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
Project Senior | Rachel L. | Lincoln Southwest
“Looking at my pictures together afterwards made me realize that that really was me! I really did that. Finding confidence was hard at first, but by the end of it and looking back on the photos, I don’t know if i’ve ever felt more confident.”
Meet Rachel.
Rachel’s story is so unique, and it all began in Ukraine with the name Yelena Ivanova Verbitskya! At 9 months old, she was adopted, and from there she grew up in Albuquerkue, New Mexico as Rachel Marie Lemen. She spent 16 years there before her and her mom moved to Lincoln! While in New Mexico, Rachel went to a high school called Eldorado where she was a cheerleader for two years. Her past two years in Lincoln she has attended Lincoln Southwest, where she is now a senior! As you can imagine, the move was a little scary, but she says it really helped her step out of her comfort zone! Upon moving to Nebraska, Rachel got into Rodeo and it also brought her one of her most cherished friends, Cash, a 17 hands high quarter horse. You’ll see this beautiful horse in many of Rachel’s senior pictures! The bond between them is so so sweet.
When Rachel’s not spending time with her horse, she’s busy with spreading love and connecting with people through her YouTube Channel, The Pack. Be sure to check it out! She also loves traveling to the Disney Parks (her very favorite place to go!) as well as London and Paris.
After high school, Rachel plans on attending Southeast Community College here in Lincoln. She’s not 100% sure what she wants to go into because there are so many possibilities, but she really loves business and horses, so if she could do something that combined those two worlds, she would have a career she truly loves!
What I love the most about Rachel is how much she joy she finds in making other people smile and feel loved. She is inspired by all of the empowering women in her life. She has so much wisdom and truly has a beautiful view of life. She understands that life is short and it’s important to spread love instead of hate. If we can learn one thing from this inspiring girl, it’s that we can all be better about letting others know they are loved and appreciated.
Rachel, I am so thankful I got to meet your pasta, watermelon, and wolf loving self! You are so inspiring, and I am so excited to see where life takes you. Between your kindness and the love you spread and your ambition to make a difference, I know you will do great things!
Rachel’s Experience with Sonnenblume
“My experience with Sonnenblume Studios was so much fun! Before the session i was feeling a bit nervous because I didn’t know how the shoot was going to go. However, as soon as the photoshoot started, Gabby me feel really comfortable and confident! She started to make me laugh, she asked about my family, and make it feel more like i was a friend and she was taking photos for me! I had never had an experience like that before, so when Gabby would encourage me and make me laugh, it made me more confident! One of the main things I really enjoyed about was that she got to know me on a personal level. It wasn’t just someone saying “smile” then taking a picture. Gabby got to know me and it make the experience so meaningful and so much more fun!
After the Photoshoot was done, seeing the photos was incredible! My jaw dropped! When looking at photos, I really liked how her organization worked. There was a Yes, No, and Maybe category to help narrow down to our favorites. That truly helped a lot! Looking at my pictures together afterwards made me realize that that really was me! I really did that. Finding confidence was hard at first, but by the end of it and looking back on the photos, I don’t know if i’ve ever felt more confident. I really enjoyed my experience with Sonnenblume and hope to do more things with her soon! I totally recommend to everyone!
Senior year is an exciting time in life. You are in the stages of of defining who you are, deciding what you want to be, and where you want to go in life. You've got personality, and dreams, and so much potential. Your world will change so much in the next year, so as you get ready to move on to the next big thing in life, it is important to commemorate who you are right now.
This year, I’m looking to put together a model team! I’m searching for current juniors who will be graduation in the Class of 2020 who have souls that are full of adventure, and hearts full of happiness! Being a Sonnenblume Senior Model is all about sharing who you are, spreading your story and your message for the world, earning some cash and having fun while you do it!
What being a Senior Model entails:
Be Famous! You will become the face of Sonnenblume Senior Marketing!
Two Free Sessions! - One in March, and one in June or July
Share your favorite pictures with your friends and get their opinions - Collect Names!
Meet with me weekly to share your results
Hand out session offers to your friends!
Earn $5 Print Credit for every name you collect
Earn $15 Cash for every referral who books a senior session with Sonnenblume!
