Viewing entries in
Wedding Planning

Peace, Love and Disco: 70’s Wedding Themes Are Perfectly Groovy in 2024

February 13, 2024

Oh that retro feeling, the 70’s are back and brides are loving the aesthetic, what do you think? Whether you go for a chill hippie vibe or a disco diva extravaganza, the 1970’s inspiration is a hit for the 2024 wedding season.

Go for a totally far out 70’s event or simply add a few whimsical touches, this is a fun trend that we are totally digging at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen! Ready for some 70’s wedding peace and love? Let’s boogie!

How Does Your Garden Grow?: Outdoor Wedding Venues With Flow

For a really far out 70’s wedding, choose an outdoor venue with a flower power garden setting. Mother Nature brings you the romance you need with an ocean breeze and the grass between your toes.

The seaside garden of Villa la Joya is your canvas, bring your love for the 70’s to your wedding day with nature in abundance. Our lush green space is waiting for your touch, choose a color palette of terracotta, peach, mustard and earth tones. Add vintage furniture like comfy velvet couches or wicker, the 70’s loved wicker and it makes a romantic sweetheart’s table look.

Flower Power Chic Weddings: Romantic 70’s Looks

“Flower power” was a movement from the 70’s embracing nature and all things peace, love and hippie. Floral designs for a 70’s wedding won’t be formal bouquets, think flowing arrangements in rustic or pastel colors, anemones, wildflowers, and daisies. Baby’s breath in your hair or crowns of braided flowers, a look that lets your natural beauty shine through.

Boogie On Down: Disco Diva Weddings in 2024

The 70’s wasn’t just hippies, disco ruled and the fashion was RIGHT ON. Wrap dresses, shiny heels and a little bit of sex appeal. Diamond barrettes in your hair and slinky gold jewelry to catch the lights as you boogie on down the aisle in those dynamite disco heels.

Grooms, this is your chance, go full vintage disco with a funky colored tuxedo and frilled shirts. Ankle boots and a slick hairstyle, it is time to pull out all those smooth John Travolta moves, strut down the aisle with your newlywed bride.

Invite your guests to join in the fashion fun with a disco dress code, hire a DJ who grooves and get ready to dance the night away. Disco balls, lighted dance floors and some super funky music will have everyone twirling and getting down for an unforgettable wedding reception.

That 70’s Wedding in Mexico: Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen

So, what’s your bag baby? Hippie love fest or disco delight? Macrame details or neon signs and disco balls? Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen can’t wait to travel back in time with you to celebrate your 1970’s retro destination wedding. We want to hear your ideas and hook you up with the hippest wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya to make 70’s magic.

And hey man, be cool, be chill, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. We think that your wedding budget should be spent on the groove, not on far-out fees and bummer extra charges. Let’s start planning your 70’s wedding at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. Copacetic?

Photo Credits: Foolishly Rushing In, Caro Navarro, Anna Roussos, Martin Wilk, Bohemia Photography, Ruben Chan, Monica Lopez Photography, Moni & Adri Photography

Italian Villa Wedding in Mexico: European Luxury Close to Home

January 19, 2024

Italian villa weddings are absolutely romantic, dreamy, and a symbol of luxury and love. Getting married in an Italian villa with marble architecture, lush gardens and views of the sea is a huge undertaking and out of reach for most couples financial, not to mention, tough to coordinate long distance travel for large groups. Taking family and friends to Europe might be out of the question, but Mexico is always accessible and affordable and we have THE perfect venue for you at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen.

A Taste of Italy in Mexico: Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen

Felicitazioni, felicidades and congratulations, you are getting married! We welcome you to our home by the Mexican Caribbean Sea, Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. We are a Mexico wedding venue built in Italian style with striking architecture, balconies, sweeping staircases, and hidden porticos, marble and stone details and of course incredible ocean views.

Italian villa wedding venues may be a long, long flight away, but Mexico is always close to home. Villa la Joya is a private wedding venue and we mean private, one wedding per day, YOU are the star. Our majestic entrance, arches, lush gardens, and ocean views are waiting for your personal touches. We have the most incredible wedding vendors in Mexico, these creative professionals will help bring your Italian villa wedding plans to life with NO extra vendor fees.

How to Have an Italian Villa wedding in Mexico: Villa la Joya Inspiration

Looking for Italian villa wedding inspiration? Here are some ideas on having an Italian villa wedding in Mexico to bring those delizioso visions to life:

1. Celebrate with vistas of the sea, who needs Portofino when you have the stunning ocean views of Playa del Carmen and the Mexican Caribbean!

