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Diana & Alex’s Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Diana & Alex’s Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

A romantic Jewish destination wedding filled with white florals, ocean views, and joyful celebration.

Diana and Alex hosted a classic Jewish destination wedding at Villa la Joya in the Riviera Maya, featuring a floral chuppah by the sea, lush white & green décor, and a dynamic reception that blended elegance with fun. Their celebration highlights how Villa la Joya accommodates weddings of all cultures and religions in a private beachfront setting designed for meaningful, beautifully flowing events.

Diana and Alex’s wedding was the kind of celebration that feels effortless while still being deeply intentional. Designed in a palette of white, soft pink, and green, their day blended timeless style with an abundance of joy set against the oceanfront architecture of Villa la Joya.

Beach lovers and travelers at heart, Diana and Alex were drawn to the venue for its private beachfront location and its Italian-inspired design. The result was a destination wedding that felt romantic, elevated, and completely personal from start to finish.

A Jewish Ceremony Framed by the Caribbean Sea

The ceremony took place beneath a lush floral chuppah, overlooking the Caribbean. With the sound of the waves and loved ones gathered close, the moment honored Jewish tradition while embracing the natural beauty of the Riviera Maya.

Led by a rabbi and filled with warmth and intention, the ceremony felt intimate and meaningful. It was a beautiful example of how Villa la Joya hosts weddings of all religions, cultures, and traditions, always with flexibility and respect.

Lush White Florals and Timeless Design

Florals played a starring role throughout the celebration. White blooms, layered greenery, and succulents created a look that felt abundant and alive, never overworked or stiff.

The décor allowed the villa’s architecture and ocean views to shine, proving that classic design can still feel relaxed, joyful, and full of personality.

A Cake Table Moment to Remember

One of the most striking details of the night was the cake table, set in a stunning location that immediately drew guests in. The cake itself balanced elegance with humor, featuring a charming nod to Diana and Alex’s dogs incorporated into the icing.

It was refined, playful, and completely them.

From Elegant Reception to Full Celebration

As the evening unfolded, the energy shifted naturally from refined dinner to full celebration. A dance floor placed over the pool, floating bubbles, tequila shots, and cigar rolling set the tone for a night that was anything but ordinary.

Diana changed into a second reception look that was modern, confident, and still beautifully elegant. The dance floor filled quickly, laughter took over, and the celebration carried on late into the night.

Why Villa la Joya Is Ideal for Weddings Like This

Diana and Alex’s celebration shows exactly what makes Villa la Joya such a special destination wedding venue:

  • A private, beachfront setting with architectural presence

  • Space for ceremonies, receptions, and late-night celebrations

  • Flexibility for religious and cultural traditions

  • A layout that allows elegance and fun to coexist naturally

This is destination wedding planning at its best.

With Love and Thanks to Diana & Alex

Diana and Alex, thank you for choosing Villa la Joya for such a meaningful celebration. Your wedding was joyful, elegant, and full of heart, a true reflection of who you are together.

We wish you a lifetime of adventure, laughter, and love.

Grateful for an Incredible Vendor Team

Weddings like this come together through collaboration and creativity. Thank you to the talented team who brought Diana and Alex’s vision to life.

Venue: Villa La Joya | Planner: Fresa Weddings | Travel: Playa Bella Weddings & Travel | Photo: Holiak Photography | Video: Frame Wedding Film | Glam: Sandra Carolina Makeup | Wedding Dress: Jaxon James Couture Bridal | Reception Dress: Rita Vinieris | Florals: Luis Salas Floral Experience | Rentals: Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals + Elements Graphics + Velvet Events Design + La Productora Weddings MX | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Catering: Chef Tomas Medina + Charcuterie PDC | Wedding Cake: Pasteleria La Migaja | Live Music: Tenoch Wedding Violinist | Churros Cart: Oh My Churros MX | Fireworks: Pyrotechmx | DJ: UNO Audiovisual DJs

This celebration also marked one of the final weddings designed by Fresa Weddings, making it an especially meaningful moment. After 15 years of creating magical moments in Mexico, she has moved to Canada and we wish her all the very best.

