Sami + Ryan | Snowy and Romantic Winter Wedding | Lincoln, NE
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.
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!
Ashley + Ben | Winter Wonderland Wedding | Lincoln, NE
Getting married in Nebraska in December is a gamble. You have no idea whether you’re going to have a 60 degree day with some warm sunshine, or a straight up blizzard. You just don’t know. But on December 11, 2020, the snow started to fall, and what we woke up to the next morning was the perfect winter wonderland…
December 12, 2020
Getting married in Nebraska in December is a gamble. You have no idea whether you’re going to have a 60 degree day with some warm sunshine, or a straight up blizzard. You just don’t know. But on December 11, 2020, the snow started to fall, and what we woke up to the next morning was the perfect winter wonderland. A little bit of sunshine, no wind, and just the right amount of snow to feel like this day was straight out of a fairytale. The absolute perfect December day for a winter wedding.
Ashley and Ben’s day didn’t just look like a fairytale, it felt like one, too. From the sparkle in her dress to the way he dipped her for a kiss on the way out of the church, every detail and moment felt magical. As the minister retold the story of how they met, and how they fell in love, I found myself laughing along with a full heart. And as I watched both of their parents with their arms around each other, and their grandparents cozied up together watching Ashley and Ben say “I Do”, I found myself tearing up a little and thinking just how lucky are they to be surrounded by so much love. Generations of love.
A few years back, Ashley was getting ready to leave for a year long internship in Texas. Just three weeks before her moving, there was this boy at a party who made really good margaritas, and she ended up staying later than she had planned. Those margaritas must have really been bomb, because a couple years later, on a cruise with her family, Ben finally popped the question!
The moment that really got me on their wedding day. was something that happened in the morning. Ashely’s mom gave her a special ring as her something borrowed and something blue. You see, that cruise that Ben proposed on was a family vacation celebrating Ashley’s parents anniversary. That ring was the ring that her dad gave her mom on that cruise as an anniversary gift. HOW SPECIAL IS THAT!?
Throughout Ashley and Ben’s day, I saw so much love and I felt so much love. I always ask my couple what they love about each other, because I feel like it brings me so much closer to their story and allows me to tell it more genuinely. Ashley told me how down to Earth and caring Ben is, and Ben told me how sassy Ashley is. (he also said she’s caring and kind, and beautiful) I also always ask about a perfect day together. Ashley’s perfect day includes a load back day together, maybe on a porch or by a pool, grilling out, and definitely with a dog. Ben agreed (but also included that spontaneous trips are fun, too). Their day may not have been warm, but it was definitely laid back. It was filled with love, and patience and it couldn’t have been more perfect. The best part is, now Ashley and Ben get to share their love for generations, too.
Ashley and Ben, I cannot thank you enough enough for trusting me with their special day. Just being near your love makes my heart happy, and I’m sure it has the same effect on everyone else around you, too. So here’s to warm weather, good margaritas, and getting a dog! Cheers to you, Mr. & Mrs. Serr!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair and Makeup: MacKenzie TePoel • Dress: Allure Bridal from Dream Dress Express - Lincoln, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Lincoln, NE • Bride’s Rings: Elder Jewelry • Groom’s Ring: Manly Bands • Flowers: Wedding Consign and Design • Cake: Cupcakes and More - Lincoln, NE • Catering: Hog Wild Pit Bar-B-Q • Church: Lincoln Berean Church • Reception Venue: The Apothecary Lofts Ridnour Room • DJ: Unforgettable Events by DJ Kaz
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!
Alé + Shane | Tradition Filled October Wedding | West Point, NE
“Oh, and by the way, Shane and I moved to Hartington!” she thew in as they ended their heartfelt thank you to their families and friends. As everyone laughed and cheers-ed, I couldn’t help but remember that this was one of the many reasons Shane loves Alé. Her fun loving energy and her ability to make the people around her laugh. How she is so good with people, especially their families. Any time you get to spend with Alé is sure to be a good time.
October 17, 2020
“Oh, and by the way, Shane and I moved to Hartington!” she thew in as they ended their heartfelt thank you to their families and friends. As everyone laughed and cheers-ed, I couldn’t help but remember that this was one of the many reasons Shane loves Alé. Her fun loving energy and her ability to make the people around her laugh. How she is so good with people, especially their families. Any time you get to spend with Alé is sure to be a good time.
Alé is also super organized and driven. So it was no surprise that despite Covid, she made sure she had everything for their day planned out down the the finest detail, so that when the day finally came, they could just relax and enjoy every moment of it. Which is perfect, because Shane definitely likes to go with the flow. They’re the perfect match.
