Laguna Beach City Hall

Courthouse Wedding Day

Catamaran Rehearsal Dinner

Welcome Pool Day

Sandos Finisterra

Wedding Ceremony + Reception

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

Ben and Alyssa’s story began in college. Ben was a proud member of Pi Kappa Phi, and Alyssa was part of Alpha Chi Omega. Back then, they knew of each other, but it wasn’t until after graduation that their paths truly crossed again.Alyssa remembers thinking Ben was quiet but kind, while Ben thought Alyssa’s bright energy could light up any room. Years later, when they reconnected through mutual friends at the house they now call “Mirasol,” something just clicked. One night out with friends, everyone ordered a round of Irish Car Bombs. When Alyssa stepped away for a moment, everyone took their drink — everyone except Ben. He waited for her so they could take it together. That small, thoughtful moment was the spark that changed everything. A month later, Alyssa expressed interest in dating to Ben, and from that moment on, they were inseparable.Ben planned their first date perfectly, he picked Alyssa up from her grandparents’ house with flowers in hand and took her to Saddle Ranch, followed by Dave &amp; Buster’s. He was so nervous that he even made a playlist called “Vibes” to seem cool (it worked!).Five years later, their story has been filled with laughter, travel, and endless memories. Together, they’ve explored cities across the U.S. from New York to Seattle, Dallas to Catalina and adventured around the world to places like Barcelona, Paris, Amsterdam, London, Costa Rica, and Mexico City. They’ve also overcome their fair share of “couple challenges”, building IKEA furniture, dealing with hangry moods, and even missing a flight and taking an overnight ferry to Ibiza (there’s always a story!).If their relationship could be summed up in three words, it would be communication, playful, and lovey-dovey. Ben adores Alyssa’s quirky side, and Alyssa loves Ben’s comedic charm and of course, his top-tier planning skills.Speaking of planning, Ben outdid himself when he proposed on September 20, 2025. With the help of their “committee” of friends, he orchestrated an elaborate surprise. Alyssa thought she was attending a makeup influencer event, but instead, she found herself walking down to a beach in Corona Del Mar lined with 100 white roses and Ben waiting with a ring. After saying yes, she was whisked away to yet another surprise an engagement party at their home surrounded by their friends, family, and their beloved husky, Blue.Ben and Alyssa love spending their days traveling, trying new foods, watching movies, going to Disney, attending sporting events, and playing with Blue, the playful Siberian Husky they adopted in August 2025. They’re active, adventurous, and love running 5Ks, cycling, and taking workout classes together. As Geminis, they find balance in their shared spontaneity and open communication, sometimes quiet, sometimes loud, but always perfectly in sync.Their story came full circle when Ben asked Alyssa to be his girlfriend on the beaches of Tulum, Mexico — and it’s only fitting that they’ll say “I do” with their toes in the sand, surrounded by the people they love most.They hope their guests feel like they’re on vacation, soaking in the sun, the joy, and the love, while sharing in an intimate moment that celebrates not just their wedding, but the incredible journey that brought them here.

From the beaches of Tulum to Cabo

Our Story

Photos

Alex and Ben go all the way back to when they were about two years old, meeting at their Jewish preschool, and they’ve been inseparable ever since. From elementary school to middle school, high school, college, and now into adulthood, their friendship has truly stood the test of time.
They’ve shared everything from a love of basketball and golf (even if the skill level is questionable) to always having something to talk about & apparently, a shared appreciation for the name Alyssa, since they’re both dating one.
Even though life has taken them in different directions and they don’t get to see each other as often, whenever they do, it’s like no time has passed, they pick up right where they left off.
That kind of lifelong friendship is rare, and Ben is incredibly lucky to have Alex by his side as one of his Best Men.

Alex Materman

Tina is truly such a big part of both of our lives. Alyssa met Tina in their sorority when she became her Grand, and from that moment on, she knew she had a lifelong friend. Their bond only grew stronger through their shared love of Pi Kappa Phi and all the memories that came with it.
As life has gone on, their conversations have grown from college moments to careers, relationships, goals, and future travels, making their friendship even more special.
With Tina (and her boyfriend Jared), there’s never a dull moment, from sharing a room in Vegas with the #DirtyDogs, USC game weekends/VIP day club trips with Dom Dolla, golf double dates, Palm Springs trips, and nonstop laughs.
We couldn’t imagine some of our favorite memories without Tina.  Alyssa (and Ben) are so grateful to have her by our side for this next chapter.

