Kelsy and James got married in April at Riviera Maya Haciendas in Puerto Aventuras, in the gardens, surrounded by tropical foliage, beautiful architecture and the people they love most.

The private estate gave them the whole range to work with: white arches, intimate tucked-away courtyards, and the Mexican Caribbean sitting right there past the terraces. The design ran on fresh greens, soft pinks, white flowers and natural texture, with a lot of the couple's own personality worked into the details.

A garden ceremony, dinner under the palms, dancing under a disco ball, it added up to a day full of romance, laughter and some seriously good style. Nancy led the planning and coordination, working with a team of wedding professionals who clearly got what Kelsy and James were going for.

Bridal Style and a Gorgeous Palette of Greens

Kelsy looked absolutely stunning in a fitted ivory gown by VWidon. The strapless, structured bodice and sleek silhouette had an almost sculptural quality, while delicate lace sleeves added a romantic contrast to the clean lines of the dress.

A long veil trailed behind her, and her blonde hair was styled in soft waves, partially swept back from her face. Valeria Lina and Mario Grajeda from the Zoe Elizabeth Team created her fresh, polished bridal look.

James was equally handsome in a classic black tuxedo with a bow tie, keeping the wedding fashion elegant and formal.

And then there were the bridesmaids!

Rather than choosing a single shade, Kelsy's bridesmaids wore a beautiful range of greens, from soft sage and pale pistachio to fresh lime and deeper botanical tones. The dresses varied in silhouette and texture, including one particularly striking halter-neck gown with long fringe.

The colors were gorgeous against the hacienda's white architecture and lush tropical foliage.

The bouquets added another lovely detail. Kelsy carried a loose, garden-inspired arrangement featuring white lilies, pale pink roses and fresh greenery, while her bridesmaids carried elegant white calla lilies.

An Emotional Garden Wedding Ceremony at Riviera Maya Haciendas

The ceremony took place in the gardens of Riviera Maya Haciendas, with the estate's white arches and softly draped fabric creating a romantic architectural backdrop.

Cherry Blossom designed lush floral arrangements that framed the ceremony space with white hydrangeas, pale pink roses, delicate blossoms and cascading greenery. Richer burgundy accents added depth to the predominantly white and green arrangements.

The flowers appeared to grow naturally around the steps leading to the altar, with tropical palms and greenery surrounding the space.

And then Kelsy appeared …

James lost it, as watched his bride walk toward him and just couldn't hold back the tears. It was one of the most touching moments of the entire day.

There's a photo of Kelsy reaching up to gently touch his face during the ceremony, the two of them in their own world with every person they love looking on.

After exchanging vows, the newlyweds shared their first kiss and made their way back down the steps together, Kelsy's long veil and train flowing behind her.

Personal Details and Cocktails in the Tropical Gardens

One particularly meaningful detail was a display of family photographs arranged on a table beneath the palms.

Framed portraits spanning different generations were accompanied by white flowers, bringing family memories into the celebration. Nearby, a personalized lacy banner displayed the couple's names.

The gardens and courtyards of Riviera Maya Haciendas offered plenty of room for guests to mingle, with the estate's white columns, decorative arches and tropical greenery providing a lovely backdrop for photographs.

Cocktails were served from a beautifully styled bar surrounded by flowers, with refreshing pink drinks adding a splash of color to the afternoon.

The couple also included a comfortable lounge area near the pool, with white seating, natural wood tables and fringed umbrellas overlooking the gardens.

Seaside Wedding Reception With Fresh Florals and Natural Details

For the reception, Nancy and the Villa Planners team created an inviting dining space that made wonderful use of the hacienda's outdoor terraces and views of the Caribbean.

Long tables were dressed in crisp white linens and paired with natural wood chairs featuring woven cane backs. A feeling of family, a place for conversation and a relaxed setting for dinner.

The floral arrangements were abundant, with pale pink roses, white flowers, fresh greenery and touches of deep purple and burgundy. Cherry Blossom incorporated small arrangements in white ceramic vases alongside larger, loosely gathered centerpieces.

