September 14, 2019

As they sat there in the front pew of their bright, beautiful church, Cooper and Desirae read each other their love letters. As I quietly listened to them, I quickly realized that timing is everything. It’s the essence of their story. 

Dez and Cooper both attended Midland Universtiy, and over the course of 4 years, they never directly crossed paths, despite living in the same building sophomore year just one floor apart, despite him being the annoying wrestler in the front row of a discussion class who would always ask one last question, holding up the entire class, despite having similar practice schedules in the same building, and despite Cooper’s several attempts. You see, Coopers friend John and Desirae’s friend Bailey were getting married. As their friends kept telling them about each other, Cooper thought, “This was a woman I could see myself marrying.” They both had the mindset of dating with the intention of marrying. Perhaps this is why Cooper had to work so hard to get her attention; she was focused on her studies and athletics, and if she couldn’t give her best to a relationship, then it wasn’t the right time. That didn’t stop Cooper from at least trying to meet Dez!

Attempt number 1: Cooper drove his future best man to Briar Cliff. Desirae had just finished playing a softball game and as she walked in his direction, he cheerfully said, “Hi!” Focused as always, Dez didn’t even hear him and walked straight past him. Fail.

Attempt number 2: 1 year later, Cooper was at a sports bar with his family. Desirae happened to be at that same sports bar with her softball team. A friend texted him from her phone and got the conversation going. They texted for about a week, but it fizzled out quickly because she just wasn’t interested. Fail.

Attempt number 3: 1 year later, Desirae and Cooper were playing spike ball with their best friends, Bailey and John. They were teamed up and were completely dominating the game. A sign that they might make a great life-long team? Perhaps! Bailey told Coop to make a move, but after being denied for two years in a row, he was a little hesitant. 

Not long after, Cooper decided to start using his hour commute to listen to podcasts about how to talk to, understand, and date women. It paid off, because one day, he decided to finally make the move. On his way home, he stopped by the flower shop that Desirae worked at, marched up to her, and then totally lost all ability to say words. As he stared at his shoes, he eventually made out the words, “Will you go on a date with me?” And you know what? SHE SAID YES! The timing was finally right.

So here we are, a couple years later, witnessing this beautiful couple promise forever to each other. What I loved most about their wedding day was how genuine and honest Dez and Coop are about the love they have for each other. How excited they are to share what they love about each other. In his letter to Dez, Coop told her that the reasons he loves her are numerous. Smart. Strong. Capable. Beautiful. The list goes on. In her letter to Cooper, Desirae boasted about his work ethic. His transparency. Humble. Genuine. Selfless. So much more. The entire day was a reflection of these cherished qualities and how truly, deeply they love one another, their families, and their friends.

Cooper and Desirae, thank you for sharing your inspirational love with me. You are so loved by everyone around you, and the way you share your love, laughter, and faith with the world is a true testament to the gold your hearts are made of. Together, you will do so many incredible things! 

Much Love,

Gabby

The Creative Team

Hair: Kelsey McCurdy of Red Brick Hair Chic - North Bend, NE • Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dresses: Black Tie White Satin - Fremont, NE • Tuxes: Gentleman’s Choice Formalwear - Omaha, NE • Rings: Helzberg • Flowers: Maxine Poulas of Enchanted Weddings and Shelly Riggs of The Gardener - Fremont, NE • Cake: Cheryl Abbott of Out of the Box • Catering: Boyd & Charlies BBQ - Omaha, NE • DJ: Arius of Complete Weddings • Trolley: Apache Trolley - Norfolk, NE • Ceremony Venue: Fremont First United Methodist - Fremont, NE • Pastor: Bill Gepford • Reception Venue: Christensen Arena - Parks and Rec - Fremont, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Bailey Buschelman of Bailey Buschelman Photography • Videographer: Hillary of Twin Whimsy Videography - Omaha, NE