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riviera maya weddings

Kailee & Garrett’s Villa la Joya Wedding in Cancun

January 14, 2026

Kailee and Garrett chose Villa la Joya for their destination wedding in Cancun, bringing together timeless style, thoughtful design, and a celebration that felt personal from beginning to end. Planned by Tailor Made Dreams, their wedding balanced elegance with ease, allowing the setting, the experience, and the people gathered to take center stage.

From a calm morning of preparation to a joyful night on the dance floor, the day unfolded naturally, with each moment flowing seamlessly into the next.

Getting Ready Excitement and Anticipation

The day began as Kailee and Garrett prepared, primped and shared moments of peace with their loved ones. Natural light, ocean breezes, and Villa la Joya’s open layout created an unhurried atmosphere, giving the wedding party space to settle in and enjoy the moments leading up to the ceremony.

Garrett and his groomsmen wore classic black tuxedos, setting a timeless tone that carried throughout the day. Kailee’s bridal look was equally refined, a strapless gown with a full skirt, paired with a long veil and a sleek ballerina bun that felt polished, modern, and effortlessly elegant.

A Ceremony on the Villa’s Front Steps

The ceremony took place on Villa la Joya’s iconic front steps, framed by soft white draping and lush floral installations. Green-and-white florals, including sculptural anthurium and soft white blooms, complemented the villa’s architecture without overpowering it.

As Kailee and Garrett exchanged vows, the setting felt intimate and grounded, with their loved ones all around. The design was romantic yet understated, allowing the focus to remain on the couple and the moment they were sharing.

Soft Buttercream Bridesmaids & Thoughtful Details

Kailee was joined by her bridesmaids dressed in soft buttercream gowns, a warm, sunlit choice that paired beautifully with the tropical surroundings. Each carried white calla lilies, echoing the bride’s bouquet and reinforcing the clean, sculptural floral palette seen throughout the day.

Every styling choice felt cohesive and intentional — timeless silhouettes, a restrained color palette, and details chosen to enhance the setting rather than compete with it.

Cocktail Hour by the Sea

Following the ceremony, guests gathered for cocktail hour in a cozy lounge-style seating area overlooking the ocean. Soft white seating, light wood furniture, and simple green-and-white floral accents created a relaxed, inviting space where guests could settle in, connect, and enjoy the transition from ceremony to celebration.

This emphasis on comfort and hospitality set the tone for the evening ahead.

A Communal Reception Experience

Dinner unfolded at long rectangular tables, styled with light wood chairs and low green-and-white centerpieces. Rather than opting for a sweetheart table, Kailee and Garrett chose to sit among their guests, creating a shared, communal dining experience that felt warm and inclusive.

As the evening progressed, heartfelt toasts filled the space with moments of laughter, tears, and genuine emotion that reflected the closeness of the group gathered to celebrate.

Dancing, Celebration, and a Second Look

As night fell, the energy shifted into full celebration. String lights illuminated the courtyard, music filled the air, and guests gathered closely on the dance floor beside the pool.

Kailee changed into a sparkling second dress for the reception, a playful, party-ready look that marked the transition into dancing and late-night celebration. The atmosphere was joyful, intimate, and centered entirely on connection and fun.

A Thoughtfully Planned Destination Wedding

Planned by Tailor Made Dreams, Kailee and Garrett’s wedding reflected a clear vision and careful coordination from start to finish. Every element from the ceremony setup to the flow of the evening worked together seamlessly, creating a day that felt effortless for both the couple and their guests.

With Gratitude to an Incredible Team

A heartfelt thank you to Kailee and Garrett for trusting Villa la Joya with such a meaningful celebration. It was a true pleasure to host a wedding that felt so personal, intentional, and full of joy.

This day came together beautifully thanks to the creativity, professionalism, and collaboration of an outstanding vendor team. Each contributor played a key role in bringing the vision to life and creating an experience that felt seamless, welcoming, and unforgettable.

We are grateful to work alongside vendors who approach each wedding with care, talent, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Planning a Destination Wedding in Cancun?

If you are dreaming of a destination wedding that feels elegant, relaxed, and deeply personal, Villa la Joya offers a private oceanfront setting designed for unforgettable celebrations.

We invite you to connect with our planning team and explore how your wedding vision can come to life at Villa la Joya.

