Jacqueline & Brett’s Villa la Joya Wedding

Jacqueline & Brett’s Villa la Joya Wedding

Every detail of Jacqueline & Brett’s day at Villa la Joya felt effortlessly elegant, tropical, and timeless all at once. This is an inspirational real wedding in the fabulous destination of Playa del Carmen, Mexico. 

A Seaside Ceremony with Heart and Style

The ceremony took place in the seaside garden beneath a rectangular wooden arch overflowing with white roses, orchids, and lush greenery. When the vows were sealed, Brett couldn’t help himself—his triumphant fist-pump and huge smile said everything. It was a moment of pure happiness, met with laughter and applause from family and friends. 

Jacqueline was breathtaking in her off-the-shoulder lace gown, her blonde curls softly framing her glowing face and striking blue eyes. Brett looked equally sharp in a tailored blue three-piece suit, the color perfectly complementing the tropical backdrop.

Bold Bridesmaids & a Pop of Color

Jacqueline’s bridesmaids proved that matching dresses are officially back in style. Each wore a rust-red gown that stood out beautifully against the turquoise sea. Their bouquets of white anthuriums, orchids, and tropical greenery tied the look together with natural elegance. The groomsmen matched the vibe in blue suits and terracotta ties—cohesive, timeless, and totally cool. There is something so elegant about matching wedding party attire. 

Natural Details & Laid-Back Cocktail Hour

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour in a cozy lounge area featuring light wood furniture, beige fabrics, and woven accents. The setup struck the perfect balance between natural and refined, creating an atmosphere of effortless sophistication. 

Each reception table was dressed in rustic-chic details: woven chargers, crisp white plates, and burnt terracotta napkins. Votives added warmth to the tablescape, while centerpieces of white orchids and lush tropical foliage tied the décor to the surrounding garden and sea views.

Dinner, Toasts & Dancing Under the Stars

Dinner flowed into heartfelt toasts that mixed laughter with a few happy tears. But once the live rock band started playing, Villa la Joya transformed into an epic open-air party. The pool glowed with floating candles, string lights danced above the terrace, and guests filled the dance floor with energy, tequila, and joy. 

It was the perfect mix of elegance and celebration—the kind of night where shoes disappear, laughter carries on the breeze, and everyone agrees: this was the best wedding ever.

Congratulations to the Newlyweds

Congratulations, Jacqueline & Brett! The entire Villa la Joya team sends you our warmest wishes for a lifetime of happiness, laughter, and adventures together. Thank you for letting us be part of such a beautiful celebration.

A big thank-you as well to the incredible creative team of Riviera Maya wedding vendors that made this romantic day shine:

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planner: Mango Weddings | Photographer: Take It Photo | Video: Frame Wedding Film | Hair & Makeup: Salty Beauty Makeup | Floral Design: Priola | Rentals: Velvet Events Design & Cazo Candle Experiences | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Cake: Lali Pasteles | Churros Cart: Los Pockets | Music: Imperial Band

Plan Your Own Villa la Joya Wedding

If you’re dreaming of a private oceanfront estate where you can host an elegant, fully personalized destination wedding, Villa la Joya in Playa del Carmen is your perfect venue. Exchange vows with Caribbean views, dine under twinkling lights, and dance beside the pool—just like Jacqueline & Brett. Your dream wedding deserves this setting. Contact us today to start planning your Villa la Joya wedding in paradise.

FAQ – Villa la Joya Weddings

Where is Villa la Joya located?

Villa la Joya is in Playa del Carmen, Mexico — about 40 minutes south of Cancun International Airport. It’s one of the Riviera Maya’s most sought-after private oceanfront wedding venues, known for its privacy, elegance, and unforgettable Caribbean views.

Do I need to hire my own wedding planner?

No need! Our in-house Villa Planners team is made up of seasoned experts who specialize in destination weddings. They’ll handle every detail, from design and logistics to coordinating your vendors, so you can relax and truly enjoy the process.

Can I host a multi-day wedding celebration?

Absolutely. Many couples plan welcome parties, rehearsal dinners, or next-day brunches at nearby partner venues to extend the celebration. Villa la Joya’s team can help coordinate each event for a seamless, multi-day experience.

