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Wedding Planning

Bridesmaid Dress Trends Taking Over Destination Weddings in 2025

January 26, 2025

Destination wedding bridesmaid fashion in 2025 is all about creativity, personality, and versatility. Gone are the days of uniform styles - this year’s trends highlight individuality while maintaining a cohesive bridal party look. Here are the hottest bridesmaid dress styles that are stealing the spotlight this wedding season in the Riviera Maya.

Floral Bridesmaid Dresses: Romantic and Whimsical

Florals are flourishing this year, with bridesmaid dresses showcasing delicate blooms, bold botanical prints, and watercolor-inspired patterns. These dresses add a touch of romance and complement outdoor weddings in the Villa la Joya garden beautifully.

From soft pastels to vibrant hues, floral prints bring a fresh, natural vibe to any wedding and are a great fit for the architectural beauty of Villa la Joya.

Mismatched Bridesmaid Dresses: Personalized Perfection

The mismatched bridal party look continues to rock 2025 wedding trends, allowing bridesmaids to showcase their unique personal style while maintaining a cohesive look.

Whether it’s variations in color, fabric, or neckline, this approach lets bridal parties create a curated yet effortless aesthetic. Pro tip: stick to a unified color palette or theme for the perfect balance.

Neutral Bridesmaid Dresses: Timeless Elegance

Soft, neutral tones like champagne, taupe, and blush are reigning supreme. These muted hues offer a sophisticated and timeless look, complementing any wedding theme or season. Neutral bridesmaid dresses also photograph beautifully with the natural tropical surroundings of our Villa la Joya wedding venue.

Contact Villa la Joya today, let’s start planning your Riviera Maya wedding

Baby Yellow Bridesmaid Dresses: A Bright New Favorite

A surprising star in 2025 weddings, baby yellow bridesmaid dresses are adding a sunny pop of color to bridal parties. Perfect for spring and summer weddings, this cheerful hue flatters a range of skin tones and brings an uplifting, joyful energy to the celebration. We expect to see more of this fresh trend lighting up our Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen outdoor weddings.

Black Bridesmaid Dresses: Modern and Bold

Black bridesmaid dresses are making waves this year, offering a sleek and sophisticated option for modern brides. These dresses are perfect for evening weddings and formal affairs, and they exude timeless elegance with a contemporary edge.

Bonus: black dresses are universally flattering and a favorite for bridesmaids who want something they can wear again. They look amazing against the marble of Villa la Joya and the turquoise sea of the Mexican Caribbean.

Midi Bridesmaid Dresses: Chic and Versatile

Midi-length dresses are a hit in 2025 for their stylish and practical appeal. Falling between the knee and ankle, this silhouette works great for both casual and formal weddings. Midi dresses pair beautifully with trendy heels or strappy sandals, making them a versatile choice for your bridesmaids in the Riviera Maya.

Bridesmaid fashion in 2025 is all about celebrating individuality and creating stunning visual harmony for your wedding day. Whether your bridal party opts for mismatched styles, sunny baby yellows, or timeless neutrals, these bridesmaid dress trends for 2025 promise to elevate your Villa la Joya destination wedding day with elegance and flair.

We are so excited for wedding season 2025 in the Riviera Maya, color, energy, joy, and love, we are ready to welcome you and yours. Schedule a video call with Villa la Joya today to book our private villa wedding venue in Mexico.

Photo credits in no particular order: Lux Art Wedding Studio, Amor Amor Weddings, Christina Powell, Martin Wilk, Arch Wedding Studio, Bohemia Photography, Staci Brucks, FineArt Studio, Andre Gouin, Kristelle Boulos, Brittany Photography, Caro Navarro Photography, Moni & Adri.

Top Tips for Planning Your 2025 Destination Wedding in Mexico

December 30, 2024

Dreaming of a destination wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico? With its turquoise waters, white-sand beaches, and romantic vibes, it’s no wonder couples from around the world are choosing our tropical paradise to say “I do.”

