Isla Bella Resort

Beach/Resort Day

Welcome Party

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail hour

Reception

After party

Summer

Our Wedding

Our story began in August 2019, thanks to a little matchmaking magic. I was getting my makeup done for an event in Miami (hanging out with my Maid of Honor, Christina Gil) when the makeup artist asked, “Are you single? I know someone you’d totally get along with.” Fast forward a bit, and here we are. At the time, I was deep in the grind of studying for my medical boards and barely had time to think about dating. Two months later, Rafael, thoughtful as ever reached out to wish me luck. That small, sweet gesture was all it took, and soon after, we went on our first date to Komodo (a not so hidden gem in downtown Miami, but let’s pretend it’s our secret spot, haha). Back then, Rafael was a third year orthopedic surgery resident, and I was a third-year med student. We were basically two sleep-deprived adults trying to survive our crazy schedules. Over the years, we’ve been each other’s biggest supporters through all the highs and lows. Rafael finished his residency and fellowship in Connecticut, while I completed my residency training in South Florida. We’ve grown so much together, both professionally and personally and now, we’re diving into our next big adventure: marriage, with fingers crossed for a few babies along the way (because, let’s be real, Rafael’s not getting any younger, haha). We’re beyond excited to celebrate this new chapter with our friends, family, and all the amazing people who’ve been pivotal in our journey. We can’t wait to share this special moment with you!

Our Story

Photos

We highly recommend this resort for our friends and family. Every room with waterfront views. Multiple pools, a full-service spa, an open bar, and beachfront dining. We chose this location for its closeness to what we love most—the ocean and nature. Our goal is to bring everyone we love together in a special place, making it easy to connect, celebrate, and enjoy our wedding experience under one roof. All of our events will take place at Isla Bella. AmenitiesRestaurants for breakfast, lunch, &amp; dinnerFitness CenterSpaOutdoor water activitiesBike rentalsThe Marketplace at Isla Bella ROOM BLOCK LINK BELOW

Isla Bella Beach Resort

Nearby Hotel Recommendations

Approximately 1.5 miles from Isla Bella Beach Resort Offers more budget-friendly options compared to Isla Bella. Excellent facilities, including a marina and on-site dining. No Room Block

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club, Curio Collection by Hilton

Located nearby, beautiful ocean views, spacious 2&amp;3-bedroom units, and a private beach. Multiple pools, adults-only pools. Known for its sunset views. No room block

Tranquility Bay Beach Resort

Traveling 

By Plane-Key West International Airport (EYW):&nbsp;Approximately 1 hour away.-Miami International Airport (MIA):&nbsp;About 2.5 hours away.-Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL):&nbsp;Roughly 3 hours away. Local AirportFlorida Keys Marathon International Airport (MTH):&nbsp;For private and some charter flights, located right in Marathon Transportation Options from Airport --&gt; Marathon Rental cars/Uber options to Marathon from airports. Public transportation is limited. Shuttle services and private car hires are available from major airports to Marathon. By Car: 2.5-hour drive through the Keys. Shuttles on Isla Bella property available, please call reception for further information.

Hotel Stay/Travel

At Isla Bella Resort

Complimentary Resort ActivitiesBeach YogaBike RentalsBeach BocceFive oceanfront poolsMiniature golf <a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/activities-adventures/watersports/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Optional Rental Activities </a>Jet Ski tours (sunset tours available)Kayak &amp; PaddleboardsDaybedsPoolside loungeSandbar boat tripScuba excursionsLand's End Parasail tripsTwo Chonchs Sports fishing <a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/spa/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spa Services</a>5 treatment roomsrelaxation room with steam roomPedi/Mani selectionHair Services <a href="https://www.islabellabeachresort.com/dining/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Resort Dining </a>Mahina, a Polynesian-inspired restaurantSushi CabanaThe Beach BarMarketplace CaféBurger Palace

Off Property Activities

<a href="https://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/parksrec/page/sombrero-beach" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sombrero Beach</a><a href=" https://cranepoint.net" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crane point Hammock</a><a href="https://bahiahondapark.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bahia Honda State Park</a><a href="https://dolphins.org/plan_your_day?aid=1" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dolphin Research Center</a><a href="https://www.ridethelagoon.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Keys Cable Park</a>Walk/Bike the 7 mile bridge<a href="https://www.turtlehospital.org" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Turtle Hospital</a>

Things to Do

Bride

Carla Mendoza-Rodriguez

Christina Gil 

Eduardo Fernandez

Katherine Espinosa

Esha Vallabhaneni 

Maria Ibanez 

Lauren Sanchez-Ritz

Ciara Sanchez

Adriana Sanchez

Dimitri Joseph 

Laura Mendez

Groom

Miguel Sanchez

Frank Nogareda

Javier Arbolaez

Albert Coombs

Matthew Carrillo 

Paul Allegra

Azael Arizpe 

Jordan Dow 

Desean Thom

Raymond Khargi

Mario Espinosa

Nicholas Fanning

Wedding Party

Ladies: Although the sand surface is hardened, we recommend avoiding thin heels, as they might sink into the sand. Thicker heels recommended for cocktail party and ceremony. Feel free to bring your fabulous stilettos for the reception if you’d like, they’ll work perfectly on the regular flooring!

Travel/Accommodation Qs

Q + A

Wedding Gift/Fund

cynandrafa.com

Cynthia & Rafael

Cynthia & Rafael

Wedding Party

Bride

Groom