A Gathered Oaks Wedding | Steven & Kayla Mady
Steven Mady and Kayla Anderson’s Gathered Oaks wedding day was nothing short of magical. They tied the knot on November 18, 2023. Vowing to love each other for the rest of their lives, the Mady’s celebrated their big day amongst family and friends at Gathered Oaks in Alexandria, Minnesota. Though the couple had hoped for some snow and ice on the water, they could not have had a better November day with full sunshine and 50 degree weather for their outdoor ceremony.
If I were to describe their wedding day in three words, I would say: joyful, intimate, and fun. Our team capturing the Mady’s wedding photos and film with our paradise collection had SO MUCH fun all day. Steven and Kayla truly are such a special couple and fully trusted us to create some magic with them, which led to many, MANY wonderful shots we cannot wait to share.
Now, time to introduce the lovebirds…
Ironically, it was not love at first sight for Steven Mady and Kayla Anderson.
In fact, they both hilariously will admit, “we didn’t like each other at first”, when they met for the first time at the Crystal Springs Rodeo near Clear Lake, South Dakota. They met through mutual friends and their first date actually ended up being an accident. They had made plans with two of their friends to go out one evening. At the last minute, their friends canceled. Steven and Kayla decided to go anyway. Who knew eating some “awful pizza” would open up the start of their love story.
According to Kayla, “Steven & I met throughout high school as our schools faced each other in sporting events. We actually had a strong dislike for each other until 2020. I reached out to him as I knew he was going through a hard time in his life. One of my very good friends from high school (AJ), his girlfriend, Kori, and I went boating with Steven. Shortly after, Steven and I tried to get AJ & Kori to go out to eat with us at Zorbaz in Spicer, but they ended up being unable to come. So, there we were.. our first unofficial date with just the two of us. Then, the rest is history!!!”
Stevens favorite memories of a shared moment occurred before they started dating. They were boating with their mutual friends AJ and Kori. Steven thought it would be funny to drive the boat a short distance away from where Kori and Kayla jumped in the water and they did indeed have to swim back to the boat. In Kayla’s words, “Now doesn’t that sound like an Anderson prank!” Kayla’s favorite memory of Steven was the time he willingly dressed up as the man in the yellow hat from Curious George while she dressed up as George for Halloween.
The Mady’s love to travel and spend time with family. They have two fur baby pups (Maci & Oliver). Steven is very quiet and shy, very opposite of Kayla, so the saying opposites attract is true in their case!
Steven got down on one knee on July 2nd, 2022.
Kayla told me, “We were celebrating the 4th of July with our friends Hudson and Madi. Hudson was continuously annoying us about going to take a photo on the dock. Annoyed, I finally gave in (it was almost 11pm and I was tired HA!). Steven stood behind me, and when I turned around, he was down on one knee asking if I would marry him! I was so excited, happy, and completely shocked. It was a perfect 4th celebration!”
When asked about what types of feelings she wanted their day to incorporate, Kayla said, “Fall/beginning of winter. A crisp breeze, crunchy leaves, or even better…. a bit of snow. Everyone cozy in their blankets for the outdoor ceremony.” While the Mady’s definitely got the fall, crisp breeze, crunchy leaves, and coziness they were hoping for, we did miss out on a bit of snow. HOWEVER, for their Gathered Oaks wedding they had full sunshine all day, plus 50 degrees, typically unheard of for a Minnesota mid-November season. A “rustic, simple, and nature filled” vibe is absolutely the vibe the couple got for their big day.
When asked about why they chose Gathered Oaks wedding venue as their spot of celebrating their marriage. They said, “We chose Gathered Oaks because of the rustic charm and outdoor/indoor option.”
As a vendor, I can definitely confirm they made the best choice and their Gathered Oaks wedding truly allowed Kayla and Steven’s personalities to shine with the lake and various things this venue offers to its couples. Together, the couple shares a love for camping, ice fishing, dirt track racing, spending time with their fur-babies, and being bums at home! Luckily for them, their venue included a lakeside view and dock, so we definitely made time to incorporate those things into their big day! After the ceremony and receiving line, we had just enough time to get 10 minutes of sunset photos and I KNEW we just had to race down to the dock to take them since the couple spends so much time on and around lakes.