If you’re planning your wedding for 2025, here are the top tips to make your celebration unforgettable!

1. Book Your Riviera Maya Wedding Venue Early - 2025 Dates Are Filling Fast!

Mexico’s popularity as a wedding destination keeps growing, and 2025 is set to be a record-breaking year for celebrations. The best venues and vendors get snapped up quickly, so don’t delay when it comes to locking in your date.

At Villa La Joya Riviera Maya, we only host one wedding per day, ensuring you get the attention and exclusivity your big day deserves. Our 2025 calendar is already filling with love stories - could yours be next?

2. Add Mexican Flair to Your Wedding Theme

Make your destination wedding stand out by embracing Mexico’s rich culture and traditions. From mariachi bands and tequila tasting stations to vibrant papel picado banners, these special touches add fun and authenticity to your big day.

Need ideas? At Villa La Joya, we work with the best wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya to bring your vision to life. Whether it’s fresh churros, festive piñatas, or even a donkey in a flowered hat, we’ve got the connections to make it happen.

3. Prepare for Weather– and Epic Photos!

The Riviera Maya weather is breathtaking year-round, but it’s always smart to plan for sunshine and occasional tropical showers. Consider adding shade, fans, and hydration stations to keep your guests comfortable, especially during warmer months.

At Villa La Joya, we’ve seen it all and have solutions for any weather scenario. If rain decides to make a surprise appearance, don’t worry - rain on your wedding day is a sign of good luck and often results in gorgeous, dramatic photos.

4. Choose Local Wedding Vendors You Can Trust

The key to a smooth, stress-free destination wedding? Reliable, experienced wedding vendors in Mexico who understand the local area and logistics.

At Villa La Joya, we partner with Villa Planners, our expert in-house team, to handle every detail flawlessly. From floral designs to timelines, we make your dream wedding a reality - and we have so much fun doing it. Trust us, we’ve got this and we love what we do.

5. Turn Your Wedding Into a Vacation to Remember

Your destination wedding day is just the beginning - why not turn it into a wedding week in Mexico filled with unforgettable experiences?

Treat your guests to snorkeling adventures, cenote swims, or visits to ancient Mayan ruins. Or go all out with:

A Mexican welcome party at Xoximilco - think floating fiestas and music.
A rehearsal dinner on a sunset catamaran in Playa del Carmen.

With so much to see and do, your Riviera Maya wedding celebration will feel like the ultimate getaway for everyone. Shared experiences and deeper bonds with loved ones make memories that will last a lifetime.

Rehearsal Dinner at Lido Beach Club. Photo by Beeer Photography

Start Planning Your 2025 Destination Wedding at Villa La Joya, Mexico Today!

Ready to bring your Mexico wedding ideas to life? Villa La Joya in Playa del Carmen offers stunning oceanfront views, exclusive access with only ONE wedding per day, and endless possibilities to create a magical experience.

Contact us today and let’s start planning your 2025 wedding in Riviera Maya - where love meets paradise and the wedding professionals are world-class! Schedule a video meet with our team today. Let’s talk, show us those vision boards!

Photo Credits in no particular order: Fine Art Wedding Studio, Howard Band, Amor Amor Weddings, Caro Navarro.

Riviera Maya Wedding Venue Experience

October 28, 2024

Arcelia and David’s Love Story at Villa la Joya: Riviera Maya Wedding Venue Experience

After every wedding at Villa la Joya, we love to reconnect with the couples who celebrated their special day at our private venue in the Riviera Maya. Once the festivities have concluded and the newlyweds embark on their happily ever after, we send out a brief questionnaire to capture their unique love story. We’re excited to feature these beautiful tales on our Real Destination Weddings blog.

The love stories we receive are truly unique, and each response to our questionnaire is a delight to read. Arcelia and David generously shared their heartfelt journey with us, and we absolutely loved their in-depth reply. We believe their story will inspire and guide anyone planning a destination wedding in Mexico.

