2023 Destination Wedding Reception Bar Ideas Your Guests Will Love

2023 Destination Wedding Reception Bar Ideas Your Guests Will Love

Destination weddings are joyous celebrations that unite couples in love, but they're also memorable events for guests who come to share in the happiness and enjoy a grand fiesta. One surefire way to elevate the fun and excitement at your wedding is by offering unique and creative bar ideas that will leave your guests raving about your big day. 

From signature cocktails to big, bold decor, here are some creative wedding bar ideas for 2023 from Villa la Joya Riviera Maya that are bound to make your guests' experience unforgettable.

Signature Cocktail Creations - A Wedding Bar Trend That is Here to Stay

Signature cocktails are always a good idea and an easy way to personalize your destination wedding day. Impress your guests with a selection of signature cocktails tailored to your tastes and personalities. Work with your Playa del Carmen wedding caterers and bartenders to craft unique drinks that reflect your wedding theme or incorporate ingredients with special significance to you as a couple. 

Consider giving each cocktail a catchy and personalized name, which will make the experience even more memorable for your guests. The signage and decor around your signature drinks make for great photo ops!

Dedicate a drink to your fur family, a fun way to include puppers or kitties who couldn’t make it to the wedding. For anyone suffering a “rehearsal dinner hangover”, a little “Hair of the Dog” is a traditional “cure”.

Go BIG! Furnishings, florals, signage, oh my! Big ideas for bar set ups at Villa la Joya

It’s your party and our garden is yours to design. There’s room for big furnishings and big displays and all your big dreams can come true. If you build it, they will drink, how about a wall of welcome shots to get the party started?

Cheers and salud, champagne is the drink of choice to toast to love and to the newlyweds. A gorgeous display of chilled champagne on a wall of greenery will delight your guests who are eager to toast your wedding day. Neon signs are the perfect personal touch. 

Your wedding reception bar is elevated working with your Playa del Carmen wedding florists. Include your boho chic dried arrangements or lush palms and blushing roses. Small, elegant touches between bottles and glasses or big, bold and beautiful displays. Or both, why not?

Wedding bars with cozy seating areas encourage socializing and add an extra layer of enjoyment to the celebration. Comfy couches or elegant stools or hippie cool pillow forts around the bar create conversation areas for those unforgettable moments.

Non-Alcoholic Mocktail Bar: Refreshing fun for everyone

To cater to all your guests, including those who don't consume alcohol, set up a trendy mocktail bar featuring refreshing and flavorful non-alcoholic drinks. These mocktails can be just as sophisticated and visually appealing as their alcoholic counterparts, offering a unique experience for everyone attending the wedding.

A non-alcoholic Mexican treat is a traditional way to keep your guests hydrated. Aguas frescas are flavored waters that can be served in elegant crystal or funky and fun glassware. In flavors like lemon, hibiscus or horchata, an aguas frescas bar will tickle your guests with a taste of Mexico and keep them refreshed. 

You put the lime in the coconut and drink it all up. One of our fave destination wedding bar ideas is a personalized coconut station! So very tropical, so very Mexican Caribbean, so very healthy and refreshing! Guests can bring the coconuts home for a fabulous reminder of your celebration in paradise. 

Whiskey bar and cigar lounge: Hip hangouts with elevated touches

For an elegant touch, consider creating a whiskey or cigar lounge area where guests can unwind and enjoy premium cigars or whiskey flights. How about a live cigar rolling station? This idea works particularly well for evening weddings and adds a touch of sophistication and relaxation to the festivities. 

You could even build your very own pub right in the gardens of Villa la Joya. Anything is possible with the terrific Playa del Carmen wedding vendors who can always work magic.

Boozy popsicle stand: Playful way to beat the heat

An exciting and refreshing addition to any summer wedding is a boozy popsicle stand. Offer a variety of alcoholic popsicles in different flavors for guests to enjoy between twirls on the dance floor. It's a playful twist on traditional cocktails that will have everyone reminiscing about your wedding for years to come.