Fun Styled Shoots throughout the year
Fun get togethers with the model team throughout the summer!
Senior Model with the most referrals will win a Grand Prize: FREE Limousine Service and professional pictures for your Senior Prom!
Runner up will win $50 towards professional hair or a tux rental for your Senior Prom!
Ready to Join the Team?
Follow Along
Project Senior | MaryClaire H. | Lincoln Southwest
“I had so much fun. By the end of the day it felt like I was a princess.”
Meet MaryClaire.
MaryClaire is a senior at Lincoln Southwest High School and she is a truly special soul. Her favorite color is pink, loves anything spicy, and she enjoys playing with her dogs and taking vacations with her family. She’s constantly cracking jokes and telling it like it is. When you’re the youngest of 6 kids, you’d have to have some wit to and spunk to hold your own!
Something I love about MaryClaire is how important her family is to her. When I asked her to tell me about her, she proceeded to tell me all about the wonderful people gets to call family. Her dad is a vet, and her mom is blessed with being a stay at home mom and she volunteers at catholic social services. Both are such caring and loving parents who inspire MaryClaire to share her kindness with those around her. Then she told me about her siblings, who each inspire her in a different way. Her oldest sister is in the Army Reserves and recently was diploid in Kuwait, teaching her about sacrifice. Her next sister is married and expecting her first baby, and MaryClaire is so excited to be an aunt! The third sister is in college and then wants to go to law school, teaching MaryClaire about hard work! Then there’s her brothers. One is in mortuary school, a career that takes a lot of compassion, and the other is teaching her that it’s okay to be patient and figure things out as you go. They each have their own path, and that’s the beauty of siblings!
What I love about MaryClaire is how much she looks up to all her siblings, yet still has her own favorite hobbies and her own dreams. MaryClaire has a rare genetic disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome, but she doesn’t let that hold her back. She participates in Special Olympic Swimming and has won several medals! She also cheers at Cheer Express and even travels for competitions! She loves being involved in both of these things because the she gets to spend time with even more people that make her feel loved. These kind people, along with her family, are the ones who inspire her to follow her dreams. And what is her dream? It’s to be a pre-school teacher!
MaryClaire, thank you for sharing your kindness with me this year. I am so excited to see where life takes you! I know you’ll do great things!
MaryClaire’s Experience with Sonnenblume
My experience with Sonnenblume studios was spectacularly awesome. … I emailed Sonnenblume studios and Gabby emailed me back and I talked to her and told her that I had a disability and I said that some of the time I can be insecure about my self because of my illness and people making fun of me and I said I wanted to have the best experience of my lifetime so I told my mom that we had to go to a coffee shop before we could continue with our grad photo investment. After we met with Gabby my mother said to me, “is this what you want to do?” and I told her “yes.” When It was time for pictures we got a couple of clothes and we were off on a hot summers day. First I had to get ready so we had an appointment with Kate and Nicolby at Tangerine Salon for a day of getting pampered with hair and makeup. We thought we wouldn't make it because we got lost but we made safe and sound. I got pampered and then Gabby came in to check on me and how I was doing. Our first location was down in the Haymarket. Everywhere we went, Gabby said that I looked so cute and I had awesome pictures. She was incredibly ecstatic with the idea to go down by where I go to practice for my special needs cheerleading competition team and take pictures by my gym. Our last location was in a park there we took pictures of one of my greatest accomplishments: my three gold medals that I won at the special olympics! We took a lot of sassy pics with those, but also other photos there without my medals.
MaryClaire, this next part makes me giggle, because it’s the perfect example of you just telling it like it is - “Even though me and my mom were getting sick of Gabby because it was like a trillion degrees out that day and we went to like a trillion locations and it felt like we kept going and going and it wouldn't stop, I had so much fun. By the end of the day it felt like I was a princess.” You and your mom were such troopers in the heat!
I knew I had made the right decision when it got to the day of the sneak peek. The nice kind words that Gabby said on the post made me feel that it was even more of a special experience. So overall, my experience was superb. And I could also see how much dedication and hard work you put into your products and what we received was of incredible quality and was a lot more than what I had imagined. So thank you for giving me the time of my life and giving me a time to remember and thank you for just being awesome!