Arcelia’s beautifully crafted words resonate deeply, showcasing her talent for storytelling. We’re excited to let her share their love story along with her valuable tips for brides planning a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya at Villa la Joya.

How did you meet your true love? Tell us about your proposal and engagement!

From the bride: How we met

In the fall of 2018, in the vibrant city lights of Houston, destiny wove a tale of love at a networking event. Arcelia, a skilled legal professional entered the venue with a mix of anticipation and nerves. Meanwhile, David, a charismatic tech savvy entrepreneur effortlessly held court in a corner of the room.

As fate would have it, their worlds collided when David was drawn to Arcelia's insights, passion and animated conversation about the future of business. What began as professional curiosity transformed into a personal connection, catching David off guard.

Their initial conversations weren't just about business; they discovered a shared vision, a mutual love for pushing boundaries, and a passion for embracing change. The connection they formed that evening was more than just professional - it was a spark that ignited a flame of something deeper.

Days turned into weeks, and Arcelia and David found themselves not only collaborating professionally but also exploring the depths of their personal stories. David’s chivalry was evident in the way he treated not only Arcelia but also the significant women in his life, his mom and sisters, was a testament to his understanding of respect and admiration. Their connection deepened further when their first date took place at a local church. Common principles such as a deep sense of faith and a strong commitment to family became the foundation of their bond. Coffee meetings turned into dinners, and soon, they were inseparable. Their shared dreams and the undeniable chemistry between them turned into a beautiful relationship.

The engagement and wedding proposal:
In December of 2022, David planned a romantic dinner that exceeded all expectations. The setting was enchanting – a softly lit private dining room adorned with a pianist singing a romantic melody, flickering candles casting a warm, glow, vibrant balloons adding a touch of playfulness, and fragrant flowers creating an ambiance of love.

As the night unfolded, the atmosphere became even more magical when big lights illuminated the words "Marry Me?" David dropped to one knee and poured his heart out to Arcelia, expressing his deepest feelings, and proposing amidst the sparkling lights. The moment was enchanting, followed by a tequila toast, and a mariachi band that created a dynamic duo that symbolizes the essence of their Mexican culture. To their delight, as the door opened a reveal of both families, turning the celebration into a joyous, harmonious, love-filled affair. As they celebrated their love surrounded by the glow of December lights, Arcelia and David embraced the next chapter of their journey with hearts full of joy and the promise of a beautiful future together.

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

We chose the Riviera Maya, Mexico for our destination wedding because it holds special memories from our early days of dating when we first traveled there together. Our shared love for the beach and the enchanting beauty of the area made it the perfect choice. We also wanted our wedding to celebrate our cultures, and Mexico was the ideal setting for this meaningful occasion.

How did you choose Villa La Joya as your destination wedding venue?

We first discovered Villa La Joya on TikTok and instantly fell in love with the stunning views we saw on screen. Eight months before our wedding, we booked a flight to Mexico to kick off the planning process and scheduled tours of various venues. When we visited Villa La Joya, we knew it was the one - it had everything we were looking for breathtaking beach views, separate getting-ready houses for both the bride and groom, and a convenient location just a short drive from the city.

What are the highlights of your Riviera Maya wedding at Villa la Joya?

What was your destination wedding theme, and how did you celebrate?
Our wedding theme was elegant and classy, featuring beautiful white flowers throughout the venue. We celebrated with fireworks, a curated selection of tequila, great music, and exquisite food options, creating an unforgettable atmosphere for our special day.

What were the highlights and favorite moments of your Riviera Maya wedding day?
Narrowing down our favorite moments from the wedding is truly a challenge because the entire day was a stunning blend of surprises, laughter, and pure joy. The most emotional part for us was during the ceremony, as we exchanged our personalized vows alongside the ocean breeze and the warm sun on our faces, surrounded by our beloved friends and family, it felt like pure magic.