One of my favorite details was the fresh fruit scattered among the flowers. Green pears, grapes, limes and sliced kiwi brought an unexpected touch of texture and color to the tables, complementing the garden-inspired floral design.

Tall glass cylinders held glowing candles, while delicate white place settings and elegant glassware completed the look.As the afternoon light softened, the candles and strings of lights overhead gave the reception a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

The combination of tropical greenery, natural materials and carefully chosen floral details suited the relaxed elegance of Riviera Maya Haciendas beautifully.

Heartfelt Speeches, Laughter and Happy Tears

Dinner brought everyone together for an evening of wonderful food, conversation and heartfelt speeches.

Family and friends shared stories about Kelsy and James, bringing plenty of laughter and more than a few tears.

The photographs capture the couple enjoying these moments surrounded by their guests, laughing together, listening closely and taking in all the affection directed their way.

There was also a lovely sense of family throughout the celebration, with guests of different generations gathered around the tables and children enjoying the festivities.

And after the emotional speeches, the evening was ready for a change of pace.

First Dance Under the Disco Ball

As night fell, the courtyard at Riviera Maya Haciendas took on a completely different look.

Strings of warm lights stretched between the palm trees, while a silver disco ball hung above a spectacular transparent dance floor. The clear panels reflected the lights overhead, creating a beautiful setting for Kelsy and James' first dance.

Still wearing their formal wedding attire, the newlyweds stepped onto the dance floor together as their guests watched from the surrounding tables.

The hacienda's white arches glowed in the background, and the palms framed the open-air celebration.

The photographs of their first dance are particularly lovely, capturing the couple holding each other close, smiling and enjoying a quiet moment together before the party really got started.

Cake, fireworks, and a fun outfit change

The wedding cake was another standout detail.

Created by Lali Pasteles, the tall, vintage-inspired cake featured elaborate ivory piping, scalloped decorations and bright red accents between its tiers.

Kelsy and James cut the cake together as cold spark fountains lit up the background, adding a little drama and plenty of laughter to the moment.

Later, Kelsy changed into a short ivory reception dress with a fitted silhouette and delicate lace trim. She kept her blonde hair loose and traded her bridal gown for something much easier to dance in.

James also relaxed his formal look, removing his tuxedo jacket and dancing in his white shirt and black suspenders.

With music from UNO Audiovisual, the celebration continued into the night.

Guests filled the dance floor, drinks were raised, and Kelsy and James made the most of every minute.

The photographs show the couple laughing, kissing, dancing with friends and thoroughly enjoying their wedding reception.

Thank You, Kelsy & James!

Kelsy and James, thank you for trusting Villa Planners with your wedding in Puerto Aventuras.

From James' emotional reaction during the ceremony to your first dance beneath the disco ball, your photographs are full of affection, laughter and wonderful moments with family and friends.

It was a pleasure for Nancy and the Villa Planners team to be part of your celebration at Riviera Maya Haciendas.

We wish you both a lifetime of happiness, adventures together and plenty more reasons to celebrate!

Our sincere thanks also go to the wonderful team of wedding professionals who contributed their talent and creativity to the day.

Wedding Professionals

Planning a Destination Wedding in Puerto Aventuras or the Riviera Maya?

Riviera Maya Haciendas offers a beautiful setting for couples looking for a private wedding venue in Puerto Aventuras, with Mediterranean-inspired architecture, tropical gardens, intimate courtyards and access to the Caribbean coast.

Kelsy and James made wonderful use of the property, from their romantic garden ceremony to their outdoor wedding reception and dancing beneath the stars.

At Villa Planners, we help couples plan destination weddings throughout the Riviera Maya, working with beautiful venues and trusted local wedding professionals to create celebrations that reflect their personalities and priorities.

Whether you're considering a private hacienda wedding in Puerto Aventuras, a beachfront celebration or another beautiful venue along the Riviera Maya, we'd love to help you explore your options.

Contact Villa Planners to tell us about your wedding plans and discover how we can help you celebrate in the Riviera Maya.

Kelsy & James's Garden Wedding at Riviera Maya Haciendas