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WINTER EDITION 2021
INTRODUCTION 6 Editor’s Note INSPIRATION 8 Seasonless Style 10 Modern Palettes
REAL WEDDINGS 26 Maddie & Alex 32 Morgan & Dylan 38 Lindsay & Kevin 44 Jennifer & Andrew 48 Jamie & Doug
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12
TRIN JENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY
CUSTOM GIFTS 24 Fabulous Favors
DEANA COUFAL PHOTOGRAPHY
EDITOR’S PICKS 12 Lush Florals 16 Dreamy Decor
2020 Winner
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ITOR’S NOTE
CELEBRATING LOVE, 2021 STYLE A LOT CAN HAPPEN in a year. But none of us could have imagined an impact as great as a pandemic in the world
Chris Christen Editor-In-Chief
ON YOUR WAY TO MICRO WEDDING BLISS:
Get creative with your guest list.
of weddings.
Have an intimate ceremony and
Our hearts go out to those couples who
host a series of small dinner parties
planned and postponed in 2020, and the
with special people in your bubble:
vendors who found themselves riding that
parents, grandparents, honorary
roller coaster, too.
attendants.
With the new year comes hope that all of
Stagger guest arrival times and
your wedding dreams come true — with
have a guest check-in station; hand
markedly fewer COVID-19 concerns.
out pretty boxes with programs, favors, customized masks and hand
If you’re just starting to plan or are shifting gears, there’s lots to love
sanitizer.
about the “smaller-is-bigger” micro wedding trend — especially without a crystal ball view of the pandemic. With 50 or fewer guests, you can
Utilize technology to include
pull out all the stops on food and decor with relative confidence that
your nearest and dearest who
your plan can hold, even with social distancing and venue capacity
can’t be with you in person.
restrictions in flux.
Create a private Facebook group; encourage watch parties and
This issue marks a change in format for us, too. We’re still all about
pre-ship swag boxes to your
swoon-worthy inspiration — from Editor’s Picks for florals and decor
virtual guests.
to Real Wedding stories packed with personalization and poignant moments. Spoiler alert: The perfect location for your wedding may be as
Explore interactive culinary
close as your own backyard, or windmill (page 38).
experiences. Think tabletop
Whether your special day runs as planned or has to bend dramatically
charcuterie boards with Mexican,
from your original vision — for whatever reason — trust that it will be
fruit or dessert themes.
beautiful just the same.
Go big with florals, lighting
Here’s to celebrating love, thinking creatively and bookmarking the
installations, live entertainment
perfect masks and hand sanitizers — just in case!
and a multicourse meal.
we love submissions
Enjoy blogging? Consider sharing your wedding journey as a Wedding Essentials blogger. Have a Real Wedding or styled shoot you’d like to submit? We’d be thrilled to consider it for our magazine and blog. Email a few details and a gallery link to chris.christen@owh.com.
Explore a weekday wedding — to save on your venue rental, and retain your first-choice vendors in what is expected to be a busy catch-up wedding year.
And our best advice in uncertain times: Simply love being in love, and know that you’ll celebrate — when the time is right.
FIN D MORE I N SPI R ATI O N , ADVI C E AN D P L A N N I N G T O O L S AT O M A H A . CO M /W E D D I N G E S S E N T I A L S 6 WIN TER 2 02 1
HI EVERYONE!
I’m Lucie! I’mLucie! I own the only jewelry lounge in the United States. I will work with you to design your own personal wedding and engagement rings and custom jewelry.
VOLUME 19 ISSUE 1
I HOpE tO dESIgN fOR YOU SOON, OR agaIN!!!
ADVERTISING SALES MANAGER
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Chris Christen chris.christen@owh.com
Brett Snead bsnead@owh.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR & DESIGNER Christine Zueck-Watkins czueck@owh.com
ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE Deborah Fernsell dfernsell@owh.com
ASSISTANT EDITORS Kiley Cruse cruse@owh.com
EVENTS Tam Webb tam.webb@owh.com
Marjie Ducey marjie.ducey@owh.com COPY EDITOR Pam Richter
Lucie Kousgaard, Owner/Designer, GIA\DCA Certified Diamontologist, DCA Certified Gemologist
Hilltop plaza/East of RockbRook sHopping cEntER
ON THE COVER Wedding of Maddie & Alex, The Eye & Hand Project
2927 South 108th St, Omaha, NE 68144 402-301-1607 diamondsbylucie@yahoo.com www.loveluciejewelry.com loveluciejewelry/facebook
CONTRIBUTORS Apricity Photography, Kiley Cruse Photography, The Eye & Hand Project, Yoni Gill Photography, Kurt A. Keeler, Jessica Thompson, Tiny Luxe Weddings, Trin Jensen Photography
Wedding Essentials Magazine is a publication of the Omaha World-Herald, a Lee Enterprises Company. ©2021. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form without the specific written permission of the publisher. The opinions expressed by those interviewed are their own. While every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information, no responsibility can be accepted by the publisher for content, opinions or practices, or how the information herein is used. All materials submitted, including but not limited to images, logos and text that appear, are assumed to be the original work of the provider, and the publisher is not responsible for unintentional copyright infringement.
