Nine years together, and they chose Puerto Aventuras to make it official. Good choice.

Hacienda del Mar is one of several private haciendas that make up Riviera Maya Haciendas, a collection of beachfront estate venues in Puerto Aventuras that have become some of the most sought-after wedding locations on the Riviera Maya. Each one is a fully private property: your own garden, your own pool, your own beach, your own chef. No resort crowds or strangers at the next table. Just your favorite people and a calm bay area in the Mexican Caribbean.

Livi’s nieces sang live during the garden ceremony under tall palms and lush tropical vegetation. Mike waited. Livi walked in. Own vows were exchanged. There were happy tears, from guests who’d traveled from the UK for this, and then sunset portraits on the beach with that particular light Puerto Aventuras gets in the late afternoon.

Back at the hacienda, Francesca Caputo’s private chef dinner was set up poolside with bistro lights overhead. And then the best moment of the night: Livi had secretly arranged a life-size cardboard cutout of Apollo, their rescue dog, to surprise Mike at the reception. It worked. The whole table lost it. Apollo technically attended the wedding, danced in a few photos, and was present for the cake cutting. No notes.

Livi & Mike, thank you for this one. Congrats!!!

Venue: Hacienda del Mar, Riviera Maya Haciendas, Puerto Aventuras · Wedding Planner: Arlenis Ruiz Weddings & Romance · Dress: Savannah Miller · Hair & MUA: Doranna Hairstylist · Florals: Cherry Blossom · DJ: PlugIn Audiovisual · Catering: Francesca Caputo