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villa la joya

Marie & Nate’s Unforgettable Wedding at Villa La Joya

March 11, 2025

Some love stories start with a glance across the room. Marie and Nate’s? It started with the bass drop at an EDC music festival in Las Vegas in 2019. They super clicked and a long-distance relationship followed, filled with cross-country flights, late-night calls, and the undeniable realization that one of them had to make a move. In 2020, Marie packed her bags and made LA her home.

Fast forward to June 2023, and Nate pulled off the perfect surprise proposal at Sunset Beach. Under the ruse of a casual dinner at a friend’s house, he led Marie to the shore, where a stunning setup of arches and flowers awaited. As he got down on one knee, Marie’s joy turned to happy disbelief when she saw her parents and best friend - flown in from Kentucky and Tennessee- there to witness the moment. But Nate wasn’t done yet; he planned an entire engagement celebration weekend in Catalina Island with their closest family and friends, he is a keeper!

Why Choose Mexico for your wedding?

The moment the couple started planning their destination wedding, the Riviera Maya was a no-brainer. Their first international trip together had been to Tulum, a place that stole their hearts with its beauty, warmth, and incredible memories. What better way to start their new chapter than in a place that meant so much to them?

Choosing Villa La Joya for your destination wedding

With its breathtaking oceanfront views, intimate setting, and the freedom to create a truly personalized wedding, Villa La Joya was the perfect venue. Unlike traditional resorts with rigid vendor restrictions and costly guest accommodations, Villa La Joya offered the couple the flexibility they wanted- an exclusive, private space where they could design their dream wedding, exactly how they envisioned it.

A Day Full of Love, Laughter & Tears: First Look

Every wedding has those moments that stay etched in the heart forever, and for Marie, it was her first look with Nate. While everyone around her had been tearing up all day, she had managed to stay composed - until she saw her soon-to-be husband. In that moment, every emotion she had held back came rushing in, making for one of the most unforgettable memories of their special day.

The Wedding Aesthetic: Elegant, Neutral, and Timeless

Marie and Nate envisioned an elegant wedding with a color palette inspired by nature - whites, tans, and lush greenery. Their goal was to create a setting that felt classic and refined, a celebration that would remain timeless in their hearts and photographs for years to come.

A Rainy Surprise & A Lesson for Future Brides

If they could change one thing? Maybe choosing a later date. Though November is usually the end of hurricane season, rain decided to make a grand entrance on their wedding day. Luckily, they had planned ahead and rented a tent - an absolute lifesaver. In the end, the rain cleared, the air cooled, and the night turned into everything they had dreamed of.

Advice for Destination Brides

Marie’s biggest advice? Have a Plan B! Weather can be unpredictable, and small backups - like a tent - can be the difference between a perfect day and a logistical nightmare.

For Marie and Nate, their wedding was more than just a day - it was a celebration of their journey, their love, and the adventure ahead. And if their story has proven anything, it’s that love, much like a festival anthem, always finds its perfect beat.

Big thank you, muchas gracias

From all of us at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya, we extend our gratitude to Marie and Nate for inviting us to be a part of your special day. We wish you both a lifetime of joy and happiness together!

As always, we send our thanks to the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who brought this vision to life. Creative, and professional, we adore you and are honored to work with you all. (And remember, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya!)

Summer and Steve Destination Wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya

October 21, 2024

Summer and Steve joined us at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya to get married in Mexico with their beloved family and friends in attendance. On a magical, sunny, blue-sky day, the bride and groom walked down the aisle and joined together forever. With a moving ceremony and a dynamic wedding reception in our seaside gardens, this was a totally unforgettable destination wedding in Mexico for a fun-loving group!

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

My husband's family is from Mexico City, whereas all of my family lives in the southeast of the USA. It only seemed fair to have everyone meet in the middle! Steve also always dreamed of getting married in Cancun, so I was happy to make that dream come true for him.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya and Villa Planners?

