Costa Baja Resort & Spa

Welcome Party Festivities

Rehearsal Dinner

Puerta Cortes Resort

Wedding

Ceremony

Sunset Lounge Puerta Cortés

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Brunch

#GarSeeYaLaterHoffman

Our Wedding

Carlos and Stephanie met while she was working at The Cheesecake Factory. Carlos stopped in one evening to wind down after a hard day at work and was served by none other than Stephanie. He was so sweet and charming that when he left his number, it was almost impossible for Stephanie not to text him! After texting back and forth for a couple of weeks and getting to know each other a little more, he finally asked her out to dinner. They went to Coasterra for their first date and had such a great conversation going that they didn't realize the restaurant had closed until the server mentioned it to them! After looking around and realizing they were the only people left, it was time to go. However, they weren't ready to go home quite yet so they decided to walk along the bay and get some fresh air. They had an instant connection and have spent every day together since that first night. After five and a half years of dating, Carlos took Stephanie to Loreto, Mexico where he chartered a private boat to a private island. It was so beautiful and romantic. It was here that he got on one knee and asked Stephanie to spend the rest of her life with him and she said yes!

Our Love Story

Our Story

Q + A

Anthony has been such a loyal friend of Stephanie for the past 9 years since they met at work. They celebrate holidays and birthdays together and he's practically family at this point! We are very happy to have him standing beside us on our special day.

Anthony Garcia

Carlos and Johnny met while coaching their daughters' softball teams in the early '90s. They hit it off immediately and have been through many adventures in life together since.  Although Johnny lives oceans apart in Thailand now, and with a 14-hour difference in time. These two can often share a laugh waking each other up thru video chat. Needless to say, their bond remains strong.

John Thom

Stephanie and Benita met at a volunteer group feeding the homeless. As they continued volunteering together they formed a very close friendship that has continued on for almost 10 years. Benita is young at heart and full of adventure. She spunky and always brings fun to any situation.

Benita Magit

Ray & Carlos met thru mutual friends. They share a passion for golf and can often find themselves golfing on weekends. They're also avid San Diego Sports Fans. Say Padres and Aztecs and these two have your back.

Raymond Hernandez

Stephanie's older sister who has always been there for her. From helping her grow up and learn, to being there through thick and thin as adults. She was Stephanie's first friend in life.

Stacy Gott

Rick was one of Carlos' first friends when he moved to the United States from Mexico. His claim to fame, along with Tom Babauta, is that he taught Carlos how to speak English! Rick has been a loyal and supportive friend for almost 50 years.

Rick Padilla

Britany is Stephanie's longest friend, dating back to sixth grade! They were inseparable for many years. They even used to dress alike as often as possible! Even though there are 2,500 miles between them now, the connection remains strong.

Britany Smith

Tom was one of Carlos' first friends when he moved to the United States from Mexico. His claim to fame is that he, along with Rick Padilla taught Carlos how to speak English! Tom has been a loyal and supportive friend for almost 50 years.

Tom Babauta

Keshia and Stephanie met while working at the Cheesecake Factory. She is such a sweet person and always brings laughter and sunshine, even to the darkest days! Stephanie is so lucky to have met such a wonderful person to bring joy to her life.

Keshia Chapman

Mike and Carlos met while coaching their daughters' softball in Mira Mesa in the early 90s. Since then  Mike has always been there for Carlos as a true friend can. Having him there on this special day means a lot for Carlos.

Mike Creeden

Tina and Stephanie met while working together at the Cheesecake Factory. She is always the life of the party! She's so much fun to be around and she's been a very loyal friend for many years.

Tina Nicoles

Carlos & Pat met while coaching their boys' youth baseball teams at Scripps Ranch. From day one these two hit it off and their friendship to this day holds a strong bond.  These two together are forced to be reckoned with.

Pat Kerrigan

Stephanie and Annette met through the friendship of Carlos and Annettes husband, Ray. Annette is as sweet as can be and loyal to a tee! She is the life of the party and it's always a joy to have her around.

Annette Hernandez 

Carlos and Peter met "BACK IN DA DAY" in the old East San Diego days. They went to high school together. These two have many adventures lived, but few to be shared.

Peter Ramiscal

Ryan is Carlos' only son and youngest child. Carlos is honored to have his son with him on this special day. Ryan has been an incredible son and Carlos is so proud of the man and father he has become. 

Ryan Garcia

Carlos' niece who is very smart and sweet and loves helping others.  She is full of love and always wears her beautiful smile. Stephanie is very excited to officially gain her as a niece. 