A Faith-Filled, Colorful Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

December 27, 2025

Robin & David | Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Robin and David’s destination wedding in the Riviera Maya was built around faith, family, and celebration. The day began with a sacred Coptic Orthodox church ceremony in Playa del Carmen and ended with a joyful, high-energy reception at Villa la Joya, a private oceanfront wedding venue thoughtfully planned with Villa Planners.

From the very first moments, the experience felt meaningful, deeply personal, and full of life and love.

A Sacred Coptic Orthodox Ceremony in Playa del Carmen

The wedding day began at El Pueblito at Mayakoba Church in Playa del Carmen, where Robin and David exchanged vows surrounded by family, clergy, and centuries-old tradition.

The Coptic Orthodox ceremony was reverent and emotional, rich with symbolism and meaning. During the service, the couple was crowned as queen and king, a sacred ritual representing their spiritual unity, shared responsibility, and commitment to one another. The atmosphere inside the church was quiet, powerful, and deeply moving, a moment of faith that grounded the entire celebration.

One of the reasons couples choose Villa la Joya for a destination wedding is the flexibility it offers. While many ceremonies take place on site, religious ceremonies for a wide range of faiths and denominations can be held at nearby churches and places of worship, followed by a completely private villa reception. For Robin and David, this allowed them to fully honor their faith while celebrating with guests in a relaxed, oceanfront setting.

Bridal Style with Confidence and Grace

Robin wore a stunning wedding gown featuring a lush, full skirt paired with a daring corset-style bodice. The look felt romantic, confident, and effortlessly elegant. A long, full veil completed her style, adding softness and drama as she walked down the aisle.

David chose a classic black tuxedo, a timeless look that perfectly suited the formality and significance of the church ceremony.

Together, their style felt polished, modern, and beautifully aligned with the day’s tone.

A Joyful Arrival at Villa la Joya

Following the ceremony, guests arrived at Villa la Joya, where the energy shifted seamlessly from reverence to celebration through culture and dance.

Live musicians welcomed everyone with rhythmic music in Egyptian style, accompanying the couple’s entrance and continuing through cocktail hour. The sound immediately set the mood. It was lively, warm, and inviting, encouraging guests of all ages to gather, move, and connect.

Planned and coordinated by Villa Planners, the transition from ceremony to reception felt effortless and set the stage for an unforgettable evening

A Family-Centered Celebration Full of Color

Robin and David envisioned a kid-friendly, family-focused wedding, and that spirit was present throughout the night. Guests moved easily between tables, the pool terrace, and the dance floor, creating an atmosphere that felt relaxed, inclusive, and genuinely joyful.

Florals were light, bright, and beautifully bountiful. A soft mix of blush, peach, apricot, muted lavender, airy whites, and fresh greenery created an abundant, organic look that reflected the couple’s love of color and celebration without feeling overly formal.

Reception tables were styled with crisp white linens, gold flatware, layered glassware, and lush floral centerpieces, resulting in a setting that felt elegant yet welcoming.

Thoughtful Details and Live Art

One of the evening’s most meaningful details was a live painter who created a portrait of Robin and David throughout the reception. Guests were able to watch the artwork take shape in real time, turning a quiet corner of the villa into a moment of creativity and intention. The finished piece became a one-of-a-kind keepsake from the day.

A Show-Stopping Reception Design

The reception design made a bold statement. A personalized white dance floor stretched dramatically across the pool, facing the ocean and becoming the visual heart of the celebration.

Above it, a massive square arch wrapped in florals and finished with dangling disco balls anchored the space. The scale of the installation was truly epic, framing the dance floor, reflecting the light, and creating a sense of drama that elevated the entire evening.

As guests gathered beneath the arch, the dance floor quickly filled and became the center of energy and movement.

Dancing, Fireworks, and an Epic Finale

As night fell, the celebration reached its peak. Beneath the oversized floral arch and shimmering disco balls, Robin and David shared their first moments on the dance floor surrounded by family and friends, with the ocean stretching endlessly beyond.

The evening built to an unforgettable finale. Dry fireworks flanked the pool and dance floor, followed by a spectacular fireworks display over the ocean. The night sky lit up as guests of all ages cheered. It was joyful, dramatic, and unforgettable, the perfect ending to a day filled with meaning and celebration.

