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A Faith-Filled, Colorful Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

A Faith-Filled, Colorful Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Robin & David | Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Robin and David’s destination wedding in the Riviera Maya was built around faith, family, and celebration. The day began with a sacred Coptic Orthodox church ceremony in Playa del Carmen and ended with a joyful, high-energy reception at Villa la Joya, a private oceanfront wedding venue thoughtfully planned with Villa Planners.

From the very first moments, the experience felt meaningful, deeply personal, and full of life and love.

A Sacred Coptic Orthodox Ceremony in Playa del Carmen

The wedding day began at El Pueblito at Mayakoba Church in Playa del Carmen, where Robin and David exchanged vows surrounded by family, clergy, and centuries-old tradition.

The Coptic Orthodox ceremony was reverent and emotional, rich with symbolism and meaning. During the service, the couple was crowned as queen and king, a sacred ritual representing their spiritual unity, shared responsibility, and commitment to one another. The atmosphere inside the church was quiet, powerful, and deeply moving, a moment of faith that grounded the entire celebration.

One of the reasons couples choose Villa la Joya for a destination wedding is the flexibility it offers. While many ceremonies take place on site, religious ceremonies for a wide range of faiths and denominations can be held at nearby churches and places of worship, followed by a completely private villa reception. For Robin and David, this allowed them to fully honor their faith while celebrating with guests in a relaxed, oceanfront setting.

Bridal Style with Confidence and Grace

Robin wore a stunning wedding gown featuring a lush, full skirt paired with a daring corset-style bodice. The look felt romantic, confident, and effortlessly elegant. A long, full veil completed her style, adding softness and drama as she walked down the aisle.

David chose a classic black tuxedo, a timeless look that perfectly suited the formality and significance of the church ceremony.

Together, their style felt polished, modern, and beautifully aligned with the day’s tone.

A Joyful Arrival at Villa la Joya

Following the ceremony, guests arrived at Villa la Joya, where the energy shifted seamlessly from reverence to celebration through culture and dance.

Live musicians welcomed everyone with rhythmic music in Egyptian style, accompanying the couple’s entrance and continuing through cocktail hour. The sound immediately set the mood. It was lively, warm, and inviting, encouraging guests of all ages to gather, move, and connect.

Planned and coordinated by Villa Planners, the transition from ceremony to reception felt effortless and set the stage for an unforgettable evening

A Family-Centered Celebration Full of Color

Robin and David envisioned a kid-friendly, family-focused wedding, and that spirit was present throughout the night. Guests moved easily between tables, the pool terrace, and the dance floor, creating an atmosphere that felt relaxed, inclusive, and genuinely joyful.

Florals were light, bright, and beautifully bountiful. A soft mix of blush, peach, apricot, muted lavender, airy whites, and fresh greenery created an abundant, organic look that reflected the couple’s love of color and celebration without feeling overly formal.

Reception tables were styled with crisp white linens, gold flatware, layered glassware, and lush floral centerpieces, resulting in a setting that felt elegant yet welcoming.

Thoughtful Details and Live Art

One of the evening’s most meaningful details was a live painter who created a portrait of Robin and David throughout the reception. Guests were able to watch the artwork take shape in real time, turning a quiet corner of the villa into a moment of creativity and intention. The finished piece became a one-of-a-kind keepsake from the day.

A Show-Stopping Reception Design

The reception design made a bold statement. A personalized white dance floor stretched dramatically across the pool, facing the ocean and becoming the visual heart of the celebration.

Above it, a massive square arch wrapped in florals and finished with dangling disco balls anchored the space. The scale of the installation was truly epic, framing the dance floor, reflecting the light, and creating a sense of drama that elevated the entire evening.

As guests gathered beneath the arch, the dance floor quickly filled and became the center of energy and movement.

Dancing, Fireworks, and an Epic Finale

As night fell, the celebration reached its peak. Beneath the oversized floral arch and shimmering disco balls, Robin and David shared their first moments on the dance floor surrounded by family and friends, with the ocean stretching endlessly beyond.

The evening built to an unforgettable finale. Dry fireworks flanked the pool and dance floor, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean. The night sky lit up as guests of all ages cheered. It was joyful, dramatic, and unforgettable, the perfect ending to a day filled with meaning and celebration.