Another highlight was the family toast, where our loved ones shared heartfelt words that touched our hearts. And of course, our favorite moment was dancing under the moonlight, with the gentle breeze and vibrant beats, surrounded by our closest friends and family, creating endless unforgettable memories together.

Advice for couples planning a destination wedding in Mexico?

Anything you would have done differently on your wedding day?

Everything about our wedding was perfect, from our amazing vendors to the flow of the day. However, we wish we had paid everything upfront to avoid the hassle of handling payments the day before or the day of the wedding.

What advice would you give to brides planning a destination wedding?

For future destination wedding brides, I highly recommend hiring someone outside of your wedding planner or coordinator to assist with logistics beyond the wedding day, such as your website, registry, pre-wedding events like the bachelorette party and bridal shower, and travel logistics like booking car rentals from the airport.

What advice would you give to brides planning a destination wedding?

We were fortunate to hire my sister-in-law to help with all these details and coordinate on the day of the wedding. As business owners, my husband and I had a lot on our plates, and we couldn’t have done it without the additional help. Also, be sure to enjoy the wedding process -create a WhatsApp group for all your guests, and most importantly, enjoy the night!

Big thanks, muchas gracias to Arcelia and David!

We loved your creative response and carefully considered words and we thank you so much for sharing your destination wedding experience. All of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya send our gratitude and best wishes for a long and happy lifetime together.

As always, we want to thank all the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who made this event at our private villa venue so memorable. We are blessed to work with the best and we are grateful for your creativity and professionalism. We look forward to the next one, let’s make more wedding dreams come true!

Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen Wedding Chair Extravaganza

April 27, 2024

Wedding chairs for your destination wedding, are they a big consideration? Oh my yes! Don’t go basic on the chairs. They need to be functional of course and you need to consider the comfort of your guests. They also need to look great in all your destination wedding photos! Ensure they fit your theme, your style and your vision and meet the needs of your guests. Let’s have a look at some wedding chairs from our Villa la Joya couples.

Velvet Wedding Chairs

Add a touch of lush with velvet chairs in a sumptuous color. This plush, richly textured fabric not only elevates the decor but also offers supreme comfort for guests as they dine and socialize. Alexis and Ronnie paired an elegant blue velvet chair with blue details in the table settings for their Villa la Joya wedding. Just gorgeous.

Wishbone Chairs

Crafted with a distinctive Y-shaped back and most often made of wood, wishbone chairs are a great choice for both modern and traditional weddings. They can be adorned with simple decorations like floral garlands or ribbons to match the wedding's theme, enhancing the overall aesthetic while maintaining their classic appeal. Kyla and Mike used classic wishbone chairs in a blonde wood for a fresh look around their reception tables at Villa la Joya. While Tara & Micah also chose wishbone chairs for their whimsical wedding reception.

Crossback Chairs

These are a top choice for outdoor weddings for their rustic charm and functional design. With a distinctive X-shaped back and a solid wooden frame, these chairs exude a warm, inviting vibe that fits outdoor venues like Villa la Joya so well! The simple frame makes it easy to dress up or down, depending on the formality of the event. Kristel and Manny (first pic) created a warm and inviting setting for their Villa la Joya wedding ceremony with crossback chairs in dark wood with comfortable, light seats.

Ghost Chairs

Boo! Ghost chairs! Made from transparent acrylic, these chairs keep the space feeling open and airy, perfect for creating an elegant, contemporary look. The look is oh-so subtle and is effective in not overpowering the natural beauty of the venue or intricate design elements, allowing table settings, floral arrangements, and other decorations to stand out. Marina and Luke (first 2 photos) incorporated ghost chairs both in the ceremony set up and in the Villa la Joya reception by the sea. Heavenly.

