Nina + Tim • Labor Day Wedding in Columbus, Nebraska • The American Legion
September 3, 2018
September 3rd is a special day for the new Golub Family. It all started 25 years earlier, the day Nina decided to make her way into this big beautiful world, the day she was born. Twenty-some years later, that very same day gained new meaning; it became a day that Nina and Tim would celebrate each year, their dating anniversary. Fast two more years and September 3rd has become a day that will never be forgotten in the Golub household. It’s a birthday, it’s a date-iversary, and most importantly, a day to cherish forever and for always, their wedding anniversary.
Now, September 3rd is obviously a very special day for Nina and Tim. But what made this day so special this year was the way they chose to celebrate their marriage. This day was filled with two simple things; their unconditional love for each other, and the people who mean the absolutely world them; their family and their closet friends. These are the people who have supported and loved them in good times, and in hard times, and they, along with their beautiful son, Henry, are so incredibly blessed.
Nina and Tim, I am so thankful to have been a part of such a sincere and beautiful day! The way you love each other, your baby boy, and everyone around you is truly inspiring. I’m wishing you many blessings and a lifetime of love and happiness. Here’s to you, Mr. and Mrs. Golub!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Pamela Valdez of Transcendence Salon and Spa - Columbus, NE • Makeup: Cassondra Weverka • Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal • Tuxes: Men’s Warehouse • Rings: • Flowers: • Cake: Nancy Kamrath • Catering: Wunderlich’s Catering - Columbus, NE • DJ: Big House Sound • Videographer: Digital Solutions - Norfolk, NE • Venue: The American Legion - Columbus, NE • Decorator: To A T • Photography: Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Jesse Becker of Shauna and Beck Photography
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
Alyssa + Bobby • Summer Wedding in Fullerton, Nebraska • Ivy Gardens Reception
May 26, 2018
Maybe you believe in soul mates, maybe you don’t. But when you meet two people grew up halfway across the country, when he drove over a thousand miles with his best friend in tow all while listening to the song, 500 Miles, when she just happened to be his tour guide at UNK where he thought, “she’s old,” you may start to wonder. Then when they both have a love for all things musical and theatrical, and he finds out that she is, in fact, not old, it gets even harder to doubt that that these two people may be be destined to be together. And then when those two people are Bobby and Alyssa, and when you meet them and feel the energy and humor and genuine love between them, you know that these two people are, without a doubt, made for each other.
This feeling, this deep heart swelling feeling, that Alyssa and Bobby are soul mates shone through in every aspect of their wedding day. It was a 99 degree day, and there wasn’t a single cloud in the sky. Despite the heat, these two were so relaxed and so at ease. The whole morning was filled with the sounds of laughter; Everyone had Bobby convinced that Alyssa’s dress was absolutely hideous. Every time we talked about the first look, Matt, Bobby’s best friend, would giggle and make a subtle comment on how awful the dress was. Needless to say, the moment he saw his absolutely stunning bride, all he could do was smile from ear to ear. He was speechless.
Throughout the day, there were so many heart-melting moments. From their reactions at the first look, to wiping tears away throughout the beautiful ceremony at St. Peter’s Catholic Church in Fullerton, NE. From giant, tear soaked hugs from dad after the ceremony, to the sincerity of the toasts from the best man and maid of honor. The day was also filled moments of pure joy. From celebrating their Polish heritage with shots of Blackberry Brandy at the door and polka dancing to music by the Harmony Boys Polka Band from Columbus, NE, to recreating high school prom poses and showing off their line dancing skill. This wedding day was an absolute blast to be a part of.