A Destination Wedding Rooted in Faith & Joy

Robin and David’s wedding is a beautiful example of how couples can honor religious tradition while enjoying a fully personalized destination wedding experience. With a sacred ceremony in Playa del Carmen and a private reception at Villa la Joya, thoughtfully planned by Villa Planners, the day felt seamless, intentional, and full of heart.

It was a celebration grounded in faith, surrounded by family, and elevated by design, a wedding that truly reflected who they are

Venues: El Pueblito at Mayakoba & Villa La Joya | Wedding Planners: Adri & Nancy at Villa Planners | Photography: Daniel Ramirez | Video: Frame Wedding Films | Glam: Cassandra Cassout | Floral Design: Paola Priego | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Catering: Icaza Creativos Catering | Wedding Cake: Lali Pasteles | Rentals: EW Cancun | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Fireworks: Pyrocaribe | Live Painting: Juliana Casali | Drums: Zaffet George | DJ: UNO Audiovisuals

FAQ: Religious Destination Weddings in the Riviera Maya

Can you have a religious ceremony as part of a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya?

Yes. Many couples choose to hold a religious ceremony at a nearby church or place of worship representing a wide range of religions and denominations, then host a private reception at a venue like Villa la Joya. This approach allows couples to honor their faith traditions while enjoying a completely private and personalized destination wedding celebration.

Some couples complete legal paperwork separately, either in Mexico or at home, and focus on the religious ceremony for tradition and meaning.

Antoinette & Eddie’s Vibrant Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Antoinette & Eddie’s Vibrant Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Antoinette and Eddie’s wedding at Villa la Joya was joyful, stylish, and absolutely sensational. From an emotional first look to a packed dance floor that stayed alive late into the night, their celebration blended romance with high-energy fun in a way that felt effortless and deeply personal.

This was also a special wedding for Villa Planners. It marked the first wedding planned by Cristina as part of the Villa Planners team, and it could not have been a more perfect introduction.

This destination wedding at Villa la Joya in Riviera Maya, Mexico blended romantic design, cultural connection, and a high-energy poolside dance floor celebration.

How They Met and the Proposal

Antoinette and Eddie first met fifteen years ago at Syracuse University. They dated in college, but after graduation their lives pulled them in different directions. Antoinette moved to New York City, Eddie to Los Angeles. They stayed close over the years, and in the summer of 2021, fate brought them back together in New York. This time, everything aligned.

They closed the distance for good in 2023 when Antoinette moved to Los Angeles. On May 18, 2024, Eddie proposed during sunset on the white-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island, Florida.

“He got down on one knee just as the sky turned gold and pink, and asked me to marry him. It was pretty spectacular.”

Why They Chose Riviera Maya for Their Destination Wedding

Riviera Maya was a natural choice. Mexico holds deep personal meaning for both of them, and it offered the perfect setting to bring their families together.

“Mexico holds a very special place in both our hearts,” Antoinette shared. “I used to live in Mexico and spent many vacations in Riviera Maya with my family. Eddie’s father and his side of the family are from Mexico City, so celebrating in a place that reflects our shared connection to Mexican culture just felt right.”

They wanted a coastal summer wedding without sand underfoot, a destination that felt accessible for guests traveling from around the world, and a place where English and Spanish could coexist as naturally as their story.

Choosing Villa la Joya and Villa Planners for Their Wedding

Villa la Joya checked every box. The Spanish-French architecture, oceanfront setting, and timeless design made it feel elegant without being formal, secluded without feeling remote.

“The Spanish-French architecture felt timeless, like a love letter to culture and heritage,” Antoinette said. “Hidden away yet full of soul, it felt like our home for the weekend.”

Villa Planners was the obvious choice to bring it all together.

“Planning a destination wedding is no small feat. It’s equal parts logistics and leap of faith, and working with a talented, seasoned team made all the difference.”

A Ceremony Framed by Flowers

The ceremony took place on the iconic Villa la Joya staircase, where towering floral pillars framed the couple as they exchanged vows. Lush arrangements in warm sunset tones created a dramatic yet welcoming focal point, highlighting the villa’s architecture without overpowering it.

Earlier in the day, Antoinette shared emotional first looks with her father and with Eddie, moments filled with quiet intensity and love.

