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villa wedding

Real Villa Wedding in the Riviera Maya: Jenn & Matt at Villa la Joya

Real Villa Wedding in the Riviera Maya: Jenn & Matt at Villa la Joya

A Private Destination Wedding Near Playa del Carmen, Mexico

This real wedding at Villa la Joya highlights why more and more couples are choosing private villas over resorts for their destination weddings in the Riviera Maya. Jenn and Matt envisioned a relaxed, family-focused day with stunning views, bold florals, and great food. With the expert support of the lovely Adriana of Villa Planners, their dream became reality.

Planning a wedding in Mexico? Discover why couples love private wedding venues near Playa del Carmen like Villa la Joya, located along the Riviera Maya coastline. Contact us now!

Villa la Joya Wedding Ceremony Details

Jenn and Matt hosted their ceremony in front of the Villa la Joya grand façade, creating a distinct space from their cocktail hour and reception. This allowed guests to experience different areas of the venue and enjoy a flow that felt both intentional and effortless.

Guests were seated on cushioned wooden chairs, facing a circular floral arch created by Pentaflor—a really amazing masterpiece of vibrant roses and tropical blooms in pink, orange, yellow, and white tones. The floral design complemented the architecture of Villa la Joya beautifully and added color and joy to the ceremony space. We are always happy to work with the best floral vendors in the Riviera Maya and Pentaflor is among our faves.

“We wanted the ceremony to feel separate and special. The team made everything relaxed and easy so we could be present and enjoy every second.”

Reception by the Sea: Ocean Views and Breakdancing Groomsmen

Following the ceremony, guests moved to the seaside reception area, where the original floral arch was repurposed as a backdrop for the sweetheart table. Long wooden tables were decorated with bright floral centerpieces, matching the tropical-meets-elegant wedding theme that works so magnificently at Villa la Joya.

The reception featured:

Dinner by Icaza Creativos Catering

Open bar with custom cocktails by Barras Libres

Live music and dance lighting by Disco Movil Cancun

Toasts, laughter, and Olympic-level groomsmen breakdancing

With the Caribbean Sea just steps away, guests danced with the ocean breezes under twinkling lights and enjoyed a night that was truly unforgettable.

Why They Chose a Villa Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Jenn and Matt’s decision to skip a resort wedding was all about creating a personal, flexible experience. They discovered Villa la Joya while researching unique wedding venues in Playa del Carmen and were immediately drawn to its private, elegant setting.

“We didn’t want a resort wedding. Villa la Joya gave us everything we were looking for—privacy, beauty, and the ability to make the day our own.”

The couple worked with Villa Planners (led by Adriana Hiromoto), who brought her years of experience and a calm, professional approach to destination wedding planning in Mexico.


“We didn’t have to worry about a thing. Everything was handled so we could just relax and enjoy our day.”

Top Wedding Vendors in Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya

This celebration was brought to life by a team of trusted wedding vendors in the Playa del Carmen–Riviera Maya area, all known for professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail:

Wedding Planner: Villa Planners – Adriana Hiromoto

Venue: Villa la Joya – Riviera Maya, near Playa del Carmen

Photography: Caro Navarro Photography

Florals: Pentaflor

Hair & Makeup: Sarah Garnier

Furniture: EW Cancun

Catering: Icaza Creativos Catering

Bar Service: Barras Libres

Music & Lighting: Disco Movil Cancun

Looking for reliable wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya? This team came together to create a seamless, vibrant, and memorable celebration for Jenn and Matt at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen.

Planning Your Own Villa Wedding in Mexico

Villa la Joya is one of the Riviera Maya’s most coveted private wedding venues, located just north of Playa del Carmen. With only one wedding hosted per day, no vendor fees, and panoramic ocean views, it's the perfect choice for couples looking to skip the resort chaos and build a celebration that feels like them.

Whether you're planning a small family ceremony or a grand destination affair, Villa Planners can guide you through every detail to create a wedding day that’s elegant, effortless, and unforgettable. You have the flexibility to plan the most YOU wedding you could imagine, personalizing the Villa la Joya venue is truly working with a new canvas just for you and your dreams.