Alyssa and Bobby, from the bottom of my heart, thank you for allowing me to witness and capture the love you have for each other and everyone around you. There is not a doubt in my mind that you were made for each other. Among many other things, I wish you unconditional love and never-ending adventure as you take on this life together!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Brianne Butcher • Makeup: The Bride!!! • Bridal Gown: Essence of Australia from Hello Beautiful Bridal - Kearney, NE • Bridesmaid's Dresses: JJ's House • Tuxes: Gary Michael's - Hastings, NE • Rings: Howard's Jewelry - Grand Island, NE • Flowers: Janet Bily (Aunt of the Bride) • Cake: Cakes by Phyllis Purdy • Catering: Nitta's Catering - Aurora, NE • Band: The Harmony Boys Polka Band - Columbus, NE • Church: St. Peter's Catholic Church - Fullerton, NE • Reception Venue: The Ivy - Aurora, NE • Photography: Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Corey Rourke Photography
Allison + Haydon • Zion Lutheran Church Wedding • Pickrell, Nebraska
Saturday, April 21, 2018
When I first met with Allison, I could see the excitement in her eyes, and I could hear it in her voice. The way she spoke of her future husband told me just how special this day would be. She told me how they’d known each other since high school and how Haydon had always been there for her. She spoke of his caring demeanor and willingness to help anyone, his kindness, his excitement for life. I could not wait to witness her marry her best friend, her soul mate.
After months of anticipation, April 21st finally arrived. It was a chilly morning and rain fell lightly for most of the day. They didn’t mind though, because a week earlier, it was cold and snowy. Plus, they say rain is a symbol of gook luck! They’d been planning and waiting for this day for a whole year; the day of the Husker Spring Game… I mean, their Wedding Day! It’s pretty fitting that in 2017, Haydon proposed on the day of the Spring Game, and exactly a year later they said I Do! Will the 2019 Spring Game bring another surprise? All of the guests certainly hoped so!
Despite the rain, Haydon and Allison’s wedding day was absolutely beautiful. To say these two were excited to celebrate their love is easily the biggest understatement of the year. The moment Allison came down the stairs and saw Haydon, she was all smiles, and as soon as Haydon turned around and saw his beautiful bride, I saw the grin and excitement that describe to me. It was pure bliss.
As the day went on, the excitement and celebration continued to grow. As the newly wed couple exited the ceremony, they released balloons with the most elated expressions on their faces. Along with their lively wedding party, they loaded into a bus and celebrated all the way to reception, where they ended the night celebrating their love with friends and family, good food, and great dancing.
Being a part of this day gave me a glimpse of a love has so much emphasis on laughter, appreciation of life, and passion for each other. Allison and Haydon, being a part of your big day was so much fun. I can’t thank you enough for trusting me to capture every amazing aspect of it, and for including me in your celebration. Cheers!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Ceremony Venue: Zion Lutheran Church - Pickrell, NE • Reception Venue: Shrine Sesostris Center - Roca, NE • Bride's Dress: Diane's Dress - Wymore, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Lincoln, NE • Flowers: Silks by Jolene Huls (Grandma of the Bride) • Rings: Sartor Hamann • Hair: Kenzie McLaughlin and Sara Barnard • Makeup: Sara Barnard • Catering: Ricky's Catering - Hanover, KS • Party Bus: Prime Time • DJ: Ben Carrel • Photography: Sonnenblume Studios • Photography 2nd Shooter: Becca Jones
Myke + Jen • Roca Berry Farm Wedding at Creekside Event Barn • Roca, NE
Friday, April 20, 2018
Standing under the words Mr. & Mrs. Marks at the back of the barn, all eyes on him, Myke began to speak. His words were simple, but they were sincere. “Family. This is my family,” he said proudly, admiring his brand new, beautiful bride and their perfect little boy with all his curly hair. This is my family,” he repeated passionately, nothing but pure joy in his voice. Holding up his left hand for everyone to admire his glistening ring, he said it again. “This is my Family, and I am so happy I get to celebrate my family with all of you.”
Jen looked down at their son, kissed him on the head and looked up at her prince charming, the man she now gets to call her husband. She gazed at him with nothing but love in her eyes and kissed him sweetly. Nothing could top celebrating their perfect little family and the love that created it.
