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
Planner: Diana Dream Designer | Photography: Jessica Crusade Photography | Video: Fine Art Studio | Gifts: Perfect Gift (Merch & Fans) | Stationery Design: Allison Miller At Peace Creative | Hair: Chop Chop Beauty Club + Jen the Hair Fairy | Makeup: Prep Tulum | Dress: Anne Barge | Shoes: Custom Design by Bride | Tux: Moda Italia (Chicago) | Florals & Tablescapes: Cherry Blossom | Rentals: Archive Rentals | Catering: Icaza Creative | Cake: Nube Repostería | Bar: Licores Devovando | Late Night Snack: The Station MX | Music: DJ Billa
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.