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INSPIRATION FOR EVERY SEASON THE ART I S I N T H E D ET A I LS
A date and a place. You can’t have one without the other. Creating a day to remember starts with a location you love and elements that capture the essence of “you.” See how other couples found their wedding style, and created much more than ambience in the process. Above: Boho reception of Shelby Gowen + Ryan Kieselhorst; Trin Jensen Photography. Opposite page: Detail from styled shoot at Omaha’s Capitol District featuring Leah Thomas, Gaia Models; bouquet, Loess Hills Florals; dress, NOA Brides; photography, Tiny Luxe Weddings.
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TRENDS
MODERN PALETTES BECAUS E WE KN O W Y O U D R EA M I N C O LO R Do you envision your wedding as electrifying as a fireworks finale on the Fourth of July or as delicate and serene as an English cottage garden? If there ever was a year to embrace whatever makes you happiest, this is it.
PAS DE DEUX
GIVE ME PARIS
COZY UP, FIRESIDE
Gray and mauve are graceful and demure. Jade and plum, the variation that earns the applause.
Think French macaroons in a scrumptious mix of rose brown, apricot, lemon and strawberry.
Fall for the warm glow of cinnamon, pumpkin, taupe and crimson. Copper for accent is naturally amazing.
DESTINATION PARADISE Set sail against a backdrop of ocean breezes, fluffy clouds and coral reefs. Bright white, aqua, papaya and tangerine get you there.
SLEEPING BEAUTY
PASSIONATE PARTNERS
Neutrals abound with subtle sophistication in cloud white, champagne, dusty blue and creamy taupe accented with brushed gold.
Fine food, good music — maybe even a sensuous tango for your first dance? Blackberry, mauve, lilac and smoky plum are sexy and indulgent.
FRESH AS A MEADOW
EARTHY AND ROMANTIC
AULD LANG SYNE
Capture the beauty of a cool, misty spring morning in a delicate blend of buttercup, leaf, pink champagne and misty blue.
For a modern boho vibe, fall in love with velvety mustard, sage, scarlet and butter.
Toast the new year in emerald, black, muted saffron and gold.
SOURCE: PANTONE: 35 INSPIRATIONAL COLOR PALETTES (CHRONICLE BOOKS, $14.95)
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COUPLE: MARGARET + HENRY MISHEK
BRIDE: MORGAN STOKES
PHOTOGRAPHY Weddings by Amy Lynn
PHOTOGRAPHY Deana Coufal Photography
COUPLE: MEGAN + TRISTAN BETTENHAUSEN
BRIDE: HANNA KIRSCH
PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Gudeman Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY Deana Coufal Photography omaha.com/wedding essentials 11
BRIDAL BOUQUET YOLANDA + DWAYNE HARRIS, AUG. 17, 2019 Yolanda’s perfectly mounded bouquet of cream roses is classic wedding glamour. FLORIST bouquet PHOTOGRAPHY Suzanne Delawar Studios
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ITOR’S PICKS
LUSH FLORALS
BRIDAL PARTY BOUQUETS HANNAH + BRANDON WHITING, DEC. 8, 2018 The bride’s mom and two friends assembled winter wonderland bouquets of roses, greenery and pinecones. From a distance you’d never guess the stems were artificial. FLORALS Purchased at Hobby Lobby; arranged by Dawn Lundell, Cindy Blauvelt and Laura Oswald. PHOTOGRAPHY Hope Renae Photography
BOUTONNIERE
BRIDAL BOUQUET
KATE + ERIC FORNEY, OCT. 19, 2019
JORDAN + MATTHEW LOTKER, APRIL 6, 2019
Florals included magnolias, nodding to the bride’s Southern roots, and pheasant feathers, from the groom’s hunting trips. FLORIST Hy-Vee PHOTOGRAPHY Andrea Bibeault — A Wedding Photojournalist
One of the bride’s favorite details was her bouquet — made of sola wood and purchased on Etsy. BOUQUET The Paisley Moon PHOTOGRAPHY Emily Kowalski Photography
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E DI T O R’ S P ICKS : F LORALS
MANTEL GARLAND & BOUQUET
BRIDESMAID BOUQUETS
CENTERPIECES
KELBEY + NICOLE HEIDER, SEPT. 28, 2019
KATHLEEN CONNOR + GEORGE PARIZEK, SEPT. 15, 2018
The Omaha couple chose an elegant but cozy late-summermeets-early-fall color palette for their Portland, Oregon, wedding.
