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Real Weddings

Jazmine & Danny’s Spectacular Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

January 31, 2025

When a luxury travel agent from New York City ties the knot in paradise, you know it’s going to be unforgettable. Newlyweds Jazmine and Danny brought elegance, love, and plenty of glamour to their stunning destination wedding at Villa la Joya.

With her dark hair and radiant beauty, Jazmine wowed in a strapless wedding gown featuring a chic slit, while Danny was every bit the dashing groom in a white dinner jacket with black lapels. Their little one, baby Madison, joined them for this beautiful family-friendly affair, along with sweet flower girls in white, adding an extra layer of charm to the celebration.

A Private Villa Wedding Ceremony in White Elegance

The wedding ceremony took place on the iconic front steps of Villa la Joya, framed by exquisite white floral arrangements that set a romantic, timeless tone. After exchanging vows, the couple and their guests enjoyed a unique cocktail hour complete with an oyster bar featuring freshly shucked oysters and lobster tails sizzling on the grill - an indulgent touch that perfectly matched the luxe vibe of the day.

Contact Villa la Joya Riviera Maya today to start planning your own private villa wedding in Mexico!

A Reception Fit for Royalty

Dining and dancing under floating chandeliers and surrounded by crystal accents, the poolside Villa la Joya reception was a dazzling display of elegance. The sweethearts’ table, framed by a breathtaking round floral backdrop, was a stunning focal point of the evening. Guests were treated to an incredible live band that kept the dance floor jumping, while fireworks lit up the Riviera Maya night to welcome the newlyweds.

Jazmine turned heads with her stunning reception dress, and Danny showed off his sharp style with a hat and shoes perfect for their first spin as husband and wife. The pair dazzled their guests with a show-stopping dance, complete with dry fireworks and fantastic live music.

All of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya send our thanks and our best wishes to Jazmine and Danny. We had a great time and we thank you for a memorable celebration of love!

A Dream Wedding Brought to Life

From the carefully curated details to the flawless execution, this wedding was a testament to the magic that happens when you bring together a beautiful couple, an amazing team of vendors, and a private villa wedding venue like Villa la Joya. We send all our gratitude to the incredible professionals who made this destination wedding in Mexico pure magic.

Vendors:

Our planner, Adri, had an incredible time working with Jazmine and Danny, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have been part of their unforgettable day.

Madith and Robert’s Destination Wedding in the Riviera Maya

November 12, 2024

Expect the unexpected at this unique and personal private villa wedding in the Riviera Maya. Villa la Joya was honored to welcome Madith and Robert to our beachside wedding venue and we can’t wait to share this love story from our little piece of paradise.

What’s ahead in this gorgeous Riviera Maya wedding? Inspiration!

Sexy, corseted lace bridal gown with a stunning train by Janene’s Bridal

Traditional filipino “barong’ formal wear for the groom

Dreamy bohemian wedding decor in the Villa la Joya garden

Breathtaking overhead floral table settings made for conversation

Reception perfection with dancing, fireworks and a yummy dessert table.

Madith and Robert Tie the Knot at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

By the light of the afternoon sun, Madith and Robert united their nearest and dearest to celebrate their love forever at their Villa la Joya Riviera Maya wedding. Adriana of Villa Planners worked with the couple in love to bring their destination wedding vision to life in a bohemian fantasy with some fun surprises and a whole lot of family amor.

Why did you choose Riviera Maya, Mexico for your destination wedding?

I chose Riviera Maya, Mexico because of the beautiful ocean and the divine weather. It makes the perfect dream wedding.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

I came across Villa La Joya online. It checked off all my expectations in what a perfect beach wedding is and it was just that.

Garden wedding ceremony in the Riviera Maya in romantic, bohemian style.

Madith and Robert joined together in a moving ceremony surrounded by the love of their closest family and friends. The bride was spectacular in a corseted bridal gown by Janene’s Bridal and groom Robert wore a magnificent Filipino “barong”. This traditional embroidered garment is worn to weddings and festivals in the Philippines. It is similar to the “guayabera" of Mexico!

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

Our favorite and most emotional part of our wedding was finally seeing each other at the altar. I knew I was emotional during my get-ready. I thought to myself to “Cry now before getting my makeup done”. Then, when I saw my soon-to-be husband crying, I knew that this is the moment I want to remember, him & I embracing each other with the presence of our closest loved ones.

