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Real Weddings

Madith and Robert’s Destination Wedding in the Riviera Maya

November 12, 2024

Expect the unexpected at this unique and personal private villa wedding in the Riviera Maya. Villa la Joya was honored to welcome Madith and Robert to our beachside wedding venue and we can’t wait to share this love story from our little piece of paradise.

What’s ahead in this gorgeous Riviera Maya wedding? Inspiration!

Sexy, corseted lace bridal gown with a stunning train by Janene’s Bridal

Traditional filipino “barong’ formal wear for the groom

Dreamy bohemian wedding decor in the Villa la Joya garden

Breathtaking overhead floral table settings made for conversation

Reception perfection with dancing, fireworks and a yummy dessert table.

Madith and Robert Tie the Knot at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

By the light of the afternoon sun, Madith and Robert united their nearest and dearest to celebrate their love forever at their Villa la Joya Riviera Maya wedding. Adriana of Villa Planners worked with the couple in love to bring their destination wedding vision to life in a bohemian fantasy with some fun surprises and a whole lot of family amor.

Why did you choose Riviera Maya, Mexico for your destination wedding?

I chose Riviera Maya, Mexico because of the beautiful ocean and the divine weather. It makes the perfect dream wedding.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

I came across Villa La Joya online. It checked off all my expectations in what a perfect beach wedding is and it was just that.

Garden wedding ceremony in the Riviera Maya in romantic, bohemian style.

Madith and Robert joined together in a moving ceremony surrounded by the love of their closest family and friends. The bride was spectacular in a corseted bridal gown by Janene’s Bridal and groom Robert wore a magnificent Filipino “barong”. This traditional embroidered garment is worn to weddings and festivals in the Philippines. It is similar to the “guayabera" of Mexico!

What was your favorite/most emotional or funniest moment of your wedding day?

Our favorite and most emotional part of our wedding was finally seeing each other at the altar. I knew I was emotional during my get-ready. I thought to myself to “Cry now before getting my makeup done”. Then, when I saw my soon-to-be husband crying, I knew that this is the moment I want to remember, him & I embracing each other with the presence of our closest loved ones.

Beachside destination wedding reception in the Riviera Maya at Villa la Joya

Madith and Robert welcomed their guests to eat, drink and be merry in their reception by the sea at their private villa wedding in Playa del Carmen. We LOVED the bohemian feel of the sweethearts table and all the florals in champagne tones. The overhead centrepieces by Floreria Fiore of dangling blooms and pampas grass were total conversation starters and absolutely unique.

There were so many memorable details, Adriana of Villa Planners assembled the best Riviera Maya wedding planners. From the translucent dance floor over the pool, dry fireworks, incredible dessert table and cake to the newlyweds kicking the party into high gear with their laser smoke guns (you have to see them), this was a uniquely personal Riviera Maya wedding.

Congratulations to Madith and Robert, thank you for sharing your wedding day with Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

All of us at Villa la Joya wish Madith and Robert a long and happy life together, we had such fun hosting your wedding day. We know this sweet couple will enjoy a lifetime of laughter and joy surrounded by a loving group of family and friends.

Looking for a private Riviera Maya wedding venue to host your big day? Feeling inspired? Contact us today at Villa la Joya and show us your vision boards, we can’t wait to meet you! Schedule a video conflab with our team and let’s make wedding dreams come true.

Muchas gracias to the best Riviera Maya wedding vendors

As always we are extremely grateful to the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who make all the events at Villa la Joya so magical. You bring creativity and professionalism to our villa every single time and we appreciate all of you for making Madith and Robert’s wedding day so perfect.

Riviera Maya Wedding Venue Experience

October 28, 2024

Arcelia and David’s Love Story at Villa la Joya: Riviera Maya Wedding Venue Experience

After every wedding at Villa la Joya, we love to reconnect with the couples who celebrated their special day at our private venue in the Riviera Maya. Once the festivities have concluded and the newlyweds embark on their happily ever after, we send out a brief questionnaire to capture their unique love story. We’re excited to feature these beautiful tales on our Real Destination Weddings blog.