As they were planning their big day, they wanted it to honor some traditions and for their day to have significance. They chose to get married at St. Aloyisus Catholic church. It’s a small church out in the country, but it holds a special place in her heart. It’s the church Alé was baptized in, and it is also the church that her grandparents were married in. They chose October 17th because it was his grandpa’s birthday as well as her grandparent’s anniversary. So many blessings to celebrate in one day!
Another special tradition they decide to honor was that they decided not to see each other before the wedding. So that morning, the girls got ready in the church rectory, while the guys got ready at a little hotel in West Point. Once everyone was all ready, it was time for the girls to see Alé in her dress. This is a moment that I love so much, a moment set aside for just you and your girls. The morning goes so fast, so this is the perfect way to slow down for a couple minutes and soak it all in together before the big festivities begin!
After wiping away a few happy tears and a little makeup touchup, it was time for Alé to see her dad for the first time on her wedding day. This moment was so darn sweet. The look on their faces and the big hugs say it all.
Finally, it was time for Alé and Shane to tie the knot. I honestly don’t think I’ve seen a happier man as he saw his beautiful bride for the first time, walking down the aisle towards him.
After the ceremony and family pictures, it was time for this crew to party! They loaded up onto a party bus and drove for a bit, and then stopped at the Roadhouse, a local favorite. They had some celebratory drinks and played some pool. The next stop was the golf course for pictures.
Now, when October rolls around in Nebraska, nobody knows if it is going to be nice or snowy, if everything will be colorful, or if the trees will already be dead, especially in 2020. It’s just been that kind of year, ya know? But somehow they lucked out with an absolutely gorgeous day, with the most vibrant fall colors.
That is, until it was time for wedding party photos. Thats when the winter winds blew in with a force, and the temps dropped, and it felt like a completely different day. But Shane’s calm demeanor helped Alé stay calm, too, and they were all such troopers. The colors were still vibrant, and gorgeous, and the girls whipped out their leather jackets and looked like total badasses.
And the best part of all? Cheetoh, the dog of honor, made an appearance for pictures.
The reception was at Beemer ballroom and was so beautifully decorated. The whole place was glowing, and the sound of happy chatter and laughter filled the air. A live band, Pink Kadillac, played all the best hits as everyone danced the night away.
Alé and Shane, Thank you so so much for trusting me with your day. Every single detail was so perfect, but what was even more perfect was just getting to celebrate your love for each other. The way you love each other, and bring each other so much joy, and balance each other out so well, is truly inspiring. May your days be filled with laughter, your years be filled with adventure, and your lives together be filled with love. Cheers to you, Mr. + Mrs. Siel!
"Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
•Hair: Kirstey Grim of Ivy Lane - Lincoln, NE • Makeup - Roe Beauty • Dress: Bridal Isle - Loomis, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: Lulu’s • Tuxes: Schmidt’s Clothing • Rings: Helzberg • Flowers: Flower and Gift Gallery • Cake: • Catering: Jim Diekemper • Church: St. Aloyisus Catholic Church • Reception Venue: Beemer Ballroom • Live Band: Pink Kadillac • Beemer Volunteer Fire Department
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!
Katie + Scott | Intimate Backyard Wedding | Omaha, NE
Scott’s parents worked so hard to get their home ready, and it all came together so perfectly. Candace of Lovestruck Events did a phenomenal job bringing their vision to life. From stunning greenery and flowers by Stems, to an adorable pop-up bar, rows of white chairs, lights strung above the tables for the perfect ambiance, and AOF + Hawks Pizza food trucks, all under the shade of giant trees. It’s like this backyard was made for intimate weddings!
September 26, 2020
Scott had been wearing his ring before the wedding, and when Katie’s dad asked why he was wearing it, he said, “As far as I’m concerned, I’ve been married since May" That’s when they were supposed to be married, and he wanted to honor that.
It’s a story that’s become all too common this year. Katie and Scott had their day all planned out for the beginning of May, and it was going to be big and beautiful and they were going to be surrounded by all their family and friends. Que the pandemic and months of constantly changing plans, stress, and rethinking everything. As the day inched closer and closer, they knew they weren’t going to be able to have the day they always dreamed of, so they decided to pick a date in September when everything would be available. The downside was that it would be a Friday instead of a Saturday, and that would make it harder for far away family to make it.
As the new date got closer and closer, Katie and Scott continued to contemplate whether or not they had made the right decision, because it didn’t feel quite right. Finally, with a couple months to spare, the decided that the perfect day would be one that their immediate families and very closest friends could all make it to. This perfect day would take place in his parents absolutely stunning back yard, under the new gazebo.
Scott’s parents worked so hard to get their home ready, and it all came together so perfectly. Candace of Lovestruck Events did a phenomenal job bringing their vision to life. From stunning greenery and flowers by Stems, to an adorable pop-up bar, rows of white chairs, lights strung above the tables for the perfect ambiance, and AOF + Hawks Pizza food trucks, all under the shade of giant trees. It’s like this backyard was made for intimate weddings!
