Shayla + Dylan | Rustic September Wedding at the Beaumont | Wayne, NE
This was a day I had been looking forward to all summer. Shayla and Dylan are so full of joy and love, and I’m honestly not sure if we stopped laughing at all during their engagement session last year. They have the kind of love that make you happy just to be around, and hopeful about everything in life….
September 5, 2020
This was a day I had been looking forward to all summer. Shayla and Dylan are so full of joy and love, and I’m honestly not sure if we stopped laughing at all during their engagement session last year. They have the kind of love that make you happy just to be around, and hopeful about everything in life.
So when I rolled up to the most beautiful barn venue, surrounded by rolling hills, I just knew it was going to be the perfect day. Then I walked in… The guys were chilling, and I could hear the giggles coming from the bridal suite, and everywhere I looked, I was blown away. The Beaumont is the absolutely stunning! But more importantly, Shayla and Dylan and everyone around them were beaming, and happy, and so excited to finally be celebrating this beautiful love story.
During their ceremony, they shared how this whole thing started. One day, Dylan was at Menards. At the time, Shayla worked at Menards as a head cashier, and he had to talk to her. It turns out, they had a mutual friend named Sarah. So the next time he came in and Shayla asked how he knew Sarah, he turned BRIGHT red. Even so, they started chatting, and in order to stop wasting his data, he finally got her number. It was also later revealed that at first, he thought her name was Shannon…. Thankfully he figured that one out!
As the years went on, Shayla and Dylan started building life together. They have two sweet pups, Ellie and Piper and a cat named Zoe. They love going fishing and spending time with their two best friends, Lily + Matt. Eventually Dylan decided it was time to make this thing official, so he and Lily planned operation Pineapple, where he would propose on their trip to Texas.
So even though she swore she would never marry a red head, or someone with with a last name that ended in man, here they were, reading each their hand written vows, and officially tying the knot. I guess what’s meant to be will always find a way!
Shayla and Dylan, I am so honored to have been a part of your day. That you trusted me to capture your beautiful story. And that you welcomed me and treated me like family. Here’s to a lifetime of love and adventures, and of course, laughter.
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Karina Portillo of Cut N’ Style Shoppe - Columbus, NE • Makeup: Emily Flores + Sami Rodriguesz - Columbus, NE: • Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal Omaha, NE • Tuxes: Tip Top Tux - Omaha, NE • Rings: McChristy Jewelers - Columbus, Ne & Helzberg Diamonds - Omaha, NE • Flowers: Blossom’s Floral - Columbus, NE • Cake: Jana’s Cakes - Norfolk, NE • DJ: Beaumont Entertainment, Wayne NE • Venue: The Beaumont - Wayne, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Maddy Jones
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride + groom, or email me, for the download pin!
Blake + Molly | Joyful August Wedding | Columbus, NE
As I walked up to the Munson house on Saturday morning, I knew it was going to be an insanely fun wedding day. I knew because as I walked to the front door, loaded down with camera gear, I could already hear the laughter inside. I opened the door and Molly greeted me, halfway ready, laughing while someone else was yelling about Scooters forgetting the breakfast burritos….
August 22, 2020
As I walked up to the Munson house on Saturday morning, I knew it was going to be an insanely fun wedding day. I knew because as I walked to the front door, loaded down with camera gear, I could already hear the laughter inside. I opened the door and Molly greeted me, halfway ready, laughing while someone else was yelling about Scooters forgetting the breakfast burritos. All the girls were scattered throughout the house, finishing up hair and makeup, cracking jokes, and instead of panicking about little things not going as planned, they just kept asking Alexa to play play “Marry Me”, and when she would play something else, they just rolled with it.
Meanwhile, the guys got the trolly ready, they hung out at Blake’s brother’s house, cracked a few beers, and had a chill morning.
Once the girls were finished getting ready, they popped some champagne, (they definitely struggled to to pop it… see photos below!) and then it was time for Molly to get dressed and read a letter to her daughter, Amailey, from Blake. This might have been the most precious moment of the day. As she read the first sentence, the tears started to well up in her eyes, and that’s the moment I knew that these three were absolutely made for each other.
As the day went on, I saw so much laughter and so much love between Molly and Blake, and from their friends and families! They laughed during their first look, they laughed during their vows, they laughed as they shotgunned beers together, and they laughed all night long. Everyone that was a part of their wedding was there to celebrate their love and to make sure that they had the best day ever.
One of the coolest parts of the night was the surprise flashmob. As they got ready to do toasts, suddenly singing erupted from the back of the room. Then suddenly it was coming from somewhere else. And then somewhere else. Molly’s family was sining “Welcome to the Family”. Blake and Molly had no idea it was coming, so they stood up at the head table snuggled into the most genuine and heartfelt hug while they held hands with their wedding party and swayed along. Gosh, what a sweet sweet moment.
Blake and Molly, thank you for trusting me to capture your perfect day. It was so fun to be a part of your most sentimental quiet moments, as well as your moments of celebrating with shots. It was a wild and beautiful, and insanely fun day, and it’s one heck of a story to share for years to come. Cheers to the Munsons!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair + Makeup: Valencia Salon & Spa - Columbus, NE: • Bridal Gown and Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal • Tuxes: J Patrick’s - Columbus, NE • Rings: Nebraska Diamond - Lincoln, NE • Flowers: Blossom’s Floral - Columbus, NE • Cake: Wildflower Pastries - Columbus, NE • DJ: Voice House - Columbus, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Corey Rourke • Video: Grace Trexel
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride + groom, or email me, for the download pin!
Emily + Shane | Dreamy Intimate July Wedding at Sunken Gardens | Lincoln, Ne
July 18, 2020
It was, by FAR, the hottest day of the summer. But this day had already been planned three times, so Emily and Shane weren’t about to let 100 degrees stand in the way of finally becoming husband and wife. When they first started planning, they envisioned a bigger wedding, so that’s what they did. They planned a big wedding, had most of the details decided on, but something just didn’t feel right. It didn’t feel like them. This day was about their love and choosing to spend the rest of their day together. So what did they do? They decided to plan their dream wedding in the mountains of Colorado on a cool September day, surround by just their immediate families. Finally, their wedding plans felt right.
Then COVID-19 hit. After watching bride after bride have to reschedule their big day, after being quarantined, after not being able to travel, and after watching the guidelines change on a daily basis, they decided that if they wanted to get married in the year 2020, they better keep the wedding close to home. So they planned their wedding day for the THIRD time.
This time they settled on an easy going morning getting ready at the Courtyard Marriott, followed intimate ceremony at the beautiful Sunken Gardens in Lincoln. It worked out because their family had already planned on being together for their bachelor and bachelorette parties. So with with their most important people around, they read each other their hand written vows *cue the laughter… and the tears*. Following the ceremony, they finally got to cool off with a nice dinner at the Green Gateau.
Emily and Shane, I know that it wasn’t in your plans to get married during a pandemic, or to have part of your decor be a mask for each seat, or to have to give up your dream mountain wedding. Despite all they ups and downs and challenges along the way, and despite the insane heat that literally melted everyones faces off, your day was absolutely perfect. It was perfect because you got to celebrate your love for each other, you got to share it with the people who mean the most to you, and you finally got to start your life-long adventure as the Kecks. You handled the roller coaster with so much grace, and I am secretly a little thankful you didn’t go to the mountains because that way I got to be a part of your day, too!
I am forever thankful for clients that become friends, because you guys are absolutely that! May your adventures together never end! Cheers to the Kecks!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Sisu - Lincoln, NE • Makeup: Keeley Dennis of Kiss and Makeup - Lincoln, NE • Bridal Gown: David’s Bridal • Grooms Clothing: Men’s Wearhouse • Bowties: LinenManStore - Etsy • Brides Ring: True Gem • Grooms Ring: Riddles Jewelry • Flowers: iBloom - Lincoln, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios • Second Shooter: Grace Trexel
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride, or email me, for the download pin!
Ashley + Dakota | Intimate Wedding Ceremony at Grandparents' Retirement Home | Papillion, NE
Sometimes when you’re planning a wedding, life throws you a curveball (ahem, Coronavirus). So what do you do? You quickly plan an intimate ceremony and celebrate with a vow renewal and reception later! The silver lining? Now you get two anniversaries!
Ashley and Dakota did just that. Their original wedding date…
May 17, 202
Sometimes when you’re planning a wedding, life throws you a curveball (ahem, Coronavirus). So what do you do? You quickly plan an intimate ceremony and celebrate with a vow renewal and reception later! The silver lining? Now you get two anniversaries!
Ashley and Dakota did just that. Their original wedding date was set for June 27, 2020, but when Covid19 hit and completely shutdown the wedding industry, their dream day was put on hold. As the date got closer, there was so much uncertainty about whether or not their wedding could go on as planned. Since restrictions were likely still going to be in place in June, and to make sure Ashley’s grandma would be able to see them get married, they decide to hold a small ceremony outside at her grandparents’ retirement home in Papillion, NE, and they decided to do it a month early!
It was a chilly and windy Sunday afternoon, but it it was absolutely perfect. A couple of Ashley’s friends and her Dog of Honor helped her get ready, while their families set up the ceremony. Ashley and Dakota were surrounded by their parents and Grandparents, and Ashley’s grandma was able to watch from the balcony above. As her dad waked her down the aisle, Dakota was beaming the entire time. The entire time, everyone was overflowing with joy, and they got to focus on what’s most important: their love for each other.
It was simple and so so sweet, and now I cannot wait to celebrate with them again in December!
Much Love,
Gabby
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride, or email me, for the download pin!
Matt + Melissa • Heartfelt Hometown November Wedding • West Point, NE
Sometimes you dream of someone your whole life. Then one day, you meet her at a bank. You purse her for 3 months, and finally, one random Sunday at a dive bar, it all clicks. Now you’re doing life with your best friend. You’re taking on the world together. Every day you fall more in love with her sense of humor, her beautiful eyes, the way she completes you through the good times and the bad. And every day, she falls more in love with the way you love, how selfless and dependable you are. Then, when neither of you think your heart has room for any more love, you welcome a little one into the family. Now this, this is what you’ve been dreaming of your whole life.
November 9, 2019
Sometimes you dream of someone your whole life. Then one day, you meet her at a bank. You purse her for 3 months, and finally, one random Sunday at a dive bar, it all clicks. Now you’re doing life with your best friend. You’re taking on the world together. Every day you fall more in love with her sense of humor, her beautiful eyes, the way she completes you through the good times and the bad. And every day, she falls more in love with the way you love, how selfless and dependable you are. Then, when neither of you think your heart has room for any more love, you welcome a little one into the family. Now this, this is what you’ve been dreaming of your whole life.
This is Matt and Melissa’s story. They have hearts of gold, and family and tradition are so important to them. So when Matt proposed, they started thinking about what they wanted their special day to be like. Living in the midst of the gorgeous mountains of Colorado, it would have been easier to plan a wedding close to home, but they knew in their hearts they wanted to go back to Matt’s hometown in Nebraska. They wanted to get married at the church he grew up in. They wanted to be surrounded by their families and their closest friends. They wanted their day to be a reflection of their love. Easy going, and filled with love. That’s exactly what it was.
Melissa started out the gorgeous November morning with her girls at Matt’s granny’s house where they got their hair and make up done. Meanwhile, Matt and the guys hung out at Matt’s dad’s house. Both are right down the street from the church, St. Mary’s, where they would finally become husband and wife. As everyone started arriving at the church, Matt and Melissa snuck out back for a quiet moment together. Matt didn’t want to see her before the wedding, so they took a moment to hold hands around a corner and just breathe in the day together. Just feeling each other’s presence was enough to calm their nerves. Then it was time to get set.
Throughout the ceremony, I caught myself tearing up a few times. The way Matt looked at Melissa as she walked down the aisle, the way their little boy watched them the whole time, the way their voices were filled so deeply with conviction and genuine love as they said their vows, the pure elation that beamed on their faces at they exited the church. It was full hour of goosebumps and exploding hearts.
Once family pictures were over, Matt, Melissa, and their wedding party got on their party bus and stopped at a couple bars to celebrate. Just before going into their reception, we finished up pictures under the most vibrant and electric sunset. It’s like the sky was painted just for them that evening.
The rest of the night was filled with laughter and dancing, a live band, and even a performance by one of the guests. It filled my heart to see just how much fun these two were having on their special day.
Matt and Melissa, thank you for welcoming me into your world. For letting me tell your story by capturing your engagement photos in Colorado, and your wedding in Nebraska. Thank you for making me feel like family as I helped you capture these special fleeting moments. Your story is a special one, a genuine one, and one that I truly believe brings people together and makes everyone around you feel loved and appreciated. So here’s to you, Mr. & Mrs. Stieren. The world needs more loves like yours!
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair and Makeup: Bridal by Amanda • Bridal Gown + Bridesmaids Dresses: David’s Bridal • Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse • Rings: Shane Co. • Flowers: Flower and Gift Gallery - West Point, NE • Cake: 45 Ivy Baking Company - Denver, CO • Catering: Angel • Live Music: Pink Kadillac - Bennington, NE • Ceremony: St. Mary’s Catholic Church - West Point, NE • Officiant: Father Steve • Reception Venue: Snyder Ballroom - Snyder, NE • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios - Lincoln, NE • Second Shooter: Sean Farley •
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride, or email me, for the download pin!