This moment in Myke and Jen’s wedding reception was so perfect because it’s been the center of every conversation and every interaction I’ve had with them since we met last summer. The very first thing Myke told me was how excited he was to celebrate his family, how he couldn’t wait to wear his ring so he could look at it during the day and be reminded of how lucky he is to have Jen and Hayden as his family.
Their wedding day was a perfect reflection of their love. Although a little windy, the day was absolutely beautiful. The outdoor ceremony at Roca Berry Farm was decorated with gorgeous white and blush flowers with beautiful greenery accents. The aisle was lined with mason jars and baby’s breath. Family and friends from near and far filled the wooden benches, as the two can be one.
Jen and Myke, thank you for letting me into your world, for asking me to capture your love and your family, for allowing me to be a part of something So. Dang. Special. The gentleness and sincerity and passion and pure love you have for each other and for your family is inspiring. Cheers to you and your perfect little family!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Venue: Creekside Event Barn • Dress: Blush Bridal Boutique • Bridesmaids Dresses: David's Bridal • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux • Rings: A.T. Thomas Jewelers • Flowers: Modern Bloom • Makeup: Salon K • Hair: Autumn Schmale of Serenity Salon • Catering: Hy-vee • Cake: Hy-vee • DJ: Jared Tupper of Complete Music and Events • Photography: Sonnenblume Studios • 2nd Shooter: Misty Grubham of Moments Photography by Misty • Officiant: Jon Palmquist
Scott + Justine • Engaged • Lincoln, NE
March 10, 2018
I’ll never forget hanging out with Scott in high school. He was the kind of guy you could always count on to put a smile on your face. Needless to say, I couldn’t help but smile when he reached out to me after he got engaged this past Christmas Eve. I could not wait to meet the wonderful girl that he fell in love with. The girl he’ll make smile for forever and always. The girl who makes him smile just as much, if not more. I could not wait to meet Justine!
Just as I suspected, she is sweet and gentle, easy-going and full of life, absolutely gorgeous. These two are perfect, and getting capture their love story fills my heart with so much joy.
Their story involves a lot of time out in the country, as well as a lot of time on the road for Scott. So of course, we had to start their engagement session on her parents’ farm out by Malcom. With save the dates in mind, they got creative and wrote their date on some ear tags for cattle, zip tied them to a barbed wire fence, and asked me to go out in the pasture so I could capture them in the background. They promised I wouldn’t get trampled because no one was in the field at the moment. I was definitely keeping an eye out though!
After spending some time at the farm, we headed out to Pawnee Lake State Recreation Area, a beautiful lake just a few miles away with Scott’s Semi. Now, all afternoon had been absolutely beautiful. The temperature was in the 50s, there was hardly any wind, sunny, spring day. The moment we got down by the water was a whole other story! It felt about 20 degrees colder and SO windy! You could feel the cold air blowing off the choppy lake that had just melted off a few weeks earlier. Luckily these two (and Justine’s amazing mom, Lynette) were willing to brave the sudden change of season and we were able to capture some pretty incredible moments. From some intimate snuggles to a beautiful sunset, to falling over in the grass. Their story is now a legacy that they can pass down and share for years to come.
Scott and Justine. Your love is so gentle. It shows in the way you interact, the way you speak of each other, the way you look at each other. I cannot wait to witness your beautiful day and help you preserve it for a lifetime. You two are, without a doubt, meant for each other.
Much Love,
Gabby
Michael + Emily • Newman Center Winter Wedding • Lincoln, NE
It was ten years ago that, by the power of the moon and the stars and all things divine, Emily drank some wine at a going away party, thought Michael smelled good, and sat on him. Seven years later while taking measurements in their new, still empty home, Michael decided to pop the question, on both knees, with the ring upside down. Miraculously it didn’t get lost down a vent when it went flying from the box!