The men wore a black button up with black pants from Amazon, with deep red suspenders, a bow tie, and a customized hat. The hats were a unique accessory that made for fun bridal party photos. In addition, the bridesmaids attire consisted of wearing deep red, floor length dresses. One super fun detail for the girls was their wearing of corsages versus bouquets, which turned out extremely pretty.
Steven and Kayla’s chosen color palette included deep red, black, and a few glimmers of gold.
Steven’s favorite colors are red and black and Kayla loves gold. For their florals, they chose a combination of pampas grass, bunny tails, and wheat. A very rustic and simplistic look that pulled together their color palette and decor.! In terms of Kayla’s bouquet, it consisted of a similar mixture minus the wheat, created by Kayla herself, which turned out beautifully. One amazing factor about having their Gathered Oaks wedding was that their venue already is filled with ornamental wheat grass looking plants so the florals and natural scenery blended together so well.
In their “get to know us” blog questionnaire, Kayla mentioned, “Throughout the three years Steven and I have been together, we have mourned the loss of far too many amazing people. Our wedding day would be incomplete without their photographs near our hearts.” Due to this, they had a wonderful fireplace set up with multiple photos of those dear to their hearts that are no longer on earth. We made sure to get lots of film and photos of their lovely memory photo set up.
One unique touch to their day definitely involved Kayla wearing her mother’s wedding veil.
It was an absolutely gorgeous veil with a beautiful headpiece attached to it. It really pulled Kayla’s entire outfit together and definitely made me tear up a bit while her sweet mama pinned it into her hair, with the help of one of our second shooters, Dakota. Family heirlooms are hands-down one of the best things you can incorporate into a wedding day and we LOVED Kayla’s choice of her “something old”.
The moment Steven and Kayla interlocked cute locks and walked to the lake from their ceremony to toss their keys away forever as their unity ceremony symbol captured everyone in the crowd. What an intimate moment for them and a unique unity ceremony! The fact that this venue offers a gorgeous lake view at sunset is one of my favorite parts of shooting a Gathered Oaks wedding.
Kayla and Steven chose Moments by Danielle Nicole to capture their Gathered Oaks Wedding for a few reasons.
One, Kayla happens to be my (Danielle’s) husband’s cousin. In Kayla’s own words, “We are family <3”. Also, Kayla said “We chose to work with you because of your amazing personality, your ability to make our photos look natural, light, bright, and airy!” As their vendor, one unique idea we chose to contribute to the Mady’s big day was making the decision to add on an additional shooter, free of charge to the couple, so we could get some absolutely EPIC drone shots of their golden hour, sunset ceremony. The shot flying over the open water lake towards the ceremony spot under the trees with the venue in the background was hands down SO worth it.
The Vendor Team
Venue: Gathered Oaks
Photographer: Moments by Danielle Nicole
Videographer: Moments by Danielle Nicole
Officiant: Neil Mendonça
Bride’s dress designer: Morilee
Groom & Groomsmen Attire Designer: Amazon.com
Hair & Makeup: Ellee Bogatzki
Florals: Etsy
DJ/Entertainment/Band: Mason Davis @ Harmon Entertainment
Cake & Desert: Kylie’s Sweets and Treats
Catering: Minnewaska Meats
Invitations: Prints of Love
Meet me, Danielle Nicole, and hear about my own photography business journey!
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Last Friday evening, I had the pleasure of photographing Sam and Jasmine’s engagement session at the stunning Dakota Nature Park in Brookings, SD. It was the kind of evening you dream about for a fall session — no wind, perfect temperatures, and clear blue skies reflecting off the park’s serene pond. Despite it being a fall Friday, the park was surprisingly quiet, save for a few other photographers we ran into, making it feel like we had the place to ourselves.