Destination Wedding Mexico FAQs

Where is Villa la Joya located?

Villa la Joya is located just outside Playa del Carmen, along Mexico’s Riviera Maya coast. A quiet little corner known as Playa Paraiso sets the scene with tropical vibes. The venue is approximately 45 minutes from Cancun International Airport.

Who planned Jenn and Matt’s destination wedding in Mexico?

This wedding was coordinated by Villa Planners, led by Adriana Hiromoto—one of the most trusted and experienced wedding planners in the Riviera Maya. We adore her, she is one of our family and we are so grateful to work with the best wedding planner in Mexico.

Why choose a villa over a resort for a destination wedding in Mexico?

Private villas like Villa la Joya offer exclusivity, flexibility, and full-day access—something you won’t find at most resorts. You select your vendors, your schedule, and your style. We host only one wedding a day. Your love story is our priority.

Contact Villa la Joya to Start Planning

Skip the cookie cutter sameness of resort packages and plan your destination wedding in Mexico with a venue that puts you first. Villa la Joya offers the privacy, beauty, and freedom to design a wedding day that feels uniquely yours.

Contact Villa la Joya today to schedule a call.  We want to hear all your fab wedding ideas. And you will learn more about availability and preferred wedding planners, including Villa Planners.

Samantha & Patrick’s Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya

Samantha & Patrick’s Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya

An intimate, stylish celebration on the coast of Mexico

How They Met: The Love Story Begins

Samantha and Patrick first crossed paths at Deloitte Consulting, on her very first day. Patrick led the orientation. Sparks? Definitely. But with Samantha living in Miami and Patrick in Washington, D.C., timing wasn’t on their side.

Fast forward to the pandemic. Patrick moved to Philadelphia to start his MBA at Wharton, and Samantha was spending time with family in New York. Finally in the same region, they met up for a full-day NYC adventure: walking through Central Park, grabbing pizza, and ending the night with their first kiss at Gantry Plaza State Park.

Three years later, Patrick proposed in that exact same spot.

Why Choose a Destination Wedding in Mexico

One of Samantha and Patrick’s first trips as a couple was to Tulum. They loved it so much, they extended the trip to explore Cancun too. It was on that getaway that they truly fell in love with the Mexican Caribbean.

Choosing a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya felt like coming full circle. It honored their beginnings, reflected Patrick’s Bolivian roots, and served as the perfect middle ground between his family in South America and Samantha’s in New York.

Why Villa la Joya Was the One

When scouting wedding venues in the Riviera Maya, the couple quickly realized that resorts weren’t the right vibe. Too many rules. Too many restrictions.

Villa la Joya offered something different: privacy, flexibility, space for a big party, and the freedom to stay up late and celebrate. It also allowed their guests to stay wherever they wanted in nearby Playa del Carmen. No wristbands. No matching towels. Just vibes.

The Most Meaningful Wedding Moments

Their first dance was something special. Samantha and Patrick spent three months taking dance lessons and choreographed a routine to a custom mix created just for their wedding. It was a challenge they took on together, and they nailed it. Their parents’ dances brought the tears, the smiles, and everything in between.

Destination Wedding Style & Details

The Look

The wedding date, 2.22, set the tone for a day rooted in style and simplicity. Samantha wore her hair in soft curls and kept her makeup fresh and glowing, highlighting her dark eyes and natural beauty. Her gown featured a lace bodice with a nude illusion neckline, paired with a veil and skirt that floated like a breeze, light, airy, and perfectly at home in a beachfront celebration.

Patrick looked effortlessly cool in a lightweight suit, perfect for the tropical weather and the relaxed-yet-refined tone of the day.

The Ceremony at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

The couple exchanged vows on the front steps of Villa la Joya, framed by a grand façade and a striking asymmetrical floral arch. It was architectural, organic, and absolutely unforgettable.

Their ring bearers—dapper and full of personality—strutted down the aisle in super cool suits, followed by the sweetest flower girl in a crown of fresh blooms. Guests were handed parasols for shade, a thoughtful detail that made everyone feel cared for under the Riviera Maya sun.