Antoinette’s strapless gown featured a clean, sculpted bodice and a full skirt that moved beautifully as she walked. A delicate veil softened the look, creating an intimate, romantic first look between the couple that felt completely unfiltered.

A Storm, a Pause, and Perfect Timing

The wedding took place in late August, right in the heart of Mexico’s Canícula, the hottest stretch of the year. Late-summer weddings in Riviera Maya often require flexibility, experienced planners, and venues designed to adapt quickly.

A sudden storm rolled in just an hour before the ceremony.


“We’d been obsessively checking the forecast all week,” Antoinette said. “By Friday night, the rain chances had dropped, so we confidently said, ‘No tent. We’re fine.’”

Then the rain came, hard and cinematic. While Antoinette waited, Cristina and the Villa Planners team worked tirelessly to protect every detail. Chairs, flowers, and décor, all saved. Just as Antoinette headed to the villa for her first look, the rain stopped. The sun returned, and the rest of the day unfolded flawlessly.

“When the sun finally came out, the only thing I could feel was pure gratitude for the team that refused to let the weather win.”

Wedding Reception Details and High-Energy Celebration at Villa la Joya

The reception design brought the “dreamy tropical sunset” theme to life. Warm yellows, pinks, reds, and oranges filled the space through florals, signage, and tablescapes. Custom signage welcomed guests with color and warmth, setting the tone from the start.

Dinner tables featured soft pink linens, gold accents, candlelight, and layered florals that felt romantic and light. The sweetheart table overflowed with blooms, creating a striking focal point for heartfelt and hilarious speeches.

The pool was transformed into a full dance floor, a unique use of Villa la Joya’s layout that allowed guests to dance beneath twinkling string lights and disco balls. This monogrammed dance floor is a signature way couples personalize Villa la Joya’s space for large, energetic receptions.

Antoinette changed into a second dress for the reception, a sleek, figure-hugging sheath paired with heart-shaped glasses that perfectly matched the energy of the evening. Dry fireworks lit up the dance floor as the couple shared a dramatic dip, and the party only escalated from there.

There were tequila shots, photo booth antics, nonstop dancing, and the kind of laughter that carries late into the night.

A Perfect Day, Exactly as It Was

Asked if she would change anything, Antoinette’s answer was simple.

“Absolutely nothing. It was flawless, rainstorm and all.”

Her advice to future destination brides says it all.

“Plan as much as you can, as detailed as you can, but once you get here, remember to have fun.”

A Thank You

Antoinette and Eddie, thank you for trusting Villa la Joya and Villa Planners with such a meaningful celebration. Your wedding was a true reflection of joy, culture, and connection, and it was an honor to be part of it.

A heartfelt welcome and congratulations to Cristina on her first wedding with Villa Planners. What a stunning beginning.

Vendor Team at Villa la Joya

Venue: Villa la Joya |WeddingPlanner: Cristina, VillaPlanners | Officiant: Paula | Photographer/Videographer: Filmcraft Stories | Photobooth: FilmcraftBooth | Hair & Makeup: Prep Tulum | DressDesigner: “Antoinette” by Maggie Sottero | Flowers: Charm Floral Design | Furniture: Oleo Events | Bar Furniture: MSM Rentals | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Catering & Bar Service: Gourmet Soberanis | Cake: Pasteleria La Migaja | Churros: Los Pockets | DJ: UNO AudioVisual

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding that feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable, Villa la Joya in Riviera Maya, Mexico offers a setting where celebrations unfold naturally and beautifully.

Villa la Joya and Villa Planners are now booking the 2026 destination wedding season, let’s save your date, contact us today.

Villa la Joya Wedding FAQs

Can you personalize a wedding at Villa la Joya?

Absolutely. Villa la Joya is designed to be fully customizable, with flexible layouts that allow couples to make the space entirely their own. From ceremony locations and reception flow to dance floors over the pool, sky tents, lighting, and décor, the villa becomes your canvas. Whether your vision is elegant and minimal or bold and high-energy, the venue adapts to your style rather than the other way around.

What happens if it rains on your wedding day in Riviera Maya?

Riviera Maya is a tropical destination, and experienced planning makes all the difference. Villa Planners are experts in navigating local weather patterns and preparing for every scenario. With thoughtful planning, backup layouts, and timing adjustments, weddings move forward smoothly even when conditions change. During certain seasons, your planner may recommend a sky tent as a “just in case” option to ensure comfort and peace of mind without compromising your design.