Their October, fall Dakota Nature Park engagement session details
I was so excited to finally meet Sam and Jasmine in person for their October, fall-vibe Dakota Nature Park engagement session! From the moment we met, I could feel their love and warmth. We kicked things off by snapping a few photos with Sam’s dog, who brought so much fun and energy to the beginning of the shoot. Afterward, we moved toward the lake, where the vibrant fall colors created the perfect backdrop for some beachside shots. Walking around the lake, we found so many beautiful spots, each one offering a unique look that highlighted their love story.
In just an hour, we captured so many beautiful moments. Sam and Jasmine are incredibly sweet and caring, and it was evident in every interaction. As they talked about their future, I couldn’t help but feel excited for them. Both of them are RN nurses, and their dedication to serving others was so clear in the way they support and love each other.
I can’t wait to celebrate with them at their wedding next June at The Hotel Hartington in Nebraska — which just so happens to be over my birthday weekend! It’s going to be such a special day.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole.
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Owen and Hallee’s Ivory North wedding at Ivory North Co. in Mora, MN, was a breathtaking celebration. The venue’s charm, with its blend of rustic and modern elements, set the perfect backdrop for their special day. Their color palette of soft greens and pastel purples added a fresh and romantic touch. It complemented the abundance of live florals and greenery that adorned both the ceremony and reception spaces.
The Ivory North Wedding Day Details
The day began with the ladies getting ready in the stunning white chapel barn basement. It is a beautifully renovated space filled with natural light. Meanwhile, Owen and his groomsmen prepared in the sleek, modern men’s getting-ready building. It created such a fun contrast between the two settings. Hallee’s first look with her nephew was one of the sweetest moments of the day, filled with pure joy and laughter.
Owen and Hallee’s private first look was equally special, taking place in a unique black open building nestled in the middle of a grove. The intimate setting provided a serene and personal moment for the couple before the festivities began. The weather couldn’t have been more perfect, with warm sunshine and a gentle breeze setting the tone for a picture-perfect outdoor ceremony.
Their reception was a feast of their favorite foods, reflecting their personality and style. The live florals continued to impress, with greenery draped elegantly across tables and installations. From start to finish, Owen and Hallee’s wedding was a true reflection of their love story, filled with thoughtful details, stunning design, and unforgettable moments.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole, second shooting for HL Photo at Ivory North, Co. in Mora, Minnesota.
All of the Ivory North Co. Wedding Venue Details:
Ivory North Co. is a stunning wedding venue located in Mora, MN, offering 40 acres of picturesque fields and woodlands. The venue’s centerpiece is a beautifully renovated white gambrel barn, providing a bright, airy space perfect for ceremonies and receptions. It also features an open-air pavilion, a patio for evening dances, and a modern, separate building for the groom and groomsmen.
Pricing varies by season and day, with packages including amenities such as tables, chairs, and exclusive access to the venue. With its serene setting, historic charm, and modern elegance, Ivory North is an ideal choice for couples seeking a mix of elegant rustic charm and contemporary aesthetics.
For more details, visit their website: Ivory North Co.
- Address: 2065 Olympic St, Mora, MN 55051
- Email: ivorynorthco@gmail.com
- Website URL: http://www.ivorynorthco.com/
- Capacity (ideally for each space if there are multiple): 199
- Google map (see below):
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Kelsey and Asau’s Sylvan Lake engagement session at Sylvan Lake in late August was filled with beauty, adventure, and a few challenges. We arrived around 5 p.m. on a Saturday evening, right in the middle of Labor Day weekend. As you can imagine, the lake was bustling with people. Finding peaceful, quiet spots for photos took a bit of patience, but the lively atmosphere added a fun energy to the shoot.
There is currently a $20 fee to be able to enter into Custer State Park. Their entrance is right at the base of Sylvan Lake, so take into consideration that each car will need to pay that fee. Also, parking is always extremely hard to find, especially on Labor Day weekend. We had to drive the parking loop a few times, but ended up finding plenty of open spots near the back parking area, just a couple hundred feet from the start of the lake and walking paths. Naturally, there were hundreds of people there and even a few weddings going on, so privacy was hard to find.
One of the biggest challenges was working with the direct sunlight. The bright, open skies created harsh lighting, but it also gave us an opportunity to get creative. The sunlight reflecting off the water and bouncing between the towering rocks gave Kelsey and Asau a beautiful, natural glow. By carefully choosing angles and working with the shadows, we captured some stunning images that truly reflected their connection.
