Mentalla and Mazen’s downtown Tampa wedding was an elegant evening set in the heart of the city. The luxurious ballroom was filled with neutral flora accented with boho-inspired details, touches of shimmering gold, and lots of joyous energy from loved ones.

“The theme was modern bohemian,” Melissa Gordon, Senior Event Manager at Hilton Tampa Downtown, shared. “The couple chose a color scheme of white, gold, and hints of blush. The main element was pampas grass in all white, beige, and brown tones with dry palms.”

Desiring an all-inclusive venue with on-site accommodations, ample event space, and fully customizable catering options, the bride and groom chose the Hilton Tampa Downtown to host their June celebration for their 110 closest friends and family. The expansive ballroom featured sparkling crystal chandeliers that set the scene for an enchanting reception space.

“No matter how grand or intimate the occasion, Hilton Tampa Downtown is sure to deliver nothing short of an exceptional experience,” Melissa beamed. “The breathtaking indoor and outdoor ceremony and reception possibilities, with over 35,000 square feet of event space, deliver a ‘happily ever after’ experience.”

Soft draping surrounded the room, creating a romantic setting, while copper structures adorned with boho-inspired flora and dried palm fronds made for a stunning focal point for the ceremony. Romantic candlelight filled the space, lending to a first dance straight out of a fairy tale courtesy of cold spark fountains and rolling fog that made Mentalla and Mazen look as if they were dancing on a cloud. To kick off the celebration, lively drums welcomed the wedding party into the space and set the tone for the evening.

With their unique cultural traditions incorporated into the ceremony and reception, the couple sought a photographer with seasoned experience shooting weddings of varying religions and ethnicities who could effortlessly capture all of the important elements without missing a beat. Enter Sabrina Autumn Photography, who immersed themselves in the wedding day logistics to document the festivities from beginning to end.

“One thing that can be intimidating about cultural weddings is that events and traditions are so different and take place at different times, sometimes simultaneously. You definitely have to be on your toes and be ready and have good communication with the bride/planner!” Sabrina Massmann, owner of Sabrina Autumn Photography, remarked. “The biggest difference [between traditional Western weddings and cultural weddings] is in the way that every single person attending the wedding is so deeply involved. When the dancing started,  there wasn’t a single person who didn’t dance with the couple.”

The energy of the dance floor was unforgettable and left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. But the delicate beadwork of the bride’s gown was one of the most talked about aspects of the day.

“Some of my favorite elements were Mentalla’s dress and veil because they were so intricately beaded and grande. The details, from getting ready to the reception, really stood out; the way the ballroom was set up was something out of a Disney movie,” the photographer gushed. “Oh, and the dancing! They go straight into dancing and truly never stop; everyone is at 100% the entire time. When the bride or groom tried to take a break, they were corralled back onto the dance floor. It’s just pure happiness from start to finish you can feel how grateful everyone is to be there!”

What were your favorite elements of this wedding? 
Some of my favorite elements were Mentalla’s dress and veil because they were so intricately beaded and grande. The details, from getting ready to the reception, really stood out; the way the ballroom was set up was something out of a Disney movie.

Oh, and the dancing! They go straight into dancing and truly never stop; everyone is at 100% the entire time. When the bride or groom tried to take a break, they were corralled back onto the dance floor. It’s just pure happiness from start to finish you can feel how grateful everyone is to be there! -Sabrina Massmann, owner of Sabrina Autumn Photography