The love stories we receive are truly unique, and each response to our questionnaire is a delight to read. Arcelia and David generously shared their heartfelt journey with us, and we absolutely loved their in-depth reply. We believe their story will inspire and guide anyone planning a destination wedding in Mexico.

Arcelia’s beautifully crafted words resonate deeply, showcasing her talent for storytelling. We’re excited to let her share their love story along with her valuable tips for brides planning a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya at Villa la Joya.

How did you meet your true love? Tell us about your proposal and engagement!

From the bride: How we met

In the fall of 2018, in the vibrant city lights of Houston, destiny wove a tale of love at a networking event. Arcelia, a skilled legal professional entered the venue with a mix of anticipation and nerves. Meanwhile, David, a charismatic tech savvy entrepreneur effortlessly held court in a corner of the room.

As fate would have it, their worlds collided when David was drawn to Arcelia's insights, passion and animated conversation about the future of business. What began as professional curiosity transformed into a personal connection, catching David off guard.

Their initial conversations weren't just about business; they discovered a shared vision, a mutual love for pushing boundaries, and a passion for embracing change. The connection they formed that evening was more than just professional - it was a spark that ignited a flame of something deeper.

Days turned into weeks, and Arcelia and David found themselves not only collaborating professionally but also exploring the depths of their personal stories. David’s chivalry was evident in the way he treated not only Arcelia but also the significant women in his life, his mom and sisters, was a testament to his understanding of respect and admiration. Their connection deepened further when their first date took place at a local church. Common principles such as a deep sense of faith and a strong commitment to family became the foundation of their bond. Coffee meetings turned into dinners, and soon, they were inseparable. Their shared dreams and the undeniable chemistry between them turned into a beautiful relationship.

The engagement and wedding proposal:
In December of 2022, David planned a romantic dinner that exceeded all expectations. The setting was enchanting – a softly lit private dining room adorned with a pianist singing a romantic melody, flickering candles casting a warm, glow, vibrant balloons adding a touch of playfulness, and fragrant flowers creating an ambiance of love.

As the night unfolded, the atmosphere became even more magical when big lights illuminated the words "Marry Me?" David dropped to one knee and poured his heart out to Arcelia, expressing his deepest feelings, and proposing amidst the sparkling lights. The moment was enchanting, followed by a tequila toast, and a mariachi band that created a dynamic duo that symbolizes the essence of their Mexican culture. To their delight, as the door opened a reveal of both families, turning the celebration into a joyous, harmonious, love-filled affair. As they celebrated their love surrounded by the glow of December lights, Arcelia and David embraced the next chapter of their journey with hearts full of joy and the promise of a beautiful future together.

Why did you choose Riviera Maya, Mexico for your destination wedding?

We chose the Riviera Maya, Mexico for our destination wedding because it holds special memories from our early days of dating when we first traveled there together. Our shared love for the beach and the enchanting beauty of the area made it the perfect choice. We also wanted our wedding to celebrate our cultures, and Mexico was the ideal setting for this meaningful occasion.

How did you choose Villa La Joya as your destination wedding venue?

We first discovered Villa La Joya on TikTok and instantly fell in love with the stunning views we saw on screen. Eight months before our wedding, we booked a flight to Mexico to kick off the planning process and scheduled tours of various venues. When we visited Villa La Joya, we knew it was the one - it had everything we were looking for breathtaking beach views, separate getting-ready houses for both the bride and groom, and a convenient location just a short drive from the city.

What are the highlights of your Riviera Maya wedding at Villa la Joya?

What was your destination wedding theme, and how did you celebrate?
Our wedding theme was elegant and classy, featuring beautiful white flowers throughout the venue. We celebrated with fireworks, a curated selection of tequila, great music, and exquisite food options, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our special day.