2. Add brightly colored flowers that give Mediterranean vibes.

3. Patterned tiles give Amalfi coast feels, Villa la Joya boasts gorge tiles and details throughout our wedding venue in Playa del Carmen, stone details and marble magic that set the scene for romance.

4. You MUST have a pic on our Villa la Joya marble staircase or balcony overlooking the sea.

5. Vintage cars or Italian-style scooters are fun details for unique photo opportunities

6. String lights floating overhead are THE way to go for an Italian-look garden wedding.

7. Pearls, Lush greenery, candles, and gold details, divino.

8. Toast with Prosecco or your choice of bubbly. Viva gli sposi!

9. Add comfy lounge areas in a less formal style for the cocktail hour and reception.

10. Offer a cheese table and other Italian delights like salami and cold meats.

11. Family-style tables are everything. Long tables that make everyone feel included and encourage lively conversations and toasts.

Feeling inspired? Ready to host your own Italy-inspired wedding in Mexico? Contact us today at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen and let’s start planning!

Photography Credits in no particular order: LuxArt Wedding Studio, Moni & Adri Photography, Amor Amor Weddings, Anna Roussos, Andre Gouin, Martin Wilk, CocoKnot Weddings, Conie Weddings, Isabella Rodriguez, Diptych Studio.

Destination Wedding Don’ts: Etiquette Planning Mistakes

August 12, 2023

Coordinating a destination wedding involves a whole lot of moving parts, so many details to plan and people and feelings involved. Planning a wedding is something you do once in a lifetime so it’s forgivable if you are not a Miss Manners expert in wedding etiquette. Some rules are “common sense kindness” and others are a little more specific to destination weddings. Here are some etiquette DON’TS when planning your destination wedding so you can avoid any unintentional “faux pas”.

Don’t send your invitations too late! Your “save the date” announcements should be sent 6-12 months in advance and the invitations no less than 3 or 4 months. Give your guests adequate notice to prepare for time off work and to save for the vacation expenses of a destination wedding. Be sure to include an RSVP deadline.

Don’t mention gifts or registries on the invitation! Save it for the wedding website. Gifts at destination weddings are a bit of a blurry area as your guests will already be spending on their travel so many brides and grooms will forego registries and simply ask for the presence of their loved ones. Asking for monetary gifts towards your wedding expenses or honeymoon is fine, just be sure to make it easy for your guests to safely send money and never ask on the invitation.
Don't forget important invitation details! Beyond the basics of date, time, and location, be sure to specify WHO is invited, if a “plus one” is included, and if children are welcome.
Don’t limit your guests to only one hotel choice. Provide options in different price ranges and offer your guests travel assistance with a travel agent. Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen enjoys a magical location, with so many accommodation options all around us, including our own nearby condo for use by the bride and groom. We are happy to help with recommendations on great places to stay for your guests.
Don’t leave your guests dangling in the days leading up to the wedding itself. Play host to pre-wedding time, provide a “Welcome Package” with tropical treats and destination guidance and plan a few events to unite the clans.
Don’t arrive at any of your planned wedding events late, never leave your guests waiting! It sounds like common courtesy, but it’s always good to have a little reminder. This is most important on your wedding day when being late is not only discourteous to your guests but to your vendors who want to serve your food hot and your drinks cold and keep your timeline on schedule.
Don’t make your guests pay for anything on your wedding day. Provide round-trip transportation to the venue and don’t even think about a cash bar.
Don’t forget to greet and thank each guest personally on your wedding day. A receiving line is a tradition for a reason, it gives everyone a chance to share in the love. If you are foregoing a receiving line, be sure to make the rounds to take a moment with everyone who traveled for your big day.
Don’t disrespect vendors, this really should go without saying. Don’t. Be. Bridezilla. Treat everyone with respect, kindness, and gratitude. Be sure to provide your vendors with a meal and a big thank you for their part in your wedding day.
Don’t send thank you cards late and don’t send pre-printed cards without a personalized message. Take the time to hand-write a thank you and be sure to get the cards out in a timely fashion. Some etiquette experts say you have up to a year, but really, the sooner the better, generally within three months.

Destination wedding etiquette really is about courtesy and consideration. You are the host and you are welcoming guests, family, bridal party, and vendors to celebrate with you, be thoughtful, be kind, and avoid all the “don’ts” and everyone will have a spectacular day.

