The Bennett wedding was a stunning celebration of love, legacy, and intentional moments—all set against the golden hues of a perfect October day in Seward, Nebraska. Crisp fall air and rich foliage set the tone as Joelle and Blake’s closest family and friends gathered to witness a day that felt sacred from beginning to end.
We began the morning at Junto Wine, where Joelle got ready surrounded by her girls. Laughter and soft music filled the room as I documented the quiet moments — the kind you want to bottle up forever. Meanwhile, just down the dirt road, my second photographer captured Blake and his groomsmen preparing for the day at Immanuel Lutheran Church, only minutes away.
Before the ceremony, Joelle shared emotional first looks with her father and brother, followed by a sweet bridesmaid reveal. The bridesmaids carried whimsical parasol umbrellas, adding the dreamiest touch to their portraits among the trees. Soon after, Blake arrived at the venue, and he and Joelle shared their first look — a heartfelt, joyful moment wrapped in emotion and anticipation.
In the middle of a tall grove of trees, Joelle and Blake played a quick game of rock-paper-scissors to decide who would read their vows first and then exchanged their words privately under the open sky. A quiet moment of prayer followed as they prepared to walk into marriage together.
Surrounded by deep roots of faith and family, the couple said “I do” at Immanuel Lutheran Church in a heartfelt ceremony filled with smiles, happy tears, and reverence. Afterward, we captured just-married portraits in the golden Nebraska light before making our way to the reception.
Guests gathered again at Junto Wine, where elegance met warmth in a reception full of connection. The bridal party led the couple into their reception with a joyful tunnel grand entrance. Before the end of dinner, Joelle and Blake snuck out for a sunset portraits in the vineyard and open fields.
The reception continued with heartfelt toasts, laughter, and a creative twist on the traditional anniversary dance — beginning with the couple married the longest and ending with a full dance floor. Guests enjoyed an ice cream bar, and before wrapping up my coverage for the evening, I surprised Joelle and Blake with a collection of printed Polaroids — a tangible piece of their day to take home with them.
Vendor Team
Venue: @juntowine
Photography: @samanthamuddphoto + second shooter