A Destination Wedding Rooted in Faith & Joy

Robin and David’s wedding is a beautiful example of how couples can honor religious tradition while enjoying a fully personalized destination wedding experience. With a sacred ceremony in Playa del Carmen and a private reception at Villa la Joya, thoughtfully planned by Villa Planners, the day felt seamless, intentional, and full of heart.

It was a celebration grounded in faith, surrounded by family, and elevated by design, a wedding that truly reflected who they are

FAQ: Religious Destination Weddings in the Riviera Maya

Can you have a religious ceremony as part of a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya?

Yes. Many couples choose to hold a religious ceremony at a nearby church or place of worship representing a wide range of religions and denominations, then host a private reception at a venue like Villa la Joya. This approach allows couples to honor their faith traditions while enjoying a completely private and personalized destination wedding celebration.

Some couples complete legal paperwork separately, either in Mexico or at home, and focus on the religious ceremony for tradition and meaning.

Allison & Colton’s Elegant Destination Wedding at Villa La Joya

November 25, 2025

Planning a destination wedding is a leap of faith for any couple. For Allison and Colton, every step of that journey led them straight to the shores of Riviera Maya and to the timeless beauty of Villa La Joya. What began as a TikTok discovery soon turned into the wedding of their dreams: private, oceanfront, and beautifully personal from beginning to end.

Here, we’re sharing their story, their vision, and their unforgettable celebration captured with warmth, style, and all the emotion of a day they’ll be reliving for decades.

Their Story: College Sweethearts to a Sunset Cliffs Proposal

Allison and Colton met during their years at Texas Tech University, a college connection that grew naturally into something lasting. After graduating, they built their life together in Houston. Knowing how much Allison loves the ocean, Colton proposed at Sunset Cliffs in San Diego. It was a golden, peaceful evening and the perfect beginning to their next chapter.

Why a Destination Wedding in Riviera Maya

From the start, they were drawn to the idea of doing something different. A ballroom didn’t feel like them and a resort wedding didn’t offer the privacy they wanted. Riviera Maya offered the best of everything: easy travel for guests, incredible weather, and the feeling of an intimate celebration without sacrificing style.

Still, finding the right venue took time. Allison spent hours researching destinations and imagining the experience she wanted to create. One day, she came across Villa La Joya on TikTok. The elegant architecture, ocean views, total privacy, and even the detail of having no sand instantly stood out. It felt unique and beautifully personal, the kind of place she hadn’t seen anyone else choose before.

They booked without even visiting in person.

Why Villa La Joya Was “The One”

Full privacy
No resort crowds
Freedom to choose their own vendors
Oceanfront views without the beach hassle

Villa La Joya offered everything they hoped for and more. With the guidance of Dream Weddings Riviera Maya, the villa became the backdrop for a celebration filled with color, elegance, and the warmth of everyone they love most.

Wedding Design: Summer Colors, Vibrant Florals & Timeless Details

Allison wanted a look that felt bright, fresh, and joyful, perfect for an early-summer celebration.

Color Palette: salmon, apricot, yellow, ivory, tan, and natural greenery.

Design Highlights:

• Garden ceremony framed by two asymmetrical floral pillars

• Champagne bridesmaid dresses

• Wooden tables and chairs adding organic warmth

• Crystal glassware and woven chargers

• Personalized bar with “Los Magaro’s” signage

• Monogrammed A & C dance floor set over the pool

• Soft bistro lighting twinkling above an oceanfront reception

The florals by Cherry Blossom were the stars of the design, adding color and movement to every part of the celebration.

Ceremony: A Garden Filled With Love

The garden ceremony overlooked the ocean, where Allison walked down Villa La Joya’s iconic pathway surrounded by her bridesmaids in flowing champagne tones. Her bouquet combined creamy whites with soft summer hues. The ceremony was intimate, heartfelt, and filled with emotion from beginning to end.

Celebration Highlights

The First Look

Under the villa’s stone archways, their first look was full of excitement and joy.

Cocktail Hour with Live Saxophone

As the sun softened into evening, guests sipped cocktails and listened to live saxophone while enjoying the ocean breeze.

