Jason + Amanda • Intimate October Wedding • LaVista, Ne
Every moment I’ve spent with Jason and Amanda has been surrounded by this unwavering sense of calm. From the misty drizzle on the day of their engagement photos, to the heavy rain every day the week of the wedding, to intense wind on the big day… Never once did this feeling go away. And it’s been like this from day one for Jason and Amanda.
When they met for their first date at the Mill Coffee shop in the Haymarket of downtown Lincoln, it instantly felt right. It felt comfortable. They sat there at the checkered table and talked for hours, just knowing, this was the start to something big….
October 5, 2019
Every moment I’ve spent with Jason and Amanda has been surrounded by this unwavering sense of calm. From the misty drizzle on the day of their engagement photos, to the heavy rain every day the week of the wedding, to intense wind on the big day… Never once did this feeling go away. And it’s been like this from day one for Jason and Amanda.
When they met for their first date at The Mill Coffee Shop in the Haymarket of downtown Lincoln, it instantly just felt right. It felt comfortable. They sat there at the checkered table and talked for hours, just knowing, this was the start to something big.
Fast forward through lots of time spent together, attending art shows, wandering around the farmers market, sleep overs at the zoo, and so much more, Amanda was making brownies, talking about apartment shopping, and feeling a little stressed. Jason wrapped his long arms around her with one of his big hugs that make her feel so safe, and there it was, the beautiful, perfect, pear shaped diamond ring. Instantly, all her worries melted away.
Now it’s October, and Jason and Amanda are surrounded by all the people they love most. They started the day getting ready with some mimosas, writing letters to each other. Then it was time for the first look. They stood back to back reading their hand written notes, holding back tiny tears of joy. Then it was time for the moment they’d been waiting for all morning. Jason and Amanda gave each other’s and a squeeze, and on the count of three, turned around with the biggest smiles I’ve ever seen. She was so happy to see the man she would call her husband in a few short hours. The man who puts everyone else first, who makes her feel safe. And he was so thrilled to see this beautiful humble, and wise woman he would call his wife, the woman who is so caring and helps stay level headed. Together they took on the rest of their perfect day, never once losing their sense of calm.
Finally it was time to make it official. Their siblings stood by their sides, while their parents and grandpa watched from the front row. The other important people in their world filled the room. As the two exchanged vows, Jason was so excited to finally call Amanda his wife that he said “I Will” twice… Que the laughter, which didn’t end for the rest of the night. Their intimate ceremony was followed by delicious food, desert, and dancing, all in a room full of love.
Jason and Amanda, thank you so much for welcoming me into your world and letting me be a part of such a special day. Your love has shown me the power of calm, and laughing along with you throughout the day brought me so much joy! Wishing you a lifetime of love and happiness!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair and Makeup: Jenna of J Salon Spa and Boutique - Loup City, NE • Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dress: Ellynne Bridal - Lincoln, NE• Tuxes: Shannon Formalwear • Rings: AT Thomas Jewelers - Lincoln, NE • Flowers: The Petal Pusher - North Souix City, SD • Bridal Bouquet: Hand Beaded by the Bride • Cake: Nothing Bundt Cakes - Omaha, NE • Catering: LaVista Conference Center • DJ: 5 Star Entertainment - Lincoln, NE • Ceremony and Reception Venue: Embassy Suites by Hilton - LaVista, NE • Pastor: Gary Main of Gretna United Methodist Church - Gretna, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Justin Barnes of Barnes Photography •
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
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
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 •
Nina + Tyler • Czechland Lake Wedding • Prague, Nebraska
June 2, 2018
There’s something to be said for simplicity, especially when it comes to one of the most important and most special days of your life: your wedding day! When it’s all said and done, your love is what it’s all about. It’s why you planned this celebration in the first place! For Nina and Tyler, this couldn’t be more true.
Nina and Tyler planned a small lakeside ceremony at Czechland Lake State Recreation Area near Prague, Nebraska. Despite the wind, it was so peaceful. They nestled into the shade of a tree, surrounded by family and friends as they said their vows. It was secluded, it was quiet, it was all about their love for each other. All about becoming one and starting their lives together as a family.
The details that these tow did include were inspired by their love for Lord of the Rings. From her necklace and his boutonniere pin, to their engraved rings, the decorations, and the snacks at the reception, every detail was subtle and and beautiful.
Nina and Tyler, thank you for asking me to capture your beautiful love for one another. You are both so kind and so sincere. Your little one is so blessed to have you as a mommy and daddy. Wishing you all the happiness and joy that this life has to offer.
Much Love,
Gabby