What are your thoughts? Any questions about destination wedding etiquette? Contact us today at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen!

Photo Credits: Evan White Photography, Maricarmen Arcos, Amor Amor Weddings, Arcos Productions, Two Fourteen Photography

9 Destination Wedding Trends That Are Rocking 2023

June 13, 2023

Destination weddings continue to captivate couples seeking unique and unforgettable experiences to tie the knot. As we slip into Summer 2023, the world of destination weddings is brimming with exciting trends and inspirations. Let’s explore the top destination wedding trends for the rest of 2023, ideas for extraordinary celebrations that will leave you and your guests with priceless memories for a lifetime.

1. Opulent Grandeur.

Big weddings are back in style, and couples are embracing opulence like never before. Extravagant private villa settings, luxurious decor, huge chandeliers, and lavish floral arrangements are taking center stage. From ornate architecture to lush outdoor landscapes, couples are seeking venues that exude grandeur and offer ample space for their elaborate celebrations. Like Villa la Joya for instance.

2. Unique Destination Weddings.

Destination weddings have always held a certain allure, but in 2023, couples are taking it a step further by choosing offbeat and extraordinary locations. Exotic beachfronts, garden retreats, and exclusive private villas are becoming popular choices. Couples are seeking destinations that not only provide a stunning backdrop but also offer a one-of-a-kind experience for their guests. Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen totally fits the bill!

3. Statement Floral Installations.

Flowers are an integral part of any wedding, but in 2023, expect to see larger-than-life floral installations stealing the show. From suspended floral decor and cascading floral walls to breathtaking floral arches, couples are embracing bold and imaginative designs to create a whimsical and enchanting atmosphere. These stunning floral displays are sure to leave guests in awe. The florists in Playa del Carmen, like Cherry Blossom & Pure Love Floral Design (both pictured below), are world-class and will make all your floral fantasies come true.

4. Sustainable Destination Weddings.

With a growing focus on sustainability, couples are incorporating eco-conscious elements into their destination weddings. In 2023, expect to see eco-friendly venue choices, locally sourced and organic cuisine, and sustainable decor options. By minimizing the environmental impact of your wedding, you can create a celebration that not only reflects your values but also leaves a positive mark on the destination. Villa la Joya takes pride in being eco-conscious, ask us about our Sea Turtle Sanctuary project!

5. Fusion Cuisine.

In 2023, wedding menus are going beyond traditional fare and the boring old “chicken or fish” meals. Couples are opting for fusion cuisine, combining flavors from different cultures and regions to create a culinary adventure. Global-inspired menus, gourmet food stations, and personalized tasting menus are gaining popularity, ensuring a gastronomic delight for guests and reflecting the couple's unique tastes and heritage. At Villa la Joya, Mexican aromas, flavors, and fusions are all the rage for destination weddings with sabor. Ask our Playa del Carmen wedding caterers about a unique menu from Yucatan to really spice up your culinary offerings. Catering below by YD Events & Gourmet Soberanis.

6. Tech-Enhanced Destination Weddings.

Leverage technology to enhance your destination wedding experience. Live streaming services allow you to include loved ones who couldn't physically attend, ensuring they can still be a part of your special day. Additionally, utilize destination-specific apps and websites to provide guests with information, recommendations, and interactive features that make their travel and stay more convenient and enjoyable. Your wedding entertainment can include techy inspiration with light shows, water drums, neon signs, video projections and even giant robots!

7. Architectural Marvels.

Couples are seeking venues that are architectural wonders in themselves. Iconic buildings, historic landmarks, and contemporary structures with stunning design elements are highly sought after. These venues serve as a breathtaking backdrop and provide an extraordinary setting for couples to exchange vows amidst awe-inspiring beauty. One look at the beautiful architecture of Villa la Joya and you’ll be hooked and booked.

8. Immersive Cultural Experiences.

Immerse yourself and your guests in the local culture of your chosen destination. Destination weddings in 2023 are all about creating unforgettable experiences that go beyond the wedding day itself. Incorporate local traditions, cuisine, and entertainment to provide a truly immersive experience for your guests, allowing them to fully embrace the destination's culture and magic. A Mexican wedding at Villa la Joya is always a joyous and dynamic celebration.

9. Weekend-Long Wedding Fiestas.

Extend the celebration beyond just the wedding day. In 2023, couples are planning weekend-long events filled with pre-wedding parties, post-wedding brunches, and various activities to keep the excitement going. This allows for more quality time with loved ones and an opportunity to truly embrace the destination wedding experience. Playa del Carmen is the ideal destination for a celebration that goes beyond the wedding day.

