Lesly and Nathan’s Romantic Riviera Maya Wedding at Villa la Joya

Lesly and Nathan’s Romantic Riviera Maya Wedding at Villa la Joya

California couple Lesly and Nathan celebrated their love story with a romantic Riviera Maya wedding at Villa la Joya Mexico. Joined by friends and family for an intimate ceremony, the couple exchanged vows by the Mexican Caribbean sea and united forever as husband and wife.

Villa la Joya was transformed by the creativity of Lesly and Nathan's planning, with Villa Planners and the best wedding vendors in Mexico. Circular floral arch for the ceremony and oh those table settings for the reception, the flowers were lush and perfect, the decor was classic, and every detail was in place for pure romance. A little rain didn’t dampen the spirits, the reception was lively, tequila was flowing and everyone hit the dance floor with umbrellas in hand.

We asked Lesly and Nathan to share their thoughts with us about their big day. It is such a pleasure to read the responses we get from our couples, we just know you’ll be inspired:

Why choose a destination wedding in Mexico?

We picked Mexico for a destination wedding because it has always been a fun place to visit, the culture is beautiful, and the service is always amazing. One of the first vacations we took together as a couple was to Mexico!

Why choose a Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen wedding?

Villa La Joya was beautiful so it was very easy to pick as our venue. We wanted a venue that wasn’t the traditional venue, we wanted something unique. We dreamt of our wedding overlooking a beautiful view, relaxed, & non traditional. A lot of the venues we inquired also limited the ideas that I had for my inspired wedding, like with vendors, and had a lot of rules that took away from my ideas.

Villa la Joya was the opposite of all that and allowed us to plan the wedding of our dreams. Being that we live in California, we wanted wedding planners to help us with the process. Who better than Villa Planners themselves! They know the venue and a lot of vendors who work at the venue which made it so easy to plan the wedding.

What was your wedding style?

Our wedding theme was inspired by a timeless romantic theme. We wanted our decor to be very classy, elegant, & timeless. Our color scheme was ivory, gold, and red and it was so beautifully brought to life by Florería la Fiore & Planner 1 Events. The red rose represented romance and the gold represented timeless elegance. Very much our style!

Do you have a favorite memory from your wedding day?

My favorite part of the wedding was our first look. It was such a private & emotional moment between my husband and I, and the view that we had was beyond beautiful. It is something that was so personal to us both, that he and I will always remember this time together.

Any advice for brides planning a destination wedding in Mexico?

I would tell other brides to trust the process. Villa la Joya was easy to work with, it makes the wedding planning so easy. Enjoy the day because it feels like it flies by! Don’t forget to take a step back and look at your beautiful wedding and take in the view.

We want to give a shout-out to all of our vendors. To Maria Carmen Arcos Photography for capturing it all. To Gourmet Soberanis for creating our delicious dinner menu and drinks. To Disco Móvil and Kiev Morales Violin for working together and creating the best energy for our guests. And to all of our servers from Villa La Joya, thank you for all your work at serving us, keeping the area so clean, and being so kind to us all. Thank you to all of our vendors!

With much gratitude, a huge thank you to Lesly and Nathan. Gracias!

All our best wishes to Lesly and Nathan for a lifetime of happiness together, we thank you for inviting us to be a part of your love story. It was a pleasure to host your destination wedding in Mexico at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen!

Of course this beautiful wedding was the result of the professionalism and creativity of the best wedding vendors in the Riviera Maya, muchas gracias a todos! You are always welcome at Villa la Joya, with none of those silly vendor fees. Let’s make magic!!!

Send us an email now and tell us all about your destination wedding dreams. It’s time to bring your ideas to life at Villa la Joya!

Stephanie & Evan's Romantic Minimalist Wedding at Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen

Stephanie & Evan's Romantic Minimalist Wedding at Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen

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!

Destination Wedding Bridal Makeup: Stunning Looks in the Tropics

Destination Wedding Bridal Makeup: Stunning Looks in the Tropics

Your destination wedding day is your time to glow, and your bridal makeup plays a crucial role in creating your perfect look. Check out these fabulous makeup styles to find inspiration that enhances your natural beauty and complements your wedding vision at Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen.