When planning your wedding, don't overlook the importance of the bar setup and beverage options. These creative destination wedding bar ideas are sure to leave a lasting impression on your guests. Big, bold furnishings and decor or sophisticated simplicity, personalized touches and a variety of beverage options, your guests will appreciate the thought and effort you put into making their experience unforgettable. Cheers to a joyous celebration filled with love, laughter, and delightful libations! Salud!

Feeling inspired? We can’t wait to hear your destination wedding reception bar ideas! Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen works with world-class wedding vendors and creative minds that can make all your ideas come to life. Contact us today and let’s start planning, shall we do it over cocktails?

Photo Credits (in no particular order): Moni Adri Photography, Sweet Caribbean Photography, Amor Amor Weddings, Arcos Productions, LuxArt Wedding Studio, Anna Roussos, Caro Navarro Photography, Precious Pics

Family-Friendly Destination Wedding

Family-Friendly Destination Wedding

Margaret and Kyle’s Family-Friendly Destination Wedding

We just adore a family-friendly wedding at Villa la Joya and we were thrilled to host the nuptials of Margaret and Kyle. This sweet couple were joined together forever in love surrounded by generations of family and friends. With a moving ceremony and a warm and welcoming reception, gorgeous boho details and SO much family amor, this is a real wedding in Mexico that will just make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside.

Boho Beautiful Villa la Joya Wedding Ceremony: An Afternoon of Magic and Light

Margaret and Kyle’s wedding day was such fun, starting off getting ready with their nearest and dearest and enjoying a little “first look” prank on the groom. A lighthearted way to kick off this day full of blessings.  

The wedding ceremony took place on the steps of the Villa la Joya grand entrance with luscious pampas grass and dried florals, a stunning A-frame arch at the altar, and the warmth of the afternoon sun creating a beautiful light. Margaret was picture-perfect with her flowing hair and gown by L'Amour by Calla Blanche and groom Kyle was handsome in his classic tux and bowtie, no socks of course. 

Unique Family-Friendly Destination Wedding Ideas: Fun for All Ages

The knot was tied and the newlyweds invited everyone to the Villa la Joya garden for the cocktail hour and reception. The garden was set up with a cute little tent with big pillows and crafty ideas for the little ones. The grownups shared champagne toasts and ceviche and got in on the kids’ bean bag toss and played on the swing. 

Margaret and Kyle joined their loved ones for dinner at the long reception tables, an alternative to the sweethearts’ table that really brings everyone together. After a divine meal by Gourmet Soberanis, toasts were raised that brought tears and laughter and the rest of the evening was a blur of smiles on the dance floor.

Why choose a destination wedding in Mexico? Why choose Villa la Joya?

We always like to ask our newlyweds to share their experience in planning their destination weddings at Villa la Joya. Margaret and Kyle were kind enough to share their thoughts and inspirations.

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

Our first vacation was to the Mayan Riviera over the Canadian Thanksgiving Weekend. We planned and booked our trip a few weeks before that weekend. The night before while out for drinks, Kyle realized his passport was expired, and he couldn't make the flight. He got an emergency passport later that morning (I went anyways!) and met him the next day at the resort :) We continued to vacation to Mexico almost every year together, and enjoyed the people, the food and the general vibe. We also wanted to spend more than 24 hours with our family and friends celebrating this big milestone in our lives and we knew if we got married in Mexico, we can enjoy the company of the closest people in our lives throughout the week.

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

We both wanted a venue that was away from the resort and one that would be memorable. I came across the Villa on instagram and fell in love with the possibilities. Shortly after, we met the team at Paradise Wedding and Events, and they were very familiar with the Villa, as they've planned multiple weddings there. We knew we were in great hands after taking a tour a few months later!

What was your favorite/most emotional or funniest moment of your wedding day? 

The most memorable, as cheesy as it sounds, was seeing all our friends and family together on our special day. Many of the guests didn't actually look up the venue prior to the wedding (I thought they would!), and so when the guests turned the corner after the ceremony, they were in complete shock with the back of the villa. Seeing pure joy, happiness and love is all we wanted on the day of our wedding!

