with wood furniture and carpeted floors. The Avenel Train Station is 1 mile away. Guests are 25 miles from Manhattan.

Holiday Inn Express Woodbridge by IHG

Located in Woodbridge and with Prudential Center reachable within 15 miles, Residence Inn by Marriott Woodbridge Edison/Raritan Center has free bikes, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi throughout the property and a fitness center. The property is around 16 miles from New Jersey Performing Arts Center, 23 miles from Statue of Liberty and 24 miles from Ellis Island. Guests can chill out in the indoor pool. Certain rooms also offer a kitchenette with a fridge, a dishwasher and a microwave. Coney Island is 24 miles from the hotel, while Barclays Center is 26 miles from the property. Newark Liberty International Airport is 14 miles away.

Residence Inn Woodbridge Edison/Raritan Center

Located in Woodbridge, New Jersey, just off Interstate 95, this hotel features guestrooms offering signature Cloud Nine beds. Each guest room or suite features a flat-screen TV. Begin the day at the Hampton Inn Woodbridge with a free daily hot breakfast buffet or take advantage of the modern fitness center. Relax near the indoor pool or finish some work in the on-site business center. The Woodbridge train station, offering train services to New York City and Long Branch, is 2.7 mi away. Menlo Park Mall is 6.8 mi away and Plainfield Country Club is 8.7 mi away. Newark Liberty International Airport is 17 mi from Hampton Inn Woodbridge.

Hampton Inn Woodbridge

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Woodbridge in Woodbridge features 3-star accommodations with a fitness center and a terrace. The property is located 15 miles from Prudential Center, 16 miles from New Jersey Performing Arts Center and 21 miles from Statue of Liberty. Ellis Island is 21 miles from the hotel and Coney Island is 24 miles away. Buffet and American breakfast options are available at the hotel. SpringHill Suites by Marriott Woodbridge also provides a business center and guests can use the on-site ATM machine at the accommodation. Staff speak English and Spanish at the 24-hour front desk. One World Observatory is 25 miles from SpringHill Suites by Marriott Woodbridge, while One World Trade Center is 25 miles away. Newark Liberty International Airport is 12 miles from the property.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Woodbridge

Travel

Photos

Registry

In Loving Memory   As we celebrate this beautiful new chapter in our lives, we carry the love and memories of those who are no longer with us — but whose presence is still deeply felt in our hearts.   There are special people we wish could be sitting beside us, dancing with us, or simply smiling in the crowd — but heaven is just too far away. While they may not be here in person, they are forever a part of our story and the foundation of the love we share.   We will honor them throughout the day with quiet moments, warm memories, and heartfelt gratitude for all they’ve poured into us. Their love continues to guide us, and we know they’ll be celebrating right along with us — just from a different seat.   Those who will Always be remembered, and forever loved……    - Norma G Elbel (Smith) (Rachel’s Grandmother) -James R Smith (Rachel’s Grandfather) -George K Elbel (Rachel’s Grandfather) - Suzanne and Jon Nemeth (Rachel’s Aunt and Uncle) -Raymundo (Julio’s Grandfather) -Josefa (Julio’s Grandmother) -Maria Antonieta (Julio Grandmother) -Victor Cervantes (Julios Friend/Father figure)

Rachel + Julio

Rachel + Julio

R&J

Wedding Day

5:00 PM–5:30 PM

Ceremony

6:00 PM–11:00 PM

Reception