In the magic hour of golden light, Stephanie and Evan became man and wife in the garden of Villa la Joya, Playa del Carmen. The gorgeous couple exchanged vows in a simple and elegant destination wedding ceremony by the sea attended by their friends and family decked out in some fantastic fashions.
Villa la Joya was excited to welcome Stephanie and Evan from “across the pond” and to see all the dreams and planning come to life in their fall wedding in Mexico. This couple from the UK met in their hometown and lived a wandering life following Evan’s career as a rugby player before settling down in Newcastle where Evan proposed outside Bamburgh Castle. (We adore love stories with castles!)
Why choose a destination wedding in Mexico?
"We chose Mexico as our destination, as Mexico was our first big holiday together, and we have so many memories here. Having been to Mexico twice before our wedding, and the fact we both love the sun, beach, and holidays we felt it was the perfect choice. When we booked our wedding date, we went back to our first holiday in Mexico and realized the first day we spent in Mexico was the 26th of October, so it felt extra special and as though it was meant to happen," Stephanie shared about their decision.
How did you choose Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen as your wedding venue in Mexico?
"We had been searching up and down for the perfect venue, and we actually came across Villa La Joya on social media (Instagram). We instantly fell in love with the venue, from the views, interior, and external area. We instantly got in touch with the Villa La Joya team, who were incredible and so helpful," Stephanie said about discovering Villa La Joya.
How would you describe your Mexico destination wedding style?
"We are both minimalist people, we don’t really have a favourite colour or flower. We love classic, simple but effective. So we thought black and white for the wedding party would give this look. Filled with pampas which is all over our home decor. When we look back at pictures we absolutely love them, with the white touches of black and gold," Stephanie described the wedding style.
The rectangular arch for the ceremony bedecked in white flowers and pampas, the chandeliers and candles lighting the reception, the divine minimalist cake and a live musician playing saxophone, there were so many details that made this a perfectly elegant affair. And oh what a party too, elegant doesn’t mean “stuffy”, this group rocked it out on the dance floor.
"Our favourite moment of our wedding was each of our guests enjoying themselves, and also telling us how incredible the whole experience from the holiday to the wedding day was. The surprise of them turning up to Villa La Joya and their faces seeing how incredible the venue is, was the icing on the cake," Stephanie shared her joy.
Advice for brides planning a destination wedding in Mexico?
"I don’t think there is anything different we would have done. We had 2 years of planning and prepping, so we felt fairly organized and just ready to enjoy the day," Stephanie reflected on the wedding planning process.
Stephanie's advice for brides is personal and straightforward. "Trust your gut, do what makes you both happy. It is your day and that’s what matters the most. Soak up every moment, take time after the ceremony to spend time together alone to watch your guests enjoy themselves, and to also have a little toast together. (Let’s be honest, wedding planning isn’t always straightforward). Oh, and don’t forget that Moet for the morning of the wedding... trust me it settled those nerves."
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Stephanie and Evan, wishing them a lifetime filled with love and joy. Stephanie and Evan, thank you for allowing Villa La Joya to play a part in your enchanting love story.
Special thanks are due to the incredible Playa del Carmen wedding vendors whose professionalism, creativity, and talent contributed to making this affair truly elegant:
Planner: Lucy Gallagher | Photo: Martin Wilk | Video: About Time Wedding Films | Hair & Makeup: Zoe Elizabeth | Florals: Cherry Blossom | Rentals: Kay & Tee | Catering: Gourmet Soberanis | Cake: Lali Pasteles | Sax: Ariel | DJ: Disco Movil
Evan and Stephanie's wedding was a celebration of love, simplicity, and the beauty of a carefully chosen destination. If you're inspired by their story, contact Villa La Joya and let us help bring your dream destination wedding to life. Our team, along with the best wedding vendors in Playa del Carmen, is ready to make your ideas a reality. Send us a message today at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen!