What were the highlights and favorite moments of your Riviera Maya wedding day?
Narrowing down our favorite moments from the wedding is truly a challenge because the entire day was a stunning blend of surprises, laughter, and pure joy. The most emotional part for us was during the ceremony, as we exchanged our personalized vows alongside the ocean breeze and the warm sun on our faces, surrounded by our beloved friends and family, it felt like pure magic.

Another highlight was the family toast, where our loved ones shared heartfelt words that touched our hearts. And of course, our favorite moment was dancing under the moonlight, with the gentle breeze and vibrant beats, surrounded by our closest friends and family, creating endless unforgettable memories together.

Advice for couples planning a destination wedding in Mexico?

Anything you would have done differently on your wedding day?

Everything about our wedding was perfect, from our amazing vendors to the flow of the day. However, we wish we had paid everything upfront to avoid the hassle of handling payments the day before or the day of the wedding.

What advice would you give to brides planning a destination wedding?

For future destination wedding brides, I highly recommend hiring someone outside of your wedding planner or coordinator to assist with logistics beyond the wedding day, such as your website, registry, pre-wedding events like the bachelorette party and bridal shower, and travel logistics like booking car rentals from the airport.

What advice would you give to brides planning a destination wedding?

We were fortunate to hire my sister-in-law to help with all these details and coordinate on the day of the wedding. As business owners, my husband and I had a lot on our plates, and we couldn’t have done it without the additional help. Also, be sure to enjoy the wedding process -create a WhatsApp group for all your guests, and most importantly, enjoy the night!

Big thanks, muchas gracias to Arcelia and David!

We loved your creative response and carefully considered words and we thank you so much for sharing your destination wedding experience. All of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya send our gratitude and best wishes for a long and happy lifetime together.

As always, we want to thank all the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who made this event at our private villa venue so memorable. We are blessed to work with the best and we are grateful for your creativity and professionalism. We look forward to the next one, let’s make more wedding dreams come true!

Summer and Steve Destination Wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya

October 21, 2024

Summer and Steve joined us at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya to get married in Mexico with their beloved family and friends in attendance. On a magical, sunny, blue-sky day, the bride and groom walked down the aisle and joined together forever. With a moving ceremony and a dynamic wedding reception in our seaside gardens, this was a totally unforgettable destination wedding in Mexico for a fun-loving group!

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

My husband's family is from Mexico City, whereas all of my family lives in the southeast of the USA. It only seemed fair to have everyone meet in the middle! Steve also always dreamed of getting married in Cancun, so I was happy to make that dream come true for him.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya and Villa Planners?

My husband and I both work in design fields, so once we saw the architecture of Villa La Joya, it was a no-brainer that we wanted to be married there. We went with Villa Planners because on our tour date, Adrianna was so kind and knowledgeable, it only seemed right to choose her to plan the wedding. And we made a great choice in doing so!

Choosing a destination wedding in Mexico is the ideal solution for uniting family and friends from all over the world. Summer and Steve brought together their loved ones for a celebration that was more than just one day. A destination wedding in Mexico is a chance for extended “getting to know you” time from both sides and a deeper connection in the network of love for the newlyweds.

Riviera Maya Mexico private villa wedding ceremony: Amor, amor, amor

Summer and Steve celebrated their private villa wedding ceremony at the grand entrance to Villa la Joya. Lush white roses all around and a very personal ceremony that included the traditional “lazos” and a romantic first kiss with dip! Bride Summer surprised her groom with her vows in Spanish, we love that so much!

What was your favorite/most emotional or funniest moment of your wedding day?

My favorite moment of the day was seeing my husband's reaction to my wedding vows, since he didn't know I practiced for months to say them in Spanish!

What was your wedding theme or inspiration?

I wanted the decor to reflect who Steve and I are to our core; light hearted, fun loving people. I wanted it to feel bright and easy going! All of the pink was just an added bonus.

Bride Summer was glowing in her Justin Alexander gown and groom Steve rocked a morning coat tuxedo look, absolutely elegant. Summer’s veil floated perfectly in the ocean breeze in the tropical paradise of Playa del Carmen.

