Mac + Ryan Wedding Film
An outdoor ceremony at Joslyn Castle
Starting the day at Joslyn Castle…
was amazing.
September for an outdoor ceremony is always a win. It’s a classic Omaha wedding location for a reason—the architecture and the grounds do a lot of the heavy lifting for the aesthetic. Mac and Ryan are a genuinely kind souls, and the ceremony really reflected that. It was simple, outdoor, and focused on the people.
After the vows, and bubble exit outside the castle heart eyes, everyone headed out to Bennington for the reception. The party was hosted at the parents' house there, and they have an incredible pool that basically served as the centerpiece for the evening.
During the toasts, it was cool to hear how seamlessly Ryan has fit into Mac’s family. They aren't just "in-laws"—he’s clearly a new sibling that is going to be loved and appreciated and perfectly balances the group with his bride.
Of course, the champagne spray toast provided the best unscripted moment of the night. Ryan had a bit of a battle there getting the bottle open while everyone cheered him on. Once it finally popped, everyone went absolutely crazy. it was exactly the kind of "unfiltered" moment I love to catch and include for some fun! You gotta have some fun and let those moments happen, and then include them in the wedding film, too! There can be artsy, polished and cinematic tone, and fun at the same time.
Here’s some ideas now if you want!
If you’re looking at these locations or planning something similar, here are a few wedding planning items that I noticed from Mac and Ryan’s day, that after seeing over hundred(s) of weddings I think about.
The different types of locations, while always being outside. Using a landmark like Joslyn Castle for the ceremony and a private home in Bennington for the party gives your guests two totally different experiences, while still always being outside. It was pretty cool to go from a fancy castle area to a homey but still very nice porch/pool yard area. It really just helps embed the memory into everyone’s day, rather than just all being in one kinda boring room the whole day.
Embrace the Backyard Vibe: If you have access to a great outdoor space or a pool, use it. It keeps the atmosphere casual and lets people actually relax and talk. My wife and I very nearly had our reception in our old backyard, while it didn’t work out and thankfully we didn’t (it was a HOT July!), it’s a great, personal, and affordable option.
The "Real" Moments Matter: Whether it’s a stubborn champagne bottle, sun in your eyes at the ceremony, or a gust of wind, don't sweat the small stuff. Those are the moments that make your wedding film feel like your actual life, and I as your videographer work with it and make a final video that is authentic without sacrificing the cinematic vibe. After all, it’s all part of your story!
I’m here to create with you and for you, so you get the memories you deserve. I strive to be very approachable and help you take the stress out of your day, while being the advocate for your capturing your story. You deserve someone you’re comfortable having around so you can just focus on your day.