Wedding Day

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

Ximena was born and raised in Guatemala, with a boundless curiosity for the world and its cultures. Jim grew up in the Netherlands, grounded yet eager to explore beyond familiar horizons. In 2019, destiny placed them side by side in their very first Mandarin class in Shanghai. With Bao, their teacher, making the introduction, something clicked instantly, an incredible connection that neither of them could ignore. Shanghai became their backdrop of discovery. Between tender dumplings and temples, crowded streets and futuristic skyscrapers, they found in each other what felt most like home. China taught them that home is not a place, but a feeling of belonging safety, and a spark of familiarity in the thick of the unknown. Just three months later, that feeling was undeniable. On May 3rd, in the stillness of a monastery in Hangzhou, Jim asked Ximena to make it official. Those months in China were filled with adventure, laughter, and countless “lost in translation” moments that only brought them closer. They learned to embrace the discomfort of the unknown, turning it into comfort found in each other. They discovered the depth of speaking in each other’s languages. That effort became its own kind of love: a love built on the courage to be misunderstood, and the beauty of finding meaning across their differences. But life eventually called them back to the Netherlands. Ximena returned to her student house in The Hague, while Jim, temporarily homeless, was saved by his best friend Dave (now proudly standing as best man). Soon, they created a new home together in Amsterdam. This new chapter brought its share of challenges: finding jobs, building routines, and blending two worlds, Dutch rationality and Latin passion. Sometimes it clashed spectacularly, but it never broke them. Instead, it shaped them. They learned to balance head and heart, to listen, to fight for each other instead of against each other. Their relationship became a story of resilience through change. Four different cities, long-distance stretches, and countless moments of uncertainty only strengthened their bond. With each challenge, they grew, not just as a couple, but as a team. Over time, Jim and Ximena became more than partners in love; they became partners in life. Team Jimena. Together, they’ve learned that true love isn’t about avoiding the storms. It’s about holding on through them and becoming stronger on the other side. What started in a Mandarin class at Hutong School turned into a lifelong partnership: a decision to be each other’s co-founders in life. They’ve promised each other a love that will never be boring, and will never be bland. They promised to never give up, no matter how hard or dark the road may get. And that is how their story began.The rest, they’ll continue to write, together.

From strangers in Mandarin class to partners in life

Our Story

RECOMMENDED STAY

Antigua has beautiful options to enjoy a Latin American rustic getaway. If you're travelling with a big group: renting a house or a villa might be the best option. You have gorgeous and spacious houses with great facilities. If you're travelling alone or with your +1: renting a room in a boutique hotel is a great option. Address of the venue: Jardin Real de Santiago, 3a Calle Oriente, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala

If you're NOT on a budget, these are beautiful boutique hotels: 1. La Posada del Ángel: https://posadadelangel.com/ 2. Mesón Panza Verde: https://www.panzaverde.com/ 3. El Convento Boutique Hotel (very close to the venue) https://elconventoantigua.com/ 4. Los Pasos Boutique Hotel: https://hotellospasos.com/ 5. Hotel Casa Santo Domingo: https://www.casasantodomingo.com.gt/ If you ARE on a budget: 1. Las Camelias Inn (this one is next to the venue): https://www.cameliasinnantigua.com/en 2. Hotel Casa Madeleine B&amp;B &amp; Spa: https://casamadeleine.com/ 3. Casa Encantada: https://www.casaencantada-antigua.com/ AIRBNB: has gorgeous villas/houses. Check the area to see how far it is from the venue. (This is also a way more affordable option if you're travelling with a group).

Accommodation 

ATTIRE FOR THE WEDDING DAY:We can’t wait to celebrate this special day with you in Guatemala. Since it’s one of the most important days of our lives, we’d love for everyone to dress up to the occasion. 👔 For men: a formal suit👗 For women: long dress attire January evenings in Antigua, Guatemala, can get a little fresh, so we recommend bringing a warm layer like a light jacket, shawl, or fur to stay comfortable outdoors (for the women). WEATHER FORECAST:Daytime highs are likely to be around 20–25°C (68–73 °F), while by late evening temperatures may drop toward 10–12 °C&nbsp;(50-54°F).