Big thanks and muchas felicidades to newlyweds Margaret and Kyle 

We had such fun hosting the family-friendly destination wedding of Margaret and Kyle and we send our big thanks for choosing Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. It was a real pleasure to host this day full of love, playfulness and joy. We wish you both a lifetime of happiness together.

As always, a big warm abrazo to the Playa del Carmen wedding vendors who brought their creativity and professionalism to the event. We thank you all for lighting up the Villa with your magic and remember, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen! 

Wedding Planners: Paradise Wedding & Events

Photo/Video: Maricarmen Arcos Photography

Makeup/Hair: Zoe Elizabeth

Dress Designer: L'Amour by Calla Blanche

Flowers: Cherry Blossom

Catering: Gourmet Soberanis

Rentals: EW Cancun

Cake: Lali Pasteles

DJ: Uno Audiovisual

Ready to start planning your own family-friendly destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya? Contact us today and let’s make your wedding dreams come true!

Next Level Wedding Fashion and Fun

Next Level Wedding Fashion and Fun

Kyla and Mike Get Married in Mexico! Next Level Wedding Fashion and Fun

Stop what you are doing and get ready to be inspired, you have got to see all the photos of the magnificent Villa la Joya wedding of Kyla and Mike. Each and every photo is like something out of a bridal magazine! Kyla is a photographer and you could see her keen eye for color, light and fashion in all the details. 

Bride and groom brought their family and friends together in Playa del Carmen to share their love for one another and for the magic of Mexico. We are so happy to have hosted this luxurious wedding at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen and can’t wait to show you all the eleganza!

Why choose a wedding in Mexico? Tell us about your big day!

We asked Kyla and Mike a few questions about why they chose a wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen and their own words definitely say it best: 


“Kyla and Mike were exhausted and ready to head back to their resort after working and being in the sun all day. But once they saw the gorgeous cenote and swam in the natural spring water, they were refreshed. They don't believe in holistic stuff, but something happened at that cenote that made them feel so rejuvenated and energized again. It made them feel happy and at peace. 

From there, Tulum became their favorite place. It's a mystery, It's lowkey and it's intimate - and they want to share those exact same feelings with their closest friends and family.”

What made you decide on Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen? We wanted a Tuscan vibe!

How did you come up with your gorgeous wedding theme and colors? We wanted to choose colors that highlighted the colors of the villa. We didn't want to do a design that didn't fit into the villa well or matched the narrative of the villa. We wanted to accent it.

What was your favorite/most emotional or funniest moment of your wedding day? The most emotional would have been seeing my husband for the first time. We were already married previously, and this was our celebration. We've been through hell and back throughout the planning process as we awaited for the reward of having this wedding at VLJ. That moment finally came and we felt as though we were finally able to breathe.

Anything you would have done differently? Chosen different shoes! Haha. That's about it! Everything was absolutely perfect. My shoes were killing me though. They were the Dior slingbacks haha.

Any advice you’d like to share with other brides? GET A PLANNER! Planning a wedding without a planner can be insanely strenuous. Also, don't cheap out on a great photographer. They hold the memory of your day in the photos they deliver to you. Do your due diligence to make sure you find the perfect person that you absolutely trust!

Fashion, elevated eleganza, and a theme of “Outshine the Bride”

We were simply blown away by the wedding of Kyla and Mike and one of the things that made it so unique was the instructions for guests to “Outshine the Bride”, not your typical dress code for a wedding but it was OH so perfect for the family and friends of Kyla and Mike. 

We want all of our guests to dress as if they're going to the MET gala. Put on your best pair of shoes and think... Red carpet, and glamorous! ​Some examples include sequins, fun patterns, floor-length gowns, interesting sleeves, bold accessories, etc.

These guidelines for glamor added layers of textures and colors to all the wedding photos and to the mood of the day. Inviting their guests to run wild with their fashion allowed everyone to let their own personal creative style and flair shine through and the photos are simply out of this world. 