Dinner on the Pool Terrace

Dining under string lights beside the water created an effortlessly elegant atmosphere. The signature Villa La Joya breeze made the moment feel cinematic.

The First Dance and Fireworks

Their first dance unfolded on a glossy white monogrammed dance floor suspended over the pool, surrounded by cold sparklers that lit up the night.

Cake Cutting

A classic three-tier cake adorned with florals, along with Allison’s first outfit change. She removed her lace sleeves for a softer, evening look.

The Second Dress Moment

Allison changed into a halter, fringe-detailed gown made for dancing. The slit, the shimmer, the movement… perfection.

Colton matched the energy by swapping his tux for a crisp guayabera and sneakers.

Late-Night Churros

“Oh My Churros!” arrived just in time for a late-night treat, and guests loved every bite.

Sparkler Exit

Family and friends lit the pathway for a sparkling, joyful sendoff.

Their Best Advice for Future Villa La Joya Brides

“Enjoy every moment. The day goes by so fast. Breathe, be present, and don’t stress the small things. A clear timeline made everything smooth, and investing in an amazing photographer and videographer was the best decision.”

Thank You, Allison and Colton

Allison and Colton, thank you for sharing your story, your vision, and your beautiful celebration with us. Your kindness, style, and warmth brought so much joy to Villa La Joya. We wish you a lifetime filled with the same light and love you shared here.

The Vendor Team Behind This Beautiful Day

Please note that Villa La Joya does not charge vendor fees. You are welcome to create your ideal vendor team with no additional venue fees.

Planning Your Own Villa La Joya Wedding

The 2026 season is already filling quickly, and destination couples are securing dates earlier than ever.

If you’re dreaming of a private beachfront villa in Mexico, now is the perfect time to begin planning.

Book a video call with our team and let’s bring your vision to life. We can’t wait to hear your love story.

Lena and Eli Get Married in Mexico: An Intimate Villa La Joya Wedding

November 20, 2025

We host weddings of all sizes at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya, from elopements for two to fiestas grandes. There is something unmistakably special about a small wedding where every guest feels like part of the story. Lena and Eli’s celebration was exactly that. Romantic, intimate, emotional, and beautifully floral-focused, it unfolded like a sunlit love letter to family, friendship, and all the quiet moments that make a wedding unforgettable.

From the first look at her soft organic bouquet to the final tequila toast under the stars, the entire day radiated effortless elegance and a whole lot of love.

From Math Class to Getting Married in Mexico: Story Written in the Stars

Lena & Eli were high school sweethearts with a history that began in math class, and with moms who were friends before these two ever met. Their proposal at Blue Mounds State Park was private, tender, and full of emotion. It was the perfect beginning to the next chapter in their lives together, planning their destination wedding in Mexico.

Why a Private Villa Wedding in the Riviera Maya Was the Perfect Choice

“After seeing other Fresa Weddings celebrations, we instantly fell in love with the idea of a beachside wedding surrounded by our closest family and friends. At first, it felt like a dream — but the more we looked into it, the more it became a reality.”

Fantastic weather, incredible views of the sea, and an easy journey for friends and family to unite. The Riviera Maya is a short flight from most cities in North America and offers world-class accommodations and welcoming Mexican hospitality.

The Riviera Maya is one of the most desired places in the world to get married, and its popularity means the vendors are the best in the business of destination weddings. Your vision doesn’t have to be a fantasy. It is more accessible than you think. Lena and Eli saw their wedding wishes come true at Villa la Joya.

Villa La Joya: Where Their Vision Came to Life

Kristee from Fresa Weddings had planned many magical weddings at Villa La Joya, and we had admired them on social media for years. When she mentioned it as an option, we jumped at the chance! The outdoor space is absolutely stunning, and we instantly knew it was the one.

And it all unfolded beautifully.

Deeply Personal and Moving: Garden Ceremony Blessed by Family Love

Lena and Eli tied the knot in a private garden ceremony with the bride’s brother officiating. Having a family member lead the vows created a personal and emotional moment that set the tone for the entire day.

They stood beneath a beautiful floral arch in soft pinks, neutral tones and eucalyptus. It looked like something from an editorial feature in a destination wedding magazine. With the Mexican Caribbean behind them and the afternoon light glowing across her lace gown and elegant flowing veil, they read their vows with their whole hearts.