When the vows were said and the kiss sealed it, mariachis struck up a tune and led the crowd into the gardens for cocktail hour. Because if you’re getting married in Mexico, you need mariachis. It's basically the law.

The Family Celebrates: A Warm and Welcoming Wedding Reception

As golden hour faded into evening, the gardens of Villa la Joya transformed into a glowing, intimate reception space. A transparent sky tent created a dreamy, open-air vibe while offering shelter from the breeze. A clear dance floor was installed over the pool—yes, over the pool—and it became the center of the celebration.

Warm wood tables, cozy lighting, and a layout that felt inviting set the tone for the night. Samantha and Patrick kicked things off with their choreographed dance under a canopy of twinkling lights. Dry fireworks added a burst of energy, and then, everyone danced.

After a family-style dinner and heartfelt speeches, the party truly took off. Guests danced under the stars, churros and hot chocolate made a late-night appearance (iconic), and a full fireworks show lit up the sea.

It was warm, joyful, and full of heart—exactly what a wedding in Mexico should be.

One Thing They’d Do Differently

They would’ve booked the photographer for more hours. That’s it. When you’re having this much fun, time flies.

Advice for Destination Wedding Brides

“100% hire a planner. You need boots on the ground.”

Planning from afar? You’ll thank yourself for having a local expert who can coordinate every detail while you sip cocktails and answer emails in peace.

Thank You, Muchas Gracias to Samantha & Patrick
From all of us at Villa la Joya, thank you! It was an honor to be part of your love story. Your celebration was a reflection of everything we love about weddings: joy, connection, great music, and moments that stay with you long after the last sparkler fades.

To the Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team

Thank you for your vision, your talent, and your incredible teamwork. We’re proud to work alongside wedding professionals who bring creativity to every celebration. And as always, Villa la Joya welcomes your dream vendor team, with no vendor fees.

Ready to Plan Your Own Villa la Joya Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in Mexico that’s private, beautiful, and totally you, Villa la Joya is here for it. Contact us today to start planning your celebration on the Riviera Maya coast. We’ll save you a spot under the palm trees.

Vendor Team:

Planning: Pride Maya Weddings | Photography: Luxart Wedding Studio | Videography: Frame Wedding Film | Content Creation: IKI Weddings | Glam: Lady Burd Cosmetics & Bronzed by SG | Bridal Gown: Watters, from Bridal Salon of Huntington Village | Florals: Cherry Blossom Florals | Catering: YD Events | Design & Decor: MSM Rentals | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | AV & Lighting: UNO Audio Visual

Fio & Tito Say “I Do” at Villa La Joya: A Dreamy Seaside Wedding Full of Heart

Fio & Tito Say “I Do” at Villa La Joya: A Dreamy Seaside Wedding Full of Heart

Fio and Tito’s love story is one of fate and destiny, from the front steps of their childhood school to the grand staircase of Villa La Joya. Their destination wedding in the Riviera Maya was a colorful, emotional, and joy-filled celebration of a bond that began in their youth and grew into a lifetime promise—sealed with sun, sea, and a whole lot of dancing.

Love Story: From First Kiss to Forever

Fio always had a little crush on Tito back in primary school—but only her closest friends knew. Years later, in 2008, they reconnected at a high school party during their final year. Tito made the first move, inviting her out for a drink—and on August 3, they shared their first kiss.

The years brought them around the world. In 2020, during the quiet and uncertainty of the pandemic, a conversation in New Zealand sparked the start of forever. “We started talking about the future,” Fio shared, “and just like that, we began planning our dream wedding—somewhere by the sea.”

Riviera Maya Wedding Ceremony: Emotions on the Grand Stairs

Their destination wedding dreams brought them to the Riviera Maya and straight to Villa La Joya, where the couple instantly fell in love with the elegant architecture, beachfront views, and warm welcome. “It was even more stunning in person than in the photos,” said Fio. “The moment we arrived, we knew we were in the right place.”

Fio and Tito tied the knot on Villa La Joya’s iconic front staircase—the perfect backdrop for their emotional wedding ceremony. Surrounded by pastel florals in hues of blush, mauve, creamy whites, and soft reds, the couple exchanged vows through happy tears and heartfelt words. 