What makes Villa la Joya different from other Riviera Maya wedding venues?

Villa la Joya is a private estate, not a resort — which means your wedding day is 100% yours. No shared spaces, no noise from other events, just your guests, your music, and the Caribbean Sea as your backdrop. It’s exclusive, elegant, and completely customizable.

What Everyone Should Know About Tipping at Weddings in Mexico

What Everyone Should Know About Tipping at Weddings in Mexico

You just landed in Mexico for the wedding of a lifetime — palm trees swaying, mariachi warming up, the bar already calling your name. Then the bill hits the table, and suddenly you’re doing frantic vacation math.

Is it 10 percent? 15? Did they already add it?

Relax — you’re not alone. Many travelers (and even wedding guests) get confused about tipping in Mexico, and the truth is simpler than it seems.

Why Tipping Matters in Mexico

In Mexico, tips — propinas — aren’t just a polite extra. They’re a genuine way to show appreciation and often make a real difference for the people, making your trip special.

Wages in the hospitality industry can be modest, and tips help reward the warmth and hard work that make Mexico famous for its service.

Think of tipping less as a math problem and more as saying gracias with meaning. (Photos below by Andre Gouin)

A Quick Guide for Wedding Week

Here’s a simple, real-world cheat sheet for couples and guests celebrating in Mexico:

Hotel Staff

20–50 MXN per bag for bellmen; 50–100 MXN per day for housekeeping.

Private Drivers or Airport Transfers

10–15 % of the total fare, or 100–300 MXN, depending on distance.

Waitstaff & Bartenders

10–15 % if not already included in the catering or bar service. (photos by Marissa Belle Photography)

Beauty & Spa Team

10–20 % for hair, makeup, and spa treatments. Photo by Aamber Kelley

Other Wedding Vendors

Optional, but thoughtful. Around 10 % of the invoice or a small cash tip, depending on the service provided or level of involvement at the end of the night, shows appreciation.

Musicians or Entertainment

A shared tip of 500–1,000 MXN for the group is always welcome. Photo by Amare Weddings

Pro Tips for Gracious Giving

  • Check contracts first. Some service fees already include a propina.

  • Bring pesos. Small denominations go a long way, and they’re easier for local staff to use.

  • Hand it personally. A sincere smile and gracias mean just as much as the amount.

  • Don’t overthink it. Mexicans appreciate the gesture; perfection isn’t required.

From the Villa la Joya Team

Every week, we see the same magic unfold — guests thanking bartenders, planners hugging brides, and servers receiving a heartfelt gracias that lights up the room.

Those small gestures of kindness create the warm connection that defines every Villa la Joya celebration.

So yes, tip generously when you can. You’re not just leaving pesos — you’re sharing a little more joy.

Chantal & Jarrell’s Elegant Black-and-White Villa La Joya Wedding

Chantal & Jarrell’s Elegant Black-and-White Villa La Joya Wedding

On May 3, 2025, Chantal and Jarrell returned to Mexico to say I do — exactly two years after their beachside proposal at Secrets Maroma. Their destination wedding at Villa La Joya was a flawless blend of timeless elegance and modern style, wrapped in a palette of black, white, and lush greenery.

A Love Story That Began in College

Chantal and Jarrell met in college through a mutual friend and formed a bond that stood the test of time. Years later, they reconnected while Jarrell was recovering from wisdom-teeth surgery, and their first SweetFrog date turned into something much bigger. From that day forward, their story unfolded with laughter, adventures, and the kind of love that only deepens with time.

In 2023, Jarrell planned a surprise proposal during a trip to Mexico — a private dinner on the beach where he dropped to one knee beneath the stars. When it came time to plan their wedding, they knew there was no better place to begin their forever than where their forever began.