Is Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen a private wedding venue?

Yes. Villa la Joya is a 100% private wedding venue in Playa del Carmen and hosts only one wedding per day. When you celebrate here, the villa is entirely yours, allowing your event to unfold without interruptions or shared spaces. This level of privacy is one of the reasons Villa la Joya is in such high demand, and booking well in advance is strongly recommended.

Can we bring in outside wedding vendors?

Yes, absolutely. Villa la Joya welcomes outside vendors and does not charge vendor fees. Couples have full creative freedom to choose the professionals who best match their vision, without unnecessary restrictions or added costs. Villa Planners also work closely with many of the top wedding vendors in Riviera Maya and are happy to guide couples toward trusted, experienced teams if support is needed.

Adriana & Nacho’s Very Special Villa la Joya Wedding

Adriana & Nacho’s Very Special Villa la Joya Wedding

A wedding planner becomes the bride in a celebration overflowing with love, color and joy.

Some weddings stay with us forever, and this one felt especially close to our hearts. Adriana has been part of the Villa la Joya family for years, guiding couples planning their destination weddings with warmth and care. Seeing her walk down the aisle toward Nacho, the man she has loved for a decade, was emotional for all of us. It was magic all watching a dear friend step into her brightest moment.

Their Love Story

Adriana and Nacho’s story began in their hometown, and they have since built a life together for over ten years. Adriana shared:

“We’ve been together for 10 years, and we’re from the same city, Cuernavaca, Morelos. He proposed during a romantic dinner by the lagoon in Cancún, which made the moment even more magical.”

A simple, intimate beginning that fit them perfectly.

A Celebration Filled With Familiar Faces

The guest list was big, a mix of local Riviera Maya friends and family from afar, Adriana told us:

“Most of our family traveled from Cuernavaca, Morelos. I also had friends who came all the way from Germany, and some relatives who traveled from the United States.”

Because Adriana and Nacho are local, their wedding had the warmth of a hometown celebration combined with the beauty of a destination wedding.

A Wedding Planner’s Wedding

After planning countless weddings at Villa la Joya, Adriana entered her own day with a deeply personal perspective:

“In the beginning, I didn’t think getting married was that important. But after planning and witnessing so many weddings, I realized how meaningful it is. It’s a celebration of love and a moment to introduce the love of your life to the people who matter most.”

Hearing her say that while standing beside Nacho was incredibly touching.

A Radiant Bride and a Handsome Groom

Adriana’s ceremony look was elegant and effortless. A flowing skirt, a delicate veil, natural makeup and her hair softly down her back. She glowed.

Nacho looked incredibly handsome in a classic suit with a burgundy tie, a warm and elegant detail that photographed beautifully.

Her bouquet was a burst of pinks, purples and pastels — a perfect reflection of her sunset-inspired palette.

Sunset Tones and Intentional Design

Adriana described her vision:

“Our inspiration was the colors of a sunset, warm, romantic tones.”

The design came together through light wood furnishings, rattan lanterns, soft florals, and floating candles in the pool. Cocktail hour was light, joyful, and filled with delicious canapés as guests settled into the evening.

It was a space that felt like her: thoughtful, warm, and full of welcome.

Seeing the Day Through New Eyes

For someone who has supported so many brides, experiencing her own day gave Adriana a new understanding. She told us:

“I never understood why brides got so stressed. I was always the one handling the details for them. But now I completely get it. The nerves of having all your family there, not wanting to forget anything, trying to look beautiful all day, it’s a lot to balance.”

It was honest, vulnerable, and so true.

A Reception Full of Delights

Dinner and speeches took place beneath a sky tent glowing with twinkling lights. A live saxophonist set the mood while the dance floor came alive. Adriana and Nacho were surrounded by people who adore them — family, lifelong friends, and many guests who work in weddings and recognized how beautifully the day unfolded.

Adriana’s reception look was a chic white pantsuit and fluffy white slippers. Comfortable, stylish and absolutely perfect for a planner who knows how long the celebration lasts.

Moments They Will Never Forget

After speeches, the newlyweds shared a dance beside the pool while dry fireworks sparkled softly around them. The reflections in the water made the moment unforgettable. Fireworks lit up the sky over the sea and they embraced and swayed. We swooned.

