Riviera Maya Wedding: Classy, Elegant, and Oh So Chic

Riviera Maya Wedding: Classy, Elegant, and Oh So Chic

Chelseay and Stanley’s Riviera Maya Wedding: Classy, Elegant, and Oh So Chic!

The Riviera Maya wedding of Chelseay and Stanley was a classic affair, formal and elegant yet warm and welcoming and full of love. A little bit of rain couldn’t put a damper on the day as the sunshine radiated from the newlyweds and their dear ones. Destination wedding fashion, fireworks, and funk on the dance floor, get ready to be inspired by the gorgeous Villa la Joya Riviera Maya wedding of Chelseay and Stanley.

Getting Ready and First Look: Eleganza and Anticipation with Chelseay and Stanley

The Riviera Maya wedding day of Chelseay and Stanley got rolling as the bride and groom got ready in their wedding finery with their closest friends and family. Chelseay wore a beautiful white peignoir over black undergarments for the “getting ready” shoot with her bridesmaids in black, timeless elegance. 

Groom Stanley was a vision in formal wedding style, his white tuxedo beside his groomsmen all in classic black tuxes was a striking combination. The “first look” photos are so endearing, the anticipation on the faces of the bride and groom simply radiate amor on the balcony of Villa la Joya Riviera Maya.

Formal Riviera Maya Wedding Ceremony: Classic, Moving and Magical

Chelseay and Stanley celebrated their love in a classic and formal Riviera Maya wedding ceremony in the gardens of Villa la Joya. The rain couldn’t take away from the magic of these lovebirds as they exchanged vows under the sky tent with their most cherished family and friends witnessing the moment they became man and wife forever and ever.  

Kids at destination weddings? Oh yes, please! A pretty in pink flower girl and a touch of humor with the “Ring Security” ring bearer, this was a family-friendly Riviera Maya wedding that welcomed all ages to share in the love and fun. The ceremony was full of laughter and tears and a whole lot of amor. 

Riviera Maya Wedding Reception at Villa la Joya: Dance the Night Away

The Villa la Joya Riviera Maya wedding reception of Chelseay and Stanley was a classic celebration with a dynamic party for all! From the glorious sky tent lit with fairy lights to the stunning flowers, delicious catering and a magnificent cake, every little detail was perfect. Moving toasts and funny speeches had everyone honoring the newlyweds as they raised a glass to their future. 

Family and friends brought all their best fashion eleganza for a night of big fun, but nobody outshone the bride in her incredible reception gown that took everyone’s breath away. 

We adored the simple and elegant theme of this wedding, white with black, pink and gold touches, absolutely gorgeous down to the tiniest detail. From “save the dates” to last dance, Chelseay and Stanley were incredibly thoughtful with each and every moment of this beautiful event.

Villa la Joya Riviera Maya Wedding: All the Best to Newlyweds Chelseay and Stanley!

From all of us at Villa la Joya Riviera Maya, we send a huge thank you and best wishes for a future full of love to Chelseay and Stanley. We are so delighted you chose a Villa la Joya wedding and we can’t wait to share your inspiring photos with the world. 

Feeling inspired by this formal Riviera Maya wedding at Villa la Joya? Contact us today

Villa la Joya weddings are just what YOU want them to be, totally customizable, flexible, and waiting for your personal touch. Are you planning a formal Riviera Maya wedding or something boho chic and relaxed? An intimate celebration for an exclusive group or a huge party for all your family and friends, tell us your wedding ideas, we can’t wait to make your dreams come true. Contact us today!

As always, a huge thank you to the world-class Riviera Maya wedding vendors for your creativity and professionalism, mil gracias. 

Wedding Planning. Dream Weddings Riviera Maya 

Photography. Moni & Adri Weddings

Video. One Cameraman

Glam. Beauty Experts & Sasha Cheveux

Wedding Dress. Wedding Angels Bridal

Floral Design. Corazon Luxury Weddings

Rentals. MSM Rentals

Catering. Gourmet Soberanis

Cake. Pure, Sweet & Chic

Dance Floor. Hercon Entertainment

Fireworks. Pyrotech

DJ. Uno Audiovisual & DJ Swade

Romantic Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Romantic Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Joanna and Raphael’s Romantic Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

This Mexico destination wedding is overflowing with pretty details, romantic touches, a super sweet bride and groom and a whole lot of love from family and friends. We are excited to share the Villa la Joya wedding love story of Joanna and Raphael with you. Ready to be inspired?