Senior year is an exciting time in life. You are in the stages of of defining who you are, deciding what you want to be, and where you want to go in life. You've got personality, and dreams, and so much potential. Your world will change so much in the next year, so as you get ready to move on to the next big thing in life, it is important to commemorate who you are right now.
This year, I’m looking to put together a model team! I’m searching for current juniors who will be graduation in the Class of 2020 who have souls that are full of adventure, and hearts full of happiness! Being a Sonnenblume Senior Model is all about sharing who you are, spreading your story and your message for the world, earning some cash and having fun while you do it!
What being a Senior Model entails:
Be Famous! You will become the face of Sonnenblume Senior Marketing!
Two Free Sessions! - One in March, and one in June or July
Share your favorite pictures with your friends and get their opinions - Collect Names!
Meet with me weekly to share your results
Hand out session offers to your friends!
Earn $5 Print Credit for every name you collect
Earn $15 Cash for every referral who books a senior session with Sonnenblume!
Fun Styled Shoots throughout the year
Fun get togethers with the model team throughout the summer!
Senior Model with the most referrals will win a Grand Prize: FREE Limousine Service and professional pictures for your Senior Prom!
Runner up will win $50 towards professional hair or a tux rental for your Senior Prom!
Ready to Join the Team?
Follow Along
Project Senior | Katelyn S. | Pius X
“Even though it was like a million degrees out that day I had so much fun. By the end of the day it felt like we were all pals and I loved it.”
Meet Katelyn.
Katelyn is a music loving, book reading, beautiful and inspiring senior at Piux X High School in Lincoln, where she lives with her Mom, Dad, and two younger siblings. At school, she is involved in band and choir. She has played French Horn for about eight years, the Mellophone and piano for about four years, and most recently, has picked up the violin. Music is something that Katelyn just can’t get enough of, so when she goes to the University of Nebraska Lincoln this fall, she is going to audition for the marching band!
I whole-heartedly believe that Katelyn’s love for music will be a part of her for the rest of her life. I can totally see her rocking her dream job of being in a composers orchestra!
When I asked Katelyn what inspires her, she had a lot of answers. The general consensus though was that it’s people who inspire her. People like famous composers because they can do the things with music that she dreams of doing. People like her parents and her teachers because they are kind, and selfless, and encouraging, and hard working; all the things that make great role models. People like her boyfriend and friends because they each teach her a little something about life. Things like speaking your mind even when its hard, working hard but still finding the time to enjoy life, always trying your best, and standing up for what you believe.
If we can all take one lesson from Katelyn, I think it’s the importance of surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, teach you something by the way they live, and build you up. How lucky is this girl to have so many inspiring people in her life! I think we can also learn a little something about how Katelyn wants to help change the world. It’s not some grand plan to cure a disease. It’s better than that. It’s all about spreading love. “I know I may not be the type of person to make a difference that will be apparent world or nation wide. However, I do want to make a difference in my everyday life by making those around me smile and helping them when they need someone by their side most. Whoever, whenever someone needs me I plan to be there. I want to make a difference in any little way I can and hopefully those little things will add up.” Day by day, one smile at a time, you will absolutely change the world, Katelyn!
I am so excited to see where Katelyn’s life journey will take her. Ten years from now, she hopes to be married and maybe even have a couple of little ones. She hopes to have found a career where she is able to do something she loves and do it every day. Despite the inevitable struggles, she knows she will be able to take them and not give up no matter what. While her dreams may change over the course of her life, she is so ready achieve each one as she goes! Most importantly, Katelyn just wants to be joyful in her everyday life. Now, if that’s not something to strive for, I don’t know what is. You’re one inspiring girl, Katelyn!
Kately’n Experience with Sonnenblume
My experience with Sonnenblume Studios was awesome. I am quite indecisive so I thought it was incredibly helpful when I told you some of my ideas and you were able to come up with locations, but how you also let me share what I thought would be good idea as well. Even though it was like a million degrees out that day I had so much fun. By the end of the day it felt like we were all pals and I loved it. I also thought it was super cool when you had an idea you wanted to try so you asked me if I would be open to trying it out with you. That is where we got the parachute pictures and they were awesome. So overall my experience was amazing. And I could also see how much hard work you put into your products and what we received was of incredible quality and was a lot more than what I was expecting. So thank you for being awesome!