Dress Code

Guatemala is one of the most underrated destinations in Latin America. From colorful colonial streets to ancient Mayan ruins to breathtaking volcanoes and warm, vibrant traditions, this country has a variety of unforgettable experiences to offer. Whether you're looking for adventurous experiences in the jungle or a relaxing stay at the beach, there's a bit of everything for everyone. Here are some pictures from our favorite places in Guatemala. ROUTES WE RECOMMEND:

1. Cobán - Petén - Río Dulce - Belize (the nature/adventure route): - This route is perfect if you’re into nature, adventure, and that feeling of slowly drifting from jungle to sea. Here’s how it feels more than how it looks: - You start in Cobán, surrounded by misty mountains, waterfalls, caves, and lush green everywhere. It’s cooler, calmer, very nature-forward. Think hikes, Semuc Champey vibes, and waking up to fog rolling over the hills. - Then you move north to Petén, where the jungle gets thicker and history hits harder. This is where you explore Tikal and other Mayan ruins, totally immersed in ancient energy, monkeys overhead, and sunsets that feel unreal. It’s adventurous but also deeply grounding. - From there, you head to Río Dulce, and the transition is magic. You literally move through a river canyon surrounded by jungle, palm trees, and tiny communities along the water. Life slows down. Boats replace buses. Days are about swimming, hammocks, and sunset beers by the river. - Finally, you cross into Belize, where the jungle melts into the Caribbean. Clear water, islands (cayes), snorkeling, diving, reggae rhythms, and that laid-back island energy. After all the adventure, Belize feels like the reward. VERY IMPORTANT: distances might seem short because of how many km it says on Google Maps, but Guatemalan roads are very very bad... so it takes way longer than it seems. * You can drive on your way to Coban, Peten, Rio Dulce and Belize and fly back to Guatemala City (either from Belize, Puerto Barrios or Flores).

2. Antigua – Acatenango – Lake Atitlán – Chichicastenango (the culture &amp; volcano route): This one is about people, traditions ,and landscapes. - You start in Antigua, colonial, creative, walkable, full of cafés, ruins, and that slow-but-inspired energy. It’s a great base to ease into the country and connect with travelers, creatives, and local culture. - Then comes Acatenango. This is the peak experience; literally. Hiking the volcano and watching Fuego erupt through the night is one of those moments that rewire you a bit. Hard, cold, intense… and unforgettable. - After that intensity, you head to Lake Atitlán, which feels like a soft landing. Each village has its own personality: San Marcos → spiritual, wellness, yogaSan Juan → art, textiles, communitySanta Cruz / Jaibalito → quiet, nature, viewsSan Pedro → colorful, community, Spanish language coursesSanta Catarina Palopó → ceramic, art, culture Here it’s all about slowing down, reflection, swims and sunsets. - You finish in Chichicastenango, especially on market days. It’s loud, colorful, raw, and deeply traditional. One of the most authentic expressions of Mayan culture in the country, a powerful contrast to the calm of the lake.

4. Antigua – Acatenango – El Paredón – Lake Atitlán (the fire → ocean → calm route) This route is all about contrast. You start in Antigua, grounding yourself in colonial streets, cafés, markets, and that creative expat energy. It’s the ideal base to prepare mentally (and physically) for what comes next. Then you climb Acatenango: the ultimate challenge. Cold nights, burning legs, and the surreal moment of watching Volcán de Fuego erupt under a sky full of stars. Intense, humbling, unforgettable. - From there, you head straight to El Paredón, and the shift is everything. Black sand beaches, surf culture, salty hair, barefoot days. Life slows down fast here. Mornings are for waves, afternoons for hammocks, sunsets for beers and bonfires. Total nervous-system reset. - You finish at Lake Atitlán, where the energy softens again. After the ocean, the lake feels introspective. Choose your village based on your mood—spiritual, artistic, or quiet—and let the trip settle into you.