“We got engaged on May 3, 2023 at Secrets Maroma and knew right away that we wanted a destination wedding. It just felt right to bring all of our loved ones back to Mexico on the same date that we decided to make our love story forever two years later on May 3, 2025.” — Chantal

A Riviera Maya Wedding Ceremony of Pure Elegance

“Villa La Joya took our breath away the moment we saw it. It is private, intimate, and has that dreamy ocean backdrop that makes you feel like you stepped straight into a movie. We also loved the flexibility to make it our own, from the décor to the flow of the day. It felt like a true extension of us.” — Chantal

The couple chose to hold their ceremony on the front steps of Villa La Joya, surrounded by tropical gardens and the striking architecture. All-white florals and clouds of baby’s breath created a soft, romantic backdrop, while alternating black and translucent chairs gave the setup a modern edge. The ceremony programs were designed as hand fans, a sweet and thoughtful touch for guests under the Riviera Maya sun.

Chantal was radiant in a mermaid gown with a dramatic train, her hair swept into a soft updo and makeup that glowed naturally. Her bouquet of white lilies mirrored the soft satin of her dress. Jarrell looked equally striking in a white dinner jacket and black tuxedo, with his groomsmen in all-black, a timeless look that never fails to impress.

The bridal party carried the theme effortlessly. Bridesmaids in black dresses stood elegantly beside the bride, their sleek silhouettes enhancing the wedding’s refined aesthetic.

Wedding Design That Defined Sophistication

Guests were invited to wear all black — an unexpected and stunning choice for a tropical destination wedding. The effect was breathtaking. Against the turquoise of the sea and the greens of Villa La Joya’s garden, the monochrome palette felt cinematic and cohesive.

The black-and-white wedding theme continued into the garden reception, where black dinnerware, white linens, and crystal chandeliers created a romantic, modern atmosphere. White lounge furniture invited guests to relax, while every sign and stationery piece — lovingly designed by the bride herself — echoed the theme in elegant black-and-white script.

An Abundance of Joy, Laughter, and Love

During the reception, the couple opted for a long head table with their entire wedding party instead of a sweetheart table, symbolizing the deep bonds they share with their closest friends and family. As the sun set, laughter and emotion filled the night during heartfelt toasts, and happy tears sparkled under the glow of chandeliers.

Their first dances took place on a personalized dance floor built over the pool, one of Villa La Joya’s signature showstoppers, where joy and celebration radiated through every song. Later, Chantal surprised everyone with a second look, a chic, playful mini dress perfect for dancing the night away.

Timeless Beauty in Every Detail

From the delicate white lilies on the cake to the airy floral arrangements that softened the bold black lines, every detail reflected harmony and intention. The design was bold yet romantic, perfectly balanced, just like the couple themselves.

Black might not be the first color that comes to mind for a tropical destination wedding, but it worked magnificently with the turquoise tones of the sea and the lush greens of Villa La Joya’s gardens, proof that elegance has no boundaries when love leads the vision.

“Plan well, but do not lose sight of the joy. Trust your vendors, stay flexible, and remember that your guests are there to celebrate you, not to notice whether every detail goes perfectly. Most importantly, take little pauses during the day to soak it all in. The love, the laughter, the ocean breeze, it all goes by so quickly, and it is worth savoring every second.” — Chantal

Thank You and Best Wishes

All of us at Villa La Joya wish Chantal and Jarrell a lifetime filled with laughter, adventure, and endless love. It was a joy to witness your celebration and see how beautifully your story came to life by the sea.

Special Thanks to the Riviera Maya Wedding Vendors

As always, we salute all the vendors and creative professionals who came together to make this an unforgettable event. 

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planner: Itzel from Blue Venado Weddings | Photography: Andre Gouin Photo | Videography: Rocío Juárez | Hair & Makeup: Alex Corbanezi | Dress: Kyha Studios | Dress Tailor: Green & Blue Weddings | Bride’s Shoes: JW Pei | Earrings: Olive and Piper | Purse: Jimmy Choo | Groom’s Shoes: Gucci | Stationery: Handmade by the Bride | Florals & Decor: StyleMe Events | Lounge Decor: Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals | Lighting: MSM Rentals | DJ: Plugin Audio Visual

Plan Your Villa La Joya Destination Wedding in Playa del Carmen

Dreaming of a Riviera Maya wedding celebration filled with elegance, ocean views, and personalized luxury? Villa La Joya offers an exclusive beachfront venue where your love story becomes art.

