December 19, 2020

It was always Disney Princess Land in Sami’s world. From the time she was little, she was this bright, beautiful, bubbly girl, who brought joy to every person she met. To this day, she is a strong, dedicated, hardworking, joyful, bright light for the world. When I met with them for the first time, I felt like I had just made a new friend, and I could not wait to be a part of their day. Thats the thing about Sami and Ryan. They’re the kind of people you can’t help but want to be around. They make you happy. 

They were so excited to have this big celebration with all their friends and family, and EVERYONE they knew was looking forward to their big day. So while Sami was trying to finish clinicals and graduate and get a job, and then a pandemic got thrown into the mix, my heart broke for her. There was so much hurry up and wait throughout the entire year of 2020, and it was just so hard to know what to do.

As their big day got closer, Sami and Ryan had to make the incredibly tough decision to celebrate their day with only their immediate families and wedding party. 35 people max. Then then would have a big celebration the following year when it’s safe again. 

This game plan for their wedding day was far from the perfect day that they had been dreaming about. This was NOT Disney Princess Land. But as it turns out, this was so much better. Because this was Reality. And this was the day she got to marry her high school sweetheart, the love of her life. 

As I was editing Sami and Ryan’s wedding, I teared up so many times. I don’t know if I’ve every seen someone so excited to finally be marrying their best friend. I mean, I know it was like 8 years in the making, but these two… these two were SO EXCITED ALL DAY! From the moment they saw each other, to the letters to each other talking about how ready they were for this day and all their future dreams, to the tight hand squeeze and silent squeal of excitement during their ceremony when future babies were mentioned, to the speeches that were given at their dinner. The entire day was an intimate reflection of the gentle, joyful, and genuine love between Sami and Ryan. 

As you look through their day, I hope it brings you a sense of joy. I hope it makes you FEEL. Because after a year like 2020, we could all use a happily every after.

Sami and Ryan, I am so thankful that our paths crossed and you trusted me to document this imperfectly perfect day. Heres to all the adventures to come! I can’t wait to celebrate with you again this year!

Much Love,

Gabby

The Creative Team

Hair: Brooke at Hairingtons - Lincoln, NE • Makeup: Acacia Linn Aesthetics - Lincoln, NE • Dress: Nebraska Bridal - Wahoo, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Lincoln, NE • Rings: Elder Jewelry and Sartor Hamon • Flowers: Made by the Bride! • Cupcakes: Sherri - Waverly, NE • Church: St. Joseph’s Catholic Church • Reception Venue and catering: The Venue Cornhusker Room • Photographer: Gabby of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Alecia of Alecia Amber Photo • Videography: Katie Janky Multimedia

If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride + groom, or email me, for the download pin!