Kathleen skipped choosing wedding colors and asked her florist to use whatever flowers were in season locally.
FLORIST The Purple Orchid
FLORIST Sarah Blasi/Selva Florals, Portland
FLORIST Sheila Fitzgerald/ A New Leaf
PHOTOGRAPHY Velvet Sage Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY Sierra Ashleigh Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY Pine & Prairie
STYLED SHOOT AT HOTEL DECO BY KATIE BROWN AND HANNAH NODSKOV, FALL 2018 This Halloween-inspired shoot went all-in on dark, bold elements for a moody elegance.
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HEAD TABLE CENTERPIECES SARAH + ERIC NAGENGAST, MAY 24, 2019 Florals were the biggest expense of their wedding, and the most important element for the bride. FLORIST Blooms and Bouquets PHOTOGRAPHY Blackbird Photographie
FLOWER CROWN
CENTERPIECE
JOHNNA + MATTHEW HJERSMAN-EVERSON, SEPT. 13, 2019
TINY LUXE WEDDINGS STYLED SHOOT AT THE HOLLAND CENTER, SPRING 2019
The groom’s aunts designed the florals, including flower crowns for the bridal party, and a greenery bridal bouquet.
Citrus brightens and refreshes in this tablescape, where the blooms themselves resemble juicy halved oranges.
FLORALS Gwen Russell and Debbie Kurtin
FLORALS Loess Hills Floral
PHOTOGRAPHY Nikki McLeay Photography
PHOTOGRAPHY Velvet Sage Photography
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ITOR’S PICKS
DREAMY DECOR S ETT I N G T H E M O O D
COUNTRY CLUB ELOQUENCE SARAH + ERIC NAGENGAST, MAY 24, 2019 RECEPTION VENUE Happy Hollow Club WEDDING PLANNER/EVENT COORDINATOR Meghan Sullivan FLORALS Blooms and Bouquets PHOTOGRAPHY Blackbird Photographie
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E DI T O R’ S P ICKS : S ETTING THE M O O D
A FRESH TAKE ON BOHO CHIC SHELBY GOWEN + RYAN KIESELHORST, AUG. 24, 2019 RECEPTION VENUE Livestock Exchange Building FLORALS The Old Homestead Market and Floral, Aurora, Nebraska RENTALS The Bohemian Hatter, Nostalgia Rentals WE LOVE THIS The bride thrifted the rugs and now they’re being used in the couple’s home. PHOTOGRAPHY Trin Jensen Photography 18 WIN TER 2 02 1
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E DI T O R’ S P ICKS : S ETTING THE M O O D SIMPLE, PRETTY ROSE GOLD AMBIENCE (OPPOSITE PAGE) KELSEY + DAVID KIRK, AUG. 8, 2020 RECEPTION VENUE Millard Social Hall FLORALS Piccolo’s Florist PHOTOGRAPHY Sarah Gudeman Photography
BOHO RUSTIC WITH WILDFLOWER ACCENTS BRETT + CARLIE BROONER, NOV. 3, 2018 RECEPTION VENUE Platte River State Park near Louisville, Nebraska FLORALS Hillis & Company, Lincoln RENTALS United Rent-All PHOTOGRAPHY The Mullers
TOP-FLOOR BALLROOM BATHED IN NATURAL LIGHT ALLISON + MICHAEL KOCH, JULY 20, 2019 RECEPTION VENUE Livestock Exchange Ballroom FLORALS Taylor’s Flower Shop and Greenhouse PHOTOGRAPHY M. Julie Photo omaha.com/wedding essentials 21
E DI T O R’ S P ICKS : S ETTING THE M O O D BRIGHT WOODED WONDERLAND (OPPOSITE PAGE) PAIGE + JACK GODBERSEN, SEPT. 15, 2018 RECEPTION VENUE The Beaumont Event & Concert Hall, Wayne, Nebraska WEDDING PLANNER/EVENT COORDINATOR Margie Merchant/Indigo Wedding & Events FLORALS Honeysuckle Hollow Florist, Sioux City, Iowa RENTALS Beaumont, United Rentals PHOTOGRAPHY Jenny Wiese/Rocking J Imaging
MOODY SPEAKEASY VIBE JILL + NATHAN GREISEN, NOV. 2, 2019 RECEPTION VENUE Scott Conference Center WEDDING PLANNER/EVENT COORDINATOR 402 Event Services FLORALS bouquet RENTALS Nostalgia Rentals, Rouge Rustic Rentals, 402 Event Services, La Tavola, Chair Cover Elegance, United Rent-All PHOTOGRAPHY Hayley Dolson Photography, Sam Areman Photography
HAPPILY-EVER-AFTER STORYBOOK THEME ROB + JOSETTE LOVERCHECK, JUNE 6, 2018 RECEPTION VENUE Noah’s Event Venue WEDDING PLANNER/EVENT COORDINATOR, FLORALS Vernetta Kosalka RENTALS Chair Cover Elegance, United Rent-All PHOTOGRAPHY Michele Zephier/Complete Weddings + Events
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CU
S TO M G I F T S
SIMPLY MARVELOUS Our favorite party favors are simple but versatile. We know you’ll make them meaningful through creativity and personalization. Your goal, whether purchased or DIY’ed: No favors left behind!
