Desirae + Cooper • Romantic September Wedding • Fremont, Ne
“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….”
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
Ashley + Tyler • Trinity Lutheran August Wedding • Columbus, Ne
August 17, 2019
Over the past few years, Ashley and Tyler have built a beautiful, laughter fulled life together. They have two little kids, and lots of animals to love on, and they love to spend time with their families. They love going to the river, and they spend tons of time fishing. In fact, when Tyler decided to finally pop the question, he took Ashley fishing on the river! He attempted to tie the ring on the fishing line, but he was so nervous that he couldn’t thread the line. So he settled for just getting down on one knee, telling her she’s a great mom, that she’s crazy, and that he loves her. I loved when they told me this story, because they both just laughed the whole time.
Fast forward to the wedding day, he stood there with his back turned, all dressed up, nervous, hungry. As the sun beat down, he waited for his beautiful bride to walk up behind him so they could share a special moment. The anticipation grew. The bride walked up slowly behind him, and with the biggest smile, tapped on his shoulder. He whipped around and immediately, started laughing hysterically. This was NOT his future wife. Instead, it was his soon to be brother-in-law, dressed in a wedding gown. Best. Prank. Ever.
Throughout the day, I recognized how important humor is in their relationship. All day long, Ashley and Tyler, their friends, and their families were laughing. They were pulling pranks, cracking jokes, and just enjoying life. Just being around their joy can make anyone feel loved.
It was apparent to me that laughter was a big part of their love story. So, as Ashley and Tyler stood there at the altar, all her girls to her left, all his guys to his right, the church pews filled with family and friends, smiling at each other, and the pastor asked them to remember what makes them feel loved, I was excited to hear the answer. For Ashley, it’s when Tyler appreciates her and her accomplishments, and the things she does for their family. For Tyler, it’s when Ashley shares her joy and excitement with him.
We all have a different love language, a certain way we long to be loved, a love that makes us feel the most fulfilled. What’s beautiful, is that Ashley and Tyler recognize what makes them feel loved and they are so willing to choose each other each day, and to love each other in that way each day.
Ashely and Tyler, thank you for letting me be a part of your big day, for asking me to document your love, and for sharing your joy with me! It was truly such a fun day to be a part of. I wish you and your adorable little family a lifetime of love, laughter, and happiness!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair and Makeup: Design Team - Columbus, NE • Bridal Gown: Ellynne Bridal - Lincoln, Ne • Tuxes: J. Patrick’s - Columbus, NE • Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Ellynne Bridal - Lincoln, Ne • Bride’s Ring: Kay Jewelry • Groom’s Ring: Riddles Jewelry • Flowers: made by the bride and her aunt Danielle • Cake: Gary’s Great Cakes - Albion, NE • Catering: Country Mile Catering - Genoa, NE • DJ: Sound Bound DJ - Columbus, NE • Ceremony Venue: Trinity Lutheran Church - Columbus, NE • Reception Venue: The American Legion - Columbus, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Bailey Buschelman of Bailey Buschelman Photography
Amer + Kiir | Holy Trinity Episcopal Wedding | Courtside Banquet Reception | Lincoln, NE
June 8, 2019
One of the best things about photographing weddings is all of the different cultures and traditions I get to witness and experience. It's such a beautiful thing that we can all have different ways of life, different beliefs, different ways of doing things, yet we all still celebrate one of the greatest treasures in life: Love.
Amer and Kiir are of the Dinka Tribe, and their wedding weekend revolved around the rich culture and traditions of their people. Friday night, they kicked things off with a Traditional Henna Party. While the bride and groom got their hands and feet decorated with henna, family and friends gathered in a beautifully decorated room, and they celebrated. Once the bride and groom showed up to the party, they each did a traditional dance in, and then danced together, surround by all of their guests. Everyone was dressed in traditional African garb, all so beautiful, colorful, and ornate. They hugged, they laughed, they cried some happy tears, and they spent the night celebrating the soon to be husband and wife. You’ll see a little peek into this beautiful tradition after the wedding sneak peek below!
The wedding day was a little more traditional in the American sense. They each got ready separately, and waited until the wedding to see each other. Amer’s dress was beautiful lace, with a small train, and a gorgeous cathedral veil. The men wore navy tuxes, and even the little guys matched! Amer and Kiir got married in a beautiful church, where their friends and family gathered, so excited to be a part of their day.
