An intimate, stylish celebration on the coast of Mexico
How They Met: The Love Story Begins
Samantha and Patrick first crossed paths at Deloitte Consulting, on her very first day. Patrick led the orientation. Sparks? Definitely. But with Samantha living in Miami and Patrick in Washington, D.C., timing wasn’t on their side.
Fast forward to the pandemic. Patrick moved to Philadelphia to start his MBA at Wharton, and Samantha was spending time with family in New York. Finally in the same region, they met up for a full-day NYC adventure: walking through Central Park, grabbing pizza, and ending the night with their first kiss at Gantry Plaza State Park.
Three years later, Patrick proposed in that exact same spot.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding in Mexico
One of Samantha and Patrick’s first trips as a couple was to Tulum. They loved it so much, they extended the trip to explore Cancun too. It was on that getaway that they truly fell in love with the Mexican Caribbean.
Choosing a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya felt like coming full circle. It honored their beginnings, reflected Patrick’s Bolivian roots, and served as the perfect middle ground between his family in South America and Samantha’s in New York.
Why Villa la Joya Was the One
When scouting wedding venues in the Riviera Maya, the couple quickly realized that resorts weren’t the right vibe. Too many rules. Too many restrictions.
Villa la Joya offered something different: privacy, flexibility, space for a big party, and the freedom to stay up late and celebrate. It also allowed their guests to stay wherever they wanted in nearby Playa del Carmen. No wristbands. No matching towels. Just vibes.
The Most Meaningful Wedding Moments
Their first dance was something special. Samantha and Patrick spent three months taking dance lessons and choreographed a routine to a custom mix created just for their wedding. It was a challenge they took on together, and they nailed it. Their parents’ dances brought the tears, the smiles, and everything in between.
Destination Wedding Style & Details
The Look
The wedding date, 2.22, set the tone for a day rooted in style and simplicity. Samantha wore her hair in soft curls and kept her makeup fresh and glowing, highlighting her dark eyes and natural beauty. Her gown featured a lace bodice with a nude illusion neckline, paired with a veil and skirt that floated like a breeze, light, airy, and perfectly at home in a beachfront celebration.
Patrick looked effortlessly cool in a lightweight suit, perfect for the tropical weather and the relaxed-yet-refined tone of the day.
The Ceremony at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya
The couple exchanged vows on the front steps of Villa la Joya, framed by a grand façade and a striking asymmetrical floral arch. It was architectural, organic, and absolutely unforgettable.
Their ring bearers—dapper and full of personality—strutted down the aisle in super cool suits, followed by the sweetest flower girl in a crown of fresh blooms. Guests were handed parasols for shade, a thoughtful detail that made everyone feel cared for under the Riviera Maya sun.
When the vows were said and the kiss sealed it, mariachis struck up a tune and led the crowd into the gardens for cocktail hour. Because if you’re getting married in Mexico, you need mariachis. It's basically the law.
The Family Celebrates: A Warm and Welcoming Wedding Reception
As golden hour faded into evening, the gardens of Villa la Joya transformed into a glowing, intimate reception space. A transparent sky tent created a dreamy, open-air vibe while offering shelter from the breeze. A clear dance floor was installed over the pool—yes, over the pool—and it became the center of the celebration.
Warm wood tables, cozy lighting, and a layout that felt inviting set the tone for the night. Samantha and Patrick kicked things off with their choreographed dance under a canopy of twinkling lights. Dry fireworks added a burst of energy, and then, everyone danced.
After a family-style dinner and heartfelt speeches, the party truly took off. Guests danced under the stars, churros and hot chocolate made a late-night appearance (iconic), and a full fireworks show lit up the sea.
It was warm, joyful, and full of heart—exactly what a wedding in Mexico should be.
One Thing They’d Do Differently
They would’ve booked the photographer for more hours. That’s it. When you’re having this much fun, time flies.
Advice for Destination Wedding Brides
“100% hire a planner. You need boots on the ground.”
Planning from afar? You’ll thank yourself for having a local expert who can coordinate every detail while you sip cocktails and answer emails in peace.
Thank You, Muchas Gracias to Samantha & Patrick
From all of us at Villa la Joya, thank you! It was an honor to be part of your love story. Your celebration was a reflection of everything we love about weddings: joy, connection, great music, and moments that stay with you long after the last sparkler fades.
To the Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team
Thank you for your vision, your talent, and your incredible teamwork. We’re proud to work alongside wedding professionals who bring creativity to every celebration. And as always, Villa la Joya welcomes your dream vendor team, with no vendor fees.
Ready to Plan Your Own Villa la Joya Wedding?
If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Mexico that’s private, beautiful, and totally you, Villa la Joya is here for it. Contact us today to start planning your celebration on the Riviera Maya coast. We’ll save you a spot under the palm trees.
Vendor Team:
Planning: Pride Maya Weddings | Photography: Luxart Wedding Studio | Videography: Frame Wedding Film | Content Creation: IKI Weddings | Glam: Lady Burd Cosmetics & Bronzed by SG | Bridal Gown: Watters, from Bridal Salon of Huntington Village | Florals: Cherry Blossom Florals | Catering: YD Events | Design & Decor: MSM Rentals | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | AV & Lighting: UNO Audio Visual