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CHAMPAGNE Dress up mini bottles of bubbly with mini rose-gold buckets and translucent confetti for “ice.” If you had to change your date because of the pandemic, consider adding a mini label incorporating your original date and your actual date. Make it fun: “Did we say 8.15.20? We meant 7.24.21.”
TREAT BAGS Love is sweet, so gather your favorite candy, cookies or pastries in custom bags. Include a recipe for a homemade treat.
COFFEE SAMPLE Another use for personalized treat bags: a sample of your favorite specialty coffee. Slide a single-serve packet into the bag, or wrap up your K-Cup of choice.
COOKIE MIX Portion small-batch measurements of dry ingredients, a cookie cutter or mini spatula, and a recipe in a bag tagged with a chef’s kiss emoji.
MINI COCKTAIL KITS Package a mini liquor bottle with a single-serving mixer or a can of your favorite seltzer. Next level: DIY bitters!
MANI/PEDI KIT Give your maids “mani” thanks with an at-home nail care session: polish, nail file, buffer block, clippers, toe separators and lotion.
WINEGLASS CHARMS Present these at the start of the party! The options for customization are endless; you could even consider this for a bridal shower activity.
SOAP, SPA SALTS OR SUGAR SCRUB From your shower to theirs. Find your signature scent and personalize a label for the bar or bottle. OPPOSITE PAGE: KILEY CRUSE PHOTO ILLUSTRATION. ABOVE: ADOBE STOCK
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Maddie &Alex THE E Y E & HAND PROJECT THE JIG IS UP Maddie Lorenzen and Alex Clauson first met on a blind date set up by Maddie’s friends for her sorority’s winter formal at the University of NebraskaLincoln. On a 2018 weekend trip to Kansas City, Maddie thought Alex might propose, but he was calm and collected as they talked about filling time before a Jason Mraz concert. Her suspicions were confirmed when he suggested a picnic at Loose Park, where Maddie spotted a photographer hiding nearby. Still, “the moment was so surreal,” she says, as Alex gave her a letter and a ring. LIFT YOUR SPIRITS Maddie wanted a modern, elegant Christmas theme without any clichés. Gold accents accompanied a white and deep red color palette, with berry garlands and wreath chandeliers as decorations. Pearl jewelry for the bridesmaids and tuxes for the groomsmen added to the timeless style. (Alex gifted Maddie her pearls; she, his cufflinks with their initials). An open bar was a must for the couple, and their signature cocktails had names like “The Merry Gentleman,” “Feliz Navidad” and “Berry Christmas.” FATES ALLOW The couple hadn’t planned for a winter/Christmas wedding, but when their reception venue had Dec. 21 — Alex’s parents’ anniversary — open, they went for it. “It was so special to share that day with them,” the bride says. They even surprised his parents with a dance to “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas.” IT’S A PASTA-BILITY Maddie says they stuck to their budget for the most part, but did splurge on extras for their 230 guests, like a pasta bar and live music for the reception. The bride and groom paid for their photographer and the band, with Alex’s parents contributing to the reception and Maddie’s parents covering the rest. But they also lucked out with some bargains, the bride says, which included her wedding dress. DREAM DRESS Maddie fell in love with an off-the-shoulder style and was
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CHAMPIONS RUN
close to buying the gown when her sister found a similar dress online in the Sherri Hill prom collection. Maddie ordered it in red to confirm the fit, and she was sold. But when she went to reorder the dress in ivory, it no longer was available. Her mom wouldn’t give up though, and after calling 17 stores around the country, she found the dress in white in a bigger size at a boutique in California. The shop was willing to sell the dress for $220 because it was a sample with stains and rips. “We thought, ‘What the heck, let’s just buy it and see how bad the damage is,’” Maddie says. With dry cleaning and extensive alterations, the dress was as good as new and fit like a glove. A VISION Alex says that Maddie was “the most perfect and beautiful bride,” and that their wedding was exactly what he hoped for. Maddie says some of the sweetest moments were his emotional reactions to their first look and her walk down the aisle. NEXT STOP The funniest moment happened at Standing Bear Lake, when their party bus broke down during pre-ceremony pictures. The whole bridal party used Uber to get to the church on time. “Good thing we were ahead of schedule,” Maddie says. By the time the ceremony was over, their vendor had sent a replacement vehicle — a city bus! FEEL THE LOVE Maddie’s advice to future brides: show your wedding partners — parents, bridesmaids, vendors, groom — you appreciate their help. HOME SWEET HOME Alex says his bride keeps him “sane and organized in all aspects of my life.” Maddie appreciates his patience with her cooking skills. Shortly after their wedding, the coronavirus pandemic hit, so isolating at home has been a unique bonding experience, Maddie says. And they’re enjoying the many gifts they received. With having a late December wedding, “it was like having two Christmases!” omaha.com/wedding essentials 27