Although the “white wedding” as Amer calls it, was more typical of American weddings, I love how much Dinka culture they kept in their day. During their reception, instead of the best man and maid of honor giving a toast, several different family members took turns standing up and talking. Each time someone new stood up to talk, they would sing a song and several members of that family would all get up and dance together. Between Dinka, Arabic, and bits of English, I often didn’t know exactly what was being said. But that’s okay, because despite not being able to understand the words, I could understand the feelings. I could feel the wonderful energy they were sharing. Everything they spoke of revolved around loving and respecting each other. Taking care of each other. Being thankful for each other. They spoke of these things so sincerely, and with so much passion. And when it’s all said and done, that’s what marriage is all about. It’s about unconditional love. It’s about being there for each other, no matter what. It’s about spending your life with your best friend.
Amer and Kiir, thank you for trusting me to document your beautiful day. I am forever grateful that I got to witness such a wonderful marriage between two people with such big hearts and kind souls. I am also so thankful for the opportunity to be a part of your beautiful culture and traditions. I wish you both a life time of love and happiness!
Much Love,
GabbyOne of the best things about photographing weddings is all of the different cultures and traditions I get to witness and experience. It's such a beautiful thing that we can all have different ways of life, different beliefs, different ways of doing things, yet we all still celebrate one of the greatest treasures in life: Love.
The Creative Team
Makeup: Diana Opara - Omaha, NE • Hair: Yassbeautiful Hair - Omaha, NE • Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal • Flowers: Made by the Bride and Friends • Ceremony Venue: Holy Trinity Episcopal Church - Lincoln, NE • Reception Venue: Courtside Banquet Hall - Lincoln, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Bailey Buschelman of Bailey Buschelman Photography • Gretna, NE
The Henna Party
Becca + Trenton | North American Martyrs Catholic Wedding | Cornhusker Marriott Reception | Lincoln, NE
May 31, 2019
When I think about Becca and Trenton’s wedding day, a lot of things come to mind. I think about how the weather was perfect; it was warm and sunny, but not terribly hot and humid like it often is once summer hits here in Nebraska (although, I know the groomsmen, bundled up in layers on layers in their tuxedos, would beg to differ). I think about all the family and friends who traveled near and far to witness these two say their vows. I think about all the beautiful details, from the blush bridesmaid dresses, the gorgeous corset back on Becca’s gown, the bright, springy greens and pinks of the floral bouquets, the delicious flavors of cupcakes from cookie dough to lemon to almond, and everything in between. I think about all the laughter and joy that was shared throughout the day. I think about how the diamond in Becca’s ring was Trenton’s Grandmother’s diamond, and how his grandfather passed it on to Trenton, knowing Becca was the one. And mostly, I think about how relaxed and kind everyone was all day.
Becca and Trenton are both so laid back, and Becca has a tendency to be late. To everything. Always. Almost all the time. But this day wasn’t about the timeline; this day was about getting to marry the love of her life, about why they fell in love, and celebrating that with the people they cherish. So even when things were running behind schedule, everyone was relaxed and content. There was one thing she did have to be on time for though, and that was the ceremony. I’m sure you’re all wondering it started on time… The answer is YES! 5:00 on the dot, the music started playing and Becca’s brothers started walking the bride and groom’s parents and grandma down the aisle. The ring bearer even had the cutest sign, letting us all know that we wouldn’t be waiting for the bride, “For once she’s on time!” (cue the giggles)
I love documenting love stories like Becca and Trenton’s, mostly because they’re so authentic. They’re so full of life and laughter and special moments and love. They’re completely comfortable with each other, and over the 5 years they’ve been together, they’ve come to love every version of each other. As Becca’s maid of honor, Ali, put it, “If you can handle and love a drunk Becca, a sweet and peppy Becca, a sad Becca, an excited Becca, a weird Becca, and any other side of Becca, Trenton you are without a doubt, the one. I am so happy you have each other.”