Discover more at villalajoya.com and let our team help you create a day that’s timeless, intentional, and completely your own. We can’t wait to hear your ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions About Villa La Joya Weddings

Can I customize the ceremony setup at Villa La Joya?

Absolutely. Every couple has the freedom to design their ceremony layout, floral style, and décor. From classic white florals to bold modern palettes, the Villa’s spaces adapt beautifully to your vision, whether you choose the grand staircase, oceanfront terrace, or garden lawn. 

Does Villa La Joya have indoor or covered areas for receptions?

While Villa La Joya is best known for its open-air events, there are flexible covered spaces available in case of unexpected weather. Most couples host dinner and dancing outdoors under chandeliers or string lights, but tents and transparent covers can be added for comfort and peace of mind.

How many guests can Villa La Joya accommodate?

Villa la Joya comfortably hosts weddings of up to 150 guests, though smaller events feel equally intimate and luxurious. Many couples, like Chantal and Jarrell, choose creative seating layouts, such as a long head table paired with round guest tables, to make the most of the space.

Camryn & Braeden’s Elegant Villa la Joya Wedding in Buttercream & White

Camryn & Braeden’s Elegant Villa la Joya Wedding in Buttercream & White

Camryn and Braeden’s Villa la Joya wedding in the Riviera Maya was a dreamy blend of elegance, joy, and seaside celebration. For couples planning a destination wedding in Mexico, this celebration is the perfect inspiration — a mix of timeless style, unique décor, and unforgettable moments brought to life by the expert team at Villa Planners.

Destination Wedding Bridal Style at Villa la Joya

Bride Camryn looked radiant in a daring strapless gown with a long flowing train that caught the ocean breeze. Her hair was styled in natural loose waves, perfectly complementing her look. A traditional veil completed her ensemble, giving her bridal style both drama and romance. We especially loved the portraits of her running through the halls of Villa la Joya with that long train billowing behind her — her smile said it all.

Her bridesmaids wore gowns in buttercream yellow, each one unique in design, making the group effortlessly chic while still letting each woman shine. The flower girl in her matching buttercream dress was simply adorable. Their lily bouquets added a touch of freshness and trend-forward style — lilies are definitely having a moment.

The groom looked handsome in a classic tuxedo with a white dinner jacket and black pants, coordinating perfectly with his groomsmen and the three young ring bearers who looked very dashing in their mini tuxes.

Camryn shared not one, but two first looks — one with her dad and another with her groom — both filled with emotion and joyful tears.

Private Villa in Mexico for a Romantic Wedding Ceremony 

The ceremony took place on the grand front steps of Villa la Joya, creating a timeless backdrop. The altar was beautifully decorated with white florals, greenery, and soft flowing fabric. The overlapping draping behind the altar added depth and movement, creating a romantic frame for the vows.

Surrounded by their loved ones, Camryn and Braeden’s ceremony was heartfelt, elegant, and filled with sweet family moments.

Cocktails & Riviera Maya Reception Delectable Details

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktail hour in the garden with signature drinks, a live saxophone, and a cozy lounge area for mingling. The setting perfectly transitioned into the reception, where the tables were arranged in a unique serpentine curve — an inventive use of Villa la Joya’s outdoor space that wowed guests.

The reception décor featured twinkling lights overhead, flickering candles in crystal holders, and floating lanterns in the pool. Together, these elements created a magical, glowing ambiance as night fell.

The cake was a masterpiece with intricate detailing, and the dry fireworks during the cake cutting made magic. Later, a grand fireworks display over the ocean sealed the night with celebration.

Guests also indulged in cigars and churros — a perfect mix of sophistication and fun that kept the party buzzing.

A Joyous Party to Remember

For the reception, Camryn changed into a sexy second dress, designed for dancing, and styled her hair in an elegant updo. The transformation set the tone for a lively evening, and she lit up the dance floor with Braeden and their guests.

This was more than a wedding; it was a true family affair with generations laughing, crying, and celebrating together. Villa la Joya’s timeless elegance combined with Villa Planners’ flawless coordination created an unforgettable event.

Camryn and Braeden’s wedding was the perfect balance of class and elegance — and still a whole lot of fun. A celebration of love by the sea, filled with beauty, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime.