Tina Bidgoli

Ivan has been one of Ben’s most important friendships since college. They first met during rush, where (funny enough) Ivan brushed Ben off, but once they ended up in the same pledge class, everything changed.
Throughout that time, Ivan pushed Ben to show up, be present, and get involved. That encouragement not only shaped Ben’s college experience, but helped him grow into the person he is today. From then on, Ivan became a constant, always making sure Ben was included, supported, and never alone.
Their friendship carried on long after college, from living together in the Mirasol house to nights out, pickleball games, and just hanging on the couch watching Game of Thrones. Ivan has always been the kind of friend who shows up, and usually with a round of Goat bombs in hand.
He’s also been just as present in Alyssa’s life, supporting her at her games in college, celebrating big milestones, and bonding over musicals and shows. He’s truly become like the big brother she never had growing up, and even Blue treats him like a third owner when needed.
After more than 10 years of friendship, we feel incredibly lucky to have Ivan by our side as one of the Best Men.

Ivan Diaz

Claire has been such a special part of both of our lives. Ben actually met her first through their Greek family, but she quickly became Alyssa’s Big sister in AXO. Since then, she’s been in both of our corners every step of the way, along with her boyfriend, Hayden.
Spending time with Claire is effortless, it always feels like no time has passed. Whether it’s a night out, disney days, double dates, or just being on the same wavelength, it’s always easy and fun with her.
She’s also been there for some of Alyssa’s most humbling moments, whether that’s late-night Del Taco (now Taco Bell) runs, drunk chip cravings, or literally wringing out soaked white pants at a sorority mixer. A true ride-or-die.
She’s been a constant through college, life after, and now into this next chapter, and Alyssa couldn’t imagine having anyone else by her side as one of her Maids of Honor. We’re so grateful for her and everything she brings into our lives.


Claire Conti

Armaan is the genius and culinary expert of our group the one we all turn to anytime we need a recipe or cooking advice. He’s so reliable that he once answered a FaceTime call on Christmas Day just to help us figure out how to season brussel sprouts… arguably one of the easiest vegetables to make, but somehow still made better with his guidance.
This friendship is especially meaningful to Ben, as they’ve known each other since elementary school. From pickup games outside Armaan’s house to growing up side by side, their bond has truly stood the test of time.
Armaan has always been the planner of the group, known for creating the most immaculate, detail-oriented itineraries for every trip. His natural ability to organize and think ahead has taught us all a thing or two about how to travel (and honestly, how to function).
We love Armaan and his future wife, Reyna, and feel so lucky to have them in our lives. Having him stand by our side on this day means the world to us.

Armaan Hooda

Maria is incredibly special to both of us, Alyssa’s "grand" in Alpha Chi and Ben’s “big sis” through Pi Kappa Phi. She’s been there through it all: the highs, the lows, and definitely a few too many tequila-filled nights (#Tequilaria).
From awful hangovers and Taco Bell runs to unforgettable nights out, we’ve truly seen each other at our best and worst—and that’s what makes our bond so strong.
Even from London, Maria has remained one of the most supportive and constant people in our lives, always giving the best advice and cheering on our relationship from day one.
We are so grateful for her endless friendship and couldn’t imagine this day without her. Hopefully Chris is ready to go beer for beer again with Ben, but this time for an American wedding!

Maria Hawing

Hukam is our roommate, one of our closest friends, and the matchmaker who helped start it all. One post-COVID Cinco de Mayo, Alyssa told Hukam she wanted a shot with Ben and within minutes, he pulled Ben aside to make it happen. A true homie moment.
What started as a chaotic group of friends quickly turned into something much more. After six years of living together, we’ve built a lifetime of memories we’ll never forget.
Ben and Hukam are always finding a way to stay in their “glory days,” playing golf, basketball, football, and just about any adult league sport they can join.
We’re beyond grateful for Hukam, not just for bringing us together, but for being such a constant and important part of our lives.

Hukam Nijjar

Alyssa met Fynley during sophomore year recruitment at Alpha Chi, where a house tour quickly turned into a lasting friendship. From then on, they were constantly running between fraternity houses, with Fynley somehow always outdoing the boys in drinking games (and her shotgun time speaking for itself).
Fast forward to when Alyssa and Ben started dating, and Ben finally found someone to share his love of the Dodgers with Fynley (and now her boyfriend, Bryan).
What started as double dates quickly turned into nights at Brewery X, World Series runs, and always saying, “yeah, sure, one more beer.”
We’re so lucky to have Fynley by our side, she’s always down for a good time and makes every moment more fun.