Despite sounding like a proposal disaster, it was perfect. Every last clumsy, silly part of it. It was perfect because Emily and Michael love each other so sincerely. They are optimistic and gentle, joyful and so full of life. I can just imagine the laughter that echoed off the walls of their new home.
Three years later, the same gentleness, sincerity, joy, and laughter filled their wedding day. Every detail of the day was perfect. Emily’s incredible Grandma Sandy did all the flowers, and she added a special memento to her bouquet; a pink lace handkerchief that has ben handed down for generations. There were M&M’s at the reception in honor of Great Grandma Virgina. Family introductions were made to bring both families together. Traditional egg rolls and sticky rice made by Michael’s mom, aunts, and cousins were added to the menu. The speeches brought tears to everyone’s eyes. Every detail was meant to honor and bring their families together, and that is exactly what it did.
Surrounded by all of the people they love so dearly, Emily and Michael shared so many incredible, raw moments. They joy on Emily's face as she was about to see Michael for the first time. Emily and her father walking down the aisle as a tear rolls down Michael’s cheek. Their elated expressions as they recessed from the church say it all. They laughed until they cried as toasts were given. But my absolute favorite was the way they looked into each other's eyes and sang as they danced to Perfect by Ed Sheeran. Sincere. Joyful. PERFECT.
Everything they ever dreamed it would be. More.
Emily and Michael, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for asking me to capture your love. The way you look at each other is so heart warming, and I am so thankful for all of the connections that brought us together. It was meant to be!
Much Love
THE CREATIVE TEAM
•Second Shooter: Stacy Kamler Photography
•Hair: Tangerine Hair Artists //Kate Huenink & Nicolby Petersen
•Makeup: Kiss and Makeup a Beauty Boutique // Casey Donnor
•Dress: Diane's Bridal // Wymore, NE
•Tuxes: Tip Top Tux // Lincoln, NE
•Flowers: Garden of Eden: Flowers and Gifts // Emily's Grandma Sandy
•Cake: Sam's Club
•Catering: Chef Au Chef
•Ceremony Venue: Newman Center Catholic Church //St. Thomas Aquinas
•Reception Venue: The Gala
Emily + Mitch • Winter Engagement • Lincoln, NE
When most of us think of Nebraska winters, we envision the roller coaster of emotions Mother Nature must be experiencing. One week it’s 60 degrees and we’re outside without jackets, frolicking around like spring has sprung. A few days later it’s subzero and we’re either eight layers deep in socks and sweaters, or refusing to get out of bed all together. The next thing you know we’re expecting the storm of the century, all the bread and milk is sold out, and we wake up to a measly half-inch of snow.
Predictability is definitely not in the cards this time of year, so when Emily and Mitch requested snow for their engagement session, I put in my weather order and hoped for the best. The lady of the earth did her thing. She gave us a white Christmas, the first in several years. A couple weeks later, these two braved the freezing temps, and all those wishy-washy winter feels transformed into everything magical and wonderful.
To kick off our winter adventure, we explored a beautiful snowy trail. Emily and Mitch wandered hand in hand, effortlessly giggling along the way.
The next stop was extra special. We made our way downtown to a place that holds a special place in their hearts, a place that brings back the best memories, the place they went the night Mitch asked Emily to be his girlfriend, a place called Bodega’s. Seeing these two in this spot and witnessing them reminisce about the night it all started was so special. The joy radiated from them, and I couldn’t help smile behind my camera.
Of course, we couldn’t end the day without highlighting the rivalry between these two. Mitch loves the Steelers, Emily loves the Patriots, but in the end, their love for each other takes the win!
Emily and Mitch, thank you for being absolute troopers. It’s not easy to look warm in the cold, and the two of you made it look effortless, and somehow FUN. I absolutely cannot wait for your big day in December! Here’s to Mother Nature blessing us with a White Wedding!