Adriana said:

“The funniest and most joyful moment was definitely at the end of the night, when I was finally able to relax and dance with all my friends and family.”

Her smile said everything.

Her Advice for Destination Brides

From planner to bride, Adriana shared:

“Don’t forget to hire a wedding planner. No matter how organized or experienced you think you are, nothing prepares you for the rush and intensity of a destination wedding. Save yourself the stress and trust a strong coordination team.”

And she added:

“There is nothing worse than going through all of this while not trusting your wedding team. Without the vendors and the Villa la Joya staff, I would not have been able to do it.”

Thank You, Adriana and Nacho

Adriana and Nacho, thank you for letting us be part of your beautiful celebration. You are part of our Villa la Joya family, and witnessing your wedding day meant the world to us.

And for future brides… yes, you can have Adriana as your planner. She continues creating unforgettable celebrations with Villa Planners, guiding couples with the same kindness and expertise she brought to her own day.

Muchas gracias to our fave talented wedding vendors

Every detail of this day was brought to life by a talented group of wedding professionals, hand-chosen by one of the best wedding planners in the Riviera Maya. Their artistry, dedication and teamwork made this celebration unforgettable. As they ALWAYS do.

The Coolest Wedding Vendors in the Riviera Maya

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planning: Villa Planners | Photography: Daniel Ramirez Photo | Video: Filmcraft Stories | Glam: Sara Tamargo Makeup & Hair | Floral Design: Cherry Blossom | Rentals: EW Cancun & Canteiro Weddings & Hercon Entertainment (dance floor) | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Wedding Cake: Lali Pasteles | Entertainment: JC Dancers | DJ: UNO Audiovisual

Allison & Colton’s Elegant Destination Wedding at Villa La Joya

Allison & Colton’s Elegant Destination Wedding at Villa La Joya

Planning a destination wedding is a leap of faith for any couple. For Allison and Colton, every step of that journey led them straight to the shores of Riviera Maya and to the timeless beauty of Villa La Joya. What began as a TikTok discovery soon turned into the wedding of their dreams: private, oceanfront, and beautifully personal from beginning to end.

Here, we’re sharing their story, their vision, and their unforgettable celebration captured with warmth, style, and all the emotion of a day they’ll be reliving for decades.

Their Story: College Sweethearts to a Sunset Cliffs Proposal

Allison and Colton met during their years at Texas Tech University, a college connection that grew naturally into something lasting. After graduating, they built their life together in Houston. Knowing how much Allison loves the ocean, Colton proposed at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. It was a golden, peaceful evening and the perfect beginning to their next chapter.

Why a Destination Wedding in Riviera Maya

From the start, they were drawn to the idea of doing something different. A ballroom didn’t feel like them and a resort wedding didn’t offer the privacy they wanted. Riviera Maya offered the best of everything: easy travel for guests, incredible weather, and the feeling of an intimate celebration without sacrificing style.

Still, finding the right venue took time. Allison spent hours researching destinations and imagining the experience she wanted to create. One day, she came across Villa La Joya on TikTok. The elegant architecture, ocean views, total privacy, and even the detail of having no sand instantly stood out. It felt unique and beautifully personal, the kind of place she hadn’t seen anyone else choose before.

They booked without even visiting in person.

Why Villa La Joya Was “The One”

  • Full privacy

  • No resort crowds

  • Freedom to choose their own vendors

  • Oceanfront views without the beach hassle

Villa La Joya offered everything they hoped for and more. With the guidance of Dream Weddings Riviera Maya, the villa became the backdrop for a celebration filled with color, elegance, and the warmth of everyone they love most.

Wedding Design: Summer Colors, Vibrant Florals & Timeless Details

Allison wanted a look that felt bright, fresh, and joyful, perfect for an early-summer celebration.

Color Palette: salmon, apricot, yellow, ivory, tan, and natural greenery.

Design Highlights:

• Garden ceremony framed by two asymmetrical floral pillars

• Champagne bridesmaid dresses

• Wooden tables and chairs adding organic warmth

• Crystal glassware and woven chargers

• Personalized bar with “Los Magaro’s” signage

• Monogrammed A & C dance floor set over the pool

• Soft bistro lighting twinkling above an oceanfront reception

The florals by Cherry Blossom were the stars of the design, adding color and movement to every part of the celebration.