Planning Your Own Villa la Joya Destination Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding in the Riviera Maya that feels elegant, personal, and genuinely joyful, Villa la Joya offers a setting designed for celebrations that flow naturally and feel unforgettable.

Reach out to schedule a video call and begin planning your Villa la Joya wedding.

FAQs About Villa la Joya Destination Weddings

Can Villa la Joya host Jewish weddings?

Yes. Villa la Joya regularly hosts Jewish weddings and works closely with couples to accommodate religious traditions, ceremony layouts, and meaningful rituals.

Is Villa la Joya suitable for elegant yet fun destination weddings?

Absolutely. The venue allows couples to design weddings that feel refined and timeless while still leaving room for joy, celebration, and late-night energy.

Why choose the Riviera Maya for a destination wedding?

The Riviera Maya offers beautiful beaches, experienced wedding professionals, and venues like Villa la Joya that combine privacy, flexibility, and natural beauty.

Ale & Joseph’s Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

Ale & Joseph’s Villa la Joya Wedding in the Riviera Maya

A timeless destination wedding that blended elegance, personality, and pure joy

A classic white wedding at Villa la Joya offers privacy, architectural beauty, ocean views, and the freedom to design a celebration that flows naturally from ceremony to late-night dancing. Ale and Joseph’s wedding is a perfect example of how timeless style, thoughtful planning, and a relaxed villa setting come together to create an unforgettable experience for guests of all ages.

What Does a Classic White Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya Look Like?

Ale and Joseph’s wedding celebration answered this question beautifully.

Set against the oceanfront architecture of Villa la Joya, their day embraced a white, classic aesthetic softened by tropical light, palm trees, and thoughtful personal touches and humor. The result was elegant but never stiff, refined yet deeply joyful.

From the calm of the morning preparations to a candlelit celebration that carried late into the night, every moment felt intentional and easy. This is exactly what a private villa wedding in the Riviera Maya does best.

A Calm, Intentional Start to the Day

The wedding day started out with special time with loved ones getting ready for the main event. Champagne flowed, and core family memories took shape.

Ale’s soft, classic bridal look matched the tone of the day perfectly, timeless and polished without feeling overdone. One of the most emotional moments came during her first look with her dad, a quiet pause that grounded the entire day in family and connection.

And then came a moment of pure laughter: a first-look prank that set the tone early. Joy, humor, and lightness were always part of this celebration.

A Wedding Party That Fit the Setting

Neutral tones, lightweight fabrics, and relaxed tailoring allowed the wedding party to look polished while staying comfortable in the Riviera Maya climate. The champagne-toned bridesmaid dresses added warmth and softness to the overall palette.

Against the lush greenery of the villa grounds, the look felt cohesive without being rigid. This balance of style and ease is one of the great advantages of a villa wedding, it allows formality to exist without formality taking over.

An Oceanfront Ceremony Framed in White

The ceremony took place overlooking the Caribbean Sea, centered around a full white floral arch that was strikingly architectural rather than ornate. White florals lined the aisle, echoing the symmetry of the villa while keeping the focus on the couple and the setting.

The sound of the ocean, the open sky, and the intimacy of the space made the ceremony feel deeply personal, even with a full guest list present.

A Seamless Flow from Ceremony to Celebration

One of the defining strengths of a Villa la Joya wedding is how naturally the day transitions.

After the ceremony, guests moved effortlessly into cocktail hour and dinner, without ever leaving the venue. Cozy seating areas were created for cocktail hour conversation and mingling.

Long tables dressed in white florals, gold accents, and soft candlelight created a refined atmosphere that still felt welcoming.

A favorite detail? Elegant place settings paired with hangover kits on each plate. A perfect reminder that timeless design and personality can coexist beautifully.

Thoughtful Design with Smart Reuse

The ceremony floral arch was reimagined as the sweetheart table backdrop, now glowing under hanging chandeliers. This reuse added cohesion, sustainability, and visual impact, proving that thoughtful design is often the most beautiful kind.

As night fell, tall tapered candles and chandeliers transformed the space into something cinematic, warm, and inviting.

