From a surprise elopement reveal to custom stationery and a Beauty and the Beast-inspired walk down the aisle, this destination wedding at Villa la Joya was nothing short of magical. TikTok influencer Zahne and Arek turned their love story into a full-blown wedding experience with vintage vibes, tropical glam, and some viral moments along the way.
From Instagram DMs to Disneyland Proposal
Zahne and Arek’s love story began with a modern spark, an Instagram DM. After years of following each other through mutual friends, Arek made the first move, and the rest unfolded like a fairytale. Within weeks, they were inseparable. Eight months later, they were living together. And just under four years in, Arek proposed at Disneyland in front of Sleeping Beauty’s castle, their favorite place to escape into joy, wonder, and romance.
Why Choose a Destination Wedding in Mexico?
Zahne first dreamed of getting married in Mexico as a little girl, watching a resort wedding unfold. When she and Arek began dating, she quickly learned he loved the Riviera Maya just as much. Over several trips together, the destination became theirs. A place full of sunshine, sentiment, and yes, seriously good tacos.
Finding 'The One' Perfect Wedding Venue in Mexico: Villa la Joya
They discovered Villa la Joya online and instantly felt the magic. “We weren’t even engaged yet,” Zahne laughs, “but we booked a visit during a trip to Mexico.” One look at the private beachfront estate, and they knew. It was their first and only venue choice. “Even more breathtaking than the photos,” Zahne says. “Mike, Enrique, and the whole team made it feel like home.”
The Big Reveal: Plot Twist!
Mid-ceremony, the couple’s friend and officiant dropped a bombshell: Zahne and Arek had actually eloped in Las Vegas a year earlier! “Like most destination couples, we handled the legal part back home,” Zahne explains. “But no one knew!” That moment, spontaneous, joyful, and very on-brand, got picked up by People Magazine in a short celeb wedding feature.
Meaningful Wedding Style & Theme: A Personal Fairytale
From subtle Disney nods to their home’s signature color woven into the florals and stationery, Zahne and Arek made every detail personal. They included green accents throughout, added custom “Be Our Guest” signage, and created a scrapbook with stickers of their beloved pets.
The music told its own story: Arek walked down the aisle to Beautiful Crazy by Luke Combs. Zahne floated down to an instrumental of Beauty and the Beast, the movie they watched on their very first date. Their first dance? Better Together, a perfect anthem for a couple who truly are.
Advice From the Bride
Zahne’s best advice for destination brides: “Do what makes YOU happy.” She reminds couples that not every decision will please every guest, and that’s okay. “You’ll remember how you felt on that day, not what others thought.”
Her pro tip? Create a calm, joyful start to your wedding morning. “My day started off so chill, and it made everything more present and special. I was able to truly soak it all in.”
Congratulations, Zahne & Arek!
Zahne & Arek, thank you for letting us witness your real-life fairytale. From your dreamy Riviera Maya celebration to your surprise reveal and every beautiful, intentional detail, you reminded us that weddings are about joy, meaning, and the magic of two people choosing forever.
We wish you a lifetime of laughter, adventures, and Disney dates. May your love story always feel like Happily Ever After.
Thinking of Your Own Destination Wedding?
If you're dreaming of a wedding that feels personal, relaxed, and unforgettable, Villa la Joya might just be your perfect match. Our private beachfront villa in the Riviera Maya has hosted love stories from around the world, each as unique as the couple saying I do.
Be our guest and plan your magical day in Mexico. Start planning your wedding at Villa la Joya, schedule a video call with our team today.
Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team – The Real Fairy Godmothers
Making a destination wedding perfect is no easy task. We are always grateful to the incredible vendors who make magic in our little corner of the Mexican Caribbean. Gracias, big, big, gracias.
Planning & Design: Fresa Weddings | Photography: Jordana Dickson | Videography: One Cameraman | Stationery: Custom design by Zahne, printed via Vista Print | Makeup: Zoë Elizabeth Makeup | Gowns: San Patrick Novias, Vera Wang Bride & Rituals Of Love Bridal | Shoes: Jimmy Choo | Tux: Herman Menswear | Florals: Luis Salas Floral Experience | Rentals & Styling: Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals, Oleo Events, Velvet Event Design, Elements Graphics | Venue: Villa La Joya | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Churros: Los Pockets | Sound: Plug In Audiovisual | Special Thanks: CC @andreakyton