Save your date, book your Riviera Maya wedding at our private villa venue today! 

Fio looked effortlessly elegant in a one-shoulder gown from Rosa Clará—simple, sculptural, and stunning—paired with a glowing, natural makeup look and a soft updo. Tito brought the cool with a lightweight tropical suit and signature sunglasses, keeping it effortlessly stylish through the vows to the last dance.

Villa la Joya Wedding Reception: Pastel Dreams & Disco Balls

The celebration continued in the seaside garden of Villa La Joya—with a personalized dance floor over the pool, hanging lanterns, glowing Edison lights, and a stunning arrangement of lush greenery and sparkling disco balls suspended above, the party scene was set.

Their color palette—pastel tones with touches of red, pink, beige, and gold—blended perfectly with the villa’s natural elegance. “We wanted warmth, but also something youthful and fun,” said Fio. And they absolutely nailed it.

Guests were treated to an unforgettable evening filled with laughter, moving toasts, and nonstop dancing. The dessert table was to die for, delighting everyone’s sweet tooth—both picture-perfect and truly delicious. The drinks flowed, the music bumped (shoutout to DJ Levels), and Fio and Tito celebrated their happiness with their closest friends and family. Shots, sweet dance moves, and joy, a memorable evening of love by the seaside.

A Word to Future Destination Wedding Brides

Fio’s best newlywed advice? “Enjoy every moment—it all goes by too fast. A destination wedding is a dream come true, and what really matters isn’t just how beautiful everything looks, but the energy and excitement you bring. That’s what everyone remembers. Viva la vida!”

¡Muchas gracias Fio y Tito, Que Vivan los Novios! 

Villa la Joya would like to send our thanks and best wishes to Fio and Tito. We were delighted to host your beautiful Riviera Maya wedding day. May you enjoy a lifetime of joy and romance every single day!

Vendor Team That Made the Magic Happen

A destination wedding in the Riviera Maya is a “team sport”, it takes a group of creative professionals to bring our Villa la Joya events to life. We are always grateful, thank you all for your dedication to love stories and romance. And remember darlings, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya!

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planning: Valentina Corro & Team | Photography: Gaber Studio | Hair & Makeup: LUM Wedding Beauty | Dress & Shoes: Rosa Clará | Floral Design: Kndy Flowers | Ceremony: Ximena – Todo Corazón | Catering: Alta Porta | Cocktails: Minimal | Cake: Lluvia de Azucar | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Tent: Total Tents | SAX Asunción, Paraguay | DJ: Level’s

Start planning your private villa wedding in Mexico today at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

We can’t wait to dive into your vision boards and hear all about your love stories. Reach out to Villa la Joya today to schedule a video call, let’s make destination wedding magic. Besos! 

Dana & George’s Riviera Maya Wedding at Villa la Joya

Dana & George’s Riviera Maya Wedding at Villa la Joya

A Destination Wedding in Mexico is Always a Good Idea

Dana and George’s love story spanned the continent— she’s from California, he’s from New York — so no matter where this wedding was held, someone was going to have to travel. That realization sparked a beautiful idea: why not turn it into a destination for everyone?

“Once we considered a destination wedding, Mexico quickly became the obvious choice. The moment we found Villa la Joya, we knew it was the perfect venue.”

The search for the right destination wedding planner led them straight to the Villa Planners team. After interviewing over ten different agencies, Dana and George chose Nancy and Adriana for their warmth, professionalism, and in-depth experience at Villa la Joya. From vendor recommendations to day-of coordination, every detail was handled with care — and countless calls and messages later, the result was a flawless wedding day.

“Thanks to Villa Planners, our wedding day was absolutely perfect!”

A Private Balcony First Look at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya

Before the ceremony, Dana and George shared a private first look on the stunning balcony of Villa la Joya. Overlooking the sea, surrounded by palm trees and soft ocean breeze, it was a moment just for them — quiet, heartfelt, and filled with emotion before the festivities began.