Ready to embark on this incredible journey of planning your wedding? Let these trends guide you as you create a destination wedding that reflects your unique love story and showcases the beauty of your chosen location. Cheers to a magical and extraordinary wedding experience, we hope you will join us at Villa la Joya, contact us today!

Photo Credits in no particular order: Caro Navarro Photography, Andre Gouin, LuxArt Wedding Studio, Kape Photography, Maricarmen Arcos Photography, Amor Amor Weddings, Anna Roussos, Martin Wilk, Hannah Rosser Photography.

Wedding Planners involved: Fresa Weddings, Villa Planners, Weddings on the Beach, Dhanroc Events, Laura Almodovar Event Design, Dream Weddings, Paradise Weddings, Mango Weddings.

Destination Wedding Invitations from Real Brides at Villa la Joya Mexico

May 25, 2023

Set the scene for romance and stir up excitement about your destination wedding in Mexico. Get inspired and be creative, your wedding invitation is the first look at the theme and vibe of your destination wedding events. Embrace a travel look or go lush and tropical, incorporate your wedding colors or flowers and of course your personality as you invite your guests to join you on the biggest day of your life.

Seriously romantic or a touch of whimsy and humor, here are some destination wedding invitations from some of the newlyweds we have hosted at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. Ready for real wedding inspiration?

Travel-inspired wedding invitations: Now boarding for love

Sandra & Junior invited loved ones to their Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding with a passport to paradise and a boarding pass RSVP to love.

Using warm and welcoming gold on cream colors with palm trees and a handwritten script, this is an irresistible destination wedding invitation. Have my margarita waiting!

The travel-themed wedding invitations of Stephanie and Thiago included an elegant Passaporte de Casamento or Passport to Marriage with travel stamps from around the world.

We LOVED the gold-stamped image of Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen for the cover and the passport photo of the happy couple, personalized perfection.

Tayla and Shaun tempted their guests to join them in paradise with a photo of Villa la Joya Mexico and gorgeous glittery gold on the luscious thick, creamy stock. “Our Happily Ever After” written in elegant script is a wedding invitation to a fairy tale day.

Destination wedding invitations with a tropical vibe

Put your guests in the mood for a tropical adventure, wedding invitations with jungle and ocean looks will tempt anyone to run away with you.

Secily and Daniel’s creative take on the tropical theme with fine laser cut leaves giving a peek into a lush jungle color palette was just the right look for their wedding in Mexico.

A’ngelique and Michael had a whisper of the jungle in their elegant tropical wedding invitations with a hint of palm trees, classic type font and a fabulous photo of the couple in the jungle for their “save the date” card.

Simple, elegant, capturing the feelings of love in paradise.

Brittan and Brad had a tropical theme wedding invitation with watercolor palm leaves and a really pretty handwritten script. The theme is truly yours to explore and be creative with, look how different these “tropical, palm trees wedding invitations” are!

The type of font, paper, colors, images, the tropical world is your oyster to make the theme just right for you.

Minimalist wedding invitation for a simple and clean look

Ambrosia and Zefan chose a minimalist wedding invitation with a simple and clean look.

Timeless and elegant the embossed white on white is a classic with a focus on the couple in a perfectly romantic script.

Vintage-look wedding invitation for old-school romance

These super pretty invitations from Christina and John bring you back to a time when writing a letter was as common as a text.

Old-school stationary with tiny flowers and vines, stamps reminiscent of a bygone era where the letter went round the world to find the wedding guests.

Modern destination wedding invitations in a sleek acrylic style

We love the look and feel of these acrylic wedding invitations from Alexis and Ronnie. Polished and sleek, acrylic wedding invitations are a modern twist on traditional stationery.

Looks like glass but light and easy to mail and offers a huge range of options for colors, styles, and creative ideas for the modern couple.

Floral wedding invitations for a garden of delights

Incorporating your wedding flowers in the invitation is a great way to immerse your guests in the feel of your colors and themes. Anastasia and Eliot blended a beautiful watercolor floral design with a modern acrylic twist, classic but youthful and hard to resist.

The response to these destination wedding invitations is sure to be an RSVP YES YES YES to love. We are excited by each and every unique and creative vision of the couples who get married at Villa la Joya Mexico and we cannot wait to see your ideas!

Feeling inspired? Ready to book your own destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen? Contact us today and let’s make magic!

Blog