The number one piece of advice we can offer on bridal makeup is to hire the right makeup artist for you. Outdoor weddings in the tropics have special challenges and the makeup artists in Playa del Carmen are experts in creating incredible looks that will last through a hot day by a breezy beach. Meeting with your MUA and doing a trial run in advance is highly recommended.

 1. Brows: Fluffy or Defined

Choose between the trendy, natural look of fluffy brows or opt for a more defined, sculpted appearance. Whatever you decide, well-groomed brows frame your face and add a touch of sophistication to your bridal look. Bride Abigail, look by Zoe Elizabeth Makeup, Caro Navarro Photography & Bride Imani by Crispin Beauty, Evan White Photo.

2. Lashes for Days: Flutter into Elegance

Make your eyes pop with luscious lashes. Whether you go for the drama of long and voluminous or the fluttery charm of natural-looking lashes, they are sure to captivate as you exchange vows gazing into your lover's eyes under the swaying palms. Villa la Joya bride Chris. Makeup by Doranna Hairstylist Playa del Carmen, Caro Navarro Photography

3. Eyeshadow: Smokey Eyes, Soft Glow, or Dramatic Pizazz

Express your style through your eyes. Create a mesmerizing look with smokey eyes, achieve an ethereal glow with soft shades, or make a bold statement with dramatic eyeshadow that reflects your unique personality. Villa la Joya bride Agreen, Look by Milas Makeup, Luxart Wedding Studio

 4. Lips: Embrace the Nude Elegance

Nude lips are timeless and effortlessly chic. Choose a shade that complements your skin tone, allowing your lips to exude natural beauty while maintaining a soft and romantic allure. VLJ bride Erika, Playa del Carmen MUA Sara Tamargo, Photo by Caro Navarro, & Bride Haley by Sara Tamargo, Photo by LuxArt Wedding Studio.

 5. Earth Tones: Nature's Palette

Enhance your features with earth-toned hues that harmonize with the natural beauty of Playa del Carmen and the architecture of our villa by the sea. Warm browns, soft greens, and gentle terracottas will add a touch of nature's charm to your bridal look. Villa la Joya bride Elizabeth, Makeup by Cassandra Cassout, Luxart Wedding Studio.

 6. Natural Look: Effortless Beauty

For a timeless and classic appearance, embrace the natural look. Let your true beauty shine through with makeup that enhances rather than transforms, giving you a radiant and effortlessly gorgeous aura. Villa la Joya bride Lily, Photo by Julieta Rabadan & Natasha, look by Sarah Garnier, The Eastcore.

 7. No Makeup Look: Bare Elegance

Achieve the perfect balance between subtle enhancement and barefaced beauty with the no-makeup look. A touch of concealer, a dash of mascara, a hint of blush, and a touch of lip balm create an understated yet polished appearance. Bride Kyla at Villa la Joya. Wedding makeup by Angye Abarca, Photo by Anna Roussos.

Your destination wedding day at Villa La Joya is a celebration of love, your bridal makeup should reflect your unique style and leave you feeling confident and gorgeous. Whether you prefer the glamour of dramatic eyes or the timeless elegance of a natural look, there is always a team of expert makeup artists in Playa del Carmen, happy to bring your bridal visions to life.

Contact us today to start planning your picture-perfect wedding at Villa la Joya and let us guide you in choosing the top wedding vendors in Playa del Carmen! There are NO vendor fees at Villa la Joya, so put those pesos to use for your ideal creative vision. We can’t wait to bring your ideas to life, email us now! 

10 Unique Wedding Aisle Decor Ideas You Will Love

10 Unique Wedding Aisle Decor Ideas You Will Love

Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen is revving up for the 2024 destination wedding season, here are some of the hottest wedding aisle decor ideas from recent couples to get your creative juices flowing.

1. Rustic Boho Bliss

Embrace the boho vibes and charm with eclectic rugs, old wood, pampas grass, and vibrant wildflowers lining the aisle, creating a whimsical and free-spirited atmosphere. Chris & Ian had a cozy and welcoming boho wedding aisle in the Villa la Joya garden with some gorgeous fall colors, a triangular wooden altar, and succulents.