Maya Garcia

Carlos' niece who is full of personality and fun to be around. She has experience as a flower girl, but this is her first time as Junior Bridesmaid. She is great at everything she does, so she will be a great bridesmaid too. Stephanie is very excited to officially gain her as a niece.

Laiya Garcia

Carlos' youngest niece. She's an adorable little ball of energy and Stephanie is excited to officially gain her as a niece.

Italy Garcia

Carlos' first grandchild. He's super sweet and kind and loves his papa so much! He's a delight to be around. When he found out we were getting married he said and I quote, " I can be your ring bearer, I have experience, I 've done this before"

Ezra  "EZZY" Garcia

Nora is Stephanie's first niece. She's such a cutie and full of smiles! She might be small, but she has a large personality and she shines bright!

Nora Hoffman

Teddy is Stephanie's nephew. He may be quiet, but underneath it all he is silly, sweet and very smart.

Teddy Hoffman

Wedding Party

Photos

Cerro De La Calavera is a short hike, but don't let it fool you, it does require a moderate level of climbing over small rocks and parts of this trail have loose rocks so good shoes are highly recommended. Halfway up this hill you will find arches in the sandstone cliffs that will frame your breathtaking view of the bay and city below. If you dare to venture all the way to the top, you will find a "location" icon as seen on Google Maps. Catch a sunset up here and you may never want to leave!Parking is in the dirt lot off the dirt road just south of the gas station (Estation de Servicio Repsol).*I dropped a pin in the link below to the location of the base of the hill to help you find it

Cerro de La Calavera

1. The easiest beach is the one located right at our hotel! It has clear, calm, shallow water and a warm sandy beach. Perfect for floating in the bay or soaking up the sun.2. Playa Balandra is by far the most beautiful beach. It's a bay so theres basically no waves, just calm, crystal clear water. However it can get crowded so they only allow entrance twice a day (8am and 12pm) to a limited number of people. There are kayaks and paddle boards available for rent. If you make it in, be sure to find Mushroom Rock (and wear water shoes if you do!). If you can't manage to get in to the beach, there are trails all along there you can hike up and get a great view.3. Playa Pichilingue is another beautiful bay but is typically quieter. It has little to no waves and crystal clear water. There are two restaurants right there on the sand and a small pier.4. Playa El Tecolote is much larger and is not a bay so there are typically waves but they are small. This beach has many restaurants and bars, and also palapa, umbrella and chair rentals. It is also a good beach for snorkeling but there is no cell service.*These are our favorite beaches but there are tons of other beaches and coves in La Paz so feel free to stop at any of them as they are all beautiful!** Below we've linked a YouTube video with more detailed information of the beaches in La Paz.

Best Beaches:

The Malecon is a boardwalk in the city center, right on the water. There are beaches, playgrounds, sculptures, shopping and restaurants all within walking distance. You could definitely spend a day exploring the area or people watching. If you stay through the evening there are usually some amazing sunsets to be seen.

Malecon La Paz

Dunas del Mogote are huge sand dunes that, from the top, offer stunning ocean views on both sides. They are remote, offer no amenities and can be windy or hot at times. The best way to enjoy this experience is with 4x4 Tours. They will take you all through the area on an ATV, provide lunch, help you sand board and let you explore the beaches. Located at Mariano Abasolo, Gral Manuel Márquez de León 2480, 23010 La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico and can be reached at +52-612-146-6284. They offer 3 or 5 hour tours 7 days a week.

Dunas del Mogote

Unfortunately whale shark and whale watching season ends the first week of April, however you can still take boat tours to just spend a quiet day on the island, Espiritu Santo. Who knows, you may even spot a sea lion, turtle or dolphin along the way! We used MIKA TOURS. They are knowledgeable about sea life and will provide you with snorkel gear, a life jacket and lunch on a private beach.

Boat Tours

Todos Santos is a small, magical town on the Pacific Ocean, just an hour drive from La Paz. Here you will find many art galleries full of paintings from local artists. There are also many small shops with a lot of local, handmade, unique items. Todos Santos is also the home of Hotel California. It is rumored this hotel inspired the Eagless classic song Hotel California. If you roll down your windows on the drive, you can actually smell the colitas and feel the cool wind in your hair. 

Todos Santos (Pacífico)

Come experience the charm of these small neighboring towns just 45 minutes southeast of La Paz. Another short getaway exhibiting the raw beauty of the sea of Cortez. Pull up a chair, enjoy the view and the ocean breeze in your hair. Make sure you stop at La Tuna, one of our favorite spots for specialty cocktails and amazing seafood dishes. You can check them on on IG @latunabcs..