Fynley Connelly

Ajeya, the group’s forever bachelor, has been one of Ben’s closest friends since elementary school. From after-school Call of Duty and backyard dunk contests to growing up side by side, they’ve shared it all.
The friendship continued at Cal State Fullerton, where Ajeya and Ben were freshman roommates. Even in different fraternities, they always found time to hang out.
These days, not much has changed, Ajeya is always down for a good time and never turns down a vodka shot. We’re so lucky to have him standing by our side.

Ajeya Kukreja

Hannah is Alyssa’s best friend since high school and has been there through every stage of her relationship with Ben, from the very beginning to now. She’s gone on trips with us, allowed us to babysit Micah, third-wheeled like a pro, and even helped plan the proposal.
It may have taken a minute for Ben to win her over, but once she saw how happy he made Alyssa and how well he treats her, he quickly became the standard.
Hannah is always down to shotgun with Ben, goes shot for shot and sometimes, she even calls him for advice before Alyssa. We love how close these two have become.
Hannah has been a constant, irreplaceable part of Alyssa’s life, and there’s no way this day would feel complete without her. We’re so grateful for a friendship that will last through every chapter ahead.

Hannah Every 

David and Ben go all the way back to college, when Ben first spotted him dominating at the rec center and immediately knew he needed him on the Pi Kapp basketball team. With a little help from mutual friends, David joined the fraternity and the two clicked instantly.
From then on, they were inseparable, between classes, playing basketball, grabbing food, and pregaming just for a handful of people to show up. Whether it was pulling up in David’s Dodge Charger or making a classic Wendy’s run for strawberry lemonade (to mix with Cîroc, of course), they made the most of every moment.
David has been part of our lives for over 10 years, growing alongside us from college days to post-grad life, living together, going out, and making memories that have truly lasted.
We’re so lucky to have David by our side. It’s been a ride, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

David Hinson

We both met Taylor at Cal State Fullerton, and she quickly became like a big sister to us. Whether it’s her career, her travels, or just the way she carries herself, she’s always setting the bar high and leading by example.
She’s the best listener, gives the kind of advice you actually need to hear, and was a huge part of helping Ben pull off the proposal.
For Alyssa, she’s a fellow dog mom, the perfect partner for a spontaneous “Grandma’s night out,” and the one you can always call for a little tea.
We’re so lucky to have Taylor in our lives and couldn’t imagine this day without her by our side.

Taylor Wells

Spencer—aka the best bartender in the group—goes back with Ben to the glory days of Pi Kapp in college. He’s always been the guy with a great attitude, a constant smile, and someone everyone wants to be around.
While their friendship started in college, it really took off after graduation when Spencer moved into the Mirasol house. Since then, he’s been a true ride-or-die, whether it’s giving Ben (very needed) golf tips, stepping in for flag football, or just always showing up no matter what kind of day it is.
Spencer has also been a big part of Alyssa’s life, from sharing a little bro in college to supporting her at games and performances. He’s always been someone who looks out for the people around him. We’re so lucky to have Spencer by our side, he’s the kind of friend who’s always on your team.

Spencer Rollins

Heather has been one of Alyssa’s closest friends since college, back when she was on the dance team and Alyssa was on cheer. Since then, we’ve been side by side through it all: sorority and fraternity events, spontaneous Post Malone concerts, graduations, master’s programs, and navigating life as teachers and coaches.
It’s been so special to grow alongside each other and watch life unfold, from relationships to marriage to her becoming an amazing mom.
One of our favorite memories was sending Ben and her husband, Nico, on a four-hour car ride to Arizona together, this was their first time officially meeting by the way. Safe to say, it worked out perfectly. From that trip to countless memories since, our worlds have blended so seamlessly.
We’re so lucky to have Heather in our lives and can’t wait to celebrate with her this summer (and Nico help us renovate our dream home one day!)

Heather Martello

Wedding Party

Brown/Grey/Dark Beige, Neutrals only please! This will help also keep guests cool. Please refrain from wearing white throughout the wedding weekend &lt;3