Chameleon Chair

Adaptable and elegant, chameleon chairs can be tailored to fit any decor style. With their sleek frame and comfortable seating, these chairs come with interchangeable covers and accessories, allowing for endless customization options. Dressed up with luxurious fabrics, vibrant sashes, or delicate floral details, chameleon chairs provide versatile, stylish seating for guests. Christina and Mark used a simply elegant chameleon chair in this pretty reception setting with a view of the sea at Villa la Joya.

Chiavari Chairs aka Tiffany Chairs

This chair just whispers “special event” and “Oh la la” elegance. We’ve seen chiavari chairs at big awards shows and featured at celebrity events, the chiavari chair (also known as the Tiffany chair) is popular with those seeking a sophisticated look. Their soft cushion and minimalist design make them a great choice for weddings. Cindy and Scott (first photo) incorporated chiavari chairs into their wedding reception decor, we love how well they connect with the glorious centerpiece.

Cane Back Chairs

Vintage charm and delicate intricacy, cane back chairs work well for couples seeking a touch of classic elegance. The woven details of the cane paired with a wooden frame offers a light, airy feel. These chairs work beautifully in settings from rustic outdoor ceremonies to sophisticated poolside receptions. Mai and Ryan (first photo) chose these super pretty cane back chairs in white with natural fibers. A marvelous look for the seaside garden ceremony at Villa la Joya.

Bamboo Chairs

This is the chair for anyone seeking a more casual, beachy vibe for their wedding seating. The bamboo wood comes in a variety of shades and cushion options are endless. Decorate with ribbons and bows, florals or rustic pampas grass. Katie and Robert created an elevated rustic look with these bamboo chairs in an antique finish for their wedding reception by the Villa la Joya pool.

Bentwood Chairs

Bentwood chairs bring elegant curves and a classic look to your special event. Particularly well-suited to romantic and vintage-themed weddings they can also add a touch of sophistication to more modern settings. In natural wood or painted hues, bentwood chairs can be easily customized to match your wedding palette. Tiffany and Anthony opted for white bentwood chairs for the ceremony and black for the reception, pure elegancia at Villa la Joya.

Peacock Chairs

With fan-shaped high backs and woven details, peacock chairs make a stunning statement at weddings. Often crafted from rattan or wicker, they are typically used as VIP seating for the bride and groom. Peacock chairs can be adorned with flowers, vibrant textiles, or soft draping to complement the wedding's theme. Their striking design not only serves as a focal point but also creates enchanting, picturesque opportunities for wedding photos, blending beautifully with outdoor, beach, or garden settings. Tara and Micah’s sweetheart table with peacock chairs in rattan was perfect for a destination wedding by the sea.

Mix and Match

There are really no rules when it comes to selecting your wedding chairs, mix it up! Different chairs for different moments of the day and different elements of the venue. Tara and Micah incorporated the peacock chair, crossback chair for the ceremony and wishbone chair for the reception, total chair heaven with excellent taste and style.

Choosing your wedding chairs is a fun part of the planning process, you have so much room for creativity to create the look and vibe you are dreaming of for your destination wedding day. Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen works with the best wedding vendors in town and they have some amazing chair choices. (Remember, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya!)

What’s your wedding chair style? Contact us today at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding venue and let’s make your visions a reality.

PHOTO CREDITS (in no particular order): LuxArt Wedding Studio, Amor Amor Weddings, Moni & Adri, Caro Navarro, Erika Geier Photography, Anna Roussos, CocoKnot Weddings, Parada Studio, Maria Glassford Photography, Luis Tovilla, White Crown Photography, Claudia Klassen, Kape Photograph, Foolishly Rushing In

Villa la Joya Wedding Elegance: ¡Felicidades Kelsey and Diego!

February 26, 2024

A destination wedding in Mexico just made sense for newlyweds Kelsey and Diego. Their love story began in Rhode Island, moved to Texas and finally to Boston. Groom Diego was born in Mexico and with their family and friends scattered throughout the US, a destination wedding in Playa del Carmen was the perfect way to bring everyone together in a celebration of their love.