Katie and the girls got ready at the Willcockson house, while Scott and they guys got ready at Katie and Scott’s not far away. The guys spent the morning watching football and “spilling” Truly Lemonade on the rug, while the ladies got their hair and makeup done by Elle Reve and the Greyhouse Salon.
Now, Scott is a man of humor. He’s constantly cracking jokes, always has the most witty and perfectly timed comebacks, and does anything he can to make the people around him laugh. All day long, he was making Katie laugh, but in between jokes, I also saw the moments of pure joy, and the deepest love. From the first look hug that lasted just a little longer and ended with an extra squeeze, to the happy tears as they recessed the ceremony as husband and wife. From the soysauce robe in the morning, to stealing her first bite of cake. Scott made sure the day was filled with laughs, but he also let his love for Katie really show through and be celebrated.
Seeing both of them so happy, finally getting to celebrate their love, was just the best. And even though it wasn’t what they had originally planned, it turned out the be the absolute perfect intimate backyard wedding that they never knew they wanted. Their families and their closest friends were able to all be there, and they got to spend quality time with all of them, all while finally getting to celebrate their love.
Katie and Scott, Thank you for trusting me to document this perfect day for you. It was so beautiful, and your love for each other brings the people around you so much joy. They are all so lucky to have you both. I’m wishing you both a lifetime of adventures, travels, and cheering on the Chiefs!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
•Hair: The Greyhouse Salon - Omaha, NE • Makeup - Elle Reve, Omaha, NE • Dress/Tuxes: Bridal Traditions - Omaha, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: Azazie • Rings: James Allen • Flowers: Stems - Omaha, NE • Cake: The Confectionist - Omaha, NE • Bar: 1316 Beverage Co - Omaha, NE • Food Trucks: Attitude on Food (AOF) and Hawks Pizza
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!
Brian + Jes | Intimate Backyard Wedding | Kearney, NE
Brian and Jes spent the morning getting everything ready for their families to come enjoy. Then it was time to get ready. The dress was on, the suit was buttoned up. Suddenly this was real. They were finally getting married! You see, they were supposed to get married back in May, but obviously the world had other plans. Brian and Jes remained so patient and so full of grace as they replanned their day from the Spring to the Fall. But a couple things never changed…
September 19, 2020
As I made the drive to Kearney that morning, I was definitely nervous. Brian and Jes had become good friends over the past few years, but they are incredible photographers, and photographing other photographers can be intimidating. But as soon as I got there and got started, I could just tell this was going to be the most perfect day of all time.
Everything was set up to take place in their backyard, which also doubles as their outdoor photography studio during the week. (A photographers dream) The back patio was set up with a couple of beautifully decorated tables, lots of snacks and drinks, and the ceremony area had the most beautiful array of unique chairs, and a chandelier and drapery that swayed with the breeze. Everything was so simple, yet so elegant.
Brian and Jes spent the morning getting everything ready for their families to come enjoy. Then it was time to get ready. The dress was on, the suit was buttoned up. Suddenly this was real. They were finally getting married! You see, they were supposed to get married back in May, but obviously the world had other plans. Brian and Jes remained so patient and so full of grace as they replanned their day from the Spring to the Fall. But a couple things never changed. The fact that they were so ready to celebrate their commitment to each other, and the fact that they wanted a small, intimate wedding. And even though it was’t in the spring, it was perfect none-the-less.
I admire Brian and Jes so much. They both went through some hard times, and even though they had known each other for years, their path’s re-crossed at the perfect time and they were given a second chance at love and happiness. They found each other when they needed it most, but expected it the least. And from that moment on, it was like they were meant to find each other all along. Soulmates.
Anyone who know Brian and Jes knows just how giving, and kind, and genuine these two are. They deserve absolutely nothing but the best, and I, along with everyone else, are so happy they found each other. They are inspiring in so many ways, but it all comes down to the way they work together in business, life, and love. Their happy makes you happy.
Brian and Jes, I could never thank you enough for trusting me with your memories, to document your most special day, and for being such amazing people to look up to. I’m wishing you both a lifetime of happiness, adventure, and everyday love. Here’s to life with your best friend!
Much Love,
Gabby
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!
Judy + Cory | Intimate Black Lake Grange Wedding | Olympia, Washington
August 10, 2019
Here’s the thing about a love story; they don’t all start at 17, and not every chapter is about “The One”. Sometimes a love story is a journey of all the different loves that lead you right where you were meant to be all along. Call it fate or luck or grand design, but while Cory and Judy didn’t meet until later in life, they were, without a doubt, meant to find each other. You can see it in the way he lights up when she laughs at his jokes, and the way her gorgeous smile radiates; their pure joy is absolutely infectious, and everyone in their world has taken notice. It’s the type of love that brings people together, a love they’ve always dreamed of.