How to plan a romantic wedding in Mexico: Private villa wedding magic with Joanna and Raphael

Joanna and Raphael’s Villa la Joya wedding was simply perfection, a “how to” of planning a classic romantic beach wedding without the sand. Every detail was thoughtful and elegant, from the striking circular floral arch for the ceremony on the Villa la Joya stairs to the tiniest buds on the wedding cake and the surprise fireworks over the sea. The gold table settings, lush blush roses with pampas grass, an elegant sweethearts table with a chandelier, we could go on and on and on and on. 

A little rain on their wedding day didn’t dampen the spirit of the celebration of love. The sky tent over the Villa la Joya pool with all of the twinkly lights and surrounding palm trees created a beautiful setting, rain or shine. The personalized dance floor in the calligraphy style of the day’s signs and programs was a fab touch! Gourmet Soberanis outdid themselves with their Playa del Carmen wedding catering, delicious and beautifully presented.

Why choose a destination wedding in Mexico? How did you decide on a Villa la Joya wedding?

We always ask our newlyweds why they chose a destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. We are so glad they did, thanks Joanna and Raphael!

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

“Our families are from opposite coasts in the United States, and we wanted a location that would be a compromise for both sides. However, we didn't love the idea of getting married in Texas. So, we thought of doing a destination wedding to host a wonderful time for our families and friends. Many of them hadn't been to Mexico before and we absolutely loved our visits to the Cancun area, so we settled on Playa Del Carmen. Raphael's mom was so happy when we told her our wedding was in Mexico - she danced all around the house and called all her sisters to let her know. “

What made you decide on Villa La Joya?

“We went to a few resorts and didn't love the idea of the wedding not being completely private. As soon as we saw Villa La Joya, we knew that was it! Villa La Joya is so beautiful and ethereal; it fit perfectly with the romantic theme that we were looking for.“

Reflections of a Mexico destination wedding newlywed: Advice and thoughts from bride Joanna

The day goes by so quickly, with so much emotion and a flurry of activities, it’s hard to soak it all in. Reflecting on the experience of planning a destination wedding in Mexico, lovely Joanna was kind enough to share her thoughts and advice from a newlywed bride.

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

Our favorite memories of our wedding day have to be:

1. Our first look: it was filled with so many tears, but also so much laughter. It was such a special moment and it felt surreal knowing that I was seeing my husband for the first time.

2. Having all of our friends and family in one place coming to celebrate our love and the coming together of two families. We had such a great time hosting everyone all week - it felt like one big sleep over at the resort!

3. Fireworks: Who doesn't love fireworks? It was such a surprise for our guests and really brought the whole wedding together!

Anything you would have done differently on your wedding day?

We would have eaten more! The food at the wedding was so phenomenal. Chef Tomas Soberanis did not disappoint. Huge shout out to him and his team - everyone remembers yummy food at a wedding. At least I do!

Any advice you’d like to share with other brides?

1. Eat lots, drink lots, and be merry (married)!

2. Your photographer is your best friend that day.

3. Don't stress about the details - you won't notice them when you're enjoying the day.

Sage advice from a savvy bride, thanks so much Joanna. We wish you and Raphael a phenomenal lifetime of happiness and amor together!

Plan your own romantic wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya, contact us today

We know this was a super inspirational wedding, are you ready to start planning your own? We can’t wait to hear your ideas and make all your dreams of romance come true with the best wedding vendors in Mexico. Contact us today!

As always, a super big muchas gracias to all the world-class vendors who made this day such a romantic success. 

Wedding Planning - Pride Maya Weddings

Photography - Two Fourteen Photography

Video - Frame Wedding Film

Glam Team - Daniela Delgado

Floral Design - Cherry Blossom

Rentals - EW Cancun

Catering - Gourmet Soberanis

Bar & Cocktails - Be You Service

Cake - Lali Pasteles

Churros - Los Pockets

Dance Floor & Lighting - Grupo Gama

DJ - Evolution Mix

Photobooth - La Cabina

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