Beachside destination wedding reception in the Riviera Maya at Villa la Joya

Madith and Robert welcomed their guests to eat, drink and be merry in their reception by the sea at their private villa wedding in Playa del Carmen. We LOVED the bohemian feel of the sweethearts table and all the florals in champagne tones. The overhead centrepieces by Floreria Fiore of dangling blooms and pampas grass were total conversation starters and absolutely unique.

There were so many memorable details, Adriana of Villa Planners assembled the best Riviera Maya wedding planners. From the translucent dance floor over the pool, dry fireworks, incredible dessert table and cake to the newlyweds kicking the party into high gear with their laser smoke guns (you have to see them), this was a uniquely personal Riviera Maya wedding.

Congratulations to Madith and Robert, thank you for sharing your wedding day with Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

All of us at Villa la Joya wish Madith and Robert a long and happy life together, we had such fun hosting your wedding day. We know this sweet couple will enjoy a lifetime of laughter and joy surrounded by a loving group of family and friends.

Looking for a private Riviera Maya wedding venue to host your big day? Feeling inspired? Contact us today at Villa la Joya and show us your vision boards, we can’t wait to meet you! Schedule a video conflab with our team and let’s make wedding dreams come true.

Muchas gracias to the best Riviera Maya wedding vendors

As always we are extremely grateful to the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who make all the events at Villa la Joya so magical. You bring creativity and professionalism to our villa every single time and we appreciate all of you for making Madith and Robert’s wedding day so perfect.

Big Congratulations! Nathalie and Camil Get Married in Mexico

June 26, 2024

Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen was delighted to host the destination wedding of Nathalie and Camil. This beautiful young couple traveled to Mexico to get married and brought their nearest and dearest along for a joyous celebration of their love. Romance, family and a perfect day to tie the knot in paradise.

Romantic and Elegant Garden Wedding in Playa del Carmen

Nathalie and Camil met in university and their love story quickly blossomed and just keeps on glowing and growing. The couple dreamed of a “romantic and elegant garden wedding theme” and our Playa del Carmen wedding vendors set a magical scene by the sea. The gardens of Villa la Joya were aglow with candlelight, sparklers, and the smiles of family and friends.

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

Because it’s the perfect warm destination where everyone will have a good time.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya for your wedding venue in Mexico?

Villa La Joya stood out as the only venue that perfectly combined intimacy with elegance, all set against the stunning backdrop of a beachfront location.

Personal and Moving Family Wedding Ceremony at Villa la Joya

Bride Nathalie glowed sexy and sophisticated in her white strapless bridal gown with a gorgeous neckline and “nude illusion” inserts, a pretty veil and her hair loose and flowing in the ocean breeze. Groom Camil wore a classic white tuxedo jacket with black pants, chic and handsome beside his beautiful bride.

The wedding altar arch of colorful garden flowers created a frame for the ceremony with the waves of the sea as a natural backdrop. The officiant was a loved one of Nathalie and Camil which always makes the ceremony personal, moving and a true ode to the love of the bride and groom and the union of their families. Pretty flower girls and adorable ring bearers, this was a family-friendly wedding that welcomed guests of all ages to celebrate love.

What was your favorite moment of your wedding day?

We didn’t do a first look, so we hadn’t seen the venue before walking down the aisle. When we each walked in for the ceremony, seeing how beautiful everything was and seeing each other for the first time that day was incredibly special and emotional.

Warm and Welcoming Villa la Joya Destination Wedding Reception

The gardens and pool area of Villa la Joya were decorated with warm wood furniture, glorious displays of garden flowers and candles. The champagne corks were popping, conversation flowing and music had people dancing and twirling even during the cocktail hour.

As the sun went down, the twinkling lights and candles lit up the happy faces of the newlyweds and the guests. The toasts brought tears and laughter and set the tone for a wonderful wedding reception celebration of both family and romantic love. Bride Nathalie changed into her gorgeous reception dress and was the brightest star on the dance floor beside her newlywed husband.

The best advice for destination wedding brides from bride Nathalie

“Pretend you’re a guest at your own wedding, don’t try to control anything that day. Just relax and enjoy the moment.”

We ask all our Villa la Joya newlyweds to share tips for couples planning a destination wedding. The advice we received from Nathalie was spot on, we loved her answer to pretend you are a guest at your own wedding!!

After all the wedding planning, the ins and outs of decor and cuisine and flowers and cake and travel, when it is all said and done and you are preparing to walk down the aisle, just relax and enjoy the moment. Feel the love. Raise a glass. Embrace the most important people in your life. Dance with abandon. Kiss and laugh and cry happy tears. Priceless moments.

