Former NFL quarterback Mark Sanchez, 36, and actress Shelby Mattfeld, 29, recently tied the knot in a breathtaking ceremony that blended culture, emotion, and personal touches into a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Their destination wedding took place on May 28 inside a restored 16th-century monastery in Oaxaca, Mexico—an area rich in heritage and close to both of their hearts.
A Love Story Years in the Making
Sanchez and Mattfeld’s relationship began in 2017, when they were introduced by a mutual friend, Scotty McKnight—who later officiated their wedding. Their connection was immediate, and over the years, the couple grew together both personally and professionally, leading to an engagement that culminated in a truly unforgettable wedding.
Shelby Mattfeld, known for her roles in Shameless and In the Dark, is 29 years old and has steadily built a strong reputation in the entertainment industry. Mark Sanchez, who retired from the NFL after a decade-long career, transitioned into sports broadcasting and also co-founded a Mezcal company, Campante.
Family at the Heart of the Ceremony
Sanchez’s son, Daniel, played a central role in the ceremony. He not only served as the ring bearer but also stood beside his father as a groomsman, a detail that deeply moved both bride and groom. His presence underscored the importance of family in the couple’s relationship.
Sanchez was escorted to the altar by his mother while close friends Leslie Powell and Seth Cook performed a live rendition of Elton John’s “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Mattfeld made her entrance to Rihanna’s “Lift Me Up,” wearing a custom Karen Sabag gown. The dress, featuring hand-beaded detail from Paris and a flawless fit, was the only one she tried on. She paired the elegant gown with diamond drop earrings—a Christmas gift from Sanchez during their first holiday as a couple.
An Emotional Ceremony Surrounded by Nature
The couple exchanged handwritten vows in front of 222 guests. Sanchez described the moment as overwhelming: “It all hit me like a mack truck… I couldn’t turn off the tears—tears of joy, love, and gratitude.” The ceremony took place in a setting that mirrored the couple’s roots and shared values. Both of Mexican descent, they chose Oaxaca not just for its beauty, but for its cultural significance.
Following the ceremony, the wedding party moved to Casa dos Lagos, a sprawling estate and butterfly sanctuary in the heart of Oaxaca City. The natural environment—lush gardens, vibrant flowers, and century-old trees—created a setting that felt deeply personal and symbolic.
Thoughtful Details and Cultural Touches
Mattfeld and Sanchez went to great lengths to make every element of their wedding meaningful. One recurring motif was the butterfly—a symbol the couple chose to honor loved ones who have passed. Butterflies appeared on the bride’s veil, their invitations, and even the couple’s wedding bands, making the sanctuary venue especially fitting.
Floral design by Carlos Guzman featured a wild, organic look that matched the garden atmosphere. The tables were decorated with monogrammed jicaras, traditional drinking cups made from the Crescentia tree, commonly used for Mezcal—a nod to Sanchez’s own spirits brand.
Celebrations Across Three Days
The wedding weekend was as intentional as the ceremony itself. On May 26, guests were welcomed with dinner at Criollo, a contemporary Oaxacan restaurant by Chef Luis Arellano. “It was rustic, minimal, and sexy,” Mattfeld shared. The next day, the celebration shifted to an agave farm, where guests experienced a Mezcal tasting and distillery tour—blending the local tradition with Sanchez’s business passion.
That evening, close friends and family gathered for a rehearsal dinner at Hotel Azul de Oaxaca, a venue that doubles as an art gallery. Bridesmaids received matching sets from Z Supply, a relaxed and stylish gift from Mattfeld. She wore a second custom Karen Sabag piece: a silk, off-the-shoulder Italian lace gown that perfectly suited the occasion.
A Night to Remember
During the reception, the couple shared their first dance to “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley as butterfly-shaped confetti fell around them. Later, Mattfeld changed into her third dress of the weekend—another Karen Sabag custom gown, this one featuring peach-toned jewels, a high slit, scalloped edges, and an open halter back. She started the party in Loeffler Randall heels but ended the night dancing barefoot.
The food was another highlight. Sanchez and Mattfeld curated a fusion menu featuring Oaxacan cuisine and American favorites. Guests dined on ribs in green mole, shrimp in brown mole, and handmade tortillas, finishing the meal with coconut tres leches cake, churros, and vanilla ice cream. “How could you leave out churros?” Mattfeld joked.
Life After the Wedding
The newlyweds jetted off for a honeymoon across East Africa, making stops in Kenya, Tanzania, Zanzibar, and the Seychelles. It’s a trip that reflects their adventurous spirit and love of culture. “We’re lucky our careers have taken us to many cities, but we’ve never been on a trip like this,” Mattfeld said.
As for their current status, Mark Sanchez has an estimated net worth of $40 million, largely from his NFL contracts, broadcasting roles, and entrepreneurial ventures. Shelby Mattfeld’s growing acting career continues to earn her acclaim and a net worth reportedly in the range of $2–3 million.
The wedding wasn’t just a celebration of love, but also a reflection of who they are—grounded, creative, and deeply connected to their heritage and each other.