FAQs About Villa la Joya Weddings

Do I need a wedding planner for a Villa la Joya wedding?

Yes — and the great news is that Villa la Joya couples can work directly with Villa Planners, our in-house planning team. With years of experience and deep knowledge of the venue, they make the process seamless and stress-free.

Are there vendor fees at Villa la Joya?

No! Unlike many Riviera Maya venues, Villa la Joya does not charge vendor fees. You’re free to work with the best creative partners to bring your dream wedding to life. We work with the top wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya, their creativity will blow you away!

Why choose Villa la Joya for a destination wedding in Mexico?

Villa la Joya combines beachfront luxury with privacy, flexibility, and award-winning service. It’s the ideal venue for couples who want a glamorous yet personal celebration in the Riviera Maya. One wedding per day, just for you! This is not a resort wedding factory. 

Thank You & Best Wishes

We are so grateful to Camryn & Braeden for choosing Villa la Joya to celebrate their love, and we wish them a lifetime of happiness together. Thank you to Villa Planners, Cristina Powell Photography, and every talented vendor who brought their vision to life with beauty and heart.

Ready to plan your own Villa La Joya wedding in the Riviera Maya? Our in-house team at Villa Planners will guide you every step of the way — no vendor fees, just personalized expertise, and a villa that feels like your private seaside estate. One wedding per day, entirely your own.

Contact us today and let’s start designing your dream Villa la Joya wedding.

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planning: Villa Planners​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​ ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​| Photography: Cristina Powell Photography | Hair & Makeup: Zöe Elizabeth Makeup | Floral Design: Grisel Serrano Florals | Rentals: Daniela Parra Design & Archive Rentals | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Bar: Be You Service | Wedding Cake: Lali Pasteles | Churros Cart: Los Pocketsmx | Fireworks: Pyro Caribe | DJ: UNO Audiovisual

Stephanie & Bryan’s Black and White Villa La Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Stephanie & Bryan’s Black and White Villa La Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Stephanie & Bryan’s wedding at Villa La Joya was pure timeless glamour on the shores of the Riviera Maya. Planned by the talented team at Fresa Weddings, the celebration embraced the sophistication of the “Old Money” wedding theme, an aesthetic all about understated luxury, classic style, and effortless beauty. From the first look on the oceanfront terrace to the last dance beneath the chandeliers, their day was a stunning balance of formality and warmth.

Bridal Style at a Villa La Joya Wedding

Bride Stephanie was radiant from the moment she stepped into the garden. She wore her hair in soft, loose waves that highlighted her natural glow, paired with a gown that was nothing short of breathtaking, a daring design featuring a thigh-high slit and a structured bustier-style bodice adorned with pearls. Her veil caught the Caribbean sunlight as she shared a first look with Bryan, who was dashing in his white dinner jacket and black tuxedo pants. Adding a touch of tropical ease, Bryan opted for no socks with his polished tuxedo shoes, perfectly suiting the Riviera Maya setting.

Her bridesmaids wore sage gowns in a variety of designs, their bouquets of velvety calla lilies by Luis Salas Floral Experience tying the bridal party into the overall theme with sophisticated texture and style.

It’s a Nice Day for a White Ceremony by the Sea in Cancun

The ceremony design at Villa La Joya was nothing short of grand. Guests were seated on rows of white chairs with a pristine white aisle that led to an altar draped in flowing fabric and crowned with an abundance of white roses and lilies by Luis Salas Floral Experience. The display created a breathtaking focal point where the couple exchanged vows to become husband and wife, forever and ever. Sparkling chandeliers floated above the space, adding a touch of romance to the seaside garden wedding.

The scent of fresh florals mixed with the Caribbean breeze, giving the ceremony a sensory richness you could almost feel through the photos. The sophisticated white theme carried through in every detail, striking in its simplicity and design. And of course, flower girls and ring bearers added heartwarming family charm, bringing smiles to every guest in attendance.

Cocktail Hour in the Villa La Joya Garden

Following the ceremony, guests gathered in Villa La Joya’s garden for a relaxed yet refined cocktail hour. White lounge furniture created a stylish sitting area where friends and family mingled, framed by the villa’s lush greenery and ocean breeze. Charcuterie boards, fresh sushi, and signature cocktails set the tone for the evening, a perfect blend of sophistication and fun that carried seamlessly into the reception.