Thank you to Nathalie and Camil, we wish you a lifetime of joy and happiness together

From all of us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen, we extend our gratitude to Nathalie and Camil for allowing us to be a part of your Mexico destination wedding day. We send our most heartfelt wishes for a long and joyous life together, may all your days be filled with laughter and love.

Feeling inspired by this real destination wedding in Mexico? Let us know and let’s start planning!

We just know these real destination wedding photos will inspire you, it was such a gorgeous day! Share your love story with us at Villa la Joya, reach out now and let’s make your Mexico wedding dreams come true. We work with world-class professional wedding vendors to bring your destination wedding vision to life. And oh, we never charge a vendor fee. Those pesos are best spent on magical moments!

Big gracias to all the destination wedding vendors who made Nathalie and Camil’s day simply marvelous.

Zayla and Joel Get Married in Mexico: Villa la Joya Riviera Maya Real Wedding Inspiration

June 8, 2024

A “pretty in pastel pink” family wedding at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. Zayla and Joel brought their nearest and dearest to celebrate their love with a fun and fabulous destination wedding in Mexico. Moving, meaningful and oh so magical, get ready for some real wedding inspiration in Riviera Maya with this lovely newlywed couple from Canada.

Elegant wedding ceremony at Villa la Joya: Zayla and Joel say “I do”

Bride Zayla wore an elegant strapless bridal gown with a glorious long veil cascading from her class bridal updo, absolutely beautiful. Groom Joel looked sharp by her side in his formal tuxedo with a white dinner jacket. Family and friends were invited to dress in "Formal and Festive" attire, resulting in a fun, vibrant, and fresh color palette.

The couple were showered with the love of family and friends as they exchanged vows on the steps of Villa la Joya. We loved the ceremony set-up with glorious pink and pastel florals on pillars of white by Pri Ola!

Why choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

Hearing from “real brides” who have chosen Mexico for their destination wedding is one of the best ways for you to decide if it is the choice for you and your loved ones. Getting away from the cold is always a top answer for our Canadian friends from up north.

We chose Mexico to escape the cold winters of Canada and to share several special days with our loved ones, rather than just one. Choosing Mexico allowed us to spend a week with friends and family at a resort, while also hosting our dream wedding off the resort for a day. It was the best decision we could have made!

What made you decide on a Villa La Joya Riviera Maya wedding?

Zayla & Joel found our Riviera Maya wedding venue at Villa la Joya on wedinspire.com and we are so happy they did! It was a real pleasure to meet this charming couple and host their warm and welcoming wedding in Mexico.

Villa La Joya is a picturesque venue for a wedding. Additionally, it allowed us to offer our guests an experience outside of the typical all-inclusive resort setting. While resort weddings are fantastic, we wanted to break away from the routine and take our guests somewhere memorable. Choosing Villa La Joya allowed us to express our appreciation to our loved ones and experience our wedding in a truly special and meaningful way.

What was your favorite moment of your Villa la Joya Riviera Maya wedding day?

For the Bride:

Starting the day at the Villa La Joya condo was pure bliss – the calm before the beautiful storm! But nothing could top the emotions when saw Joel at the altar, exchanging our vows, laughing, and crying. That, and dancing the night away with our favorite people!

For the Groom:

Deciding to forego a first look and see each other for the first time down the aisle added to the magic of our wedding. Enjoying incredible food and later dancing in the open air with our loved ones was the pinnacle of the day!

Celebration time! Riviera Maya wedding reception at Villa la Joya

After the elegant and moving ceremony, Zayla and Joel brought their guests to the seaside gardens of Villa la Joya for a wedding reception full of laughter and smiles. Great food from Gourmet Soberanis, a mariachi serenade, and a light-up dance floor that glowed as everyone danced the night away and toasted the newlyweds.

Advice for brides planning a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya?

Bride Zayla is now “Newlywed Zayla” and she was kind enough to share her best advice to future destination wedding brides and grooms. These are priceless recommendations from someone who has lived the experience!

A few things:

1. Hire a wonderful planner. Working with Mango Weddings was the best decision we made. They were professional, understood our vision, and handled every detail flawlessly.

2. Spend the morning with your closest people. It's an intimate time, so give yourself plenty of time to savor the moment, enjoy mimosas, and allow ample time for hair and makeup.

