Johanna and Ferran's wedding was built on the things that mattered to them: faith, family, and a party their people would remember. A traditional Catholic ceremony, a family-style dinner, and one very happy group of guests who came ready to celebrate — it all unfolded here in a single golden afternoon that stretched late into the night.

A Traditional Catholic Ceremony at Villa la Joya

Johanna and Ferran exchanged vows on Villa la Joya's front steps, where flowing white drapery framed the entrance and lush green and white floral arrangements highlighted the villa's architecture and the tropical setting.

Guests were welcomed with white parasols and handheld fans, thoughtful additions that offered relief from the Riviera Maya sunshine while adding to the ceremony's simple, elegant design. Light wood chairs completed the setting, keeping the focus exactly where it belonged.

Their Catholic ceremony included the traditional lazo ritual, a meaningful symbol of unity and lifelong commitment. It was one of several moments throughout the day that reflected the importance of family and tradition to the bride and groom.

As they made their way back down the aisle, Johanna was beaming. She held her bouquet high while Ferran raised his hand overhead as friends and family cheered around them. It was one of those joyful “just-married” moments that needs very little explanation.

Contemporary Bridal Style

Johanna chose a fitted wedding gown with clean lines and a daring thigh-high slit that gave the classic silhouette a modern edge. She completed the look with a long veil, lacy gloves and a fresh bouquet of white and green blooms. Ferran wore a classic black tuxedo and bow tie, a timeless choice that suited the formal ceremony perfectly.

Mariachis and a Family-Style Reception

Cocktail hour began with live mariachi music as guests gathered in the Villa la Joya garden overlooking the Mexican Caribbean Sea. A cozy seating area, refreshing drinks and music set the scene for the festivities ahead.

Long family-style tables stretched across the terrace beneath oversized woven pendant lights that were one of the reception's standout design features. Green runners, warm wood chargers, brushed gold flatware and simple white florals created a beautiful tablescape. One of our favourite details was the fresh green apples, grapes and limes woven into the centrepieces, adding colour and texture without overwhelming the design.

Instead of choosing a sweetheart table or a traditional head table, Johanna and Ferran sat among their family and friends, sharing dinner with the people who had travelled to celebrate with them.

Nancy and the team at Villa Planners held the whole day together, moving everyone through ceremony, cocktails, and dinner without a single seam showing.

A Reception Full of Celebration. And Tequila.

The celebration picked up the moment Johanna and Ferran entered the reception, welcomed by cheering guests who were more than ready to get the party started.

One of the most memorable moments of the evening had a very Mexican flavor. The catering team brought tequila directly to the guests instead of waiting behind the bar. Dancing between the tables with bottles topped by sparkling fireworks, they turned serving drinks into part of the entertainment. Laughter, cheers and plenty of raised glasses followed.

Thank you for bringing your faith, your families, and that much joy to Villa la Joya. We wish you a lifetime that feels like your reception did.

Planning Your Own Villa la Joya Wedding?

Johanna and Ferran's wedding never felt like it was trying too hard. The ceremony was rooted in tradition, the dinner felt like family, and the party took care of itself. That balance, meaningful and relaxed in the same breath, is what this estate does best.

If you're planning your own destination wedding in Mexico, explore more of our real Villa la Joya weddings and discover the many ways couples have made this private villa entirely their own.