This intimate Washington wedding was not only was a celebration of their love, but it was also a chance to bring all the people in their world, who live all over the country, together. Their kids and grandkids came. Their life long friends from childhood made the trip. Cory’s brothers and their families came. Aunts, Uncles, cousins, and friends, they were all there. And to top it off, Judy’s siblings were also all able to be together for only the second time in 50-some years. You see, as young children, Judy and her siblings were all adopted to different families. Over the years, Judy and her brothers found each other, and remembered that there was also a baby. That baby was my mom! I am so lucky that they met when they did, because I get to call the beautiful, adventurous, outgoing, lovely Judy my godmother. Now they didn’t see each other much over the past 26 years, but this past year, the 4 of them finally all got together in Florida for a wedding. Fast forward to August, and here we all were in Washington. Together, helping, loving, and having the most wonderful time celebrating Judy and Cory.
The day was filled with so many beautiful details. As their closest friends and family sat in the 108 year old school house where Cory’s Grandmother attended school, surrounded by glowing paper lanterns, beautiful hand made wooden boxes filled with colorful Gerber daisy bouquets, gold jewels, and cards to write your favorite memory on, Judy walked down the aisle at 4:10 in the most beautiful black and champagne wedding dress, with her brother John by her side. The ceremony started at 4:10 because those numbers signify the date they started officially dating. Later in the evening, instead of just having the maid of honor and best man speak, they passed the microphone around the room so someone from each table could share something special with the bride and groom. Without fail, They all spoke of how happy Judy and Cory make each other, and how Judy’s smile is pure sunshine and lights up a room, how bad Cory’s joke are yet Judy still laughs at them, what incredible people they are, always looking for ways to help people. It was such a beautiful moment to be a part of, to hear how much love there was in that room, and how everyone could feel it in their bones that Judy and Cory were meant to find each other. Before the first dances, a double rainbow made an appearance, a sign I’m sure, that there is nothing more right in the world than this beautiful love story.
Cory and Judy, thank you for inviting us into your world. For letting us be a part of your beautiful day. For giving us the opportunity to witness such infectious love and joy. Wishing you both a lifetime of love and adventure. We can’t wait to visit Washington again!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Havilah Sabella-Stock of Sembre Bella Salon - Olympia, WA • Makeup: Maria Sabella of Sembre Bella Salon - Olympia, WA • Dresses: Cocomelody.com • Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse - Olympia, WA • Bridal Bouquets: BecauseOfLoveForal - Etsy • Fresh Flower Centerpieces: Friends Chris Knox & Shannon McCain - Olympia, WA • Venue: Black Lake Grange - Olympia, WA • Caterer: Steele Barrel BBQ Company - Yelm, WA • Cake: Aunt of the Groom, Diane McManus • DJ: Music De-Lite DJ Service - Olympia, WA • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios - Lincoln, NE
Sami + Justin • Nebraska State Capitol Winter Wedding • Lincoln, Ne
November 8, 2018
On a day they’ll never forget, Sami and Justin finally made it official. As the snow fell softly outside, they stood in the beautiful, ornate state capital building, surrounded by the people they hold closest to their hearts, and they made a promise: a promise to love each other until the end of time, in good times and in bad, a vow to be best friends for now and for always.
It was beautiful, and wonderful, and simple. It was an intimate celebration of their love, and it all came together so perfectly. On New Year’s Eve of 2016, Justin completely surprised Sami with his proposal! They started the planning and originally thought they’d have the traditional big wedding, but then quickly decided that it just wasn’t for them. They wanted to do something that would be more meaningful to them, and that’s how they decided that a small intimate ceremony was the perfect fit.
On top of keeping the ceremony small, they made their own bouquets and boutonnieres, picked beautiful details that truly matched their personalities, and picked a day they’d always remember: their 5 year date-aversary. I know, cuteness overload!
Something they initially left out of their day was photography. Two years ago, just after Justin’s proposal, I talked to Sami at a bridal show, and I dreamed of having her as a bride! She spoke about the vintage details and her vision for their special day. But with such a small celebration, they weren’t sure it was necessary. Fast forward a year and a half, I started working at the same school where Sami works. She saw my Sonnenblume bag that I carry with me and remembered me! Needles to say, what’s meant to be will always find a way.
Sami and Justin, thank you for allowing me to witness your perfect day, and thank you for braving the snowy weather. Watching the joy in your faces and feeling the love radiate from your smiles brought so much happiness to everyone surrounding you. I’m wishing you many year of love, friendship, and adventure!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Rings: A.T. Thomas Jewelers - Lincoln, NE • Venue: State Capitol Building - Lincoln, NE • Photography: Sonnenblume Studios - Nebraska + Worldwide