Joanna and Raphael’s Romantic Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

This Mexico destination wedding is overflowing with pretty details, romantic touches, a super sweet bride and groom and a whole lot of love from family and friends. We are excited to share the Villa la Joya wedding love story of Joanna and Raphael with you. Ready to be inspired?

How to plan a romantic wedding in Mexico: Private villa wedding magic with Joanna and Raphael

Joanna and Raphael’s Villa la Joya wedding was simply perfection, a “how to” of planning a classic romantic beach wedding without the sand. Every detail was thoughtful and elegant, from the striking circular floral arch for the ceremony on the Villa la Joya stairs to the tiniest buds on the wedding cake and the surprise fireworks over the sea. The gold table settings, lush blush roses with pampas grass, an elegant sweethearts table with a chandelier, we could go on and on and on and on. 

A little rain on their wedding day didn’t dampen the spirit of the celebration of love. The sky tent over the Villa la Joya pool with all of the twinkly lights and surrounding palm trees created a beautiful setting, rain or shine. The personalized dance floor in the calligraphy style of the day’s signs and programs was a fab touch! Gourmet Soberanis outdid themselves with their Playa del Carmen wedding catering, delicious and beautifully presented.

Why choose a destination wedding in Mexico? How did you decide on a Villa la Joya wedding?

We always ask our newlyweds why they chose a destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. We are so glad they did, thanks Joanna and Raphael!

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

“Our families are from opposite coasts in the United States, and we wanted a location that would be a compromise for both sides. However, we didn't love the idea of getting married in Texas. So, we thought of doing a destination wedding to host a wonderful time for our families and friends. Many of them hadn't been to Mexico before and we absolutely loved our visits to the Cancun area, so we settled on Playa Del Carmen. Raphael's mom was so happy when we told her our wedding was in Mexico - she danced all around the house and called all her sisters to let her know. “

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

“We went to a few resorts and didn't love the idea of the wedding not being completely private. As soon as we saw Villa La Joya, we knew that was it! Villa La Joya is so beautiful and ethereal; it fit perfectly with the romantic theme that we were looking for.“

Reflections of a Mexico destination wedding newlywed: Advice and thoughts from bride Joanna

The day goes by so quickly, with so much emotion and a flurry of activities, it’s hard to soak it all in. Reflecting on the experience of planning a destination wedding in Mexico, lovely Joanna was kind enough to share her thoughts and advice from a newlywed bride.

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

Our favorite memories of our wedding day have to be:

1. Our first look: it was filled with so many tears, but also so much laughter. It was such a special moment and it felt surreal knowing that I was seeing my husband for the first time.

2. Having all of our friends and family in one place coming to celebrate our love and the coming together of two families. We had such a great time hosting everyone all week - it felt like one big sleep over at the resort!

3. Fireworks: Who doesn't love fireworks? It was such a surprise for our guests and really brought the whole wedding together!

Anything you would have done differently on your wedding day?

We would have eaten more! The food at the wedding was so phenomenal. Chef Tomas Soberanis did not disappoint. Huge shout out to him and his team - everyone remembers yummy food at a wedding. At least I do!

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

1. Eat lots, drink lots, and be merry (married)!

2. Your photographer is your best friend that day.

3. Don't stress about the details - you won't notice them when you're enjoying the day.

Sage advice from a savvy bride, thanks so much Joanna. We wish you and Raphael a phenomenal lifetime of happiness and amor together!

Plan your own romantic wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya, contact us today

We know this was a super inspirational wedding, are you ready to start planning your own? We can’t wait to hear your ideas and make all your dreams of romance come true with the best wedding vendors in Mexico. Contact us today!

As always, a super big muchas gracias to all the world-class vendors who made this day such a romantic success. 

Wedding Planning - Pride Maya Weddings

Photography - Two Fourteen Photography

Video - Frame Wedding Film

Glam Team - Daniela Delgado

Floral Design - Cherry Blossom

Rentals - EW Cancun

Catering - Gourmet Soberanis

Bar & Cocktails - Be You Service

Cake - Lali Pasteles

Churros - Los Pockets

Dance Floor & Lighting - Grupo Gama

DJ - Evolution Mix

Photobooth - La Cabina