A celebration of color, culture, and joy in the Riviera Maya
How They Met: The Love Story Begins
Travina & Alejandro first connected on a dating app in 2020, and while Alex was admittedly a bundle of nerves on their first date (Travina definitely noticed), the chemistry was real. By their second date, they both felt it—this was something special.
Three years later, on their annual birthday trip—this time in the South of France—Alex got down on one knee in the historic town of Arles. It was quiet, romantic, and straight out of a storybook.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding in Riviera Maya
The decision started with one photo. Travina came across Villa la Joya online and instantly fell in love. The European-style architecture, the beachfront location, and the lush grounds—everything about it felt like a dream. As she explored more about the Riviera Maya, she realized this could be more than a wedding. It could be a vacation for everyone they love.
With a wide selection of all-inclusive resorts nearby, they planned a full wedding weekend that allowed guests to relax, celebrate, and actually enjoy every moment.
Why They Chose Villa la Joya: Private Wedding Venue in the Riviera Maya
For Travina, it was love at first Google. She had always envisioned getting married at a romantic villa—and Villa la Joya delivered exactly that. It offered stunning ocean views, privacy, lush gardens, and the kind of architectural charm you rarely find in a beachfront setting. It felt like Europe... but with palm trees.
They chose to host their ceremony in front of the villa for its visual impact and classic, elegant feel.
Favorite Moments from the Day
There were several unforgettable highlights—each with its own emotional weight. The couple’s first look was quiet and meaningful. Alejandro’s baraat entrance brought music and movement. Their first dance under the stars was pure magic. And the very last song of the night wrapped everything up with joy.
The Groom’s Entrance: Traditional Baraat at a Destination Wedding in Mexico
Alejandro’s traditional baraat was a dynamic, high-energy start to the day. Led by Drums in Paradise, the procession filled the air with rhythm as guests danced alongside the groom on his way to the ceremony. It was festive, loud, and full of joy—an unforgettable moment that set the tone for a day of vibrant celebration and cultural fusion in the Riviera Maya.
The Traditional Hindu Wedding Ceremony: OH So Lush and Divine
Held in the magnificent entry of Villa la Joya, the couple’s Hindu wedding ceremony in Mexico was a bold, beautiful expression of love and tradition. Both Travina and Alejandro wore traditional Hindu wedding ensembles, and the ceremony was officiated by Pandit Bernardo Soriano, honoring their roots with spiritual meaning and timeless rituals.
The setting itself was a showstopper. Bright, multicolored florals framed the altar and cascaded down the aisle, creating a vivid contrast against the villa’s soft stone architecture. Petals were everywhere—lining the walkway, floating through the air, adding movement and magic to every frame. The entire scene was saturated with joy, texture, and meaning.
Guests were also offered parasols to shield them from the midday sun—a thoughtful, guest-friendly touch that made a difference in comfort and photos alike.
The only regret? That March sun hits hard. (Future brides, consider a later ceremony time if you're planning a spring wedding in Playa del Carmen!)
An Unforgettable and Unique Riviera Maya Wedding Reception
As the sun dipped below the horizon, Villa la Joya’s garden transformed into a glowing, open-air reception space. A transparent dance floor was installed over the pool—a striking centerpiece that turned heads and doubled as a perfect stage for the couple’s first dance.
Overhead, sparkling lights twinkled in the evening sky, casting a warm glow over every table and conversation. As Travina and Alejandro stepped onto the dance floor, dry fireworks erupted in celebration, turning their first dance into a cinematic moment.
Dinner and drinks flowed easily, and the energy stayed high as guests delivered a series of unforgettable toasts. The speeches were emotional, funny, and honest—bringing the kind of tears that come with both joy and laughter.
It was a celebration with heart, culture, movement, and magic—from the first drumbeat to the final sparkle over the pool.
What They’d Do Differently: Destination Wedding Pro Tips
Schedule the ceremony for later in the day to avoid the heat.
Add an activity toward the end of the night to break up the dance hours.
Go with a second reception dress—comfort matters on the dance floor!
Advice for Future Destination Brides in Mexico
Get a planner. At the very least, a day-of coordinator is essential.
Think beyond the wedding day. Hosting a full weekend gives you more time with your people—and less stress when the big day arrives.
Delay final payments. Guest lists change. Vendors charge by headcount. Save yourself the overpay.
Make it a vacation. Their guests loved the resort and appreciated the longer room block options.
Best Wishes and Big Thank Yous to Travina & Alejandro
From all of us at Villa la Joya, thank you for sharing your story and your celebration with us. Your wedding was bold, joyful, and full of soul—and we were honored to host every colorful and unique moment.


































































To Our Incredible Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Community
We’re proud to collaborate with talented, visionary wedding vendors from around the world. At Villa la Joya, we welcome your dream team—with no vendor fees and total creative freedom. Mil gracias, creative pros that love LOVE.
Ready to Plan Your Destination Wedding in Mexico?
Villa la Joya is a private beachfront wedding venue in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, offering European-style elegance, tropical beauty, and the flexibility to bring your wedding vision to life. If you’re dreaming of a destination celebration that blends culture, color, and connection—contact us today and let’s start planning.
Vendor Team
Planning: Weddings on the Beach | Photography & Video: Rwanda Studio | Hair & Makeup: The Face Maison Beaute | Bride & Groom Outfits: Miss India Bridals | Florals: Pentaflor Event & Flower Design | Decor & Rentals: Velvet Event Decor & Design | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Photo Booth: La Cabina Fun Booth | Music: DJ Tekiwa | Baraat Drummers: Drums in Paradise | Officiant: Pandit Bernardo Soriano