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{ ESSENTIAL DETAILS } THE COUPLE Maddie Lorenzen and Alex Clauson PHOTOGRAPHER The Eye & Hand Project WEDDING DATE Dec. 21, 2019 REHEARSAL DINNER Broadmoor Hills Clubhouse CEREMONY St. Luke United Methodist Church RECEPTION, CATERER Champions Run VIDEOGRAPHER Ceara Kirkpatrick BRIDAL GOWN Sherri Hill, Prevue Formal and Bridal, La Mesa, California ALTERATIONS Elena’s Atelier ACCESSORIES Veil: Sara Gabriel, Ready or Knot {Wedding Chic}, earrings: Borsheims; shoes: Badgley Mischka, Nordstrom HAIRSTYLIST Katy Biehl, cousin of the bride MAKEUP ARTIST Makeup by Renee BRIDESMAID DRESSES Lulu’s MEN’S ATTIRE The Black Tux RINGS Borsheims FLORIST Loess Hills Floral CAKE Lorraine Arthur Cakes RENTALS Omaha Chair Covers MUSIC Ceremony: Nova String Quartet; reception: Something Blu TRANSPORTATION Nebraska Party Bus INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS Ellie L. Illustrations; Patishopart/Etsy GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Holiday Inn Express & Suites Omaha — 120th and West Maple GETTING READY LOCATION Magnolia Hotel Omaha WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER Kayla Ryan/Champions Run HONEYMOON Couples Swept Away, Negril, Jamaica
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Morgan & Dylan YO NI G IL L PHOTOG RAPHY A WALK IN THE PARK A mutual friend’s engagement party brought Morgan Henn and Dylan Knuth together. At the time, she was living in Kansas City, and he in Minneapolis. “We were excited about each other, but weren’t sure where to go next since we were long distance,” the bride remembers. But they made it work, and on an April 2019 trip to New York City, Dylan proposed in Central Park. The couple were married at Turner Park in Omaha on June 27, 2020. GOING FORWARD But before that summer day, the coronavirus pandemic hit in the spring, and Morgan and Dylan had to re-evaluate their wedding plan to factor in gathering restrictions and health precautions. “It was an emotional roller coaster,” the bride says. “Nobody had a rule book for how to navigate this.” After many discussions with their vendors, including some on possible backup dates, the couple decided to go forward with their original plan, but cut their 300-count guest list in half to accommodate their venue’s capacity restrictions. WORK PERKS One thing the bride didn’t have to cut down on was wedding dresses. Morgan works in sales for bridal designer Van Der Velde, and commissioned two dresses. For the ceremony, she chose a ball gown from the company’s latest collection, customized with a higher waist and different fabric. For her reception dress, Morgan worked with Van Der Velde’s designers on a whole new idea. “I had always been obsessed with Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy’s wedding dress, and I knew I wanted something more form-fitting that I could move in.” The result was a satin back crepe gown with a draping neckline, cowl back and train. “I received so many compliments on it that it was added to the 2021 Van Der Velde line as the Morgan gown.” WEDDING VISION The smaller guest list saved on catering costs in their parents’ original budget of $50,000. The couple chipped in as well, and
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EM P I R E R O O M
their most important spends were on guest experiences like an open bar and good music, and on ambience, with a great venue and beautiful flowers. The Empire Room fit their classic wedding aesthetic. “The chandeliers, marble bar, and crown molding were all just perfect,” the bride says. White linens, white florals with greenery and gold accents filled their color palette. FROM THEIR HEARTS Despite the pandemicrelated changes, the day flowed smoothly for the couple. “We ended up having what felt like the most normal wedding ever in the middle of the pandemic,” the bride says. The sweetest moments were exchanging handwritten notes as gifts, and reciting their vows. I LOVE YOU, MOM At the reception, Morgan surprised her mom with a motherdaughter dance to “Mama’s Song” by Carrie Underwood. “I wanted to make sure my mom had a special moment. Traditionally, mothers don’t get enough credit for all they do in the wedding planning process.” HAPPY FEET More dancing made for the funniest moment: Morgan and her bridesmaids had an impromptu bridal suite dance party just before walking down the aisle. SO HAPPY TOGETHER Their favorite gift was an heirloom cabbage bowl that the groom’s late grandmother made in a ceramics class. It has a place of pride in a china hutch — also his grandma’s — in the couple’s Omaha home. The biggest adjustment has been learning to sign her new last name, Morgan says, and there aren’t many surprises after two years of living together. EVERYTHING’S ALL RIGHT The bride’s wedding advice? Don’t sweat the small stuff. “Try to keep a good head space and remember, it’s about you and the love of your life.” The hardest wedding change was uninviting guests, but they were understanding. “Everyone knew that we were in a difficult spot, and were ultimately just happy that Dylan and I were able to move forward with our lives and marry each other!” omaha.com/wedding essentials 33