Sylvan Lake is an incredible place for an engagement session, but it has its pros and cons. The backdrop is breathtaking—the towering granite formations, peaceful trails, and clear waters create a romantic, natural setting that’s hard to beat. However, it can get crowded, especially during busy weekends, and the harsh sunlight in certain areas can be tricky to manage.
For anyone planning a session at Sylvan Lake, I recommend arriving early in the morning or late in the evening to avoid the crowds. It’s also helpful to bring a reflector or scope out shaded spots ahead of time to manage the lighting. Despite any challenges, the magic of Sylvan Lake always shines through, making it a perfect spot for capturing unforgettable moments.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole.
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Capturing Hailey and Brett’s Lake Elsie and Buffalo Ridge Resort engagement session in Gary, South Dakota, was a delightful adventure filled with laughter, love, and picturesque moments. We began our journey at the serene Lake Elsie, where the afternoon sunshine cast a dreamy glow over the water. Hailey and Brett’s love for each other shone through as they posed by the lakeside.
A cozy meadow picnic made for the most intimate and playful setting
After soaking in the beauty of the lake, we headed to a nearby shaded meadow for a cozy picnic. The soft grass and dappled sunlight provided the perfect backdrop for candid moments of the couple enjoying each other’s company. They laughed, danced, and even had a little picnic feast, all while I captured their genuine connection. The relaxed atmosphere of the meadow allowed Hailey and Brett to be themselves, resulting in some truly heartwarming photos.
Charming Buffalo Ridge Resort allowed for the prettiest photographs with the ivy entangled, stone-building, English countryside vibe.
Our next stop was the stunning Buffalo Ridge Resort. The resort’s impressive stone buildings and lush green ivy offered a dramatic contrast to the natural settings we had explored earlier. Hailey and Brett’s playful spirits came alive as they danced on the resort’s charming patio area, their smiles lighting up the frame. We then moved around the corner to use the elegant stairs and blooming flowers as our backdrop. The stone structures and vibrant flora created a timeless and elegant touch.
A scenic boat ride on Lake Elsie provided the perfect last scene for this Lake Elsie and Buffalo Ridge Resort engagement session
Two hours later, we made our way back to Lake Elsie for a final adventure. With permission from the campground owners, we borrowed a boat from Brett’s boss and got it out onto Lake Elsie at Talking Waters Campground. This was Hailey’s biggest wish to include in their session and it turned out so beautifully! That is, after we found the drain plug for the boat, LOL! There was a moment of suspense when they almost tipped over, but it only added to the fun and resulted in some adorable, candid laughter shots. The sunset over the lake provided a breathtaking conclusion to our session, the golden sun reflecting off the water as Hailey and Brett embraced in the boat.
From the dreamy lakeside photos to the fun picnic moments, the elegant resort shots, and the adventurous boat ride, Hailey and Brett’s engagement session was a beautiful blend of romance and playfulness. Each location brought out different facets of their relationship, creating a rich tapestry of memories that they will cherish forever. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this wonderful couple and capture their June wedding day next summer at Midway Camp in Volga, South Dakota.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole.
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The Fossom family’s Buffalo Ridge family session turned into the most magical Sunday afternoon adventure session at Talking Waters Campground / Lake Elsie, in Gary, South Dakota. The sun was shining, the lake was glistening, and the surroundings provided the perfect backdrop for capturing the essence of this charming family. What made this session particularly special was the deep-rooted connection the parents had to this location.
Both Mom and Dad grew up camping at Lake Elsie. Their childhood memories were interwoven with the beauty and serenity of this lakeside haven. It was heartwarming to see them return, now with their own young family. The joy and nostalgia in their eyes were evident as we reminisced together.
Dreamy Lake Elsie + Buffalo Ridge Resort in Gary, South Dakota landscape
Buffalo Ridge Resort, with its rich history and rustic charm, added an extra layer of magic to the session. The resort’s adjacent Talking Waters Campground sprawling grounds and Lake Elsie provided a variety of scenic spots for photos. From the lush green meadows to the cute beach, every angle offered a unique and beautiful backdrop. Their may have been a shoe or two that ran through the beach’s muddy shoreline.
