A Love Story That Started in Lockdown—and Blossomed by the Sea
Some love stories are written in the stars. Others are written across the hall.
Brittany and Maik met in March 2020, when the world stopped—and fate stepped in. They’d moved into the same condo building in Toronto, right across from one another.
What began as neighborly hellos turned into daily chats, shared meals, and something much more. In the stillness of lockdown, their own little universe formed—just the two of them at 39 Niagara Street.
From friendship to soulmates, they’ve been writing their story ever since.
The Proposal: Spoiler alert, she said yes
Backyard dreams and holiday magic ✨!
Early on, Brittany told Maik her dream proposal was simple: at home, in her parents’ backyard.
When her family revived their annual Christmas party in 2023, she was just excited to reconnect. Until her mom asked her to wait in her childhood bedroom for a “present.”
Her dad called her out—to a trail of rose petals and their imagined first-dance song. At the water’s edge, Maik was waiting with the easiest question she’s ever answered: Will you marry me?
Why choose the Riviera Maya for a destination wedding?
From hometown to home-away-from-home
They first planned a hometown wedding. But with family and friends across Canada, the Netherlands, and the U.S., most would need to travel anyway.
So, they leaned in—turning a one-day event into a full week of memories.
Mexico was the natural choice: sun, warmth, joy. Riviera Maya gave them everything—stunning beaches, incredible food, and time to connect with the people they love most.
The Villa La Joya Moment: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Venue
Found on TikTok, loved for life
Brittany discovered Villa La Joya while scrolling TikTok in bed. One look, and she knew. She showed Maik, who instantly agreed.
They reached out, and within days were speaking to Mike, the owner. That first call sealed it.
With Mike, Nancy, and Enrique leading the way, planning was smooth and stress-free. Every detail was handled with care, leaving them free to focus on what mattered most.
The Riviera Maya Wedding Ceremony
Simple, heartfelt, and perfectly perfect.
Brittany and Maik exchanged vows on the front steps of Villa La Joya—a backdrop that was simple, lovely, and full of charm. With the villa’s architecture framing the moment and the ocean just steps away, it felt timeless and intimate for all the guests in attendance.
Cocktail Hour: Villa la Joya Garden Party by the Sea
Garden views and family vibes
Guests moved into the villa’s gardens for cocktail hour, where cozy seating areas encouraged mingling and conversation. It was a relaxed, family-friendly celebration—complete with the sweet sound of babies giggling between clinks of champagne glasses.
Lush, romantic, and full of candlelight.
Brittany looked stunning in a figure-hugging, off-the-shoulder gown that showed off her enviable curves. Her hair was swept into a sleek bun—perfect for the heat and humidity, and a beautiful way to showcase her gorgeous face.
Maik complemented her look in a lightweight beige suit, perfect for the tropical setting.
They let Villa La Joya’s natural beauty shine, blending soft sage and ivory with rich wood, lush greenery, and endless candles. Dark wood tables and chairs were dressed with low runners of white flowers—perfect for easy conversation across the table. From ceremony to reception, the glow was warm, romantic, and entirely theirs.
The Reception: Get the Party Going on the Dance Floor
Warm, welcoming, and full of joy!
The reception felt like one big embrace—warm, welcoming, and alive with speeches that sparked both laughter and tears.
Later in the evening, Brittany changed into a sweet, short, and sexy dress—perfect for kicking up her heels and owning the dance floor. Surrounded by family and friends, the celebration carried on late into the night.
Most Memorable Moment
A love letter to family.
During the reception, Brittany and Maik took the mic to thank their families. Maik even spoke in Dutch, his family’s native language.
Most guests didn’t know the words—but they felt the emotion. It was love, pride, and gratitude in its purest form.
Advice from the Newlyweds
Timing, tan lines, and taking it all in.
Their tips for future couples planning a destination wedding:
– Build in extra time—especially for groomsmen.
– Consider the heat. May was hot, so a cooler month might be more comfortable.
They also loved marrying early in the trip. Their May 20 ceremony gave them the rest of the week to relax, celebrate, and relive every moment—without worrying about tan lines or timelines.
Thank You & Best Wishes to Brittany and Maik
Brittany and Maik, thank you for letting us be part of your beautiful beginning. From your quiet connection in 2020 to your vibrant celebration on Mexico’s shores, your love story is unforgettable. We wish you a lifetime of laughter, adventure, and quiet moments—wherever life takes you next.
Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Gratitude
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who brought this day to life—from the Villa La Joya family to every planner, florist, and creative hand behind the scenes. You didn’t just create a wedding—you created a memory for a lifetime.
Wedding Planner: Villa Planners (Nancy) | Dress: Woná Concept | Shoes: Dolce Vita | Makeup & Hair: Sara Tamago | Photographer/Videographer: Filmcraft Studios | Flowers: Pentaflor | Furniture: EW Cancun | Food & Bar: Gourmet Soberanis | Dancefloor: Hercon Entertainment | DJ & Audio: Plug-In Audiovisual
Planning Your Own Villa La Joya Wedding in Mexico?
Whether you dream of a barefoot ceremony by the sea or a candlelit reception under the stars, Villa La Joya is the perfect canvas for your love story.
Contact us today to begin planning your destination wedding at Villa La Joya. Schedule a call with our team and let’s turn your dreams into reality.