Becca and Trenton, thank you for trusting me to document your love. For asking me to be a part of your day. For welcoming me into your home, and into your world. I am so thankful for you both, and wish you all the joy, laughter, and adventure this life has to offer. Cheers to you, Mr. & Mrs. Royse!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Kirstey Grim - Lincoln, NE • Makeup: Alicia’s Makeup Artistry - Lincoln, NE • Bridal Gown: Bridal Elegance - Tulsa, OK • Bridesmaids Dresses: Morilee - Online • Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse • Rings: Moody’s Jewelry • Flowers: I Bloom Flowers - Lincoln, NE • Cake: Roberta Royse (aunt of the groom) • Catering: Cornhusker Marriott Hotel - Lincoln, NE • DJ: Jared Tupper of Complete Weddings + Events - Lincoln, NE • Ceremony Venue: North American Martyrs Catholic Church - Lincoln, NE • Reception Venue: The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel - Lincoln, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Tonya Ottemann of Ottemann Photography - Nebraska City, NE •
Chris + Claire • St. Anthony's Catholic Church Wedding • Columbus, Ne
April 27, 2019
“He is so patient with me” This is one of the first things Claire told me about Chris. His patience. His ability to bring about a sense of calm. The way he, without fail, can make those around him happy.
From the moment she began telling me why she loves Chris, I knew April 27th was going to be one beautiful day. The moment I knew it would be absolutely perfect was when Chris started telling me about why he loves Claire. “She makes me smile, she’s funny, and I love the way she is always putting others before herself. She makes me happy, and she’s cute.” Of course, giggling followed.
I could tell from that very first meeting how much these two truly, deeply love each other, and oh did their love shine through on their wedding day.
Let me remind you that we live in Nebraska, so when the forecasted 80 degrees and sunny is suddenly 44 and windy as all get out, you roll with it. When getting ready takes longer than expected, you roll with it. And when your brother can’t be with you on your special day because he’s sacrificing his life for his country, you get a special yellow flower in your bouquet to honor him, you miss him like crazy, and you roll with it. You celebrate that you have so much to celebrate, and you recognize all those you little things you love about each other. Witnessing Chris’s patience and calm demeanor in the midst of a time crunch and Claire intentionally making sure everyone else was taken care of first throughout her day, the way she made everyone around her laugh despite the bone chilling wind… seeing the way they looked at each other all day long, with nothing but joy in their eyes. Witnessing these qualities is a true testament to how honest and sincere Chris and Claire’s love really is.
The thing is, I’m not the only one who has taken notice of how perfect these two are for each other. In their speeches, Jill (one of Claire’s best friends) and Corey, (Chris’s brother) were sure to let us know that they knew it, too. Jill reminded us about Claire’s fabulous sense of humor and how they became friends in college despite Claire’s serious “RBF”, and how they bonded over ups and downs, boyfriends and heartbreak, adventures and stressful times, tubs of ben and jerry’s ice cream, and how Claire has a knack to always keep you grounded and laughing. To end her toast, she thanked Chris for loving Claire, her best friend, so very vey well.
Once the giggles and clapping died down, Corey took the mic. He told the crowd how growing up, he and all the other cousins made bets that Chris would be the last one to get married. Turns out, they all need to pay up, because he’s the first to have such a beautiful day! (que the cheering and fist pumps) He knew Claire was the “one” mostly because Chris wouldn’t shut up about how pretty she is. But most importantly, she makes his brother the happiest man in the world. It just doesn’t get any better than that.
Chris and Claire. Thank you for welcoming me into your world and allowing me to witness such pure, sincere, and deep love. Documenting your day brought me so much joy! I wish you all the happiness this life has to offer. May you choose to love each other well, day after day, and always always remember just why you fell in love in the first place. Cheers to the two of you and a lifetime of love and adventure!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Northtown Stylists - Columbus, NE • Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dresses: Black Tie & White Satin - Fremont, NE • Suits: Men’s Warehouse • Rings: Grace Jewelry - Columbus, NE • Flowers: Hy-Vee - Columbus, NE • Cake: Hy-Vee - Columbus, NE • Catering: Hy-Vee - Columbus, Nebraska • DJ: Zach Buresh of Those Boyz DJ Service • Ceremony Venue: St. Anthony’s Catholic Church - Columbus, NE • Reception Venue: The American Legion - Columbus, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Corey Rourke of Rourke Photo • Videographer: Colin Ortmeier & Tanner Podraza of Cottonwood Valley Creative - Iowa + Nebraska • Party Bus: Papa G’s Entertainment - Columbus, NE