The lakeside photos were some of my favorites. The Fossom family, dressed in coordinating outfits, looked picture-perfect against the shimmering lake and vibrant greenery. The candid shots of the kids and the parents sharing a quiet moment by the water were truly heartwarming. These images captured the love and connection that bind this family together, and the timeless beauty of Lake Elsie at the Talking Waters Campground near Buffalo Ridge Resort only enhanced their charm.
Overall, the session included lots of fun, laughter, and a sense of coming home. It was an honor to capture these precious moments for the Fossom family and to witness their love for a place that holds so many cherished memories. I look forward to seeing this beautiful family return to Lake Elsie for years to come, continuing the tradition and creating new memories in this idyllic setting.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole.
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Introducing the Tschetter’s and their Joy Ranch Wedding that took place amidst the stunning rolling hills in Florence, South Dakota. They had the most magical, July wedding day. Thankfully, they had a mixture of cloudy and sun-kissed weather as well to pair with extremely humid 90 degree heat.
Meticulously, Katelyn planned the entire Joy Ranch wedding herself and both her and Raistlan’s families came together to help make her dream wedding vision come to life. Some highlights of the day were Raistlan and Katelyn’s private letter reading moments and secret portraits where Raistlan closed his eyes the entire time to not spoil their first look, which he wanted to save for their ceremony. It was such a fun way to ensure the couple shared some intimate moments together earlier that day. Katelyn custom designed the endearing aisle runner for the ceremony that showed a photo of her and her dad when he was holding her as a newborn and a few words saying, “Dad, of all the walks we have taken together, this one I will remember forever.”
Both Katelyn and Raistlan shared big emotional tears throughout the day, along with their parents. From their private letter readings, the blooper and sacred moments throughout their ceremony, and the first dances–everyone shed a few tears!
All the Joy Ranch Wedding Details
Katelyn and Raistlan chose a navy blue and gold theme for their Joy Ranch wedding day. Their loveable fur baby, Stella, also joined in celebrating the newlyweds on their big day. Moments by Danielle Nicole provided the photography and videography team. Sola wood flowers made pretty bouquets for the bride and her ladies. For a intimate touch, the bridal party consisted of mostly siblings and nieces/nephews. Katelyn’s wedding ring showcased a navy blue diamond versus a traditional white. Dj Doctor did an amazing job with the entertainment for both the ceremony and reception, while Pastor Steve Behrens married the couple.
The stunning bride’s dress and bridesmaids dresses designer is Morilee and bought from the Bridal and Tuxedo Shop in Watertown, South Dakota, along with the groom and groomsmen attire. Southtown hair – Kira Lenocker did a fantastic job with the hair and makeup. Scrumptious deserts and a gluten free wedding cake were made created by Little Red Greenhouse and Bakery. And lastly, the pretty invitation suite were designed and printed by Truly Engaging.
The Newlywed’s Love Story
Raistlan and Katelyn’s love story began with a modern twist on a classic romance—over Facebook. Their first date at Señor Maxes in Watertown marked the start of a beautiful journey, and it’s become a cherished tradition for them to celebrate every anniversary at the same spot. This tradition is so meaningful that they decided to incorporate tacos into their wedding meal, a nod to that special first date. Raistlan’s proposal was perfectly tailored to Katelyn’s heart, taking place at her parents’ house, a place filled with her most cherished memories.
What truly binds Raistlan and Katelyn is their complementary personalities. Katelyn, with her love for meticulously planning details, finds her perfect balance in Raistlan’s calming presence. They share a love for making each other laugh, spending time with their families, and doting on their adorable baby Schnauzer, Stella. Their engagement session promises to capture these elements beautifully, with a focus on Stella, the deep love they share, and the enchanting backdrop of a sunset, all highlighted by a few outfit changes to showcase their vibrant personalities.