Destination wedding reception in Mexico: ¡Arriban los novios!

After tying the knot, the newlyweds invited their guests to join them in the seaside gardens of Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya. The lush white florals by La Fiore were stunning, and the arch from the ceremony made a great backdrop for the sweetheart’s table draped in roses and lit by white candles

Anything you would have done differently?

I think that the day was perfect, even with the silly things that happened during it! I wouldn't have done anything differently.

Any advice you’d like to share with other brides?

Practice, practice, practice your bustle with your bridesmaids BEFORE the wedding! You won't regret it!!!

After cutting the mega-fab four-tiered cake by Pasteleria La Migaja, the party really kicked into gear. Bride Summer changed into a hot little reception dress and she and her ladies put on a high-energy dance number to delight the crowd. The rest of the evening was tequila, champagne and everyone getting down on the dance floor.

Big thanks, muchas gracias and best wishes for a lifetime of joy

All of us at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya and Villa Planners would like to extend our huge thanks, mil mil gracias to Summer and Steve for inviting us to host your destination wedding in Mexico. We had a great time with you and your guests, an unforgettable event. We wish you all the best for a lifetime of joy and happiness together!

Feeling inspired by this real destination wedding in Mexico? Ready to start planning your own private villa wedding in the Riviera Maya? Contact us today at Villa la Joya to schedule a video call to get to know our team and start turning your wedding dreams into reality.

Destination wedding vendors in Mexico: The best in the Riviera Maya

As always, we must give a huge shout-out to the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who help make all of our events so phenomenal. Professional, creative, and world-class, we are truly grateful for your passion for wedding perfection. And future brides and grooms take note, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya!

Kiana and Craig: Villa la Joya Riviera Maya Real Wedding Inspiration

September 28, 2024

Are you ready to swoon? We think you will swoon. We swooned. A lot. This is an absolutely inspirational destination wedding in the Riviera Maya, Kiana and Craig know how to throw a fiesta. Villa la Joya was delighted to host this classy, elegant, and fun Playa del Carmen wedding.

Two sleek and sexy bridal looks, cherry wood and white roses. And giant robots serving shots by the cigar bar. Let’s go!!

Magazine-worthy wedding in Mexico: Let’s talk about the bride and groom

This is a wedding where it all came together to perfection, like a feature article in a bridal magazine, s-t-u-n-n-i-n-g. Kiana and Craig are such a beautiful couple and they are clearly madly in love. Their classic looks for their Villa la Joya wedding were the definition of elegance.

Kiana’s bridal gown was simple but in an impactful WOW kind of way. Sexy, sensual, and perfectly flattering to showcase the natural beauty of the bride. Hair and makeup by VO Evolution completed the glowing look and the veil was perfect in the ocean breeze. Craig wore a traditional black tuxedo, or we should say, he rocked a traditional black tuxedo, a model groom beside his beloved bride.

The Seaside Wedding: Garden Ceremony at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen

Kiana and Craig said their “I do’s” in a moving garden ceremony by the sea. The floral arch and bouquets in white roses and chairs in cherry wood were pure elegance. The loved ones in attendance at this destination wedding in Playa del Carmen showered the couple with love and support and flower petals.

Once the knot was tied, the cocktails began to flow from the mezcal bar and the violinist serenaded the guests with live music. Smiles, hugs and toasts, the emotions were flowing and spirits were high.

Pretty woman, saxophone fireworks and giant robots serving shots

The reception look for Kiana was as gorge as her bridal gown, a look reminiscent of a movie star and oh man those opera gloves. If you are ever hesitant about having a second bridal look, hesitate no more, this is your inspiration to say yes to a reception dress. Sexy, sensual and elegant, fabulous.

The reception was a dynamic event with su-per fun details and entertainment. Live saxophonist with FIREWORKS coming out of his instrument. Giant LED robots serving shots and dancing with guests. Cigar bar rolling all night. The music was a hit and everyone brought their boogie to the dance floor for an epic celebration of love and marriage.

