Styled to Serve: A Celebration of Color, Contrast, and Collaboration

Behind the Scenes

June 12, 2025

What started as a casual conversation between us and The Omaha Marriott Downtown at Capitol District turned into something far greater—a full-scale, immersive styled shoot-turned-occasion that redefined what a white box venue can be.

Inspired by the challenge of transforming a blank canvas, our goal was to show just how dramatically a versatile, neutral space can be curated to tell a one-of-a-kind story. Stark white walls and bold black accents set the stage, while deeply saturated sunset tones brought the space to life with deliberate, vibrant color blocking. The interplay of light and shadow—thanks to flowing, luminous draping—allowed us to sculpt an atmosphere rich with texture, movement, and depth.

This shoot was about more than just design—it was about service, connection, and the hospitality experience. Each element was considered through the lens of both form and function. Nowhere was this more evident than in the culinary artistry of The Marriott’s team, whose work was not only styled to perfection, but also honored as a centerpiece of the evening’s guest experience.

Our model couple, JJ and Taylor, have been married for eight years and are dear friends of the planning team. Surrounding them was a “guest list” made up of venue staff, vendor family, and longtime friends—people who already shared a bond with the team behind the scenes. Naturally and unexpectedly, the styled shoot evolved into something more: a styled event, where “guests” showed up dressed to the nines in striking black and white, and mingled as if reuniting at a real wedding. JJ and Taylor wore bold, solid-colored custom suits, standing out as our vibrant focal points amidst the monochrome.

The evening closed in the most fitting way possible—with an impromptu dance party under custom GOBO lighting. Models and guests alike laughed, danced, and celebrated under bouncing sunset hues, as if it were the end of a truly unforgettable wedding night.

Design-wise, no detail was overlooked. Black velvet linens and bold patterned tablecloths were softened by color-blocked floral arrangements that burst from the tabletops. Each guest table featured monochrome florals paired with matching menus to enhance the blocking effect, while cocktail tables brought in pops of color via plush velvet linens. The head table was grounded with a gradient floral runner that created a visual crescendo down the length of the table. JJ and Taylor’s florals were crafted to complement their suits, including a full lapel piece for the electric blue look. Two large floral installations framed the couple at the altar and later transitioned to elevate the bar area—flanked by custom GOBO light patterning and a framed photo display on the bar back.

One of our favorite transformations was the ceremony setup: intentionally intimate, with both traditional chairs and soft seating arranged in an architectural embrace that played beautifully off the room’s existing lines. The drapery throughout the venue—sweeping, sculptural, and strategically lit—created breathtaking architectural moments that felt like an art installation you could move through.

This styled shoot wasn’t just about showcasing a design concept—it was about celebrating the magic that happens when creatives collaborate. Each vendor team brought their own vision, values, and goals to the table, but the synergy was undeniable. Everyone showed up, fully committed to creating something beautiful together. That collaboration—not just in logistics, but in spirit—is what made this event so special.

At 402 Events, we believe the intersection of design and hospitality is where the most memorable experiences live. Being able to explore that balance through this medium, and alongside so many talented partners, was not only a gift—it was a reminder of why we do what we do.