Exclusive and Intimate: Small Private Wedding with Big Love

A small and intentionally intimate guest list created a relaxed atmosphere from the very beginning. Chic lounge furniture turned cocktail hour into a stylish open air living room by the sea. Guests sipped margaritas, hugged, laughed and settled into that cozy feeling that destination weddings create so naturally.

Unity, Joy, Amor: A Family Wedding Reception with Heart and Soul

Instead of a sweetheart table, the newlyweds sat among their guests at one long elegant table beside the pool. As the sun went down, the space transformed into a glowing romantic setting. Speeches and toasts brought tears and laughter and the newlyweds were surrounded by the love and support of their family. Priceless moments.

Private Outdoor Reception in Mexico: Dining and Dancing By the Sea

Gold rimmed glassware, candlelight everywhere, and lush florals created a soft, delicate atmosphere that was entirely warm and inviting. Tacos and margaritas made a well-deserved appearance. And the cake display, with modern tiers surrounded by sculptural florals, was a piece of art in itself.

Their first dances and late-night twirls took place beneath lanterns and in the glow of the candles. The lighting was soft, the atmosphere was dreamy, and the entire moment felt like a scene from a classic romance film. It was the perfect way to end a day filled with emotion and effortless joy.

A Tequila Toast to Love

Before the night ended, everyone gathered for a tequila toast. One united group, glasses raised high, celebrating the newlyweds. It captured everything that makes Villa La Joya weddings so special: closeness, joy and the kind of celebration that feels personal and heartfelt.

Final Thoughts From Newlyweds Lena and Eli

We asked Lena and Eli if they would change anything about their destination wedding day at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya:

Absolutely nothing! It was the most perfect day — from the stunning beach photos to the amazing staff who made everything seamless. Our guests couldn’t stop talking about how beautiful, organized, and magical it all was.

If you’re even thinking about it… do it! It was the best decision we’ve ever made, and we can’t wait to return one day to relive those memories.

Muchas Gracias, Big Thank You to the Newlyweds

To our beautiful couple, Lena and Eli, thank you for choosing Villa La Joya for your destination wedding celebration. Your day was filled with warmth, intention, and love. We wish you a lifetime of happiness and moments just as meaningful as the ones we witnessed here.

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Our Sensational Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team

This unforgettable celebration was brought to life by a team of talented creative professionals whose artistry and seamless execution made the day extraordinary.

Plan Your Own Private Villa Wedding in Mexico: Show Us Your Vision Boards!

If you are planning a wedding with goals of a heartfelt celebration filled with beauty, personality and effortless Riviera Maya elegance, our Villa la Joya team would love to hear your ideas. Book a video call with us and let’s begin creating a wedding day that feels uniquely yours.

Kattie & Michael’s Elevated Jungle Disco Wedding at Villa La Joya

November 11, 2025

Some love stories begin quietly — this one started with arcade games and laughter on a Sunday night in Chicago. Kattie and Michael met by chance, and from that night on, everything just clicked. Their first official date was at a Chicago Cubs game, followed by golf the next day, and before long, they were inseparable.

When Michael proposed, he transformed their apartment into a cozy scene straight out of a romantic movie, surrounded by candles, rose petals, and their loved ones — including his daughter, who escorted Kattie into the room. It was the perfect beginning to their family’s next chapter, and the proposal was made even more special when Kattie received her grandmother’s ring — a family treasure now sparkling with new love.

Choosing Villa La Joya

When it came time to plan their wedding, the Riviera Maya felt like fate. It was the place where they’d taken their first big trip together, where Michael had told Kattie he wanted to spend his life with her. They wanted a venue that offered privacy, intimacy, and the unmistakable romance of Mexico, and Villa La Joya delivered it all.

“The beauty and architecture alone were enough to make us fall in love,” Kattie shared. “But it provided so much more. The intimacy it creates was exactly what we needed to celebrate our love authentically, without strangers unintentionally being a part of our story.”

Elevated Jungle Disco Design

Kattie and Michael knew exactly what they didn’t want — no bright whites or oversized florals. Instead, they dreamed of an elevated jungle-disco vibe filled with tropical greenery, deep natural tones, and a few playful disco balls for sparkle. Cherry Blossom brought that vision to life, blending native foliage with touches of natural wood, black, gray, and deep blue to highlight the villa’s natural elegance.