Best wishes to the newlyweds Kiana and Craig: Thanks for choosing Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen

All of us at Villa la Joya send our best wishes to the newlyweds for a long and joyous lifetime of love and beautiful moments. We are so grateful and glad you chose to host your private villa wedding in Mexico with us at VLJ, muchas gracias!

As always, a mega big shoutout to all the incredible Playa del Carmen wedding vendors who made this such a successful event. It is our honor and privilege to work with these creative professionals. And hey brides, did you know we never charge vendor fees? Wink wink.

Feeling inspired? Check out our Mexico private villa wedding venue, set up a conference call with us today to start planning, we can’t wait to see your vision boards!

Sianna and Keegan’s Bold and Beautiful Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen Wedding

September 14, 2024

You are going to swoon over this real Playa del Carmen wedding! Sianna and Keegan brought their dynamic energy and gorgeous aesthetic to Villa la Joya’s marble hallways and tropical gardens. The colors, the textures, the details and oh MY that bridal gown and florals!

Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen pre-wedding portraits that took our breath away

The magic of this wedding day started before the guests even arrived. Sianna shared “getting ready” time with her bridal party, donning a bridal gown that hugged her curves and featured a magnificent train and veil that WOWED! The bridal portraits in the hallways of Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen are absolutely worthy of a magazine spread.

Destination wedding “first look” photos in our private villa in Mexico

Groom Keegan joined his soon-to-be-wife for a “first look” in his sharp, traditional black tuxedo and some sweet kicks. The couple’s portraits on the balcony and on the marble stairs utilize the architecture and art of our villa by the sea to create spectacular images of romance that showcase the love story of Sianna and Keegan.

Why choose a Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen destination wedding?

We selected Villa La Joya because it reminded us of Italy! The architecture and the venue has this old charm and not to mention it’s stunningly beautiful! Also, Keegans family is Italian and we got engaged at the Trevi fountain in Rome! We picked Mexico because I grew up going with my family so I wanted to bring the family back for a trip of a lifetime!

Sianna and Keegan tied the knot in a moving ceremony in the Villa la Joya seaside garden. The set-up was lovely, white pillars with bursts of color in the florals by Cherry Blossom Mexico. Yes, you can have a beach wedding not on the beach!

We looooved the bridesmaids’ dresses each in their own unique color, combined with the ocean views, bouquets, and florals they made a really beautiful wedding party. The ceremony was really joyous and moving.

Destination wedding reception fun: Mariachis, tears of joy and fashion

My favourite part of the day was listening to all the beautiful speeches from our friends and family! Definitely spent a lot of the day crying haha! Also- the food & drink and dancing was next level.

The light wood furnishings and dinner set-up with more glorious florals, cool cocktail tables, sky tent, and twinkling lights, an unforgettably unique Villa la Joya wedding reception. Sianna and Keegan were celebrated by their loved ones with a mariachi serenade and champagne toasts.

Bride Sianna changed into her killer reception dress and made an impactful entrance with a bright smile. The fashion, totally hot, the short, strapless dress with a soft, sculptural vision in white. Magic. Everyone at this private villa wedding looked gorgeous and happy in their best eleganza.

Muchas gracias, grazie and big thanks to Sianna and Keegan

All of us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen send our very best wishes to Sianna and Keegan and our thanks for allowing us to host your big day. The colors, the food, the energy, the fashion and the love, it was truly unforgettable!

The best Playa del Carmen wedding vendors: Shout-out and a round of applause

As always, Villa la Joya weddings are a team effort and we are so grateful to work with the very best wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya and from around the world. This gorgeous event was a hit and we send you all our gratitude and a huge round of applause.

Ready to start planning your own private villa wedding in Mexico? We never charge any vendor fees, put those pesos to better use! Join us at Villa la Joya wedding venue to make your vision boards come to life, contact us today.

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