Dress Code

Travel, Lodging, and Transportation

Guests&nbsp;are&nbsp;encouraged&nbsp;to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;at&nbsp;the&nbsp;hotel&nbsp;where&nbsp;the&nbsp;wedding&nbsp;will&nbsp;occur.&nbsp;Room&nbsp;blocks&nbsp;will&nbsp;open&nbsp;on&nbsp;September&nbsp;2026&nbsp;and&nbsp;close&nbsp;90&nbsp;days&nbsp;after.&nbsp;Dont&nbsp;miss&nbsp;out&nbsp;on&nbsp;our&nbsp;special&nbsp;discount!&nbsp;QR&nbsp;to&nbsp;book&nbsp;is&nbsp;under&nbsp;the&nbsp;&quot;book&nbsp;here&quot;&nbsp;tab!Our&nbsp;room&nbsp;blocks&nbsp;are&nbsp;available&nbsp;from&nbsp;June&nbsp;29th,&nbsp;2027-July&nbsp;8th&nbsp;2027.&nbsp;Guests&nbsp;are&nbsp;encouraged&nbsp;to&nbsp;stay&nbsp;for&nbsp;three&nbsp;nights&nbsp;minimum.Click&nbsp;the&nbsp;link&nbsp;below&nbsp;to&nbsp;check&nbsp;out&nbsp;the&nbsp;hotel!&nbsp;Do&nbsp;not&nbsp;book&nbsp;through&nbsp;the&nbsp;hotel&nbsp;website.&nbsp;

When guests book through Sandos they will receive a note at the bottom of their confirmation email to contact the hotel's transportation service for a round trip service. To set up a round trip from the airport and back please email traslados.callcenter@sandos.com. Tip: If enough groups utilize the shuttle service for the same pick up time, your party will be met with welcome drinks at check in! Another safe option that Ben and Alyssa just used was Caboairportshuttle.net. It was $170 USD for a roundtrip, though we used it as a couple it can accommodate up to 5 people. There is even a sprinter van option to accommodate up to 17 people for $280.50 round trip. If you have any questions you can reach out to Alyssa and Ben! (pst...this is cheaper than the service through the hotel....and they gave us water, welcome beers, and shots of tequila).

Shuttle Service

A few important FYIs:💍 Currency Exchange - Hours from 7:00AM-10:00PM (Hotel Reception) American Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Euro, Pound Sterling 💍 Payment Methods Accepted at the EstablishmentVISA, Mastercard, American Express. Cash: Mexican Pesos and US Dollar. Tipping at meals and bars are encouraged but not mandatory. 💍 Loss and/or Misplacement CardsBracelet: 100 USD / Towel Card: 50 USD 💍 Room Service - Dial 0 to order (24 Hours) and Minibar is refilled once a day

Travel

To make your vacation everything you have dreamed of and more, here are some recommendations of things to do in the area when you are not actively engaging in wedding activities. 

There are so many activities at the resort. In the lobby and at the pool they list all of the activities and entertainment that is being held that day. Examples are: cooking classes, questions of the day, movie trivia, Michael Jackson night, karaoke, and etc. All done at the activities pool, adult pool, and Sandos Finisterra Plaza! There are even up to 5 free workout classes a day held in the gym/yoga area! If you wish to do some touristy shopping the Marina Mercado is right outside our hotels driveway and very safe! This also leads to the marina for boat tours.

Boat Tour to El Arco + Lover’s BeachA quick and iconic Cabo experience right by the marina👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/arch-and-lovers-beachSunset CruiseGreat for groups, drinks, and amazing views👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/sunset-sailingSnorkeling (Santa Maria or Chileno Bay)Calm, swimmable beaches with clear water👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/snorkel

Medano Beach – swimmable, beach clubs, restaurantsChileno Bay – great for snorkeling and relaxingLover’s Beach – accessible by boat, beautiful views👉 Beach guide: https://www.visitloscabos.travel/plan-your-trip/beaches/

Cabo Marina – restaurants, shopping, and bars (5–10 min walk)Bar Crawls &amp; Nightlife👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/bar-crawlFood &amp; Taco Tours👉 https://www.cabofoodtours.com/

ATV Desert Tours👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/atv-tourCamel Ride on the Beach👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/camel-safariZiplining Adventure👉 https://www.cabo-adventures.com/en/tours/zip-line

Things to Do

Registry

Using the link below, it should take you to a PDF to fill out. You may fill it out on your phone/computer electronically or print it out, scan, and save to your phone/desktop.Link for desktop: <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XZMnHji5TAujboUGx5nvGMrtv_FKKZEp/view?usp=drive_link" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://drive.google.com/file/d/1XZMnHji5TAujboUGx5nvGMrtv_FKKZEp/view?usp=drive_link</a>You must fill this out with your information and email it by 12/3/26 to the email listed on the form (Reservas@sandos.com). No late entries will be added with the room rate. You will have to pay AT property, you do not have to pay now!Apple users: Save the PDF to your Files App using the share icon. Open your files app and it should have a "fill out" feature.If you have any trouble please do not hesitate to text Ben or Alyssa for the PDF.

Alyssa & Ben

Alyssa & Ben

Photos