A Villa la Joya Wedding Ceremony of Romance, Tradition and Joy

The ceremony took place at Villa la Joya’s elegant front entrance. The color palette — white, gold, and baby pink — created a timeless, romantic look that complemented the venue’s marble architecture beautifully. From the aisle décor to the soft blooms, everything felt intentional, elevated, and full of love.

Guests gathered to witness Dana and George say "I do" in the Riviera Maya sunshine, friends and family had traveled from afar to be a part of this special day. The religious ceremony included beautiful details that honored the faith and traditions of Dana and George.

The Dabkeh, the Drums, and a Dance Floor That Didn't Quit

As the sun set and the reception began, the vibe turned into a full-on fiesta. With a DJ and live music keeping the energy up, the dance floor was packed from the first song to the final farewell.

One of the most unforgettable moments of the night was the traditional dabkeh — a joyful Palestinian dance that brought generations together in rhythm and celebration. For Dana and George, it was a deeply personal way to honor their heritage and share it with everyone they love.

“As Palestinians, no celebration is complete without the traditional dabkeh dance.”

We LOVE seeing Villa la Joya alive with cultural elements of weddings from all around the world, we are so blessed. Everyone danced. Everyone sang. Everyone celebrated under the stars in true destination wedding fashion.

Best Destination Wedding Advice from the Bride

“Book Villa La Joya and Villa Planners ASAP! They book up fast, and for a very good reason.”

With Love from Villa la Joya

Dana and George, gracias for choosing Villa la Joya to host your destination wedding in the Riviera Maya. It was an honor and a delight to witness your love, your culture, and your connection with everyone around you. From your breathtaking first look to your unforgettable dabkeh dance, your day was filled with beauty, meaning, and joy. We wish you a lifetime of love, laughter, and joy together.

Book your destination wedding at Villa la Joya now, we can’t wait to hear all your dreamy ideas and bring them to life! Let’s chat, schedule a call today and let’s make magic.

Thank You to Our Incredible Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Team

To all the vendors who helped bring this day to life — thank you for your creativity, professionalism, and passion. And remember, at Villa la Joya, we never charge vendor fees because we believe couples should have the freedom to choose the team that fits their vision best.

Wedding Planner: Nancy from Villa Planners | Photography: Amor Amor Weddings | Glam: Makeup by Cristela | Stationary: Zazzle | Shoes: Badgley Mischka | Floral Design: Pentaflor | Rentals: Minimal Rent & Hercon Entertainment (dance floor) | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Cocktails: Be You Service | Churros: Los Pockets | DJ: Legendary Entertainment

Ellie & Adam’s Romantic Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Ellie & Adam’s Romantic Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Ellie and Adam’s love story began in Arizona, with a second date that almost never led anywhere — until it led to forever. When Adam mentioned he was moving to Alaska, Ellie made it clear she wasn’t interested in a long-distance relationship… but life (and love) had other plans. After a year apart, including a deployment, Adam returned to Arizona a day early and proposed in the restaurant where they had their first date.

Years later, they brought their story full circle with a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya, surrounded by friends and family — and far, far away from the Alaskan winter.

Why They Chose A Villa la Joya Riviera Maya Wedding

After attending a destination wedding in the Cancun area back in 2021, Ellie and Adam knew they wanted that same relaxed, multi-day experience for their own wedding. They wanted their guests to enjoy a full week in paradise, not just a single day.

When they discovered Villa la Joya, it was love at first sight. The private oceanfront setting, stunning marble architecture, and flexibility to work with their favorite vendors — without any vendor fees — made it the perfect place to celebrate their next chapter.

"Our planners had shown us multiple resorts and we were struggling to find one that was both affordable for our guests but also flexible enough to let us bring in certain vendors without a ridiculous vendor fee. We then turned to offsite venues, and to be honest, from the first moment I saw Villa la Joya I knew I HAD to get married there. We wanted an oceanfront setting without having to have our toes in the sand, and the variety of the front for our ceremony and the whole back area for our reception was perfect." — Ellie, the bride

Dreaming of your own destination wedding at Villa la Joya? Let’s explore dates, details, and discover how to bring your big day to life.

