Mention “hotel wedding” and you might picture an event that’s traditional, elegant and sophisticated.

And you’d be right.

But replace the term “traditional” with “theme” and you’ll have a completely different ceremony—but one that can still be elegant and sophisticated, not to mention unforgettable.

Recently we interviewed interviewed Nector Collazo, Director of Event Planning at the luxurious JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, for tips on arranging a theme wedding at a hotel.

What trends are you seeing in the world of themed weddings?

Old days of etiquette is out the door. More casual weddings - what the bride feels comfortable with...it's her dream day, stepping out of the etiquette box. Unique weddings to create everlasting memories. Ambiance - converting the ballroom into a very soft, regal and elegant environment of white, flowing silk to create a "Great Gatsby" style affair.

In what ways can couples arrange a themed wedding and, at the same time, retain the important atmosphere of this special occasion?

The event should be a reflection of the couple...who they are, what they like and their creativity. Retaining the important atmosphere of the special occasion - cake cutting, receiving line, first dance.

Can you describe a unique themed wedding you arranged?

Masquerade Wedding Ball...

Brides have so many options now days… I find the mature brides looking for a more relaxed event while some of the younger brides are looking for the more traditional formal style weddings. This was not the case during a wedding consultation early March of 2004 when I met with a young lady to get to know her vision and expectations of what her wedding day should feel like and of course look like. So many times this particular question will take a few hours of communication before a clear picture comes to surface.. this was not the case with Yajaira!

When asked what her vision was she was crystal clear: I want a Masquerade Wedding Ball she replied with a smile! Needless to say this was a first in 25 years for me…..

So off we went with a Masquerade theme.

As we are going over details the bride share with me some very unique ideas she has always dreamed of for her big day.

From arriving to the out door ceremony in a horse and carriage, in a non-traditional style bridal gown with all the guest dressed in white to entering the ballroom with her and at that time husband wearing a special custom mask…

Needless to say I have worked with several themed wedding in years past but a Masquerade Wedding Ball was very unique and talk about out of the box!

Highlights of the event: Unfortunately due to inclement weather the ceremony had to be held indoors so her Horse and Carriage did not take place. However, this did not deter the evening to be a fantasy evening for her.

Yajaira wore a champagne color Marie Antoinette Style gown very baroque and her wedding bouquet was far from what a traditional bride would carry. Draped around her waist was a combination of feathers and tea roses cascading to the floor.

Once the bride and groom were announced into the room the guests greeting the newly weds with mask provided at each place setting.

Not one details was overlooked by the bride from theatrical lighting throughout the room to a dramatic head table and not to overlook the amazing custom wedding cake with a Baroque touch!

Click here for an interview with Nector about planning a wedding at The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes

To plan a Marriott wedding, call the Marriott of your choice and ask to consult with the hotel's wedding event planner. For more information on Marriott Hotels, Resorts, and Suites, call 1-800-228-9290 or see www.marriott.com.

Photos courtesy The JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes