I love second-chance stories, especially when it comes to true love. Josie + Garren’s second chance story is one of my favorites, and I was so honored when they asked me to photograph their autumn wedding in Nebraska! They were both so warm and welcoming, and it was easy to see why they were the perfect match.

Josie + Garren reached out after seeing my work on Instagram and said they decided to “splurge” on a great wedding photographer. They loved my true-to-life work and my emphasis on warm colors. And knowing Josie + Garren wanted an autumn wedding in Nebraska, that kind of color work sure came in handy!

High school/College Sweethearts

Josie + Garren met online when Josie was a senior in high school, and Garren was in his last year of college. After dating for a little while, they realized they were in very different places in life, so they broke up. But two years later, Garren couldn’t keep away and asked Josie out on her 20th birthday!

They’ve been together ever since. And seeing these two together, it shows how well they know each other. But they can still surprise one another, which we caught for their first look! 

Garren wore his STUNNING tan suit, and Josie wore a beautiful cream wedding dress with a gorgeous train and veil. They were all smiles as they danced around in the nearby field. We got some amazing shots before the wedding amidst the trees, the changing autumn leaves making for a romantic backdrop.

Soon it was time for the ceremony!

Happy Tears At An Autumn Wedding In Nebraska

Josie + Garren were married in the absolutely breathtaking Trinity Lutheran Church in Fremont, which had incredible lighting from all the stained glass windows. As they said their vows, there were plenty of happy tears from friends, family and the happy couple. And as if Josie + Garren weren’t cute enough, their son was the ring bearer, carrying a sign that said “Look out Daddy, here comes mommy” which was BEYOND adorable!

Then, it was time to head to the reception on the party bus. The bridal party hopped on the bus to celebrate, singing and toasting the newlyweds. Once they arrived at the reception venue, they had a delicious wedding dinner catered by Famous Dave’s, followed by a huge spread of desserts.

Josie + Garren had their first dance, and everyone cheered for their new union. Before long, everyone was on the dance floor, laughing and having a blast. Josie + Garren didn’t hold back, dancing until they were sweaty and grinning ear to ear!

Josie + Garren wanted their autumn wedding in Nebraska to feel like a Country Glam wedding, and I think they did a great job of capturing that. I had such a great time getting to know them and had a wonderful time at their wedding.

Final Thoughts

Something I really appreciated about Josie + Garren was their authenticity. They made it clear to me that relationships aren’t perfect, but that almost makes them more special. Growing through times of hardship is just as important as celebrating times of joy.

Being able to catch this moment in time for them was an honor. If you have a wedding coming up, I’d love to hear all about it!

The AWESOME team!

Photography: McKenna Christine Photography
Event Design/Decor: Hillcrest Wedding Decor Rentals
Paper Goods (Invitation Suite): Zazzle
Bride’s Dress Designer + Store: Dianne’s Dress
Hairpiece/Veil Designer + Store: Amazon
Wedding Rings: Zales (Bride), Borsheims (Groom)
Bridesmaids Dresses: Revelry
Menswear: Lindley Clothing
Men’s Accessories: Revelry
Hair + Makeup: Kiss + Makeup
Dessert Design: The Cake Gallery
Caterer: Famous Daves
Transportation: Elite Party Buses
DJ/Music: Complete DJ
Ceremony/Reception Rentals: Hillcrest Wedding Decor Rentals