“Our goal was not to take too much focus off the beauty of Villa La Joya itself,” Kattie explained. “We wanted to showcase the beauty surrounding every inch of Mexico; and Cherry Blossom delivered exactly what I’d dreamed of.”

Dinner by Icaza Catering continued that theme of authenticity, serving Yucatán-inspired dishes that guests are still talking about today.

Getting Ready & First Look

The bride was radiant in a beautifully draped off-the-shoulder gown with a line of delicate buttons highlighting her stunning back tattoo. Michael looked effortlessly stylish in a blue tuxedo — no socks, all charm — while his groomsmen kept it timeless in black. The bridesmaids looked gorgeous and continued the simple chic black theme with their gowns.

Their first look took place among Villa La Joya’s arches and stone stairways, a moment of intimacy and calm before the day unfolded.

Ceremony on the Front Steps

Kattie and Michael exchanged vows on the villa’s grand front steps, surrounded by elegant black chairs and simple rattan hand fans for guests. The ceremony décor was minimalist and chic — no arches or florals, just love framed by the villa’s stately façade and Caribbean light.

The most emotional moment came when Kattie read vows to Michael’s daughter, promising to love and protect her always. There wasn’t a dry eye in sight.

Reception in the Seaside Garden

After the heartfelt ceremony, guests moved to the seaside garden for cocktails and dinner beneath a transparent tent glowing with soft light. The setup felt like a modern greenhouse — tropical greens, candlelight, and sleek black accents that turned the villa’s oceanfront lawn into something straight from a dream.

Cherry Blossom transformed the space with lush greenery and just the right amount of shimmer, while Archive Rentals’ wooden tables grounded the look with natural textures. Every detail reflected Kattie & Michael’s chic, modern style — tropical yet refined.

As the sun set, the wedding party danced into the reception to kick off the celebration. Guests enjoyed a delicious Mexican buffet by Icaza Catering, followed by heartfelt toasts that brought both laughter and tears. A sweet, heart-shaped cake by Nube Repostería ended dinner on the perfect note.

The first dance between Michael and his daughter melted hearts, followed by Kattie’s emotional dance with her father — a moment that reminded everyone why love and family are at the center of it all.

As night fell, the tent sparkled with disco balls and twinkling lights. DJ Billa kept the energy high, and the dance floor alive. With palm trees swaying and the Caribbean breeze drifting through, it was pure magic.

The Bride’s Second Look

Just when the guests thought they’d seen it all, Kattie reappeared with lavender hair, a short party dress, and custom bedazzled Nikes — a total transformation that surprised everyone, especially Michael. It was the perfect finale to a night of joy, laughter, and endless dancing.

Words of Wisdom

“Try to have fun with the planning,” Kattie advises other destination couples. “Our planner, Diana Dream Designer, kept us organized and calm. Visit the venue, meet your vendors, and take a mental snapshot during your favorite moments — it all goes by so fast.”

Congratulations from Villa La Joya

We’re honored to have been part of Kattie & Michael’s celebration. Their love, laughter, and connection remind us why every wedding here feels so unique. From all of us at Villa La Joya, thank you for trusting our team and creating memories that will last forever.

Vendor Team

FAQ: Villa La Joya Wedding Inspiration

What makes Villa La Joya ideal for destination weddings?

Its private oceanfront setting offers exclusivity, elegance, and authentic Riviera Maya beauty, all within reach of Cancun and Playa del Carmen.

How customizable are Villa La Joya weddings?

Every couple can design their day to match their style — from tropical glam to minimalist chic. The villa’s neutral tones and architectural beauty make any theme shine. With NO vendor fees, the sky is the limit.

What are the benefits of hosting both ceremony and reception at one venue?

Couples and guests enjoy a seamless flow between the front-step ceremony and the oceanfront garden reception — no transfers, no stress, just celebration.

Ready to plan your own Riviera Maya wedding?

Discover how your love story can unfold at our beachfront wedding venue in Playa del Carmen, Villa La Joya, where every celebration feels timeless, personal, and unforgettable. Contact us today to schedule a video consultation to meet our team and start planning your destination wedding in the Riviera Maya today.

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