Things to Do in Guatemala

Registry

TRAVEL &amp; ARRIVAL: 1. WHEN SHOULD I ARRIVE IN ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA? We recommend arriving on Thursday, January 28th, 2027. This will give you time to settle in, meet others attending, and start breaking the ice before the official program begins. 2. WHICH AIRPORT SHOULD WE FLY INTO?You should book your flight to La Aurora International Airport (GUA) in Guatemala City. It’s the closest airport to Antigua, about 1–1.5 hours away by car, depending on traffic. 3. HOW DO I GET FROM THE AIRPORT TO ANTIGUA?options and info will follow 4. DO I NEED A VISA TO ENTER GUATEMALA? ---- countries that DO require a visa----Albania <a href="https://embassyfinder.org/guatemala-visa-exemption?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EmbassyFinder+1</a>Algeria <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+2Passport Lists+2</a>Angola <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+2guatemalaontheweb.com+2</a>Bangladesh <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2Wikipedia+2</a>Bhutan <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+2travelwithoutmaps.com+2</a>Bosnia and Herzegovina <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+2travelwithoutmaps.com+2</a>Brunei Darussalam (depending on passport type/circumstances) <a href="https://www.guatemalaontheweb.com/information/traveling-to-guatemala/visas-to-guatemala/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">guatemalaontheweb.com+2Wikipedia+2</a>Burkina Faso <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Burundi <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+2travelwithoutmaps.com+2</a>Cameroon <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Central African Republic <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>China <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Democratic Republic of the Congo <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Congo (Republic of) <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Cuba <a href="https://embassyfinder.org/guatemala-visa-exemption?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EmbassyFinder+1</a>Eritrea <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Ethiopia <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2Wikipedia+2</a>Ghana <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+1</a>Guinea <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>India <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2EmbassyFinder+2</a>Indonesia <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+1</a>Jordan <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2Wikipedia+2</a>Kenya <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Kuwait <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2Passport Lists+2</a>Laos <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+2travelwithoutmaps.com+2</a>Lebanon <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+1</a>Lesotho <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Liberia <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Libya <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Mali <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Mongolia <a href="https://embassyfinder.org/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EmbassyFinder+2Wikipedia+2</a>Morocco <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Mozambique <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Nepal <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+2travelwithoutmaps.com+2</a>Niger <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Nigeria <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>North Korea <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Pakistan <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2Passport Lists+2</a>Russia <a href="https://embassyfinder.org/guatemala-visa-exemption?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EmbassyFinder+1</a>Saudi Arabia <a href="https://www.guatemalaontheweb.com/information/traveling-to-guatemala/visas-to-guatemala/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">guatemalaontheweb.com+1</a>Sierra Leone <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Somalia <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Sri Lanka <a href="https://www.travelwithoutmaps.com/visa-guatemala-tourist-requirements/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">travelwithoutmaps.com+2EmbassyFinder+2</a>Sudan <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Suriname <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Syria <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Timor-Leste (East Timor) <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Visa_policy_of_Guatemala?