My husband and I both work in design fields, so once we saw the architecture of Villa La Joya, it was a no-brainer that we wanted to be married there. We went with Villa Planners because on our tour date, Adrianna was so kind and knowledgeable, it only seemed right to choose her to plan the wedding. And we made a great choice in doing so!

Choosing a destination wedding in Mexico is the ideal solution for uniting family and friends from all over the world. Summer and Steve brought together their loved ones for a celebration that was more than just one day. A destination wedding in Mexico is a chance for extended “getting to know you” time from both sides and a deeper connection in the network of love for the newlyweds.

Riviera Maya Mexico private villa wedding ceremony: Amor, amor, amor

Summer and Steve celebrated their private villa wedding ceremony at the grand entrance to Villa la Joya. Lush white roses all around and a very personal ceremony that included the traditional “lazos” and a romantic first kiss with dip! Bride Summer surprised her groom with her vows in Spanish, we love that so much!

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

My favorite moment of the day was seeing my husband's reaction to my wedding vows, since he didn't know I practiced for months to say them in Spanish!

What was your wedding theme or inspiration?

I wanted the decor to reflect who Steve and I are to our core; light hearted, fun loving people. I wanted it to feel bright and easy going! All of the pink was just an added bonus.

Bride Summer was glowing in her Justin Alexander gown and groom Steve rocked a morning coat tuxedo look, absolutely elegant. Summer’s veil floated perfectly in the ocean breeze in the tropical paradise of Playa del Carmen.

Destination wedding reception in Mexico: ¡Arriban los novios!

After tying the knot, the newlyweds invited their guests to join them in the seaside gardens of Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya. The lush white florals by La Fiore were stunning, and the arch from the ceremony made a great backdrop for the sweetheart’s table draped in roses and lit by white candles

Anything you would have done differently?

I think that the day was perfect, even with the silly things that happened during it! I wouldn't have done anything differently.

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

Practice, practice, practice your bustle with your bridesmaids BEFORE the wedding! You won't regret it!!!

After cutting the mega-fab four-tiered cake by Pasteleria La Migaja, the party really kicked into gear. Bride Summer changed into a hot little reception dress and she and her ladies put on a high-energy dance number to delight the crowd. The rest of the evening was tequila, champagne and everyone getting down on the dance floor.

Big thanks, muchas gracias and best wishes for a lifetime of joy

All of us at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya and Villa Planners would like to extend our huge thanks, mil mil gracias to Summer and Steve for inviting us to host your destination wedding in Mexico. We had a great time with you and your guests, an unforgettable event. We wish you all the best for a lifetime of joy and happiness together!

Feeling inspired by this real destination wedding in Mexico? Ready to start planning your own private villa wedding in the Riviera Maya? Contact us today at Villa la Joya to schedule a video call to get to know our team and start turning your wedding dreams into reality.

Destination wedding vendors in Mexico: The best in the Riviera Maya

As always, we must give a huge shout-out to the Riviera Maya wedding vendors who help make all of our events so phenomenal. Professional, creative, and world-class, we are truly grateful for your passion for wedding perfection. And future brides and grooms take note, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya, Riviera Maya!

Deborah and Fermin’s Romantic Private Villa Wedding in Mexico

August 20, 2024

Villa La Joya is breathtaking in pictures (in person it made me cry). It felt private, like a backyard wedding, with the luxury of an event venue. We loved the idea of it being a space just for us and our guests where we had the freedom to decide every detail. - newlywed bride Deborah.

Deborah and Fermin and their guests filled Villa la Joya with joyous energy in a beautiful celebration of love. Getting married in Mexico surrounded by their closest family and friends was a magical way to tie the knot forever and share sensational moments together. An unforgettable private villa wedding in Mexico, get ready to be inspired by amor.

Let love shine: Simple and classic wedding ceremony at Villa la Joya

This day was all about Deborah and Fermin and their love took center stage through it all. The bridal gown and veil was breathtaking, the detail on the veil’s embroidery was extraordinary. Fermin rocked a traditional black tux as the two became joined for eternity.