Senior year is an exciting time in life. You are in the stages of of defining who you are, deciding what you want to be, and where you want to go in life. You've got personality, and dreams, and so much potential. Your world will change so much in the next year, so as you get ready to move on to the next big thing in life, it is important to commemorate who you are right now.
This year, I’m looking to put together a model team! I’m searching for current juniors who will be graduation in the Class of 2020 who have souls that are full of adventure, and hearts full of happiness! Being a Sonnenblume Senior Model is all about sharing who you are, spreading your story and your message for the world, earning some cash and having fun while you do it!
What being a Senior Model entails:
Be Famous! You will become the face of Sonnenblume Senior Marketing!
Two Free Sessions! - One in March, and one in June or July
Share your favorite pictures with your friends and get their opinions - Collect Names!
Meet with me weekly to share your results
Hand out session offers to your friends!
Earn $5 Print Credit for every name you collect
Earn $15 Cash for every referral who books a senior session with Sonnenblume!
Fun Styled Shoots throughout the year
Fun get togethers with the model team throughout the summer!
Senior Model with the most referrals will win a Grand Prize: FREE Limousine Service and professional pictures for your Senior Prom!
Runner up will win $50 towards professional hair or a tux rental for your Senior Prom!
Ready to Join the Team?
Follow Along
7 Reasons to Celebrate your Love with a Photoshoot
“Gabby is amazing at what she does! ... With my fiancé and I, she definitely captured the love between us! The pictures turned out amazing!”
February is a month that makes us take a step back and think about Love. It takes on so many different forms. We love our parents and our siblings in a way that only family can. We love our kids. We love our dogs like they are our kids. (let’s be real, they are just furry kids, and sometimes we even spoil them more than the human variety). We love our friends, we have love for the things we do and the places we go, and we try our best to love ourselves.
We love all these people and all these places, but this month, it’s time to celebrate being IN love. It’s for the best friends that became life long lovers, the one person you can’t imagine life without, the soulmates. It’s for those who choose to love each other with all their hearts, every. single. day.
No matter where you are on this journey call life, you’re doing it together. Your story deserves to be told, your love celebrated. So do it! Celebrate the love that brings you laughter when you need it, dance parties in the kitchen, late night conversations, a life full of adventure, and a heart full of happiness.
Here are the top 7 reasons to remember your love exactly as it is. Right here. Right now.
Photo Courtesy of Corey Rourke Photography
1) You’re Dating!
Your story doesn’t start with your engagement. It starts the moment you meet. It’s the awkward flirting and the first kiss, the excitement you feel when you get to spend time together, it’s the road trips and adventures, the fun times and the hard times. It’s everything that has brought you together, and it’s everything that has kept you together. Your story is about how you fill each other’s souls with fire and hearts with love. That’s a story worth telling.
Ethan and I have been dating for 6 years, and other than a couple shots during family pictures, and some snapshots here and there, we never took the time to actually have our pictures taken together. We waited 6 YEARS to finally celebrate our journey together and document it properly, and I cannot tell you enough how much I wish we’d done it sooner!
Photo Courtesy of Corey Rourke Photography
2) You’re Engaged!
This is a huge milestone in your relationship. You’ve decided that this person you love is, without a shadow of a doubt, the person that you want to spend the rest of your life adventuring with. This is the person you want laugh with and cry with, build a life with, and side by side, take on the world with.
Even if you already have had engagement pictures taken, or you plan to have them taken soon, a mini session in February is a fun way to celebrate, especially if you JUST got engaged and you haven’t picked out your wedding photographer yet! Plus, you’ll need lots of pictures to decorate your home with each season!
3) You’re Newly Married!
You did it! You got married! It’s been a whole year, or a few months, or maybe even just a couple weeks, but oh, what an amazing time it’s been, taking on this wild world with your best friend by your side. There’s simply nothing better! Document how your love has grown and how your story has evolved since the big day! Besides, fun dates are still important!
4) You’re Celebrating a Big Anniversary!
