Before getting into the story of Megan & Justin's day... I have to start with this image of Megan and my uncle Tom heading down the aisle because... well.... look at it! I love you guys. (Thanks to Emir for this shot... it's all his!)

It's not everyday that I get to play the role of cousin of the bride while simultaneously serving as wedding photographer. :) It makes for a very busy, but memorable day... and Megan & Justin's Omaha wedding was no exception. Held at Lauritzen Botanical Gardens, their wedding was... anything but ordinary. I'll give you the play by play as you work your way down the post, but I'm warning you now... it's an insanely large one... despite several repeated edits....  What can I say? :)

Megan's dress was beautiful and fit her like a glove...

I was anxious to see her shoes as I don't know anyone who walks in heels better than she! She wears them all the time and makes them look comfortable!

Megan's mom Patti... are they twins, or what? Patti looked stunning as the mother of the bride... a role she played so well!

The girls. The coordinator at the gardens told me the bridal room was small... and she wasn't kidding!

So... this is my new cousin-in-law, Justin. Many of you may know him as one of the guys behind the famed American Outlaws... I know him as a super fab guy who I'm proud to have as the newest member of our family. Here, he rocks the front of my lens big time!

Meanwhile, the girls took care of important things.... like FOOD! :)

The first look...

Their future kiddos are going to have gorgeous eyes... no doubt.

This is one of Emir's shots... I love it!

Holy cow... this one gives me goosebumps! Breath. Taking.

The location provided tons of gorgeous backdrops for photo yumminess... this Victorian garden reminded me of the Queen's garden from Alice in Wonderland... "Painting the roses red, we're painting the roses red!"

Love the soulful look on Justin's face here...

This one is one of my faves too...

One of the things I was really looking forward to on Megan & Justin's day... was to capture my uncle Tom. I have an enormous amount of respect and admiration for Tom... who often serves as a much appreciated mentor and confidant (he's also my accountant, who I'd be lost without!). I've always appreciated his sensitive nature, and knew that Megan's wedding would be a joyous and emotional day for him. This is my gift to them both.

Emir caught this shot of Megan's face during the same moment. ***This*** is why I love to do what I do!

Ceremony time! It was fun to watch the guests roll in. A lot of family and mutual friends were in attendance, some of whom I haven't seen in years!

A string quintet entertained the guests as the seats quickly filled and the start of the ceremony drew closer. This song selection, "The Luckiest" was the perfect choice for a couple who is truly 'lucky.' Not only to have found each other, but to come from two families so loving and supportive... they truly have it all.

My cousin Jeff (Megan's brother) read the classic Shel Silverstein poem, "Sister For Sale!" The two of them have always been very close, it was fun to see their comedic interjection into the ceremony. Justin swooped in to take Megan off Jeff's hands... :)

Justin's brother, Jason, flew in with his daughter Sabrina (the flower girl) all the way from Taiwan. Very cool!

***News Alert***

Ladies and gentlemen, I may be related to the most chill and relaxed bride in all of history! Just as they were about to exchange rings, the sky opened up and a downpour ensued. It seemed as though the next few moments passed in an instant as the guests fled inside and we wrangled up a few umbrellas (thank you to Mrs. Goertzen & everyone who relinquished them to the greater cause!) to snag a few shots before rushing to finish the rest of the ceremony in the shelter of the atrium. Talk about teamwork! (Note the smile on Megan's face... she's amazing!)

Definitely a memorable ceremony!

We regrouped inside, and within minutes, the ceremony was back in session! (Megan smiling through the whole thing!) I was impressed not only with her calm surrender to the rain, but also by everyone's teamwork. Everyone jumped in, moved the tables, set up chairs and literally.... within seconds, it was as if they had planned the ceremony to be inside the whole time. Everyone was feeling a rush of exhilaration and remarked that the rain and location switch was, of all things... fun!

On with the show!

In honor of our German roots (and her extensive German travel/living/education experience), Megan incorporated the German log-sawing tradition known as "baumstamm sägen" into their ceremony. Our uncle Brian constructed the saw-horse and instead of a 'ring bearer,' Megan and Justin had a 'saw bearer.' It was a riot! They sawed back & forth while the crowd cheered "Drücken/Ziehen!" (push/pull) in eager anticipation of their success. (PS: The quilt in the background was made by our Grama, of "Grama's Jellies" fame).

After the ceremony, it was time for some fun with the wedding party!

The reception was simply stunning. Mulhall's provided the floral arrangements, and would you believe my dear old dad welded the candle holders? Amazing. He may have to come out of retirement and start a new business... ha ha!

Another German tradition Megan & Justin included is that of the "brautbecher," or "cup." Wine is poured into both cups, then the bride and groom race to see who can empty their cup first (though the bride's cup is much smaller!). It is said that whoever wins will be the boss of the marriage. Look out Justin!

As they were about to start toasts, it was called to our attention that a full rainbow had appeared just over the patio. Of course, a photo was practically required!

After toasts... it was time to dance!

Emir captured these two cuties...

Then... it was P-A-R-T-Y time! One of the traditions among neighborhood family friends is called the "Alligator." Somewhat like "Simon Says" on the dance floor... it involves crawling around on all fours and occasionally flipping onto your back while flailing your arms and legs around. Always a good photo opp! :)

Thanks to Emir for snapping this shot of Tom and I. :) I'm honored to be entrusted with such important family memories... Much love and hugs to you all!