Your Wedding Weekend in Riviera Maya

Nestled along the picturesque shores of Playa del Carmen, Mexico, the Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya provides the perfect setting for this vibrant and captivating styled photoshoot. With its glistening Caribbean coastline and a resort that seamlessly blends modern elegance with enchanting charm, there is no shortage of stunning backdrops for a wedding away.

A destination wedding weekend allows couples to enjoy more than one event. It’s a vacation for everyone – as it should be. Couples are no longer waiting until the wedding day to celebrate with guests. In this “wedding weekend in Riviera Maya” shoot, we show you what your events can look like – all in one place – Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya. 

We partnered with some of the best vendors in the industry to bring you a visual story of how to celebrate your union in style in the paradise of Playa del Carmen. From a welcome cocktail celebration in the Presidential Suite and a private pool party overlooking the Caribbean to finally culminating with the destination wedding day on the white sandy beaches of Mexico, this photo shoot shows it all. 

A Warm Welcome

The celebration begins with signature drinks and passed hors d’oeuvres in the Presidential Suite at Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya. Our models, Alex and Allen are joined by their guests as they mingle and enjoy the flexibility of an oversized indoor space with a terrace overlooking the turquoise sea. Modern furnishings and an open-concept floor plan allows for plenty of room for guests to toast and nosh.

Alex is stunning in a dress, accessories and clutch by Stitch & Feather, and Allen is donning a suit and shoes by Friar Tux. Hair and makeup is by Styling Trio and paper goods are by Minted. 

Pool Party Plunge

One of the hottest amenities at Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya are the swim-up rooms. We took full advantage of this secluded oceanfront swim-up suite to toast tequila and take in the sunshine. Complete with pool floats, fresh local fare like guacamole and tropical fruits as well as refreshing signature drinks, a celebration is inevitable.

Alex is a vision in a pink ruffled off the shoulder dress, Valentino sandals, Krewe sunglasses, locally sourced golden-toned raffia clutch and white tassel earrings. Allen matches her relaxed vibe in linen shorts, a white linen v-neck shirt and tan leather sandals. Hair and makeup is by Styling Trio, welcome sign, stationery suite and favor tags are by Minted. 

The Wedding Day

Riviera Maya is known for its endless sunshine and powdery white sand beaches, so it only made sense that this would be the backdrop for the destination “I do’s.” Cecilia Avellaneda of Velvet Event Design created a feast for the eyes using an assortment of greenery, roses and anthurium for the floral design on the arch and black lanterns flanking the aisle. Ghost chairs allowed for a modern twist on a traditional look. All design and rentals are from Velvet Event Design.

I’m not sure what is more breathtaking, Alex or the view. Alex is wearing Francesca by Jenny Yoo, and the flowing fabric of her gown is an ideal nod to the flowing sea waves just steps away. Allen’s tan suit and light brown leather dress shoes by Friar Tux look perfectly tailored for the occasion. Hair and makeup are by Styling Trio.

The beautiful bouquet, designed by Cecilia Avellaneda of Velvet Event Design, is a mix of assorted greenery, white orchids, anthurium, garden roses and fern.

The full stationery suite by Minted with special touches of personalized stamps, ribbon and accessories complement the overall wedding look seamlessly.

The Rooftop Wedding Reception

With a rooftop vantage point, guests are treated to a stunning view of the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea and the fairytale setting created by Cecilia Avellaneda of Velvet Event Design. 

A wooden table is topped with stoneware plates, gold flatware, and (at the risk of being cliché) rose-colored glasses.  An off-white linen runner, white candles, assorted greenery and roses all run the length of the table and cascade to the floor. The wooden canopy of greenery and beaded chandeliers allow for guests to enjoy an al fresco meal under the stars. Soft-pink menu cards by Minted tie each place setting together effortlessly and cane-backed Louis XVI chairs offer a modern touch to a classic staple. The entire look feels soft and romantic. All floral design, table design and rentals by Velvet Event Design. 

From the private pool party and welcome reception to the beach front nuptials and rooftop reception, every detail of this shoot was thoughtfully executed by a team who genuinely cares. The staff at Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya and especially Diana Oramas, Weddings Manager, are second to none and truly give service from the heart. Our visual team of Isabella Rodriguez Photography and Richard Saenz of Royal Films brought the magic to life through their talents. Styling Trio‘s expert team made our models even more beautiful than they already are. Special thanks to Cecilia Avellaneda of Velvet Event Design for always being a generous, visionary partner. We hope you love this work as much as we do!

Vendors: Resort: Hyatt Zilara Riviera Maya; Event/Floral Design/Rentals: Cecilia Avellaneda for Velvet Event Design; Videographer: Royal Films; Photographer: Isabella Rodriguez Photography; Gown: Jenny Yoo; Menswear: Friar Tux; Hair and Makeup: Styling Trio; Stationery: Minted; Production: Bridal Bar