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{ ESSENTIAL DETAILS } THE COUPLE Morgan Henn and Dylan Knuth PHOTOGRAPHER Yoni Gill Photography WEDDING DATE June 27, 2020 REHEARSAL DINNER Couple’s home CEREMONY Turner Park at Midtown Crossing RECEPTION Empire Room at Midtown Crossing VIDEOGRAPHER Forest Bound Films, Lincoln BRIDAL GOWNS Ceremony: Sussex; reception: Morgan, both by Van Der Velde ALTERATIONS Livis Designs Bridal Tailoring ACCESSORIES Earrings: Brides & Hairpins; veil: Veil Trends HAIRSTYLIST Cassie Keim MAKEUP ARTIST Keeley Dennis Beauty BRIDESMAID DRESSES Jenny Yoo MEN’S ATTIRE Lindley Clothing RINGS Borsheims FLORIST Blooms CAKE The Cake Gallery CATERER Save the Date Catering RENTALS AAA Rents & Event Services; Rachel J. Events MUSIC Something Blu INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS MauraMichelle Designs GUEST ACCOMMODATIONS Element Omaha Midtown Crossing WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER Rachel J. Events HONEYMOON Key West, Florida
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Lindsay & Kevin TRIN JENSEN PHOTOGRAPHY SEPT. 26, 2020 THE BRATETIC ACREAGE BACK TO THE FUTURE Lindsay Stodden
the details,” Lindsay says. That includes
and Kevin Clarke first met 20 years ago,
a windmill, purchased at auction for $60,
thanks to a friend who invited Lindsay
refurbished and decorated with string
on a multi-family getaway to Lewis and
lights. Another family friend arranged for
Clark Lake at Yankton, South Dakota.
golf cart shuttle service for guests, and
Lindsay and Kevin dated as students at the
fireworks to close out the day. WHAT
University of Nebraska-Lincoln, broke up
TASTING? Their funniest wedding memory
after graduation, and got back together
involves Muchachos Food Truck, their
nine years later. “It felt so right to ‘re-date’
caterer. The couple tried but failed to
after almost a decade of living in different
arrange a tasting before the reception. “On
cities,” Lindsay says. “It sounds cliché, but
our wedding day, we got so swept up in
we’ve always been meant for each other.”
the evening, we didn’t eat. To this day, we
GOLDEN HOUR He proposed in June on a
still haven’t tried Muchachos’ food!” They
weekend trip to Eureka Springs, Arkansas,
did, however, enjoy late night pizza from
where Kevin’s parents and grandparents
Big Fred’s. SENTIMENTS TO REMEMBER
had honeymooned. They were celebrating
“The speeches were incredible. They
their third anniversary of “re-dating.” A
were so genuine,” Lindsay says. “My
hike earlier in the day allowed Kevin to
oldest sister, Leah, has Down syndrome
clandestinely scope out possible proposal
and has been one of my life’s greatest
spots. After supper, they went for a sunset
inspirations. She stole the show with her
walk and at the perfect spot, Kevin got
beautiful speech.” Another highlight was
down on one knee. Lindsay says, “We both
having Kevin’s 94-year-old grandmother,
had waited a long time for that moment!”
Laura, as their flower girl. “She is an
QUICK PLANNING They wanted a quick
absolute ray of sunshine. She threw roses
engagement and ended up planning the
as she walked down the aisle.” MORE
wedding in three months. They held a
PERSONAL TOUCHES The bride comes
daytime ceremony and reception, and then
from a musical family. Mom provided piano
danced under the stars, on an acreage
accompaniment for the vocalists while Dad
near Kennard, Nebraska, owned by the
played The Beatles’ “All You Need Is Love”
bride’s sister and brother-in-law, Megan
on guitar as a postlude to the ceremony.
and Paul Bratetic. In non-COVID times,
SPECIAL GUEST STAR The couple’s 1989
they would have invited 400. “An intimate
camper van, “Donna June,” was on display,
outdoor wedding was perfect for us,” the
to the delight of their guests. Lindsay and
bride says. Livestreaming connected them
Kevin drove it on their honeymoon after a
with guests unable to attend in person.
trip to Europe was canceled because of the
DREAM TEAM Among the reception’s
pandemic. BUILDING A FUTURE Kevin
special details were a hexagon backdrop
says, “I’m the luckiest guy in the world
for their vows and tables built by Lindsay,
to get to marry my best friend.” Lindsay
Kevin, Paul and Megan in Paul’s woodshop.