Muchas felicidades to Kyla and Mike and big thanks for a Villa la Joya wedding extravaganza we will never forget!

We wish Kyla and Mike all the best for a lifetime of joy and happiness together. This is one of our fave Villa la Joya weddings ever and we are so grateful you invited us to host your day of love and light and everything gorgeous. Muchas gracias!

And as always, a huge wave of gratitude to the wedding vendors in Mexico who came together to bring this joyous celebration to life. It is always exciting to work with the best in making wedding dreams a reality and remember, there are never any vendor fees at Villa la Joya Mexico!

Planner. Mango Weddings

Designer. Hugo Martin Weddings

Photographer. Anna Roussos & Thanos Asfis

Video. Sea Love Wedding Films

Bride MUA. Angye Abarca

Bride Hairstyle & Color. Morgan B. Hair

Gown. Rime Arodaky at Lovely Bride DC. Second Dress. @stiohn

Tailoring. Tang’s Bridal

Suit. Suit Supply

Stationery IJ Design Studio @spoonknifefork

Florals. Pure Love Floral Design

Rentals. Oleo Events & Velvet Events Design & Hercon Entertainment

Signs. Weddings Creative Lab

Catering. Gourmet Soberanis

DJ & MC. Sonner.mx & @mcaldospirit

Pretty in Pink Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen Wedding

Pretty in Pink Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen Wedding

Sadett & Maximiliano: Pretty in Pink Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen Wedding

Muchas felicidades and big congratulations to Sadett and Maximiliano who recently painted Villa la Joya pink with their romantic Playa del Carmen wedding. There were endless divine details and the elegant florals by Vicente Coral created a magical setting perfect for amor. You are definitely going to want to see ALL the wedding photos by Isabella Rodriguez, this was a joyous celebration of love with family and friends.

Catholic Wedding Ceremony Playa del Carmen: Religious and Civil Ceremonies

Can you have a traditional Catholic ceremony at a destination wedding in Mexico? Yes, you can! We are often asked this question and we are always happy to help plan a religious wedding in Playa del Carmen. 

Sadett and Maximiliano incorporated both a religious and a civil ceremony into their wedding day, sharing their faith and commitment for a lifetime. The Villa la Joya grand entrance staircase witnessed this gorgeous couple exchanging their vows, Sadett in a stunning bridal gown that showed off her enviable figure and Maximiliano in an absolutely fabulous pink suit. With loved ones in various shades of pink, it was a remarkably romantic scene.

Inspired wedding reception decor: Intimate, elegant and playful fiesta

Sadett and Maximiliano had such a unique and personalized reception set-up, with intimate tents and extravagant florals and lights. The dance floor over the pool, the luscious sweethearts table, and live music, we loved every moment and detail. The cake by Doux Melange was a cascade of white sugar roses and a tribute to the couple’s beloved dogs who could not attend. 

After a gourmet meal by Banquetes Camino Premium catering and toasts that elicited tears and laughter, the party really kicked off. The smiles on the dance floor say it all, this was an epic fun fiesta and the perfect way to join the families together in grand style. Generations from young to old joined together to dance the night away and wish the newlyweds a long and happy life together.

Inspired by this real Playa del Carmen wedding? Let’s start planning!

We were absolutely inspired by the wedding of Sadett and Maximiliano. It's a pleasure to work with dynamic couples to bring their creative ideas to life. Of course, this is the combined efforts of all the wedding vendors who came together at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen for a spectacular day. We ADORE meeting vendors from around the world in collaboration to create the perfect destination wedding in Mexico and we send our gratitude to all who brought the magic to Sadett and Maximilliano’s big day.

Angelica Wedding Planner

Photo - Isabella Rodriguez

Glam Team- Angy Maquillista

Florals & Rentals - Vicente Coral

Catering - Banquetes Camino Premium

Cake - Doux Melange

360 Booth - Elements Party

Total Tents

PME DJ’s

9 Destination Wedding Trends That Are Rocking 2023

9 Destination Wedding Trends That Are Rocking 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.