Reception Design and Décor Ideas at Villa La Joya

As the sun set, the reception space came alive in timeless black, white, and gold. Tables were set with crisp linens, golden flatware, sparkling glassware, and white candles in crystal holders. Lush calla lily arrangements anchored each table, while striking black-and-white script signage tied the theme together.

Above it all, chandeliers shimmered against the night sky, casting a romantic glow over the garden. The sweetheart table mirrored the theme with white florals and a personalized backdrop featuring the couple’s names in flowing script.

First Dance on the Black & White Poolside Dance Floor

One of the evening’s highlights was the black-and-white checkered dance floor built over the villa’s pool. Beneath the chandeliers’ glow, Stephanie and Bryan shared their first dance as husband and wife, romantically swaying with the ocean breeze. Family and friends joined in, filling the dance floor with energy, laughter, and love. 

Showstopping Wedding Cake in the Riviera Maya

Created by Pastelería La Migaja, the cake was a true showstopper, three towering tiers dressed in cascading white roses. Almost too beautiful to cut, it stood as both a sweet finale and a work of art within the reception design. When the couple shared the cake-cutting tradition, it was a moment of cheers, smiles, and happy anticipation.

Entertainment and Family Fun at Villa La Joya

Guests enjoyed a cigar-rolling station that added a touch of local flavor and sophistication. The dance floor stayed packed, with children and adults alike joining in on the fun. From family hugs to laughter that echoed through the garden, the night was filled with warmth and human connection and joy.

This Riviera Maya wedding was cohesive from start to finish — from the black-and-white theme to the abundance of white florals, the sage bridesmaids’ gowns, and the glittering chandeliers. But more than its refined design, it was the love and joy shared between Stephanie, Bryan, and their families that made it truly unforgettable.

Congratulations to the Couple

To Stephanie & Bryan, we thank you for choosing Villa La Joya as the backdrop for your love story. We wish you a lifetime filled with the same joy, warmth, and laughter that surrounded you on your wedding day in Mexico.

FAQs about Villa La Joya Weddings in Cancun

What is the best time of year for a Villa La Joya wedding?

Villa La Joya hosts weddings year-round, but the most popular months are November through May, when the Riviera Maya enjoys cooler temperatures, sunny skies, and little rain. Summer and fall bring warmer weather, but couples love the tropical vibe and the lush, green scenery.

How many guests can Villa La Joya accommodate?

Villa La Joya can host weddings, both intimate and grand. The beachfront garden and poolside reception space comfortably welcome events ranging from 30 guests to over 150. And of course, elopements as well.

Does Villa La Joya charge vendor fees?

No — one of the unique advantages of Villa La Joya is that there are no vendor fees. Couples are free to choose their own team of professionals, from planners and florists to photographers and caterers.

Is Villa La Joya only for destination weddings?

Not at all. While many couples travel from abroad to get married in the Riviera Maya, Villa La Joya is also a popular choice for groups and events (anniversaries, birthdays, baptisms) who want a private beachfront estate with all the amenities of a luxury venue.

Thank You to the Best Wedding Vendors in Mexico

A heartfelt thank you to the talented local vendors who made this day possible, we are more than grateful for their artistry and professionalism. 

Plan Your Destination Wedding at Villa La Joya in Cancun

If you’ve been dreaming of a destination wedding in Cancun or the Riviera Maya, Villa La Joya offers the perfect canvas. From intimate gatherings to grand celebrations, our oceanfront villa combines breathtaking views with personalized service. Contact us today to begin planning your own unforgettable wedding experience in Mexico.

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planner: Fresa Weddings | Photography: LuxArt Wedding Studio | Video: Sea Love Wedding Films | Content Creation: Yutori Content Co. | Glam: Cosmo by Cristela | Floral Design: Luis Salas Floral Experience | Rentals: Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals + Elements Graphics + Gama Group + La Productora Weddings | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis + The Station Mx | Cake: Pasteleria La Migaja | Entertainment: Drums In Paradise + Los Pockets | DJ: Plugin Audiovisual