Ceremony: A Garden Filled With Love

The garden ceremony overlooked the ocean, where Allison walked down Villa La Joya’s iconic pathway surrounded by her bridesmaids in flowing champagne tones. Her bouquet combined creamy whites with soft summer hues. The ceremony was intimate, heartfelt, and filled with emotion from beginning to end.

Celebration Highlights

The First Look

Under the villa’s stone archways, their first look was full of excitement and joy.

Cocktail Hour with Live Saxophone

As the sun softened into evening, guests sipped cocktails and listened to live saxophone while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Dinner on the Pool Terrace

Dining under string lights beside the water created an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. The signature Villa La Joya breeze made the moment feel cinematic.

The First Dance and Fireworks

Their first dance unfolded on a glossy white monogrammed dance floor suspended over the pool, surrounded by cold sparklers that lit up the night.

Cake Cutting

A classic three-tier cake adorned with florals, along with Allison’s first outfit change. She removed her lace sleeves for a softer, evening look.

The Second Dress Moment

Allison changed into a halter, fringe-detailed gown made for dancing. The slit, the shimmer, the movement… perfection.

Colton matched the energy by swapping his tux for a crisp guayabera and sneakers.

Late-Night Churros

“Oh My Churros!” arrived just in time for a late-night treat, and guests loved every bite.

Sparkler Exit

Family and friends lit the pathway for a sparkling, joyful sendoff.

Their Best Advice for Future Villa La Joya Brides

“Enjoy every moment. The day goes by so fast. Breathe, be present, and don’t stress the small things. A clear timeline made everything smooth, and investing in an amazing photographer and videographer was the best decision.”

Thank You, Allison and Colton

Allison and Colton, thank you for sharing your story, your vision, and your beautiful celebration with us. Your kindness, style, and warmth brought so much joy to Villa La Joya. We wish you a lifetime filled with the same light and love you shared here.

The Vendor Team Behind This Beautiful Day

Villa La Joya – Venue | Dream Weddings Riviera Maya – Planning | Moni & Adri Photography – Photography | Sea Love Wedding Films – Videography | Zöe Elizabeth – Makeup | Kyndall Murray – Hair | Cherry Blossom – Florals | EW Cancun – Furniture | Hercon Entertainment – Dance Floor | Chef Tomas, Gourmet Soberanis – Catering | Lali Pasteles – Cake | Oh My Churros – Late-Night Snacks | Ariel Saxophonist – Live Music | Plug In Audiovisual – DJ

Please note that Villa La Joya does not charge vendor fees. You are welcome to create your ideal vendor team with no additional venue fees.

Planning Your Own Villa La Joya Wedding

The 2026 season is already filling quickly, and destination couples are securing dates earlier than ever.

If you’re dreaming of a private beachfront villa in Mexico, now is the perfect time to begin planning.

Book a video call with our team and let’s bring your vision to life. We can’t wait to hear your love story.

Lena and Eli Get Married in Mexico: An Intimate Villa La Joya Wedding

Lena and Eli Get Married in Mexico: An Intimate Villa La Joya Wedding

We host weddings of all sizes at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya, from elopements for two to fiestas grandes. There is something unmistakably special about a small wedding where every guest feels like part of the story. Lena and Eli’s celebration was exactly that. Romantic, intimate, emotional, and beautifully floral-focused, it unfolded like a sunlit love letter to family, friendship, and all the quiet moments that make a wedding unforgettable.

From the first look at her soft organic bouquet to the final tequila toast under the stars, the entire day radiated effortless elegance and a whole lot of love.

From Math Class to Getting Married in Mexico: Story Written in the Stars

Lena & Eli were high school sweethearts with a history that began in math class, and with moms who were friends before these two ever met. Their proposal at Blue Mounds State Park was private, tender, and full of emotion. It was the perfect beginning to the next chapter in their lives together, planning their destination wedding in Mexico.

Why a Private Villa Wedding in the Riviera Maya Was the Perfect Choice

After seeing other Fresa Weddings celebrations, we instantly fell in love with the idea of a beachside wedding surrounded by our closest family and friends. At first, it felt like a dream — but the more we looked into it, the more it became a reality.