Guests were delighted to be welcomed to the wedding ceremony with aguas frescas (cool drinks), parasols, and hand fans to whisk away the afternoon heat. With comfortable padded chairs added to the mix, the guests felt pampered from the start.

Backyard wedding reception in Playa del Carmen: Luxury venue, cozy vibes

The seaside gardens of Villa la Joya have seen a whole lot of love and many inspiring events, each with their own flair and energy. Deborah and Fermin brought cozy, comfy, luxurious ideas to their private villa wedding in Mexico and we loved every bit of it. The party kicked off with a cocktail hour in the comfortable seating areas before moving to the long, family-style tables for dinner.

The flowers were simple and elegant in white and Deborah seemed to be floating on the ocean breeze in that incredible bridal gown and veil. She changed into a sharp white suit for the reception, put her bedazzled white love glasses ON, and shared a fireworks kiss with Fermin that will never be forgotten.

What was your favorite moment of your private villa wedding day?

My ultimate favorite moment was after our speech when we kissed and the fireworks (timed to perfection) went off in the distance. It felt like a movie.

Advice from a private villa wedding expert: Newlywed Bride Deborah

Anything you would have done differently?

I would have taken some time to myself in the morning. I was busy all day getting ready with my loved ones and partying with my friends and family that I never took a step back to bask in the moment.

Any advice you’d like to share with other brides planning a private villa wedding?

All the little things don’t matter, rain on your wedding day is good luck and no one cares about the little hiccups. Everything will work out and it will be the best day ever no matter what happens. Don’t stress about the little things.

Thank you so much Deborah, we know your experience and expertise will help many brides relax and find some peace.

Best wishes and big thanks to Deborah and Fermin

All of us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen send our best wishes and gratitude to Deborah and Fermin. We are delighted you chose to host your private villa wedding in Mexico with us, it was a pleasure to meet you and share in your big day. May you have a long and happy lifetime together, full of joy and laughter!

And of course as always, our thanks to the world-class wedding vendors in Playa del Carmen who make it look so easy. We appreciate your professionalism and creativity and can’t wait to tell more love stories together.

Ready to talk about your own private villa wedding in Mexico dreams? Contact us today to schedule a video call so you can tell us all about it and we can show you around our private Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding venue.

Riviera Maya Wedding Reception Ideas

February 27, 2021

Riviera Maya Wedding Reception Ideas: Fun, Fresh and Fabulous Fiestas

Riviera Maya wedding receptions are not all alike! Planning your destination wedding at Villa la Joya is an opportunity to have a totally unique reception that is 100% YOU. We have so many ideas and partnerships with fabulous vendors that we can do just about anything you can dream up.

Looking for some Mexico destination wedding inspiration? Have a peek at some of the incredible Riviera Maya wedding receptions we have hosted at Villa la Joya and the cool ideas that made them truly unique.

Stay Fresh and Cool and Hydrated with an Aguas Frescas Station

Riviera Maya wedding receptions are a marathon and not a sprint, help your guests stay hydrated with a refreshing “aguas frescas” station. “Aguas frescas” are a traditional Mexican drink, literally translated to “fresh waters” they come in a variety of flavors like lemon and jamaica (hibiscus flower). Set it up on a rustic table in a shady spot and you’ll always have an icy cold refresher on a hot Riviera Maya wedding day.

Megan & Colton Wedding by Paradise Weddings & Events. Caro Navarro Photography

An Elegant Alternative to the Photo Booth, Let Nature Be Your Backdrop

Photo booths at wedding receptions are super fun and can be personalized in a million ways. This is a chance to see the magic of your day through photos of your guests. Using a natural backdrop like a wall of ivy and flowers is an elegant way to capture all their smiles and of course, fashion! Design a pretty “logo” for your day and add your own touches like rustic lanterns and floral arrangements in your color.

