Spectacular Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Spectacular Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Agreen and Sapiro’s Spectacular Mexico Destination Wedding at Villa la Joya

Modern Tuscan elegance by the sea, a dreamy destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen! Real wedding inspiration that will have you ooohing and aaahing, are you ready?

Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen was absolutely aglow for the wedding of Agreen and Sapiro. Overflowing roses, a stunning altar and sparkling chandeliers, our seaside gardens welcomed the loved ones of this beautiful couple to a grand day of joy and celebration.  

Agreen and Sapiro brought their ideas for a “Modern Tuscan'' wedding to life at Villa la Joya. The setting and details were gorgeous, but what really made this day special was the love of the couple and those who joined them to be a part of their destination wedding day. Viva romance, passion and love, you can feel it in every photo!

The Golden Hour of Love: An Emotional Wedding Ceremony

The sun was absolutely perfect, the skies were blue and the ocean breeze blessed it all with a kiss of the sea. Agreen and Sapiro exchanged vows in a moving wedding ceremony that captured the hearts of all in attendance. The ceremony set-up was stunning, the abundance of white roses, the shining white aisle, and the couple perfectly framed in a pergola-style altar with the backdrop of the Mexican Caribbean Sea. They exchanged words of love for now and forever and sealed the deal with a kiss.

Portraits, cocktails, and a joyous wedding reception at Villa la Joya

The newlyweds shared many a kiss and gazed deeply into each other’s eyes in some of the most fabulous wedding portraits we’ve seen! As Agreen and Sapiro and their bridal party created magazine-worthy photos with Luxart Weddings, their guests were welcomed to cocktails in a white and gold wonderland that set the scene for the elegant reception. 

With golden touches in the table settings, candles and roses, and sparkling chandeliers, the gardens of Villa la Joya were transformed into the couple's dream of a Modern Tuscan vibe. With lots of laughs and tears through the toasts, a delicious dinner and a dynamic reception with fireworks and a glorious cake, Agreen and Sapiro danced the night away surrounded by loved ones in an unforgettable night.

The love story of Agreen and Sapiro: Interview with a destination wedding bride

We asked the newlyweds a few questions about their love story and here is what they shared with us:

A brief story of how you two met? We met the old fashion way! In a bar getting drunk and the rest is history.

Why did you choose Mexico for your destination wedding?

We wanted to enjoy more than just one day with our guests, we wanted everyone to be on vacation and relaxed. We love Mexico and it was a no brainer to be by the beautiful Caribbean Sea.

What made you decide on a Villa La Joya wedding?

From the very beginning, we wanted something that was a show stopper, something grand and spectacular. We looked at so many places and once we saw VLJ, we knew it was the one. Everything from the inside stairs, the view, the fountain and the pool.

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

Our vows were the most emotional. It was from the bottom of our hearts and it was expressing our love from the past and the future.

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

Give yourself more time than you think the day of and enjoy it, it goes by very quickly!

Big thanks, muchas gracias Agreen and Sapiro!

All of us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen send our best wishes to the newlyweds for a long and happy lifetime full of laughter and joy! It was our pleasure to meet you and get to know you and witness the love you share. 

As always, a huge thank you to the exceptional wedding vendors in Playa del Carmen. Each and every one of you brings professionalism and passion to creating world-class destination weddings at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. Muchas gracias! (And hey, did you know? There are never any vendor fees at VLJ, let your imagination run wild!)

Playa del Carmen Wedding Vendors: 

Wedding Planning. Fresa Weddings

Photo. LuxArt Wedding Studio

Video. Sea Love Wedding Films

Glam. Milas Makeup​​​​​​​​

Flowers. Luis Floral Experience

Wedding Dress. Galia Lahav

Rentals. Planner1 Events + Kay & Tee Boutique Rentals + Grupo Gama

Catering. Gourmet Soberanis

Signs. Elements Graphics

DJ. Plug In Audiovisual

Destination Wedding Don’ts: Etiquette Planning Mistakes

Destination Wedding Don’ts: Etiquette Planning Mistakes

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. 

  1. 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.


  2. 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. 


  3. 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.


  4. 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. 


  5. 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. 


  6. 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. 


  7. 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. 


  8. 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. 


  9. 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

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