Isabela & Henrique’s boho elegance style was divine, with wooden chairs, gorge circular arch and flower petals sprinkled about. 

2. A Tapestry of Cultures: Multicultural Aisle Decor for All Kinds of Celebrations

Celebrate diversity with aisle decor that reflects the richness of multicultural traditions. Incorporate symbolic elements, colors, and textures that represent the cultural mosaic of your love. Dami and Angus celebrated a joyous Nigerian wedding at Villa la Joya, the guests facing the wide aisle and two regal chairs for bride and groom at the center of all that love. 

On the other hand, Yael and Alex enjoyed a traditional Jewish ceremony with a glorious chuppah on the waterfront. 

3. All White Ceremony Elegance

Transform your aisle into a vision of purity and elegance with an all-white theme. White petals, drapes, and floral arrangements create a serene and timeless ambiance for your ceremony. Dami and Angus had two wedding ceremonies, in addition to the traditional Nigerian wedding, they revealed an all-white second wedding aisle decor in the Villa la Joya garden.

4. Tropical Simplicity: Nature's Beauty Unveiled

Let the tropical beauty of Playa del Carmen shine with a simple aisle with a nod to nature and architecture. Think palm leaves, exotic blooms, and natural elements that effortlessly blend with the lush surroundings. Heather and Kevin lined their aisle with ferns, tropical blooms, and the soaring palm trees of Villa la Joya standing tall. Simple wooden chairs and the architecture of the entryway of the villa were all they needed for their tropical “I Do’s”.

5. Modern Chic: Clean Lines and Sleek Accents

For the modern couple, a sleek and chic aisle with clean lines and contemporary decor speaks volumes. Consider geometric shapes, metallic accents, and minimalist floral arrangements. Joanna and Victor chose to mix chairs in different styles and colors, totally modern thinking.

Kyla and Mike’s blue and white modern wedding was pure fashion and art.

6. Church Pews Outdoors: A Divine Setting

Bring the charm of a traditional church ceremony outdoors with rustic church pews lining the aisle. It adds a touch of vintage elegance against the backdrop of Villa La Joya's picturesque setting. Kathy and Toan incorporated wooden church pews with loads of flowing white flowers, vines and garlands of green for a fantasy setting to exchange their vows.

7. Romantic Reverie: Soft Hues and Candlelit Magic

Create a romantic atmosphere with soft hues, delicate flowers, and candlelit lanterns. Let the aisle glow with the warmth of love as you take each step toward forever. Julie and Kevin’s intimate garden wedding at Villa la Joya had such a romantic blooming altar and small seating area by the sea.

8. Minimalist Marvel: Less is More

For those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity, a minimalist aisle with clean lines, subtle greenery, and understated decor allows the focus to remain on the love being shared all around. Kyree and Terrell created a minimalist wedding aisle of green palms and translucent chairs with simple golden geometric designs for their destination wedding in Playa del Carmen.

9. Rose Petal Path: A Trail of Romance

Elevate the romance with a path of rose petals leading to your ceremony spot. It's a classic touch that adds an air of enchantment to your journey down the aisle. Latoya and Jamar created a luxurious rose petal path, the walk to the altar with that amazing train was breathtaking.

10. Over the Pool Pizzazz: A Floating Fantasy

Turn your aisle into a floating wonder by placing it over the pool. Imagine walking on water, surrounded by the reflections of love and the shimmering beauty of Villa La Joya. Alexis and Ronnie built a glossy wide aisle over the pool leading to their altar by the sea.

Ashley and Alden’s translucent aisle over the pool let them walk on water with the backdrop of the Mexican Caribbean Sea.

At Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen, our venue and gardens are the canvas for your unique love story to be painted upon and the ideal setting for your dream wedding aisle. Whether you prefer boho bliss, cultural richness, or modern elegance, our expert wedding planners are here to turn your fantasies into reality. Contact us today to start planning your extraordinary wedding at Villa La Joya!

