Jewels's Watermelon Margarita

         Ingredients

• 1/2 cup white sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 3 strips orange zest
• 2 cups cubed seeded watermelon
• 3/4 cup white tequila
• 1/4 cup lime juice
• salt or sugar for rimming glasses (optional)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• 2 cups crushed ice, or as needed