Heather & Tyler’s Wedding by Weddings on the Beach. Sweet Caribbean Photography

A Riviera Maya Wedding Reception MUST: Mariachis Are the Music of Amor

If you have never been at an event with live mariachis, you are in for a treat. This is more than just “Mexican music”, it’s a tradition and a dynamic form of entertainment that vibrates through your whole being, right to your soul. You can FEEL the love in the interwoven sounds of the instruments and the voice of a passionate singer. No need to understand Spanish to understand the songs, your heart will know. The festive sounds and their intricate and gorgeous costumes bring joy and light to your Riviera Maya wedding reception at Villa la Joya.

Stephanie & Thiago’s Wedding by Dream Weddings Riviera Maya. Sea Love Wedding Films

Riviera Maya Wedding Ideas to Feel Right at Home at Villa la Joya

Relax! Make Yourself Comfy in a Cozy Seating Area Perfect for Intimate Riviera Maya Weddings

“Nuestra casa es su casa”, our villa is your villa and we invite you to kick off your shoes and make yourself at home in a cozy seating area in the gardens of Villa la Joya. A stunning chaise, a richly colored velvet couch and just the right amount of throw pillows can create an intimate space to catch up with your guests or take a break from dancing to your favorite songs.

Cesaley & Casey’s Wedding by Paradise Weddings & Events. Bohemia Photography

The Comforts of Home With a Personalized Cigar and Whiskey Bar

Fine whiskey and a good cigar, no longer just found in “man caves”, it’s hip to sip. Set up a groom’s bar with their favorite whiskey and the finest cigars. A legendary way to celebrate. With ice buckets always full, elegant glassware and all the fun toys for cutting and lighting the cigars, the bonding moments will magically appear.

Riviera Maya Wedding Receptions, Let There Be Light

Light up your Riviera Maya beach wedding with crystal chandeliers for a dash of elegance and warmth to the natural beauty of the outdoors. Using waterfall lights you can create smaller spaces within the larger garden area, cozy dining areas are conducive to incredible conversation, leave the spotlights for the dance floor.

Shambra & Matthew’s Wedding by Paradise Weddings & Events. Moni & Adri Photography

Let Them Eat Churros at Your Riviera Maya Wedding! The Sweet Treat You Can Eat on Your Feet

Add a delightfully Mexican touch to your Riviera Maya wedding reception with a churro stand! The mighty churro brings a delicious dash of sugar to your evening’s festivities and bonus, you can walk and dance and mingle with these addictive Mexican treats in hand! Nobody can eat just one, the churro cart is always a hit.

Rosalinda & Andre’s Wedding by Paradise Weddings & Events. Luxart Wedding Photography

High Intensity Interactive Entertainment for Your Riviera Maya Wedding

Looking for something different that will really get the fiesta energized at your Riviera Maya wedding? We have such incredible local entertainers, how about a drum show like you’ve never seen before? Stilt walking shot girls, acrobats, giant robot dancers with lasers, and of course the best DJs and live bands in the Riviera Maya to make your big day absolutely fabulous and unforgettable and most definitely YOU.

Jess & Mike’s Wedding by Weddings on the Beach. Sweet Caribbean Photography

Riviera Maya Wedding Ideas, Tell Us Yours and Let’s Make it Happen!

Contact us today at Villa la Joya to start planning your very own personalized Riviera Maya wedding. We can’t wait to hear from you!

Things To Do In Riviera Maya : JOYA by Cirque Du Soleil

August 8, 2018

Riviera Maya has many attractions and things to do, from the beaches and cenote's to the jungle and Chichen Itza ruins. We will start to highlight some of the things that are close to Villa La Joya and that make for a great experience while you are here. One of the closest attractions, literally at the end of our road, is JOYA by Cirque Du Soleil.

JOYÀ, the first Cirque du Soleil resident show in Mexico, combines culinary and performing arts in an intimate theater setting to engage the audience's five senses. Drawing on Mexico's history and heritage, JOYÀ tells the story of an alchemist and his granddaughter embarking on a quest to uncover the secrets of life. Don't miss the opportunity to taste extraordinary dishes and live an unforgettable night exclusively at the Cirque du Soleil Theater at Vidanta Riviera Maya. JOYÀ, a thrilling, whimsical show in which joy, courage and friendship conquer all!

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