says, “He’s my partner and marrying
“Paul was the brains behind so many of
him was the best decision of my life.” omaha.com/wedding essentials 39
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{ ESSENTIAL DETAILS } THE COUPLE Lindsay Stodden and Kevin Clarke WEDDING DATE Sept. 26, 2020 PHOTOGRAPHER Trin Jensen Photography REHEARSAL DINNER The Ciurej Residence, West Shores CEREMONY AND RECEPTION The Bratetic Acreage, Kennard, Nebraska VIDEOGRAPHER Jeff Hahn HAIRSTYLIST Stacia Weiss MAKEUP ARTIST Samantha Thorell BRIDESMAID DRESSES Various MEN’S ATTIRE Various RINGS Mark Edward Private Jeweller FLORIST Blush + Baccara CAKE The Jost Family CATERER Muchachos Food Truck, Lincoln RENTALS Stahla Rentals; Rental City CEREMONY MUSICIANS Lisa and Lena Finocchiaro, Cindy Stodden, Mike Stodden RECEPTION MUSIC The Finest Hour Quartet TRANSPORTATION Balls Out Motors golf carts INVITATIONS/PROGRAMS Micaela Clarke, Kansas City WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER Susan Brandquist, Faith-Westwood United Methodist Church HONEYMOON Yellowstone and Arches National Parks in “Donna June,” the couple’s 1989 camper van
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Jennifer & Andrew APRICITY PHOTOGRAPHY DEC. 16, 2020 CAPITOL DISTRICT COURTYARD WEDDING DETOUR Jennifer Creighton and Andrew Walters envisioned a destination event over Christmas with their new blended family. But with COVID-19 travel restrictions all that changed, and the couple looked for options much closer to home. The igloos in Omaha’s Capitol District courtyard were an intriguing and novel option. GETTING TO KNOW YOU The Omaha couple met at the start of a fundraiser bike ride that was four days and 272 miles long. They rode together 8 to 10 hours a day. “How do you not get to know someone with all this time?’’ they ask. Andrew proposed on a cruise to Cozumel and the Grand Cayman Islands with family in 2018. TIGHT SQUEEZE The igloos only fit six, so friends and family watched the ceremony online. Inside was just the couple, photographer Mary Royers, catering assistant Claudia Newhouse and officiant Jim Buchanan. The funniest moment was trying to uncork their champagne without the cork bouncing around the igloo. Dancing to their song, alone in the igloo, was the sweetest. “We also wrote our initials in the condensation of the igloo like we were in middle school on a school bus.’’ COZY AND ROMANTIC Beauty can be found in unusual places, and they say they found beauty in their igloo. “Plus, you can never have enough twinkle lights, and always use your best china because the event will not happen again.’’ Their only regret was the teardown afterward. “We did it ourselves in the cold, and should have hired someone.’’ MOTHER-DAUGHTER TIME Jennifer’s oldest daughter, Savanna Hobza, helped with the wedding preparations. They shared decorating ideas and setup, bride outfit selection, hair and makeup and floral design for the event. The bride’s “something borrowed” was an earring back
from her daughter after Jennifer discovered she needed one. Jennifer’s fur was a family heirloom purchase by her father, Jim Porter, who recently had died. PUT A RING ON IT Engagement rings from Malashock Jewelry, plus wedding sets, bridal earrings, necklace and bracelet, were their biggest spend for the wedding. The dinnerware they used in the igloo was a gifted family heirloom. “Ensuring elegance and use of timeless décor and attire that will be passed on to our children was a priority.’’ HER ADVICE Be flexible, Jennifer says, and remember it is about the marriage and commitment between the two of you. “Relax, enjoy the day, and don’t miss the small details you’ve taken time to plan. Take a moment to take it all in.’’ STILL TO COME The destination wedding has been put on hold but a cruise for the family is still on the schedule when it’s safe. Hopefully they can use their favorite gift — stand-up paddle boards. Andrew also gifted Jennifer a Waterford Crystal set. BLENDED FAMILY Caring for their children of all ages, their extended families and their parents as a team has been the biggest adjustment of their married life. Andrew says Jennifer is an amazing occupational therapist, mother and cook and brings out the youth in his heart. Jennifer says he’s her greatest supporter and an excellent role model and support network for their children. LOVE
KEEPS
GROWING
Jennifer
says she didn’t think her feelings would change when she got married but it feels different, deeper and better. After waiting a long time to marry, Andrew says: “It has been a far deeper and more emotional experience than I anticipated. I never knew little moments that we share together could bring about feelings of emotion.’’ omaha.com/wedding essentials 45
{ ESSENTIAL DETAILS } THE COUPLE Jennifer Creighton and Andrew Walters PHOTOGRAPHER Mary Royers/Apricity Photography WEDDING DATE Dec. 16, 2020 CEREMONY, RECEPTION Capitol District Courtyard BRIDAL GOWN David’s Bridal Omaha ALTERATIONS Helen Nick MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLIST Savanna Hobza MEN’S ATTIRE Men’s Wearhouse RINGS Malashock Jewelry FLORIST Bride and daughter CAKE Nathan Newhouse/Attitude on Food CATERER Attitude on Food RENTALS Honeyman Rental, Capitol District Igloos MUSIC Groom and wedding playlist WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER/TRAVEL COORDINATOR Bride, daughter, groom HONEYMOON Destination cruise with family at a future date.