Fantastic weather, incredible views of the sea, and an easy journey for friends and family to unite. The Riviera Maya is a short flight from most cities in North America and offers world-class accommodations and welcoming Mexican hospitality.

The Riviera Maya is one of the most desired places in the world to get married, and its popularity means the vendors are the best in the business of destination weddings. Your vision doesn’t have to be a fantasy. It is more accessible than you think. Lena and Eli saw their wedding wishes come true at Villa la Joya.

Villa La Joya: Where Their Vision Came to Life

Kristee from Fresa Weddings had planned many magical weddings at Villa La Joya, and we had admired them on social media for years. When she mentioned it as an option, we jumped at the chance! The outdoor space is absolutely stunning, and we instantly knew it was the one.

And it all unfolded beautifully.

Deeply Personal and Moving: Garden Ceremony Blessed by Family Love

Lena and Eli tied the knot in a private garden ceremony with the bride’s brother officiating. Having a family member lead the vows created a personal and emotional moment that set the tone for the entire day.

They stood beneath a beautiful floral arch in soft pinks, neutral tones and eucalyptus. It looked like something from an editorial feature in a destination wedding magazine. With the Mexican Caribbean behind them and the afternoon light glowing across her lace gown and elegant flowing veil, they read their vows with their whole hearts.

Exclusive and Intimate: Small Private Wedding with Big Love

A small and intentionally intimate guest list created a relaxed atmosphere from the very beginning. Chic lounge furniture turned cocktail hour into a stylish open air living room by the sea. Guests sipped margaritas, hugged, laughed and settled into that cozy feeling that destination weddings create so naturally.

Unity, Joy, Amor: A Family Wedding Reception with Heart and Soul

Instead of a sweetheart table, the newlyweds sat among their guests at one long elegant table beside the pool. As the sun went down, the space transformed into a glowing romantic setting. Speeches and toasts brought tears and laughter and the newlyweds were surrounded by the love and support of their family. Priceless moments.

Private Outdoor Reception in Mexico: Dining and Dancing By the Sea

Gold rimmed glassware, candlelight everywhere, and lush florals created a soft, delicate atmosphere that was entirely warm and inviting. Tacos and margaritas made a well-deserved appearance. And the cake display, with modern tiers surrounded by sculptural florals, was a piece of art in itself.

Their first dances and late-night twirls took place beneath lanterns and in the glow of the candles. The lighting was soft, the atmosphere was dreamy, and the entire moment felt like a scene from a classic romance film. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with emotion and effortless joy.

A Tequila Toast to Love

Before the night ended, everyone gathered for a tequila toast. One united group, glasses raised high, celebrating the newlyweds. It captured everything that makes Villa La Joya weddings so special: closeness, joy and the kind of celebration that feels personal and heartfelt.

Final Thoughts From Newlyweds Lena and Eli

We asked Lena and Eli if they would change anything about their destination wedding day at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya:

Absolutely nothing! It was the most perfect day — from the stunning beach photos to the amazing staff who made everything seamless. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how beautiful, organized, and magical it all was.

If you’re even thinking about it… do it! It was the best decision we’ve ever made, and we can’t wait to return one day to relive those memories.

Muchas Gracias, Big Thank You to the Newlyweds

To our beautiful couple, Lena and Eli, thank you for choosing Villa La Joya for your destination wedding celebration. Your day was filled with warmth, intention, and love. We wish you a lifetime of happiness and moments just as meaningful as the ones we witnessed here.

Our Sensational Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team

This unforgettable celebration was brought to life by a team of talented creative professionals whose artistry and seamless execution made the day extraordinary.

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planner: Fresa Weddings | Photographer: Wild Pines Photography | Hair and Makeup: Beso Brides | Dress & Veil: Blanche Bridal | Bridal Shop: Genevieves Bridal Couture | Shoes: Naot Shoes, style “Glamour” | Florist: Luis Salas Floral Experience | Decor Rentals: Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Travel Agent: Playa Bella Weddings & Travel

Plan Your Own Private Villa Wedding in Mexico: Show Us Your Vision Boards!

If you are planning a wedding with goals of a heartfelt celebration filled with beauty, personality and effortless Riviera Maya elegance, our Villa la Joya team would love to hear your ideas. Book a video call with us and let’s begin creating a wedding day that feels uniquely yours.