S&J
ES

Susy and Jose

The celebration

Wedding Itinerary

Everything you need to know for the big day.

Saturday August 29 2026

Join us to celebrate under the palms of Buenaventura, Panama.

Saturday, August 29, 2026

Religious Ceremony

5:00 pm

La Ermita

Buenaventura, Panama

View location

Arrive 30 minutes early to settle in.

Reception

7:00 pm

Gran Salón del Hotel Buenaventura

Buenaventura, Panama

View location

Dinner, dancing and celebration into the night.

Dress code

Tropical formal

Breathable fabrics like linen and silk, warm colors, and footwear that works for sand and grass. For men: a guayabera, a linen shirt (long sleeve) and trousers. Avoid white; embrace prints, color and elegance without rigid formality.

Need inspiration? See our Pinterest board
Tropical formal

Our story

How we got here

From a casual first encounter to a journey through life together.

We met when neither of us was looking to fall in love — and maybe that's why it happened so fast. A conversation that wouldn't end, a coffee that turned into dinner, a quiet promise that this was worth taking care of.

It's been years of travel, long laughs, learning to argue well and celebrate loudly. We've built a life both small and enormous, full of what matters most to us: family, friends, the sea, a long shared table.

Today we want to make official what we've known for a while. And we want to celebrate it with you, under the palms of Buenaventura, where the sky turns terracotta at the end of the day.

Practical info

Frequently asked

If your question isn't answered here, please reach out to our wedding planner.

When should I arrive in Panama?

We recommend arriving Thursday Aug 27 or Friday Aug 28. That gives you time to settle in and enjoy the area before Saturday's celebration.

How do I get from Panama City to Buenaventura?

Buenaventura is about a 2-hour drive from Panama City. You can rent a car at the airport or book a private transfer. If you're driving, Quesos Chela is right on the way — known as la parada obligatoria for its delicious cheese empanadas. If you're feeling hungry, definitely make a stop! Reach out for details.

What's the dress code?

Tropical formal. Breathable fabrics like linen and silk, warm colors, footwear that works for sand and grass. For men: a guayabera, a linen shirt (long sleeve) and trousers. You'll find a Pinterest board and more inspiration in the dress code box in the agenda section.

Where can I stay?

We've reserved a block of rooms at Buenaventura Resort, the reception hotel. You'll find the special rate and how to book a room in the stay section. There are also nearby alternatives there.

How do we get around on the wedding day?

La Ermita (the ceremony) is right across from Buenaventura Resort, so the ceremony and the reception are a very short walking distance apart. After the ceremony, head to the hotel's reception and the staff will guide you.

Are there groceries inside Buenaventura?

Yes. Felipe Motta Wine Store & Deli and Deli Gourmet are two great options to find what you're looking for.

Who can I contact for anything else?

Our wedding planner Margie Dabah is on top of everything. Open a WhatsApp conversation here.

For your trip

Recommendations

Buenaventura and Panama City have a lot to offer. These are our favorite spots.

Stays

We've reserved a room block for guests with a special code.

Buenaventura, Panama

Buenaventura Resort — main hotel & reception

Luxury beachfront resort featuring golf, spa, multiple restaurants, pools, and beach club access. The resort where the wedding reception takes place. Guests get 15% off the Best Available Rate, plus breakfast, wireless internet and free parking.

+507 908-3333
View on map See how to book your room just below ↓

Buenaventura, Panama

Property Rentals

  • •Rent a property inside the Buenaventura complex.
  • •More space to relax and a more local Buenaventura stay.
  • •Great for larger groups.

WhatsApp: +507 6560-5579

buenaventurarentals.com →

Casco Antiguo

Hotel in Panama City

Useful if you arrive early or extend your stay.

Sofitel Legend Casco Viejo

Luxury waterfront hotel in Casco Viejo featuring elegant rooms, spa, pool, fine dining, and views of the Panama City skyline.

+507 302-4300
Visit website →
La Compañía Hotel

Luxury boutique hotel in the heart of Casco Viejo blending French, Spanish, and American architectural influences with multiple restaurants and rooftop experiences.

+507 6788-7500
Visit website →

How to book your room at the Buenaventura resort

Use the discount code for 15% off the Best Available Rate (BAR) in your chosen category. As rooms fill up, rates can rise and availability drops — so book early.

When booking by phone, email or WhatsApp, mention the wedding as your reference: Boda Méndez Lewis.

On marriott.com, search "Buenaventura Resort" and enter the code under Special Rate / Corporate, Promo, SET #.

Discount code

W14

Included with your stay

  • • Breakfast at Restaurante Criollo
  • • Wireless internet
  • • Free parking

Dining

All within the Buenaventura resort.

Tourism

Things to do in and around Buenaventura.

Buenaventura

Buenaventura Beach Club & Beach Day

Access to El Faro Beach Club with beachfront dining, cocktails and loungers.

Beach Club Reservations: +507 908-3001

Reserve cabanas or beach beds in advance.

Visit website →

Buenaventura

Horseback Riding

Guided horseback riding experiences through Buenaventura.

  • •Arrange through the Resort Concierge.
+507 6000-4595

Schedule early morning or late afternoon rides.

Visit website →

Buenaventura

Fishing & Marina Experiences

Private fishing charters available from Buenaventura Marina.

  • •Popular catches include tuna, mahi-mahi and roosterfish.
Striker Sportfishing: +507 6612-7700
Buenaventura Marina: +507 6565-0709

Reserve several days ahead during peak season.

El Valle de Antón

Hiking: El Valle de Antón

Approximately 45–60 minutes from Buenaventura.

  • •Popular hikes include La India Dormida and Cerro Gaital.
  • •Beautiful mountain scenery, cooler temperatures, and local markets.
  • •Best for active guests looking for a half-day adventure.
Visit website →

Make up Artists & Hairstylists

To look stunning on the big day.

Panama City

Club Salón

Francis Pinzon has great logistics and coordinates with the makeup and hairstyle team to serve guests outside of Panama City. Message her to schedule appointments.

WhatsApp: +507 6982-8075
View Instagram →

Gifts

Your presence is our best gift

If, after thinking about it, you'd like to celebrate with a token, here are a few options. But the most important thing is having you there.

Love letter

Write us a letter

Write us a letter Send letter

Registry

Gift certificates

If you'd rather give us something specific, we love Casa Miscellany. Here's the link in case you'd like to gift us a certificate.

See certificates

Transfer

Toward the trip

We're saving for our honeymoon. Any contribution brings us closer to a new memory.

Yappy · transfers within Panama