Much Love,
Gabby
Kyle + Andrea - Talon Room • Lincoln, Nebraska
November 18, 2018
She stood across from the love of her life, her greatest adventure, her future husband. She was steady, confident, and so full of joy. Her bridesmaids looked on from the left, the groomsmen from the right, and all of their family and friends who they cherish so deeply, watched from their beautifully decorated seats. String lights hung from the ceiling, and deep burgundy roses and dreamy greenery covered the tables. Andrea looked tenderly into his eyes, and she began to softly speak.
“Kyle, my boy. The first time I saw you, I told you that you ‘looked familiar,’ but I now know that what I was seeing was my future.” She spoke of his ability to bring out the best in her and how he’s given her the best years of her life. She made promises of a lifetime of laughter, love, and respect.
Then it was Kyle’s turn to share his vows. He took the microphone, looked at his beautiful bride, and let the familiar words flow from his mouth. “Andrea, who knew that a girl messaging me the words 'you look familiar' nearly three years ago would completely change my life.” He spoke of her unwavering support, and her ability to make sure he knows he is loved, fully and unconditionally, with nothing but a look from her mesmerizing eyes. He made promises of a lifetime working together as individuals, partners, and equals, a lifetime of love and respect.
The words they shared were simple, honest, and deeply heartfelt. A perfect reflection of their love for each other.
Getting to celebrate their love with their friends and family was the perfect way to kick off their new adventure. It was such a beautiful day. Andrea and Kyle both spent the morning getting ready with their wedding party at the Embassy. They saw each other for the first time on the skywalk. Kyle waited nervously as Andrea backed up slowly until they were back to back. They exchanged letters and read them while holding back tears. After taking a moment, they turned around. Pure joy. Pure love. The way they went into the day is the way they ended it. Filled with love, joy, and respect. It was one heck of a party.
Kyle and Andrea, thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for allowing me to witness and capture your love. Getting to know you over the past year has been such a joy. The respect, kindness, and pure bliss that your relationship emits is absolutely inspiring. I wish you nothing but the best on this grand adventure called marriage!
Much Love
The Creative Team
Dresses: David's Bridal • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux • Flowers: Bloom's Floral & Gifts • Hair: Leigh Dier • Makeup: Makaila Murphy • Bride & Groom Cake: Kim Lichtas • Sheet Cakes: Sam's Club • Brownie Bites: Super Saver • Venue: Talon Room • Catering: ChefauChef
Jenny + Rick (Fort Atkinson State Park - Nebraska)
"We both really enjoy history... we wanted to have fun with the wedding and not do anything too traditional."
As with any perfect wedding, there were some bumps along the way. While I know having their planned photographer unexpectedly fall through caused Jenny and Rick some major stress, I'm secretly thankful because I got the privilege of witnessing and preserving the most beautiful historic wedding.
The Love Story:
7 Years ago, Jenny and Rick were both living in California. The adventurous Jenny with her love of nature and wildlife decided to take horseback riding lessons. Little did she know, the love of her life would be the one teaching her. Over the next few years they would spend much of their time hiking and backpacking the beautiful mountains and canyons of California. They'd go on adventure after adventure, exploring this wild world together. Jenny and Rick now live in Omaha, Nebraska, but their sense of adventure and their love for the great outdoors is still with them. Their next adventure? A honeymoon exploring Scotland!
The Wedding:
With their passion for mother nature and Jenny's job with Nebraska Game and Parks and NEBRASKALand, it made perfect sense to say their vows in a Nebraska State Park. They also both really enjoy history and wanted to have fun with the wedding. While attending a Candlelight Tour last November, they sat in the council house with the chandeliers lit. It felt cozy and intimate, and it sparked this idea that the Fort could be the perfect place to finally tie the knot.