Lindsey + Nathan • Beautiful October Wedding at Creekside Event Barn • Roca, NE
October 26, 2019
If your dogs don’t at least make an appearance at your wedding, are you even doing it right? The answer is, no. Thankfully, Lindsey and Nathan know the rules. Fenrir and Moose, in their matching bow ties, sat so patiently while their humans tied the knot, and then they finally got their chance to love on mom and dad during picture time. Nothing could have made this day more perfect, other than the fact that it was the most beautiful October day, filled with family and friends, and the fact that these two high school sweethearts were finally saying I Do after 8 years!
As I’m sure you all know, October in Nebraska is a total toss up. It could be 80 degrees, it could be super windy and cold, it could be blizzarding, or you could get super lucky and have a warm sunny day that’s everything fall dreams are made of. That’s what Lindsey and Nathan got on their wedding day. With Creekside Event Barn being in the midst of Roca Berry Farms Pumpkin patch, the ambiance of fall was in full effect.
Can’t get any better, right? Wrong. All day long, these two and their friends and family were so laid back and fun to be around. The girls filled the bridal suite with laughter as they got ready. Imagine this gorgeous bride getting her dress on, surrounded by her girls, with soft sweet music playing in the background. Nope, not this bride! She had party music blasting.
As the Nathan and the guys got ready, they sipped some drinks and just relaxed throughout the day, anticipating the moment he’d get to see his bride.
I don’t see this too often, but Nathan decided he didn’t want to see Lindsey until the moment she walked down the aisle. He wanted the moment to be extra special, and it absolutely was. As she walked towards him, he was beaming, and I couldn’t help but think about the moment he told me what he loves about Lindsey. He told me how he loves how hard working she is, her drive, how she never backs down from a challenge and her competitive side. As he spoke these words, a tiny happy tear rolled down Lindsey’s cheek. It was the sweetest moment, and as this strong, independent, and beautiful woman walked towards her groom, I couldn’t help but re-feel those feels all over again.
Lindsey and Nathan, thank you for choosing me to be a part of your day. The two of you are kind, and funny, and genuine, and welcoming. You’re the good stuff. I’m wishing you a lifetime of laughter, of adventures, love and friendship, of teamwork, and most importantly, loving on those sweet pups.
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Beauty By MJ - Molly Jackson • Makeup: Spa De Da - Amanda Banghart • Bridal Gown: Blush Bridal - Lincoln, NE • Bridesmaids Dresses: Von Maur • Tuxes: Men’s Wearhouse • Bride’s Ring: Family Heirloom - Rose Gold Band: Zales - Lincoln, NE • Groom’s Ring: Enso • Flowers: Russ’s Market - 33rd & Hwy 2, Lincoln, NE • Cake: Super Saver - 27th & Pine Lake, Lincoln, NE • Catering: Creekside Catering • DJ + Photo Booth: Steele Productions - Lincoln, NE • Ceremony and Reception Venue: Creekside Event Barn - Roca, NE • Officiant: Friend of a Friend, John Bettendorf • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios - Lincoln, NE • Second Shooter: Alicia Skillman of Beautyincadence Creative - Omaha, NE • Videographer: Friend, Hayden Florom’ •
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride, or email me, for the download pin!
Brett + Jen • Emotional October Wedding at Scattered Acres • Palmer, KS
I don’t know if I’ve ever felt so much emotion or held back so many tears while editing a wedding. Every moment of Brett and Jen’s day was filled with so much deep, genuine feeling, and the empath in me couldn’t help but re-feel all the feels with every click I made….
October 12, 2019
I don’t know if I’ve ever felt so much emotion or held back so many tears while editing a wedding. Every moment of Brett and Jen’s day was filled with so much deep, genuine feeling, and the empath in me couldn’t help but re-feel all the feels with every click I made.
It was the most beautiful day in October. The morning was crisp, but the sun was warm. The wind was strong, but that didn’t matter. As we walked in, I could feel the excitement, yet there was no stress. As Jen was getting her hair and make up done, she sipped on her Michelob Ultra in her adorable Bride koozie, and cracked jokes with everyone around. As Brett got ready, it was the same; laid back, drinking a beer. Then they opened their gifts to each other with the biggest smiles I’ve possibly ever seen. They read the sweet notes, then pulled out the goodies inside, gas station themed, to be enjoyed on their honeymoon to Colorado. I’d say that’s a pretty good test, knowing each other’s favorite road-trip snacks.
Then it was time for first looks, and let me warn you, here’s where the tears start. Jen’s dad Mike was all set when we handed him a special gift from Jen. As he read the card, the first tear slipped down his cheek, followed by a “that’s one!” and some giggles from the stairs. Of course, the rest of the family was taking bets on how many times Dad would cry. Once Mike had a chance to gather himself, Jen tapped his shoulder. The expression on his face when he turned around and saw his daughter, the most stunning bride, his little girl…. Pure love, joy, pride, all the things a proud father can feel in one moment.
Once everyone had a chance to wipe the happy tears and catch their breath, it was Brett’s turn to see his gorgeous bride. As he stood there waiting for Jen, you could just feel the anticipation fill the room. As the sun beamed in though the big picture windows, Jen slowly walked up behind him, paused for a second, and then tapped his shoulder. When Brett turned around, his smile was even bigger than when he opened up his bag of gas-station goodies. This was a smile of complete ecstasy. I think I might have even seen a few tears sneak out of his eyes. Now, If you think Brett’s smile was big when he saw his girl, imagine that times about 12, and that’s how hard Jen was cheesin’. I honestly don’t know how you watch something like that and don’t explode with overwhelming happiness yourself.
Throughout family photos, these two were constantly laughing, striking funny poses, and just having the best time. Not even the crazy wind could bring them down on this perfect day.
Finally, it was time for the reason they were all here that day. The ceremony. The gazebo was decorated with beautiful flowers, and the area had the most gorgeous view of rolling hills and whispy grass, blowing in the wind. As they stood up there, and their friends and family watched, they said their vows, and if you think there was a dry eye in the crowd, I would take a bet that you are wrong.
First Brett vowed to make Jen’s coffee every morning, unless he was running late. He vowed to make dinner in the evenings, unless he’s working late. To give her a back rub after her shower, as long as he gets one first. To always make her laugh, even when she’s mad. And most importantly and above everything else, Brett vowed to always love Jen. Que the laughter and all the melting hearts.
Then it was Jen’s turn. She vowed to love Brett during hunting season, to support him through fair season, and to encourage him everyday on his goals and dreams. Then she spoke some deeper words. “We have finally found each other, and that is enough” The love we have is everything I have ever wanted, and you Brett, are making my dreams come true today.”
The next Vows were from Jen to Charlee, Brett’s little girl, and this is the moment the whole population of Palmer, Kansas got choked up. As Brett held Charlee in his arms, Jen promised her though lots of tears, that she would always laugh at her jokes, give her hugs when she’s sad, and kiss the boo boos away. To always be there for her. She told her how thankful she is to be a part of her life, and that she will love her always and forever. Sweetest. Moment. Ever.
The rest of the night was filled with so much laughter, a few more tears, (the happy kind of course), some rad dance moves by Granddad, and more laughter.
Brett and Jen, I cannot tell you how thankful I am to have been a part of your day, to have gotten to feel all the feels right along with you. Your special day was a bright spot in a hectic month, a day I could put aside all the other things on the to-do list and just be filled with love and joy and the most wonderful creative energy. Your day was surrounded with beauty starting from within. From beautiful kind souls to a breathtaking view, your day was just so lovely. Im wishing you a lifetime of adventure, of love, of patience, of radiant energy, and all the feels that you feel so well.
Much Love,
Gabby
The Creative Team
Hair: Randi Crosby (sister in law) Makeup: Bride and Best Friend Kacee • Bridal Gown: Schoen’s Bridal World - Downs, KS • Groom’s Suit: Amazon • Bride’s Rings: (Right hand) The one he proposed with was the Bride’s grandmother’s. (Left Hand) Kays • Groom’s Ring: Was the Bride’s Father’s Ring • Decorations and Cake: Adam Block • Catering: Bridget Yoder (mother of the bride) Adam Block, and Valorie Quiring • DJ: Ethan Schutte • Ceremony and Reception Venue: Scattered Acres Outfitting - Palmer, KS • Officiant: Nancy Mitchell, PMA • Photography: Gabby Goc of Sonnenblume Studios - Lincoln, NE • Second Shooter: Tonya Otteman of Otteman Photography - Nebraska City, NE • Videographer: Daren Nuttelman of Complete Weddings and Events •
If you’d like to download images from this gallery, please click the button “go to gallery” and ask the bride, or email me, for the download pin!