Myles & Kilie brought us on board to capture their special day, and we were absolutely thrilled to be their wedding photographers. They chose the 9-hour photo shoot package, and boy, was it a day to remember!
Our adventure with this fantastic couple kicked off in March. The excitement was building as we headed to a lovely private house to capture those unforgettable getting-ready moments. The atmosphere was so relaxed, and it felt like we were part of the gang.
The ceremony took place in front of the breathtaking Villa La Joya, a swanky venue tucked away in a fancy part of Playa del Carmen. We couldn’t help but feel like privileged guests ourselves, soaking in the elegance of the place.
After they tied the knot, the party was just getting started! The reception and dancing were in full swing on the pool terrace right by the beach. The vibe was infectious, and everyone was letting loose. It was like a little slice of paradise. And now, the moment you’ve all been waiting for, our handpicked selection of the absolute best photos from this unforgettable day. Get ready to relive the magic!
If you want to explore my full portfolio as an award-winning Playa del Carmen photographer, click here to see more of my work and get inspired for your big day!
Wedding Photographer FAQ’S
Can I bring my own external photographer to Villa La Joya?
Yes! In fact, because Villa La Joya is a private residence and exclusive venue rather than a hotel, you are required to build your own team of vendors. While they have a preferred vendor list, you are welcome to bring me in to capture your day. I highly recommend hiring a photographer who is already familiar with the venue’s specific rules and layout to ensure a seamless experience, as I know exactly how to navigate the property without interfering with the flow of your event.
What are the best locations for wedding photos at the venue?
Villa La Joya is famous for its stunning architecture, and I know exactly how to utilize it. The iconic sweeping staircase is a must for dramatic portraits, but there are other gems we can use. From the intricate details of the balcony and the lush, manicured gardens to the rocky shoreline that offers a unique texture compared to the sandy beach, I know where to position you. This ensures we get a high-end, editorial variety of looks all within a few steps of your party.
Does the venue rental include photography services?
No, Villa La Joya is a venue-only rental, which means photography is not included. This is actually a huge benefit! Unlike all-inclusive resorts that often assign a random staff photographer, this gives you the freedom to book me independently. This ensures full-day coverage—capturing everything from your getting-ready moments in the bridal suite to the late-night reception—with a consistent artistic style and a personal connection that you simply can’t get with a standard package.
How do we handle logistics on the property?
One of the best parts about Villa La Joya is its intimate layout. Unlike sprawling resorts where we need golf carts, everything here is walkable. However, the heat can still be a factor in wedding attire. I prioritize your comfort by planning a flow that minimizes walking and keeps you in the shade of the villa as much as possible. My experience here allows us to move quickly between the garden, the architecture, and the beach, maximizing your time celebrating with guests.
When is the best time for wedding photos in the Riviera Maya?
Lighting is everything in the Caribbean. The mid-day sun can be incredibly harsh, so I always recommend we schedule your romantic portraits during “Golden Hour,” roughly an hour before sunset. Since the Villa faces the ocean, the building itself casts beautiful, open shade in the afternoon, which is perfect for flattering portraits. I will help you build your timeline to take full advantage of this soft light, ensuring your photos look dreamy rather than overexposed.
Can we get sunset photos over the ocean at Villa La Joya?
It is important to remember that on the Caribbean coast of Mexico, the sun rises over the ocean and sets over the jungle side. I will schedule our couple’s session to capture the stunning soft light of the “Golden Hour” on the beach, but if you truly want the sun coming up directly over the water, I might suggest a “First Look” session at sunrise. For the evening, I will position you to catch the beautiful colors filling the sky behind the Villa’s majestic architecture.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
One of the things I love about this venue is its magnificent residential architecture. If tropical rain occurs, I know exactly where to find the best sheltered locations, such as the covered outdoor terrace, the grand interior staircase with its high ceilings, or the elegant balconies that offer natural light without the rain. These backup spots ensure I can keep your gallery sophisticated and varied regardless of the weather.
Is Villa La Joya suitable for large weddings?
Absolutely. Villa La Joya is a premier destination for luxury weddings because the expansive garden and beachfront deck can easily accommodate elaborate setups, large tents, and high guest counts without feeling crowded. I am well-versed in these exclusive events, understanding the critical angles needed to showcase the venue’s scale, how to capture the intricate details of your reception decor, and how to navigate the party to capture every moment perfectly.
Where are the best spots for a “First Look” away from guests?
Unlike a resort, Villa La Joya offers complete exclusivity, so we don’t have to worry about random tourists in the background. I love utilizing the grand front entrance gates, the lush side gardens, or the quiet balcony areas for a truly intimate setting. As your photographer, I scout these spots based on the lighting to ensure your first look utilizes the privacy and elegance that this venue is famous for.
Do we need a second shooter for a Villa La Joya wedding?
Since Villa La Joya is a venue only and not a hotel, the bride and groom often get ready at separate condos or hotels nearby before traveling to the site. Therefore, I highly recommend a second shooter. While I am with the bride at her prep location, my second photographer can cover the groom getting ready at his. Working with a team ensures we don’t miss any pre-ceremony anticipation and allows for multiple angles during the main event.