Maybe you’ve been married for awhile now! 5 years, 10 years, 20, 25, 35, 43, 50, 62, whatever the number, it’s a milestone, and every milestone is worth celebrating! With each passing year, your lives change and your love grows. You happily welcome new members to your family, you unwillingly say goodbye to others. Babies, grand-babies, fur-babies. You buy your first house, move across the country, change jobs, start a business… whatever life takes you, you’re on this adventure together, and every part of that journey is worth commemorating!
5) You’re Expecting a Baby!
A really fun reason to do a couples photoshoot is that you’re expecting a baby! Maternity sessions are all about your love and this new little love you’ve created. You guys made a baby! CELEBRATE that!!
6) You’re Settling into an Empty Nest
All the kids are gone. You’ve raised them to be incredible humans, and now they’re off building their own lives, remembering the things you taught them. You’re settling into the quiet, into the slower pace of things, and getting used to it being just the two of you again. Its the perfect time for a photo date to reconnect to who you were before kids and remember all the little things that made you fall in love.
5) Just Because, You’re In Love!
There’s no right or wrong reason to couples photoshoot. It’s all about celebrating the fact that you have your person. You have your person, you love your person, and your person loves you back. Cherish that and Celebrate that!
Bottom line, cherish this love with the time you have. You’ll never know how important these photographs truly are until they’re all you have left.
Are you thinking about your person and the love you share? Are you ready to celebrate that love!? Are you ready to give the perfect gift? Click below to get started!
5 Reasons to Do a Boudoir Photo Shoot
Gabby has the ability to not only make you feel at ease and comfortable in such an unfamiliar and intimate setting, but also empower you at the same time. She captured all of the quirks and expressions that are unique to me... which in turn made for the perfect picture. It was a sexy confidence boost that I will always remember!
-Ali A.
Boudoir is a very intimate experience, and it can be intimidating. Trust me, I get it. Before I decided to add boudoir as a service for my wonderful clients, I thought long and hard about it. I thought of all the reasons I wouldn’t want to do one myself. “I don’t want to get undressed in front of a stranger.” “I need to hit the gym first, I’m too weak.” “I don’t really have any assets to show off.” “I have too much acne.” “I’m too pale.” I’m too this.” “I’m not enough that.”
The list could go on, and on, and on. But then I realized that most women would probably respond this way, too. I realized that I was looking at it all wrong. Boudoir isn’t about making you feel self conscious and not good enough. It’s about empowering you, making you feel strong, and beautiful, and confident, exactly as you are.
So why WOULD you want to do a boudoir photo shoot? Here are my top 5 reasons.
1) It’s Empowering
You are incredible, you are vivacious, and you are beautiful. These images hold so much power. We all have hangups, and insecurities, and things we don’t like about ourselves. But when you allow yourself to step out of your comfort zone, you grow. Allow yourself to feel beautiful exactly as you are. Allow yourself to be loved on and pampered for a day, and when you see these images, you will be blown away. You’ll see the beauty that everyone else sees, and when you look back on them 10, 20, even 50 years down the road, you’ll be reminded of just how stunning and confident you really are.
2) It’s an Excuse to Buy New Lingerie!
We’ve all seen that adorable lingerie set but didn’t buy it because there was no real reason to. Here’s your reason! Take a day with your girls to go pick out the perfect set!
Maybe lingerie isn’t your thing. That’s okay too! your favorite PJ set, your husband’s oversized t-shirt, a silky robe, anything goes! It’s whatever makes you feel your very best!
3) You’re Getting Married!
If you’re getting married, this is the perfect little surprise for your hubby-to-be. This is the man who sees you at your highest highs and your lowest lows. He’s the one who loves you and chooses you and thinks you are beautiful, no matter what. Create a little keepsake for him, and give it to him the morning of your wedding. His reaction will be priceless, and it’s something that he will cherish forever!
4) It’s great gift for yourself.
Maybe you’re celebrating a big milestone like a birthday, a promotion, an anniversary. Or maybe you’re working on loving yourself better! Celebrate your growth. Celebrate your confidence. Celebrate YOU! Remind yourself now and always just how incredible you really are.
5) It’s the Perfect Valentine’s Gift For Your Significant Other
Valentine’s Day is all about love. Loving each other and loving ourselves! There’s nothing more intimate than giving someone a piece of yourself, so share something extra special and meaningful with your love or yourself this year! With options like fine art prints, pin-up posters, mini leather wrap albums, calendars, and matted folios, there’s a perfect gift option for that special someone in your life!
Are you ready to feel strong, and beautiful, and empowered? Are you ready to celebrate YOU!? Are you ready to give the perfect gift? Click below to get started!
Preparing for Your Boudoir Photoshoot
Whether you’re doing a boudoir photoshoot as a gift for your significant other, or to celebrate yourself, the whole point is to feel beautiful, confident, and empowered! It’s all about loving yourself exactly as you are. For the very best experience, be sure to follow these tips!
What to Wear
There is no right or wrong when it comes to what you choose (or choose not) to wear for your boudoir shoot. Think about how you want to feel. What emotions do you want to evoke? Maybe you want to feel bold and sexy, or maybe you want to feel soft, gentle, and sweet. Pick something that makes you feel that way!
Layers are a wonderful wonderful thing when it comes to boudoir! If you’re feeling a little timid, starting with more layers such as a robe, blanket, or shawl, will help you warm up. As you become more comfortable, you can lose the layers one at a time! This also give you more variety in your final images!
Accessorize! Earrings, rings, bracelets, your favorite perfume; these are all great ways to add personal details to your boudoir shoot! If this is meant to be a gift for you significant other, adding a special memento like jewelry they got you, or the lingerie you wore (or are going to wear) on your honeymoon, will make your photos extra meaningful!
A Few Ideas:
Lingerie - wedding or honeymoon lingerie or something new!
High Heels
Robe
Oversized T-shirt
Your husband or boyfriend’s favorite button up or super soft t-shirt (solid colors)
A cute PJ set
Hair and Makeup
Once again, it’s all about what makes you feel your best! If you don’t usually wear much makeup, don’t feel like you have to get all glammed up for your shoot. But if you wan’t to get fancy, go for it! If you do your own makeup, I do suggest going a little heavier, as it does tend get a little washed out in photographs. Now, I know this is a struggle for me sometimes, as it is for many: the oh so dreadful Acne. I want to let you know that I get it. It can be a total confidence killer. Here’s the thing, I don’t want you to worry about it! Because guess what? I have this magic tool called photoshop, and I can eliminate any blemishes that you’d like to hide. If you are going to do your own makeup, here is a link to a tutorial video about disguising acne!
As for your hair, leaving your hair down is the most natural with boudoir. I definitely suggest either straightening it or curling it!
If you want to go all out for your shoot and be totally pampered, (which I totally recommend!) professional hair and makeup is available! Just remember, your appointment must be made at the time of booking your session to ensure availability.
The Days Leading up to your Photoshoot
Take time to try on your outfit(s). There’s nothing worse than showing up with something, putting it on for the first time, and it not fitting right. You want to feel your absolute best, so take the time to be sure that you like how your outfit choices make you feel! I also suggest bringing extras in case you’re just not feeling a certain one on the day of!
Drink plenty of water! We all know that water works miracles on our skin, so be sure to get plenty in the days leading up to your shoot to ensure a beautiful, luminous complexion!
Touch up the basics.
If you color or cut your hair, make sure to do it at least a week before your session so that you have time to make sure you like it.
If you wax, be sure to give yourself a minimum of 3 days to ensure no red, bumpy, or blotchy skin. If you shave, the best time to do that is the morning of!
Be sure to shape up your eyebrows and take care of any unwanted stray hairs.
Treat yourself with a fresh coat of polish or a mani and pedi. Be sure to pick something neutral or something that matches what you choose to wear.
Get plenty of beauty-rest! The night before be sure to plan for a full 8 hours!
The Day of Your Photoshoot
Bathe, Exfoliate, and Moisturize! This will help your skin look and feel it’s very best!
Wear loose clothing to prevent any marks or redness on your skin.
Use Clear deodorant. We don’t want any white residue showing up on your lingerie!
Allow plenty of time to get to your session. Don’t forget to plan for traffic, parking, and settling in.
Be sure to eat something before your session! You don’t want to feel faint or get hangry! Choose something light but filling! And as always, plenty of water!
Relax and Have Fun!!
Don’t forget what this is all about. It’s about loving yourself, feeling strong and beautiful, and most of all, having fun! Don’t stress the small stuff. Everything will work out, and you will look like an absolute Goddess. Relax, and have FUN!
Emily + Mitch • Cornhusker Marriott Winter Wedding • Lincoln, Ne
December 15, 2018
The soft notes filled the room as the Emily and Mitch took their places on the dance floor. Their family and friends watched with teary eyes and bursting hearts. The ball room was overflowing with joy as the couple softly swayed to the beautiful lyrics we all know so well, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you.” The bride and groom gazed into each other’s eyes, letting it soak in that they were officially Mr. & Mrs. Parker, dancing tho the lovely words that were so fitting for their big day and every step of their journey that brought them to this perfect moment. “Won’t you please just take my hand and my whole life too, because I can’t help falling in love with you.”
When Emily and Mitch met over 4 years ago at bar called Bodega’s in downtown Lincoln, they instantly bonded. One of the things they bonded over was a love for whiskey, and this love is evident in some of the special details they planned for their wedding day.
Now, you all know I’m a fan of love letters. I love when couples read them before their first look. I love when I catch glimpses into their deepest, most honest feelings. But what Emily and Mitch created takes love letters and their meaning and their power to a whole new level. What they created was a capsule. A Love Capsule. A Whiskey Love Capsule. During their ceremony they vowed that when times get tough, they promised to love each other and remember why they chose, and continue to choose, to love one another. On their 5 year anniversary **or their first REALLY big fight** they’ll open this capsule filled with a bottle of Jameson and their unread love letters. They’ll pour each other a glass of whiskey, and they’ll read. They will read, and they’ll remember exactly what they were feeling as they vowed to love each other for the rest of their days. They’ll be reminded of all those reasons they couldn’t help but fall in love.
Emily and Mitch, while your December wedding wasn’t very wintery, (Nebraska’s weather is a roller coaster of unpredictable emotions, you just never know any time of the year) it was perfect in every way. Every detail, from the whiskey barrel guest book and whiskey love capsule, to the first dance songs, to the NFL socks and sheet cakes, they were all beautiful and they told your story perfectly. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for giving me the opportunity to witness and capture such a beautiful, and heartfelt day. “
“May your hands be forever clasped in friendship, and your hearts joined in forever love.” - Irish Proverb
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Emily Thurmond of Salon Plush - Lincoln, NE • Bridal Gown: Ellynne Bridal - Lincoln, NE• Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Normal Blvd - Lincoln, NE • Rings: A.T. Thomas Jewelers - Lincoln, NE • Flowers: The Stem Gallery - Lincoln, NE • Cake: Rabbit Hole Bakery - Lincoln, NE • Catering: The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel • DJ: 5 Star Entertainment • Venue: The Cornhusker Marriott Hotel - Lincoln, NE • Decorator: Grand Illusions - Beatrice, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Jesse Becker of Shauna and Beck Photography
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
Scott + Justine • North American Martyrs Wedding • Lincoln, Ne
September 29, 2018
As Justine and her girls were getting ready in Malcolm, and while Scott and his guys were having breakfast at Cracker Barrel, and as I was on my way out to start documenting the Hahn Wedding, it was drizzly, and foggy, and cold. That’s the thing about Nebraska weather; you just never know, especially at the end of September! It could be 90 degrees, it could be pouring rain, it could be a perfect sunny and 75, heck, it could even snow! This year, on September 29, the day Scott and Justine said, “I Do,” Mother Nature decided on a light, but steady, rain all day long.
But you know, I don’t think anything could ruin this special day, not even the rain. In fact, I would go as far as saying that perhaps it made it a little more special... You see, this past April, Scott lost someone very special to him: his beautiful, strong mother, and as the Steve Wariner country song goes, “There’s holes in the floor of Heaven, and her tears are pouring down. That’s how you know she’s watching, wishing she could be here now…”
Scott, your mom would be so proud of you and Justine, and I believe in my heart that all that rain was a little reminder for you both that, while she couldn’t be there with you in body, she was, and always will be, with you in spirit. Plus, isn’t it an old wives tale that rain on your wedding day is good luck!?