Dinner, Music, and a Party That Truly Took Off

Live Mexican music brought cultural warmth to the evening, grounding the celebration in place while keeping the energy high. Guests of all ages filled the space comfortably, including kids, who were clearly part of the fun.

Yes, it was a kid-friendly wedding, and yes, it worked perfectly.

From bouquet tosses and garter traditions to spontaneous dance floor moments, the night unfolded with ease and joy. Ale’s reception dress change signaled what everyone already knew, this party was just getting started.

The first dance by the pool, followed by high-energy dancing under disco lights and chandeliers, turned the villa courtyard into a full-scale celebration that lasted well into the night.

Why Villa la Joya Works So Well for Weddings Like This

Ale and Joseph’s wedding shows exactly why couples fall in love with Villa la Joya:

  • A private, oceanfront setting with architectural presence

  • Space for ceremony, dinner, dancing, and late-night moments

  • A layout that works for families, kids, and multigenerational guests

  • Freedom to design a wedding that feels personal, not programmed.

This is what destination weddings look like when they are planned with intention and heart.

Our Best Wishes to the Newlyweds

Ale and Joseph, thank you for trusting Villa la Joya and Villa Planners with such an important chapter of your lives. Your wedding was a beautiful reflection of who you are together, elegant, joyful, and full of love.

We wish you a lifetime of laughter, partnership, and moments that feel just as meaningful as this one.

A Huge Thank You to the Vendor Team

Weddings like this are made possible by talented, collaborative professionals. Thank you to the incredible team who brought Ale and Joseph’s vision to life:

Planning & Coordination: Villa Planners | Travel: Bohemia Wedding Travel | Photography: Amor Amor Weddings | Beauty: Sara Tamargo Makeup & Hair | Florals: Pentaflor | Dress: Allure & Maggie Sottero | Shoes: Dolce Vita | Rings: Ring Concierge  | Rentals & design: Canteiro Weddings, Hercon Entertainment, Essenza Riviera | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Cake: Lali Pasteles | Music & production: Plugin Audiovisual

Your creativity and professionalism were evident in every detail.

Planning Your Own Villa la Joya Wedding?

If you’re dreaming of a classic destination wedding in the Riviera Maya that feels elegant, personal, and truly fun, Villa la Joya offers the perfect setting.

Our planning team specializes in creating weddings that flow naturally, honor your style, and make the experience just as meaningful for your guests as it is for you.

Reach out to schedule a call and start planning your Villa la Joya wedding.

FAQs About Villa la Joya Destination Weddings

Is Villa la Joya a good venue for a classic white destination wedding?

Yes. Villa la Joya’s architecture, oceanfront location, and neutral palette make it ideal for classic white weddings that feel timeless rather than trendy.

Can Villa la Joya weddings be kid-friendly?

Absolutely. The private villa layout allows families and children to be comfortably included without disrupting the flow of the celebration.

How many guests can Villa la Joya accommodate for a wedding?

Villa la Joya can host intimate weddings and larger celebrations (up to 150 guests) alike, with flexible spaces for ceremonies, receptions, and late-night dancing.

Kailee & Garrett’s Villa la Joya Wedding in Cancun

Kailee & Garrett’s Villa la Joya Wedding in Cancun

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.

Venue: Villa La Joya | Wedding Planner: Tailor Made Dreams | Imagery: Emilie Hewitt Photography | Video: Maison Bastien | Hair & Makeup: Zoe Elizabeth | Flowers: Grisel Serrano Florals | Dress: Kyha Bride | Rentals: Archive Rentals & Line Lux Rentals | Catering: Chef Tomas Medina | Bar: Vinos Diso | DJ: Kinetic Events Mx

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

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

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

Venues: El Pueblito at Mayakoba & Villa La Joya | Wedding Planners: Adri & Nancy at Villa Planners | Photography: Daniel Ramirez | Video: Frame Wedding Films | Glam: Cassandra Cassout | Floral Design: Paola Priego | Wedding Dress: Galia Lahav | Catering: Icaza Creativos Catering | Wedding Cake: Lali Pasteles | Rentals: EW Cancun | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Fireworks: Pyrocaribe | Live Painting: Juliana Casali | Drums: Zaffet George | DJ: UNO Audiovisuals

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.