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Wikipedia+1</a>Turkmenistan <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Uzbekistan <a href="https://passportlists.com/guatemala-passport-visa-free-countries/?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Passport Lists+1</a>Venezuela <a href="https://embassyfinder.org/guatemala-visa-exemption?utm_source=chatgpt.com" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">EmbassyFinder+2Wikipedia+2</a>Yemen&nbsp; 5. WHICH ROUTES ARE CONVENIENT TO FLY THROUGH?Flying through the United States is the cheapest route, but you need an ESTA or a U.S. visa visit this website: https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta They won't let you board the plane without it, even if you're just transiting. 6. WHAT'S THE LOCAL CURRENCY AND SHOULD I BRING CASH?The official currency in Guatemala is the Guatemalan Quetzal (GTQ). Bring euros or US dollars to change money into the local currency for small purchases, taxis, tips, or market shopping.- Exchange money at the airport, banks, or official exchange offices in Antigua. - Withdraw cash from ATMs, which are widely available. Keep in mind your bank may charge foreign transaction fees. - Bring some U.S. dollars as a backup—they’re widely recognized and accepted in many places. ACCOMMODATION: 1. WHERE SHOULD I STAY IN GUATEMALA?Head over to our Accommodation page to see what we recommend 2. HOW FAR IN ADVANCE SHOULD I BOOK MY ACCOMMODATION? We highly recommend booking your accommodation as soon as possible. Antigua is an extremely popular destination for tourists from all over the world, and rooms, especially in charming boutique hotels or central locations, tend to fill up quickly. Booking early will ensure you get the best options and rates. WEDDING EVENTS: 1. WHAT IS THE DRESS CODE FOR THE DIFFERENT WEDDING EVENTS? Head over to our dress code page to discover more 2. WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE FOR THE CEREMONY/RECEPTION?More info will follow soon LOCAL TIPS: 1. WHAT'S THE WEATHER LIKE IN ANTIGUA, GUATEMALA, IN JANUARY?January is part of Antigua’s dry season, so you can expect mostly sunny days with little to no rain. Daytime temperatures are usually around 22–25°C (72–77°F), while evenings and early mornings can be cooler, around 12–15°C (54–59°F). 💡 Tip: Bring layers so you’re comfortable from day to night, and don’t forget sunscreen for daytime exploring! 2. IS ANTIGUA SAFE TO EXPLORE?Yes! Antigua is generally safe for tourists, especially in the central areas and around popular attractions. The city is walkable, and many guests enjoy exploring its colorful streets, colonial architecture, markets, and cafes.A few tips to stay safe:Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night.Keep valuables secure and avoid flashing expensive items.Use registered taxis or private transfers when traveling longer distances or at night. 💡 Tip: Antigua’s charm is best experienced on foot—take your time wandering the cobblestone streets, soaking in the atmosphere, and enjoying local cafés and artisan shops. 3. WHAT ARE THE MUST-SEE PLACES IN GUATEMALA IF I WANT TO EXTEND MY TRIP?Head over to our Things To Do page to find out what you can't miss. PRACTICAL QUESTIONS: 1. CAN I DRINK TAP WATER IN ANTIGUA? No, you can't. Make sure you purchase purified water or drink at restaurants/hotels. 2. WHAT SHOULD I PACK? Clothing: Wedding attire: Bring your outfit(s) for the events, ceremony, and reception—think elegant but comfortable in warm daytime temperatures. Layers: Light jackets or sweaters for cooler mornings and evenings. Casual clothes: Comfortable outfits for exploring Antigua’s streets, markets, and cafés. Shoes:Comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets.Dress shoes for the wedding events. Accessories &amp; Essentials:- Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen for daytime exploring.- Small backpack or crossbody bag for outings.- Travel adapter for electronics.- Personal items (toiletries, medications, etc.).] 3. WHAT ELECTRONIC ADAPTER DO I NEED FOR GUATEMALA?Guatemala uses Type A (the same as in the U.S.) with a standard voltage of 120 V and frequency of 60 Hz.Type A: Two flat parallel pins 4. WHERE AND WHAT CAN WE GIFT THE COUPLE?Jim and Ximena are starting an exciting new chapter in a different country and would greatly appreciate support as they furnish and settle into their new home. While gifts are always welcome, cash contributions are especially appreciated and will help them create a comfortable and beautiful space together. Details for contributing will be provided through the wedding website soon. 5. DO PEOPLE IN GUATEMALA SPEAK ENGLISH?In touristy places, they most probably do, but in most places, Spanish is the only language spoken.

Jim & Ximena

Jim & Ximena

J&X

Wedding Day