Justine and Scott, your rustic country wedding was a perfect portrayal of country boy meets country girl. From the sunflowers to the twinkle-lit wooden backdrops, from the jeans and boots to the smiles on your faces and they joy in your eyes all day long. It was perfect and it was beautiful. It’s easy to see how deeply you love each other and how much you cherish the people in your lives. I wish you all the love, happiness, and joy that this life has to offer. May your marriage be so very blessed!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: • Makeup: • Bridal Gown: Nebraska Bridal - Wahoo, NE • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Lincoln, NE • Bride’s Ring: Kay Jewelry - Lincoln, NE • Groom’s Ring: Riddle’s Jewelry - Lincoln, NE • Flowers: Russ’s Market on Coddington - Lincoln, NE • Cake: Amy Sue Sweet Shop - Lincoln, NE • Catering: C-K Catering - Brainard, NE • DJ: Primetime DJ - Lincoln, NE • Ceremony: North American Martyrs Catholic Church - Lincoln, NE • Reception Venue: Seward Fair Grounds - Seward, NE • Decorator: Hillcrest Rentals - Seward, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Jesse Becker of Shauna and Beck Photography
Allison + Brennan • St. Isidore's September Wedding • Columbus, Ne
September 22, 2018
As he stood there in the middle of the crowded ballroom, all eyes on him, he looked at this beautiful daughter on her wedding day, and his new son, a Cowboys fan, thank the Lord! He looked at the two of them, sitting hand in hand at the head table, beaming with joy. The words he spoke next I’ll never forget. They were honest and simple, and quite possibly, the secret to life and the key to a long, happy marriage.
He told them that they’d have good times and they’d have hard times, hopefully more good than bad. Then he looked at them with a glimmer in his eye and told them, “All you need is love… and a puppy!”
To say I’ve heard a more true statement in my life would be a lie. Because let’s be real. Those good times? That puppy is going to love you both. And those hard times? That puppy will love you both even more. Nevertheless, love for each other is important, too, and Allison & Brennan, without a doubt, have a beautiful, deep love.
These high school sweethearts started dating junior year and continued dating all through college. Their love is rooted deeply in friendship, and it shows through in the way they respect each other, the way they laugh together, and in every aspect of their wedding day!
Saturday, September 22nd was the perfect day. It was a bright fall day; not too hot, not too chilly, a soft breeze, and just a touch of yellow in the trees. But what made it more perfect was the fact that it was a day for Allison and Brennan. The girls got their hair and makeup done at Design Team before arriving at the St. Isidore’s Church, and while the girls were busy getting all fancy, the guys were busy being locked out of the school where they were supposed to get ready! Luckily a key was only a phone call and a 10ish minute wait away. The rest of the day went off without a hitch!
Their pure friendship and love truly shone through as they shared their first look, as they said their vows, as they celebrated on the party bus, and as they danced the night away on the most packed dance floor I’ve every seen at a wedding! The day was filled with tears of joy and so much laughter.
Allison and Brennan, thank you! Thank you for honoring me with the opportunity to be a part of your day. It was so filled with beautiful details, beautiful moments, and beautiful people, inside and out! I wish you nothing but love and happiness for the rest of your days, and of course, I hope you get that puppy, Allison!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair and Makeup: Design Team - Columbus, NE • Bridal Gown: Nebraska Bridal - Wahoo, NE • Tuxes: J. Patrick’s - Columbus, NE • Bridesmaid’s Dresses: Dream Designs - Aurora, NE • Rings: Kelly Jewelry and Grace Jewelry - Columbus, NE • Flowers: (bouquets/boutineers) Blossoms - Columbus, NE • Flowers: (centerpieces) Country Lane Gardens - Columbus, NE • Cake: Wildflower Pastries - Columbus, NE • Catering: Country Mile Catering - Genoa, NE • Ceiling/Backdrop Decorator: Desi Happ DJ: Derrick Heydon of Jukebox Bike Solar DJ Service - Lincoln, NE • Videographer: Video Images - Columbus, NE • Ceremony Venue: St. Isidore’s Church - Columbus, NE • Reception Venue: The American Legion - Columbus, NE • Party Bus: PaPa G’s - Columbus, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Jesse Becker of Shauna and Beck Photography