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Jamie & Doug KILEY CRUSE PHOTOGRAPHY JULY 5, 2020 JOSIE HARPER HOSPICE HOUSE LOVE AT FIRST “SITE” Jamie Reimer and
was a godsend for party supplies. Their
Doug Seaman met on match.com. Jamie
wedding rings were their biggest and
said she joined the online dating service
most important expense. BEST PRESENT
at the encouragement of a friend and the
Among those saving the day was the postal
incentive of a discount subscription offer.
worker who delivered Jamie’s wedding
LOW-KEY PROPOSAL Doug proposed in
dress from Amazon.com — just three
Jaimie’s living room, after several thwarted attempts earlier that day. They originally planned a November 2020 wedding with 225 guests but circumstances other than the pandemic caused a change of plan. In July, when Doug’s ailing dad took a turn for the worse and moved into hospice
hours before the ceremony. Jamie was so thrilled, a photo of the delivery man made it into their wedding album. “I told him that he brought me the best present,” Jamie says. SOMETHING BORROWED Friends loaned their Miata convertible to the
care, the couple put out a wedding SOS.
newlyweds for the drive to the reception
Within 36 hours, Jaimie and Doug were
site. A PERFECT MATCH He says, “I
exchanging their vows on the lawn of Josie
couldn’t ask for a better partner in this life.”
Harper Hospice House — as the groom’s
She says, “He’s the best thing I ever got for
dad looked on from a window in his room.
half price!” INSTANT FAMILY The biggest
A PRECIOUS CIRCLE The ceremony,
adjustment for Doug has been moving in
attended by 25 of the couple’s nearest and
with Jamie and her kids and taking on the
dearest relatives and friends, was followed
role of a stepparent. SETTLING IN Before
by a backyard reception at the home of
marriage, Doug says he never knew how
the groom’s parents. Jamie calls it a classic
much Jamie values structure and routine.
affair with a twist: boxed lunches from a
Jamie says she didn’t realize how much
local deli and a raspberry-topped wedding cake, made by the bride’s 10-year-old daughter, Caroline. GRATEFUL HEARTS The sweetest moment of the day came during the ceremony, as Jamie and Doug gazed out at everyone who had helped them with their whirlwind preparations —
Doug needs interaction with people to be happy. Working from home has been hard. CHOOSING JOY While mourning Carl’s death, the newlyweds can’t help but feel joy when they look back on three crazy days of planning. “Even though the situation was
and the fulfilment of Doug’s dad’s final
tragic, we chose to be joyful and celebrate
wish. Carl Seaman died the following day.
Carl’s life and the future we were building
WHATEVER IT TAKES Jamie and Doug
together,” Jamie says. WHAT THEY WANT
didn’t have a budget because of the
OTHER COUPLES TO KNOW “What
immediacy to tie the knot while Doug’s
really matters is the people around you,
dad was still alive. Target, the bride says,
rather than the spectacle of the wedding.” omaha.com/wedding essentials 49
{ ESSENTIAL DETAILS } NEWLYWEDS Jamie Reimer and Doug Seaman WEDDING DATE July 5, 2020 PHOTOGRAPHER Kiley Cruse Photography CEREMONY LOCATION Josie Harper Hospice House patio RECEPTION LOCATION Backyard of Denise and Carl Seaman, the groom’s parents VIDEOGRAPHER Zoom via Steve Arquitte, friend of couple, and Donald Seaman, brother of groom BRIDAL GOWN Abao Wedding, Amazon.com ACCESSORIES Bride’s own jewelry; blue bouquet beads, an heirloom gift from the groom’s family MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING The bride did her own BRIDESMAID DRESSES From their closets MEN’S ATTIRE From their closets RINGS Erwin’s Jewelers, Bellevue FLORALS Bouquets arranged by Amy Kleinschmidt; boutonnières by Hy-Vee, Papillion CAKE Caroline Reimer, daughter of the bride CATERER Jason’s Deli MUSIC Stacie Haneline, piano; recorded the day before the ceremony TRANSPORTATION Miata convertible, loaned by Bob & Katie Garcia, friends of the couple WEDDING COORDINATOR/EVENT PLANNER Wedding party HONEYMOON TBA, post-pandemic
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