They say what goes around comes around, and this couldn’t be truer than in the wedding industry right now. Whether it be accessories influenced from the ’70s (page 45), a cake inspired by your parents’ wedding cake in the ’90s (page 74), or recreating an image of your grandma (page 33), couples are embracing aspects from past decades more than ever.
The Graduate by Hilton Lincoln also loves embracing nostalgia. Its space inspired our feature for this issue and played a major role in shaping 402 Events’ vision for the wedding design. It all started with the carpet in the Scarlet Ballroom. Instead of avoiding the carpet or trying to mask it, the team leaned into the playful, midcentury modern vibe to create something truly amazing. Turn to page 38 to see all the beauty that stemmed from one gorgeous, checkered carpet pattern.
Speaking of carpet...roll out the red carpet for this year’s Nebraska Wedding Day Best of 2026 winners! Voted upon by our readers and wedding professionals, these awards honor the best in the industry from all over the state (page 34).
And the innovation doesn’t stop there! The Best of 2026 Editor’s Choice Awards kick off on page 32. From a floral-forward event design at a local Omaha gem, to a picture-perfect moment, artistic ceremony aisle and more, these are the extraordinary details that made me do a double take this year.
No matter what you decide, social media and outside opinions of what you “should” or “should not” do can become all-consuming. Every other reel may feel like you’re doing too much, or not enough. Amid all the chaos, remember what truly matters: making yourself and your partner happy. With that in mind, pour yourself a drink, light a candle, kick back and enjoy. I hope this issue is as fun for you to read, as it was for our team to put together! Cheers to you!
Sydney Stevens
@sydney_irondiamond