Villa la Joya welcomed the couple and their loved ones to a romantic day of elegance and beauty. Bride Kelsey was striking in her gorgeous gown by Dany Tabet, lacy, frilly, strapless figure-hugging magic with a flowy train and veil. Handsome groom Diego wore a classic black tuxedo and a million watt smile. One look at their photos and you can clearly see the energy of love flowing between them.

A brief story of how you two met?

It all started in Providence, RI where we both settled after college for our first jobs and met up for a drink. On our first date, we immediately connected over our closeness to our families and our love of travel - two things that have stayed true to this day, over 6.5 years later.

Through our shared love of travel, spicy food, and family, we quickly fell for each other. Over the last several years, our love story has taken us from Rhode Island to Texas and now finally to Boston. When we're not traveling or hiking in the mountains, we love to cook new recipes at home or catch concerts in the city. Our family and friends mean the world to us and we feel so fortunate to have been surrounded by so much love for our wedding day.

A moving wedding ceremony with personal touches of love and family

Kelsey and Diego exchanged vows and became husband and wife forever and ever on the stairs of Villa la Joya. The scene was set with incredible flowers by Harmonia in a nude color palette, with two pillars of blooms framing the couple in love and lining the wedding aisle.

This was a really special ceremony, incredibly moving to have a wedding officiant who knows and loves the bride and groom. Personal touches in the wedding ceremony included family memories, a sweet ring bearer with bubbles, and vows written by the couple in love, Kelsey and Diego invited everyone to share in their big day.

“Our ceremony was so special as Kelsey's sister whom we are both close with wrote a personal ceremony, intertwining some of our favorite memories and weaving in her own memories of our love. We had never heard it before so it was very emotional and special. Additionally, we wrote our own vows so it was emotional to share those and feel the incredible love we share for each other.”

Choosing a destination wedding venue in Mexico in the age of Instagram

Would you choose a wedding venue without a site visit? In the Instagram age, this is not such a crazy thing to consider and that is how Kelsey and Diego decided on a Villa la Joya wedding. After months of planning and digital communication, we were delighted to meet the couple and welcome them to their wedding by the beach in the tropical gardens of Playa del Carmen.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

We loved how the villa was next to the beach with its elegance and beauty. Fun fact: we actually booked the villa before ever seeing it in person. When we finally got to come see it in person a few months later, it was even more beautiful and stunning than the photos. We were blown away by the natural beauty, warmth, and elegance of Villa La Joya.

Private, personalized, and elegant, a Villa la Joya wedding reception to remember

The wedding celebration of Kelsey and Diego continued with a warm and welcoming wedding reception in the gardens of Villa la Joya. The elegant decor with the nude color palette and pretty centerpieces, fireworks, and signature drinks, just perfect with the ocean breeze and a whole lot of amor. Big thanks to the incredible Playa del Carmen wedding vendors and their creative professionalism in bringing the newlyweds’ vision to life.

Anything you would have done differently?

“I don't think so! Overall our day went extremely well and we're so happy with how everything turned out.”

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

“Make sure to enjoy the planning process and most importantly, be present and enjoy the day! Everyone says it, but it truly goes by in the blink of an eye. I'm so thankful we enjoyed all of the planning and were able to soak in every moment of our wedding day.”

Congratulations and muchas gracias Kelsey and Diego

All of us at Villa la Joya wish Kelsey and Diego a lifetime of joy and happiness together. We are so grateful you invited us to share in your wedding day and allowed us to play host to your family and friends.

Are you feeling inspired by this real wedding in Mexico? Reach out to us today and let’s start planning your Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding. Personalized, private (only one wedding per day, it’s just for you!) and we will never charge a vendor fee. Forget the resorts and their repetitive cookie-cutter weddings, let’s make your wedding dreams come true exactly as you envision.

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