La Ventana/El Sargento

Dance the night away to your favorite hits of the 70's, 80's and 90's! There is a cover charge of $150MX, but once inside you will be transported back in time where you can relive the fun of your 20's and dance like your back won't hurt tomorrow!

El Rollo Disco & Bar

Things to Do and See

Odayaka Sushi bar is hands down the best Sushi in La Paz! You can take the free shuttle at the Costa Baja entrance to get there. (Yep, its located on-site!)If you want sushi in town, Hana Sushi is the 2nd best place in La Paz.

Odayaka Sushi Bar

With just a glass barrier between you and the kitchen, Locos Por la Pasta allows you to watch your pasta be made from beginning to end. Enjoy watching them roll out your noodles or stuff or ravioli, cook it and serve it to you with one of their delicious sauces.

Locos Por La Pasta

Looking for vegetarian or vegan options? Or, just looking for something healthy and delicious? Look no further than Sweet and Fit! They even have fresh squeezed juices and a variety of tasty smoothies. Oh, and don't forget they are on the bay so the view isn't too bad either!(They also offer gluten free, paleo and keto options.) Gaia Comida Vegana is another restaurant you may enjoy. It is solely vegan and has a diverse but delicious menu.

Sweet and Fit

Don't underestimate this little kiosk on the side of the road. La Churreria de Don David offers hot, fresh churros with a variety of toppings such as chocolate, caramel and berry. And you can wash them down with a hot coffee.

La churreria de Don David

If your thing is snacking on a variety of cheeses, meats, nuts and fruits while watching the sun set, then Amet Foodie Market is perfect for you! They offer charcuterie boxes to go so you can enjoy life anywhere with a delicious snack! Make sure you call and reserve your box in advance because they sell out fast.

Amet Foodie Market

When in Mexico, eat like a local! You may have to wait in line at El Estadio Tacos 1 to get these mouthwatering fish tacos, but they will be worth every second of your wait! Also, if you're on a budget, this is the best bang for your buck! Make sure it's a lunch stop though because they close daily at 3pm.

El Estadio Tacos 1

Located next to Hotel Seven Crowns, this American concept restaurant offers brunch (9am-1pm) and gourmet burgers and sandwiches. But be warned, with imported American style food comes American style prices...

Melt Brunch & Burgers

Located inside El Morro Hotel, Vrentino Restaurant offers a variety of amazing breakfast options and an in-house bakery. Seating available inside with sea view or on the patio outback with a great garden feel.

Vrentino RESTAURANT

Best chilaquiles in La Paz! This is where all the locals come to enjoy chilaquiles in many different styles with unique toppings and a variety of sauce choices. They have a charming ambiance and lots of fresh juices. (Because this place is a local jewel, many employees do not speak English nor does the restaurant offer an English menu.) They are only open for breakfast and lunch.

Maria California

3 Amigos Dessert Café is a hidden gem. This French inspired café serves fresh baked croissants, pastries and desserts along with a variety of coffee drinks, smoothies and tea. They also have breakfast available all day.

3 Amigos Dessert Cafe

Las Chascas de Maria specializes in (and only serves!) corn! Corn lovers (like us) can choose either a cup of roasted or boiled corn or the whole cob and then add as many toppings as you like! Toppings such as sobritas (potato chips), bacon, and many different salsa options. Its a very unique place that we enjoy going for an afternoon snack.

Las Chascas de María

If you are looking for a quiet, romantic night out, make a reservation for a table on the pier at SeaSide Restaurant located inside La Concha Hotel. Between the Mediterranean cuisine, warm summer air and delicious cocktails, you will be captivated by the magnificent sunset over the water.

SeaSide Restaurant

Located right on the Malecon, El Zarape is a Mexican restaurant and bar. They sometimes have live music or maraichi bands playing. Tailhunter is another fun spot to check out on the Malecon.

El Zarape De Lorena

Nim is an international cuisine restaurant with a varied menu.&nbsp;Each dish is unique and made with fresh, local ingredients.&nbsp;You will be able to find a variety of seafood as well as a good cut of beef, lamb or pork.

Sorstis offers a Mederteranian-Italian fusion cuisine with high-quality meats and wines. Upon entering you will be immersed into a Spanish courtyard with fountains and beautiful plants. They do not require a reservation, but it is recommended.

Sorstis Restaurante

If you're looking for authentic local Mexican cuisine, do yourself a favor and get here! Make sure to try their amazing mole!  They have a full bar and friendly staff. Very reasonably priced.

Stephanie & Carlos

Stephanie & Carlos

Photos