Nebraska Wedding Day's Best of 2026 Awards at Leo Ballroom

Best of
An inside look at the iconic night of celebration in Omaha

Inspired by the theme “Unlocking Endless Possibilities,” Nebraska Wedding Day’s Best of 2026 celebration transformed The Leo Ballroom into a hidden-world speakeasy filled with immersive entertainment, dramatic design moments and unforgettable experiences. Hosted by Omaha Event Group at the historic venue and brought to life by AZ + Co., who handled both planning and rentals, the evening welcomed the region’s wedding industry leaders into a richly layered atmosphere where vintage glamour met modern celebration.

 

Guests began the evening with an elevated cocktail hour featuring specialty cocktails crafted by The Suitcase Barman while exploring interactive experiences throughout the venue. Upon arrival, guests were welcomed by the elegant sounds of Heidi Beran Harpist before discovering a custom-built bookshelf entrance by Wallflower - Relic that concealed the evening’s speakeasy-inspired world beyond. Passing through the hidden doorway, attendees were greeted by personalized escort cards created by Humble Hands and Wandering Heart Paper Co., while Downtown Collective Entertainment performed along the entry corridor, setting the tone for the evening ahead.

Guests then mingled among stunning floral installations by Bouquet Omaha and admired additional custom builds and statement backdrops created by Wallflower - Relic. Event furnishings from Catalyst Event Rentals and Diehl Event Rentals paired with luxurious linens from Zaffre Fine Linens completed the speakeasy-inspired design, while ornate and bespoke stationery and signage by Nicole Reher Creative and Wandering Heart Paper Co. added thoughtful branding and calligraphy details throughout the celebration. Custom fragrance elements from Pretty Girl Fragrance Bar were thoughtfully incorporated throughout the space, enhancing the immersive guest experience, while Vogue Photo Events offered a photo installation wall complete with curated props for guests to enjoy.

As attendees entered the awards ceremony, the grandeur of The Leo Ballroom was elevated through lush florals, dramatic lighting and vintage-inspired styling. Downtown Collective Entertainment continued performing through cocktail hour before guests transitioned into the awards presentation. Guests also discovered handcrafted chocolates from Lulubee Artisanal Chocolates waiting at their seats, adding a sweet touch to the celebration. Jordan Hopper Films opened the ceremony with a dynamic video presentation celebrating Nebraska’s wedding community and setting the stage for the awards ahead.

 

Throughout the evening, Attitude on Food delighted guests with exceptional cuisine while Nova Productions kept the energy flowing. Erin Ren Photography documented meaningful moments throughout the evening, from award presentations to celebrations among industry peers. A Final Take Films captured both video content and real-time social coverage throughout the event, preserving the excitement from every angle.

 

Entertainment remained at the heart of the celebration as Omaha Circus Arts Entertainment and Vamp Rentals & Entertainment brought the speakeasy theme to life through immersive performances and themed entertainment throughout the evening. Attendees also enjoyed interactive experiences from Vogue Photo Events, whose custom photo installation wall became a popular gathering spot, while FotoFunSpot provided lively photo booth memories. DLG Cigars added another layer of speakeasy-inspired luxury with premium cigar offerings that perfectly complemented the evening’s sophisticated atmosphere.

 

Nebraska Wedding Day’s team looked celebration-ready thanks to beauty services from Beauty Bash Omaha as they honored the state’s top wedding professionals. Sweet treats from Whisk & Lavender offered guests decadent desserts throughout the evening.

 

Following the awards presentation, the festivities continued as Lost Wax Band took the stage, transforming the space into a lively after-party filled with music, dancing and connection. Bringing incredible energy well into the night, the band kept guests on their feet beneath the historic venue’s soaring ceilings and glittering chandeliers, surrounded by the creativity and talent that define Nebraska’s wedding industry.

 

As the evening came to a close, the Nebraska Wedding Day team retired to Lied Lodge at Arbor Day Farm after a night filled with inspiration, innovation and celebration. Nebraska Wedding Day’s Best of 2026 perfectly embodied the spirit of “Unlocking Endless Possibilities,” showcasing the creativity, collaboration and passion that continue to elevate the region’s wedding community year after year.

 

View more images captured by Erin Ren Photography here!

Find your photo booth photo from FotoFunSpot here!

Find your photo from Vogue Photo Events here!

Watch the Nebraska Wedding Day recap video from A Final Take Films here!

Watch the opening video from Jordan Hopper Films here!

WEDDING PRO TEAM

Venue
Event Planning & Rentals
Photography
Catering
NWD Team Accommodations
Videography | Opening Video
Content Creation & Videography
Photo Booth
Florals
Entertainment | Cocktail Hour
Entertainment
Live Music | Harp
Custom Builds & Backdrops
Desserts
Stationery & Signage
Stationery & Signage
Photo Experience & Installation Wall
Rentals | Theme & Performance
Bartending & Mixology
Rentals | Linens
Hair & Makeup
Live Music | Band
Stationery & Calligraphy
Cigars