Antoinette & Eddie’s Vibrant Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Antoinette & Eddie’s Vibrant Villa la Joya Wedding in Riviera Maya, Mexico

Antoinette and Eddie’s wedding at Villa la Joya was joyful, stylish, and absolutely sensational. From an emotional first look to a packed dance floor that stayed alive late into the night, their celebration blended romance with high-energy fun in a way that felt effortless and deeply personal.

This was also a special wedding for Villa Planners. It marked the first wedding planned by Cristina as part of the Villa Planners team, and it could not have been a more perfect introduction.

This destination wedding at Villa la Joya in Riviera Maya, Mexico blended romantic design, cultural connection, and a high-energy poolside dance floor celebration.

How They Met and the Proposal

Antoinette and Eddie first met fifteen years ago at Syracuse University. They dated in college, but after graduation their lives pulled them in different directions. Antoinette moved to New York City, Eddie to Los Angeles. They stayed close over the years, and in the summer of 2021, fate brought them back together in New York. This time, everything aligned.

They closed the distance for good in 2023 when Antoinette moved to Los Angeles. On May 18, 2024, Eddie proposed during sunset on the white-sand beaches of Anna Maria Island, Florida.

“He got down on one knee just as the sky turned gold and pink, and asked me to marry him. It was pretty spectacular.”

Why They Chose Riviera Maya for Their Destination Wedding

Riviera Maya was a natural choice. Mexico holds deep personal meaning for both of them, and it offered the perfect setting to bring their families together.

“Mexico holds a very special place in both our hearts,” Antoinette shared. “I used to live in Mexico and spent many vacations in Riviera Maya with my family. Eddie’s father and his side of the family are from Mexico City, so celebrating in a place that reflects our shared connection to Mexican culture just felt right.”

They wanted a coastal summer wedding without sand underfoot, a destination that felt accessible for guests traveling from around the world, and a place where English and Spanish could coexist as naturally as their story.

Choosing Villa la Joya and Villa Planners for Their Wedding

Villa la Joya checked every box. The Spanish-French architecture, oceanfront setting, and timeless design made it feel elegant without being formal, secluded without feeling remote.

“The Spanish-French architecture felt timeless, like a love letter to culture and heritage,” Antoinette said. “Hidden away yet full of soul, it felt like our home for the weekend.”

Villa Planners was the obvious choice to bring it all together.

“Planning a destination wedding is no small feat. It’s equal parts logistics and leap of faith, and working with a talented, seasoned team made all the difference.”

A Ceremony Framed by Flowers

The ceremony took place on the iconic Villa la Joya staircase, where towering floral pillars framed the couple as they exchanged vows. Lush arrangements in warm sunset tones created a dramatic yet welcoming focal point, highlighting the villa’s architecture without overpowering it.

Earlier in the day, Antoinette shared emotional first looks with her father and with Eddie, moments filled with quiet intensity and love.

Antoinette’s strapless gown featured a clean, sculpted bodice and a full skirt that moved beautifully as she walked. A delicate veil softened the look, creating an intimate, romantic first look between the couple that felt completely unfiltered.

A Storm, a Pause, and Perfect Timing

The wedding took place in late August, right in the heart of Mexico’s Canícula, the hottest stretch of the year. Late-summer weddings in Riviera Maya often require flexibility, experienced planners, and venues designed to adapt quickly.

A sudden storm rolled in just an hour before the ceremony.


“We’d been obsessively checking the forecast all week,” Antoinette said. “By Friday night, the rain chances had dropped, so we confidently said, ‘No tent. We’re fine.’”

Then the rain came, hard and cinematic. While Antoinette waited, Cristina and the Villa Planners team worked tirelessly to protect every detail. Chairs, flowers, and décor, all saved. Just as Antoinette headed to the villa for her first look, the rain stopped. The sun returned, and the rest of the day unfolded flawlessly.

“When the sun finally came out, the only thing I could feel was pure gratitude for the team that refused to let the weather win.”