Tania and Steve's Magical Mexico Wedding at Villa La Joya

Tania and Steve's Magical Mexico Wedding at Villa La Joya

A Stolen Kiss, A Romantic Beginning

Tania and Steve's love story started with a bold stolen kiss on a San Diego yacht during a sizzling 4th of July celebration in 2017. Their connection deepened during a birthday bash in Jamaica, where the tropical vibes sealed their fate. Originally set to part ways due to Steve's planned move, the magic of the moment convinced him to stay in San Diego and the rest is history.

Why choose Mexico: A Destination Wedding Love Affair

United by their love for adventure, Tania and Steve dreamt of a destination wedding. Italy was the initial idea, but the allure of Mexico, with its vibrant culture, delectable food, and, of course, tequila, proved irresistible. Villa La Joya Playa del Carmen, our picturesque wedding venue in Mexico reminiscent of Tania's Italian dreams, became the perfect canvas for their love story.

The ceremony at the grand entrance of Villa La Joya was nothing short of enchanting. An absolutely amazing floral arch adorned the steps, framing Tania and Steve's vows in a setting that seamlessly blended elegance with an abundance of white roses. Villa la Joya bloomed with the fashionable energy of the bridal party. Bride and groom radiated style and amor, Tania’s lacy bridal gown and veil were nothing short of perfect and Steve’s look in a light suit and a black shirt was super chic. 

Too hot for a wedding in Mexico? No way! Breezy, splashy, refreshing fun at Villa la Joya

Their wedding day in Playa Del Carmen turned out to be a scorcher, making even Steve's knees break a sweat during the ceremony! The sweet detail of providing guests with fans was definitely welcomed. The breezy garden provided relief during the cocktail hour, and the ocean brought unexpected splashes along the villa's beachside. Initial concerns about the weather turned into unexpected joy as guests embraced the refreshing mist, turning an unforeseen twist into a memorable part of their day.

The Night Sky Lit Up: Fireworks, Churros and Dancing To the Beat of Love

As the day turned to night, Villa La Joya set the stage for a spectacular celebration. Fireworks illuminated the sky, casting a magical glow on Tania and Steve's first dance. The dance floor transformed into a huge party with everyone getting down to the funky beats. 


Tania changed into her reception attire, a gown that accentuated every curve, exuding elegance and grace. The night unfolded into a fabulous fiesta full of big hugs and lots of laughs, a testament to the love and joy that surrounded the couple and their guests.

Reflections and Advice for Destination Wedding Brides

Looking back, Tania wishes they had chosen Villa La Joya right from the start of the wedding planning process. The festivities ended too soon, and she told us she would extend the celebration until 1 am to keep the dance floor rocking. Her advice to brides: trust the process, enjoy moments with your partner, and don't sweat the small stuff. Your day will be a masterpiece, especially if you choose professionals who understand your vision.

We are delighted and grateful that Tania and Steve chose Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen. We send you big congratulations and wishes for a lifetime of happiness together.

Feeling inspired to get married in Mexico? Join us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen

Each and every love story is an inspiration, are you ready to start planning your destination wedding in Mexico? Start with us at Villa la Joya Playa del Carmen, we can’t wait to bring your visions to life! Contact us today!

Big thanks, muchas gracias: Our fabulous Mexico wedding vendors in Playa del Carmen make magic every time

As always, we send our gratitude to the incredible group of creative professionals who are always welcome at Villa la Joya, you are the best wedding vendors in Mexico! And remember, never any vendor fees, let’s put those pesos to the gorgeousness of the day! 

Mexico Wedding Vendors Playa del Carmen: 

Planner Fer Gallegos | Photos Andre Gouin | Video Sea Love Wedding Films | Florals Mandarinna Studio | Rentals Planner 1 Events | Zoë Elizabeth Makeup | Dress Grace Loves Lace | Catering Icaza Creativos | Cake Lluvia de Azucar | Dance floor Hercon Entertainment | Fireworks Pyrocaribe | PicMe Photo Booth and Video 360 | DJ Audio Cancun