They were right, the Fort was perfect. They had their wedding day attire custom made by Thomas Wood to match the time period. They asked guests to dress in time period clothing as well. They got ready in the quaint little rooms within the Fort itself, and had their ceremony nestled in a grove of trees. Rick even surprised Jenny with bagpipe players, who lead her horse drawn carriage to the ceremony playing "Scotland the Brave" (an ode to their upcoming Scotland adventure) The Reception was under a big white tent next to the historic council house, decorated with lanterns, flowers, and beautiful dinnerware. Every detail was perfect.
The Details:
Venue: The Friends of Fort Atkinson - Nebraska Game and Parks
Hair and Makeup: Garbo's Salon - Regency Place, Omaha - http://www.garbossalons.com
Flowers: The Purple Orchid Flowers and More - http://www.purpleorchidflowers.com
Cake: The Omaha Bakery - http://www.theomahabakery.com
Catering: Chad Lebo of Cure Cooking - http://www.curecooking.com
Music: The Rivertown String Band - http://www.rivertownstringband.com
Time Period Clothing: Thomas Wood
Ambitious Mondays with Marley: Fueling a Passion for Pet-Portraits
A couple of weeks ago, I got ambitious. It was the first week of March, it was in the 60's and 70's for quite a few days, and Marley and I had a hard case of Spring Fever. For the first time in months, we woke up and were actually ready to take on the world by 7 a.m. I loaded up my gear, grabbed my morning shake, and we drove off into the sunrise.... only to turn around 2 blocks later because we forgot the CHEESE! (Cheese is key to photographing my maniac Marley.)
When we finally made it to Holmes Lake, the light was golden and perfect, the morning was crisp but nothing was dewy, and for the most part, the park was pretty quiet; at most, there was maybe a couple or two out for their morning walk, and one older man casting a line. In my mind this was perfect; no distractions for Miss Marley Moo.
WRONG! SO VERY WRONG! While I realized we were both energized and ready for the day, I forgot to consider that she would likely need to burn off the majority of her eons of energy before she would have any interest what-so-ever in what I thought was a good use of our sunny Monday morning in March. There were new smells to be smelled, new spots to poop, new bugs to pounce on, and new sounds to scare off. For her, there were zero logical reasons to sit and look at the camera.
Despite her mania, I got shutter happy. I may not have gotten her giant floppy tongue to stay in her mouth, but I definitely captured her personality, rolling around in the grass with crazy in her eyes and all. And as I put together an album that I could use to show off prints of my fur-baby, I realized that this is exactly what I wanted anyway. Moo Sauce being Moo Sauce. This is what I see every single day, and every single day, with out fail, this is what makes me laugh and brings me so much joy. Isn't that a big part of why we love these furry creatures so much, anyway?
When I got my albums back from the lab, I felt like a little kid on Christmas. I was giddy and couldn't help but squeal with puppy-joy. (Marley wasn't nearly as amused). But this got me to thinking, I can't be the only crazy dog-mom who would love to have these amazing keepsake albums of her pup, one to show off at home, and one to take everywhere else - at least I hope I'm not!
My ambitious Monday with Marley ended up igniting a spark and fueling a passion for pet-portraits. Our pets are just as much a part of the family as anyone else, and for us to not capture our fleeting time with them, that's tragic.
So from this little spark, I decided to create an event - Paw 'Prints' at the Park! I hope to do this monthly, and as it grows I would love to get other dog-loving people and businesses involved. I would love for a portion of proceeds to go to the Capital Humane Society, and I would love to learn new ways to support and love on fur kids all around!
Sonnenblume's very first Paw 'Prints' at the Park event will take place on Friday, March 24 at Holmes Lake by the Observatory. There will be 10 sessions available throughout the day, and I am working on getting a portion of the proceeds donated to the Humane Society. Please contact me to reserve your time!
I can't wait to get started and meet all of you dog loving angels!
With Love,
Gabby
Sonnenblume Studios
gabby@sonnenblumestudios.com 402-276-4650