Wedding Reception Details and High-Energy Celebration at Villa la Joya

The reception design brought the “dreamy tropical sunset” theme to life. Warm yellows, pinks, reds, and oranges filled the space through florals, signage, and tablescapes. Custom signage welcomed guests with color and warmth, setting the tone from the start.

Dinner tables featured soft pink linens, gold accents, candlelight, and layered florals that felt romantic and light. The sweetheart table overflowed with blooms, creating a striking focal point for heartfelt and hilarious speeches.

The pool was transformed into a full dance floor, a unique use of Villa la Joya’s layout that allowed guests to dance beneath twinkling string lights and disco balls. This monogrammed dance floor is a signature way couples personalize Villa la Joya’s space for large, energetic receptions.

Antoinette changed into a second dress for the reception, a sleek, figure-hugging sheath paired with heart-shaped glasses that perfectly matched the energy of the evening. Dry fireworks lit up the dance floor as the couple shared a dramatic dip, and the party only escalated from there.

There were tequila shots, photo booth antics, nonstop dancing, and the kind of laughter that carries late into the night.

A Perfect Day, Exactly as It Was

Asked if she would change anything, Antoinette’s answer was simple.

“Absolutely nothing. It was flawless, rainstorm and all.”

Her advice to future destination brides says it all.

“Plan as much as you can, as detailed as you can, but once you get here, remember to have fun.”

A Thank You

Antoinette and Eddie, thank you for trusting Villa la Joya and Villa Planners with such a meaningful celebration. Your wedding was a true reflection of joy, culture, and connection, and it was an honor to be part of it.

A heartfelt welcome and congratulations to Cristina on her first wedding with Villa Planners. What a stunning beginning.

Vendor Team at Villa la Joya

Venue: Villa la Joya |WeddingPlanner: Cristina, VillaPlanners | Officiant: Paula | Photographer/Videographer: Filmcraft Stories | Photobooth: FilmcraftBooth | Hair & Makeup: Prep Tulum | DressDesigner: “Antoinette” by Maggie Sottero | Flowers: Charm Floral Design | Furniture: Oleo Events | Bar Furniture: MSM Rentals | Dance Floor: Hercon Entertainment | Catering & Bar Service: Gourmet Soberanis | Cake: Pasteleria La Migaja | Churros: Los Pockets | DJ: UNO AudioVisual

If you’re dreaming of a destination wedding that feels effortless, personal, and unforgettable, Villa la Joya in Riviera Maya, Mexico offers a setting where celebrations unfold naturally and beautifully.

Villa la Joya and Villa Planners are now booking the 2026 destination wedding season, let’s save your date, contact us today.

Villa la Joya Wedding FAQs

Can you personalize a wedding at Villa la Joya?

Absolutely. Villa la Joya is designed to be fully customizable, with flexible layouts that allow couples to make the space entirely their own. From ceremony locations and reception flow to dance floors over the pool, sky tents, lighting, and décor, the villa becomes your canvas. Whether your vision is elegant and minimal or bold and high-energy, the venue adapts to your style rather than the other way around.

What happens if it rains on your wedding day in Riviera Maya?

Riviera Maya is a tropical destination, and experienced planning makes all the difference. Villa Planners are experts in navigating local weather patterns and preparing for every scenario. With thoughtful planning, backup layouts, and timing adjustments, weddings move forward smoothly even when conditions change. During certain seasons, your planner may recommend a sky tent as a “just in case” option to ensure comfort and peace of mind without compromising your design.

Is Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen a private wedding venue?

Yes. Villa la Joya is a 100% private wedding venue in Playa del Carmen and hosts only one wedding per day. When you celebrate here, the villa is entirely yours, allowing your event to unfold without interruptions or shared spaces. This level of privacy is one of the reasons Villa la Joya is in such high demand, and booking well in advance is strongly recommended.

Can we bring in outside wedding vendors?

Yes, absolutely. Villa la Joya welcomes outside vendors and does not charge vendor fees. Couples have full creative freedom to choose the professionals who best match their vision, without unnecessary restrictions or added costs. Villa Planners also work closely with many of the top wedding vendors in Riviera Maya and are happy to guide couples toward trusted, experienced teams if support is needed.