Getting Ready & Sweet First Looks (Grab the Tissues)

The wedding day began with excitement, glam squads, and quiet emotional moments. Ellie wore a jaw-dropping gown by Martina Liana — a sexy, romantic design featuring a lacy corset-style bodice and a dramatic thigh-high slit that showed off her absolutely enviable figure. She paired her look with Dolce Vita heels and jewelry from Olive & Piper.

Her wedding day bridal style was brought to life by Zoe Elizabeth (makeup) and Kahori Flores (hair). Adam kept it timeless in a black tuxedo by Luca Falcone.

Before heading to the ceremony, Ellie shared an emotional first look with her dad — a powerful, tender moment that set the tone for the day. Then came her first look with Adam, full of love, laughter, and the kind of quiet joy that makes a wedding feel real.

A Pink Floral Wonderland: Destination Wedding Ceremony at Villa la Joya

Guests were welcomed by the sounds of a live violinist as they entered a pink floral wonderland set against the grand marble entrance of Villa la Joya. The ceremony space was overflowing with lush, abundant pink roses — romantic, fresh, and perfectly paired with the villa’s architecture.

Ellie walked down the aisle with her father, who, overcome with emotion, found himself narrating his feelings out loud — sweet, unscripted, and unforgettable.

Cocktail Hour & a Private Moment for Two

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed cocktails and live music from violinist Jerry while the newlyweds explored the property for portraits. The cocktail area was styled with blonde wood tables and chairs, soft neutral décor, and the same stunning pink florals for a cohesive look.

Ellie & Adam carved out a 10-minute break just for themselves, enjoying their appetizers in peace while watching the sunset — a moment to eat, breathe, and simply be together before rejoining the celebration.

A Reception Under the Stars

As the sun set over the Caribbean, the back garden transformed into a dreamy reception space. The setup featured blonde wood furniture from Oleo, romantic floral arrangements by Cherry Blossom, and warm lighting that created a cozy, elegant atmosphere.

The sweetheart table was framed by the luxe floral arch from the ceremony, with the sea sparkling in the background. Ellie and Adam’s first dance lit up the night — literally — with a surprise fireworks display and oh so much love in their eyes.

Toasts were shared and the dance floor stayed packed all night thanks to an incredible playlist and joyful energy. As the evening wrapped up, guests sipped coffee from The Station Mx and grabbed one last treat from the churro cart — the perfect way to end the night.

With Love and Muchas Gracias from Villa la Joya

Ellie and Adam, thank you for choosing Villa la Joya to host your destination wedding. It was an honor to be part of such a heartfelt, joyful, and beautifully personal celebration. We loved seeing your vision come to life — from your emotional first looks to your unforgettable reception. We wish you both a lifetime of love, adventure, and perfectly timed appetizers.

Future brides and grooms, are you ready to tie the knot? Reach out to Villa la Joya today and let’s start planning your ultimate destination wedding in paradise!

A Huge Thank You to Our Riviera Maya Wedding Vendor Dream Team

We’re endlessly grateful to the incredible vendors who helped bring Ellie and Adam’s dream day to life. Your creativity, talent, and professionalism made the entire celebration seamless. And remember — at Villa la Joya, we never charge vendor fees, because we believe couples should have the freedom to work with the team that fits their vision best.

Travel Agents: Paradise Weddings | Planners: Beloved Planners | Wedding Photography: Amor Amor Weddings | Nutrition Coach: 2 Weeks Out Programming | HMU: Zöe Elizabeth (makeup), Kahori Flores (hair, with Zoe) | Spray Tan: Bronzed by SG | Dress Designer: Martina Liana | Dress Boutique: Mariee Bridal Scottsdale | Shoes: Dolce Vita | Earrings/Bracelet: Olive & Piper | Ring: Peter & Co. Jewelers (engagement ring & one wedding band), Shane Co. Jewelers (one wedding band) | Stationery: Mint (save the dates), The Knot (invites) | Groom’s Suit: Luca Falcone | Groomsmen Suits: The Black Tux | Bridesmaid Dresses: Birdy Grey | Flowers: Cherry Blossom | Furniture: Oleo Events | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Dessert: Los Pockets, Coffee: The Station Mx | Violinist: Jerry | DJ/AV: Mills James Audio Visual