3. Stay true to yourselves. As a couple, many people will offer their opinions. Remember, it's your day to celebrate with the people you love, so do it in a way that feels authentic to you as a couple!

Gratitude and love to Zayla and Joel from all of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

We had such a wonderful time hosting the destination wedding of Zayla and Joel, we send you both much love and gratitude from all of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya. We are grateful to have been invited to share in your family wedding celebration and we wish you all the best for a long and happy lifetime of love together!

Riviera Maya wedding vendor love: We couldn’t do it without you!

We are so fortunate to work with the best wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya. Every wedding at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya is unique and these vendors are creative professionals who always exceed the expectations of our brides and grooms. We thank you and we adore you and we are so grateful for all your dedication to romance!

And hey, remember lovebirds, there are NEVER any vendor fees at your Riviera Maya wedding at Villa la Joya! Contact us today at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen and let’s start making your destination wedding dreams come true.

Joanna and Rafa’s Inspiring Love Story and Destination Wedding in Mexico

May 14, 2024

The team at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen is grateful to spend our days immersed in love stories and making wedding dreams come true. We are excited to share these stories with you and while I always enjoy writing these tales, sometimes the bride’s words are just so moving that I don’t need to write a thing or change a word.

Bride Joanna shares with us the love story of how she met husband Rafa:

Their love story began with a chance encounter in high school. Joanna and Rafael’s paths converged, sparking a connection that would change their lives forever. After that fateful meeting, Joanna extended a heartfelt invitation to Rafael, inviting him to be a part of her quinceañera celebration. Little did they know that this simple gesture would set the stage for an enduring love story.

As they navigated the trials and tribulations of adolescence, fate threw them a curveball when Joanna received a life-altering diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Facing this daunting challenge at such a tender age, they were forced to make a profound decision about starting a family earlier than planned. With unwavering devotion to each other, Joanna and Rafael chose to embrace the moment, and together, they welcomed a beautiful daughter into the world. This unexpected twist in their journey would lead them down a path of maturity and responsibility they never could have anticipated.

Now, 15 years after that serendipitous encounter, Joanna and Rafael are on the verge of a heartwarming union, sealing their love in matrimony. Their remarkable journey serves as a testament to the power of love, resilience, and the extraordinary bond that can be forged between two souls. Their impending wedding is a culmination of their enduring love story, a celebration of their unwavering commitment, and a reminder that love can conquer any challenge life throws their way.

Pass the tissues please, yes, we are crying already and we haven’t even gotten to the ceremony.

Why choose Mexico for your destination wedding ceremony?

We picked Mexico as our destination since it served as a midpoint for both families, as some relatives couldn’t join us in the United States. Additionally, Mexico’s beauty, culture, and all its offerings were appealing factors for our decision.

Joanna and Rafa said “We do” in the gardens of Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. The set-up was delightfully romantic, the geometric altar aligned with the Mexican Caribbean sea in the background and framing our gorgeous couple perfectly.

Florals by Cherry Blossom brought a luscious touch to the altar, the aisle and of course those amazing bouquets. We adore sweet flower girls and ring bearers coming down a grass aisle lined by flower petals.

What made you decide on a wedding reception at Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen?

Villa la Joya captured our attention with its stunning architecture and the beautiful Playa Paraiso beach. When we visited the location in person, it truly left us speechless and filled us with emotions. We instantly knew that our celebration had to take place at the exquisite Villa la Joya.

We totally loved the set-up starting with Total Tents and their gorgeous translucent tent with flowing waves of fabric. Beautiful table settings and florals, personalized dance floor and the lighting for the reception over the Villa la Joya pool, just perfect. Moving toasts, tequila and a whole lot of dancing, it was a magic night of celebration and a Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding to remember.

Any advice you’d like to share with other brides planning a destination wedding in Mexico?

Savor the Present. It’s easy to get carried away with planning and striving for perfection, but things have a way of falling perfectly into place. A helpful tip, though, would be to avoid bringing your personal phone near water – my phone got wet and stopped working just a day before the wedding, a funny mishap in hindsight!

Gracias Joanna and Rafa: Thanks for your inspirational destination wedding love story!

We thank you both for inviting Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen to be part of the wedding chapter of your love story. From all of us, we send you both wishes for a long, healthy, and happy lifetime together!

As always, we share our gratitude with the Playa del Carmen wedding vendors who make all our Villa la Joya events so special. Professional, creative, world-class, gracias.

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