Vendor Team:
Venue: Joy Ranch in Florence, South Dakota
Photographer: Moments by Danielle Nicole
Videographer: Moments by Danielle Nicole
Officiant: Pastor Steve Behrens
Bride’s dress designer: Morilee bought from the Bridal and Tuxedo Shop in Watertown, South Dakota
Groom & Groomsmen Attire Designer: Bridal and Tuxedo Shop
Hair & Makeup: Southtown hair – Kira Lenocker
Florals: Sola wood flowers
DJ/Entertainment/Band: Dj Doctor
Cake & Desert: Little Red Greenhouse and Bakery
Invitations: Truly Engaging
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On a warm, hot July evening around 7pm, I got to photograph an absolutely breathtaking Chautauqua Park Family Session in Boulder, Colorado. The park was buzzing with life—families were out, other photographers were working, and the whole place had a vibrant, lively feel. The Dix family absolutely blew my expectations away and their session quite easily has become one of my favorite family sessions to date!
Even though the temperature was around the 80’s with humidity, it gave our photos a lovely warm glow. The evening sunlight kept popping out behind the clouds and also hiding, which created a unique mixture of everyone looking radiant from the sunny glow behind them, while also offering a more overcast look as well. There were still some wildflowers around, adding a touch of color and fun to our shots. They were a reminder of how beautiful summer is, even as it starts to wind down.
A Chautauqua Park Family Session is so worth it!
The iconic Flatirons make for a stunning backdrop, adding a sense of grandeur to our images. We used the open fields, winding trails, and cozy corners to capture different moments and emotions of the family. The kids played around, laughing and enjoying themselves, while the parents shared sweet, loving moments. The family’s choice of light, neutral-colored clothes added to the soft and airy feel of the photos. Truly, the Dix family dressed to impress and their edited imagery screamed with a light and airy photographer’s dream look.
Even with the many spectators and other photo sessions happening around us, we managed to focus on the family’s bond and their unique connection through fun and engaging prompts that allowed for a more genuine, behind the scenes look. By the end of our session, we all had so much fun!
View some of my favorite moments from their session below and keep reading after to see my pros and cons for shooting a summer session at Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado and also some of my favorite locations to shoot at there!
Pros and Cons of A Chautauqua Park Family Session
Pros for A Chautauqua Park Family Session:
- Beautiful Backdrop: The Flatirons and lush greenery provide a stunning and varied backdrop for photos.
- Natural Light: The evening sunlight is soft and flattering, perfect for creating a warm, glowing look in photos.
- Wildflowers: Even late in the season, the wildflowers can add a nice touch of color and beauty to your shots.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The park is full of life, which can add a fun and lively energy to your session.
Cons for A Chautauqua Park Family Session:
- Crowds: Summer evenings can be quite busy, with many families and photographers around, which can make finding a secluded spot a bit challenging.
- Heat: The high temperatures can be uncomfortable, especially for young children and pets.
- Limited Wildflowers: As summer progresses, the wildflowers start to fade, so you may not get as many colorful blooms later in the season.
Despite these minor drawbacks, Chautauqua Park is a fantastic place for a family photo session. The beauty of the surroundings and the vibrant energy of the park make it a memorable and rewarding experience.
Best spots to for a Chautauqua Park Family Session in Boulder, Colorado
Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado, offers many picturesque spots perfect for capturing stunning photos. Here are some of the best locations within the park:
1. The Flatirons Meadow
The open meadow with the iconic Flatirons in the background is a classic spot. The sweeping views and dramatic rock formations create a breathtaking backdrop, especially during golden hour.
2. Chautauqua Trail
The Chautauqua Trail offers beautiful scenery with a mix of open fields and wooded areas. The trail itself can add a sense of adventure and natural beauty to your photos, with plenty of spots to stop and shoot along the way.
3. The Ranger Cottage
The historic Ranger Cottage and the surrounding area provide a charming and rustic setting. The cottage itself is a lovely backdrop, and the nearby trees and paths add to the quaint atmosphere.
4. The Amphitheater
The outdoor amphitheater offers a unique and interesting location for photos. The stone steps and natural surroundings create a visually appealing setting, perfect for more structured or posed shots.
5. The Community House and Gardens
The Community House and its surrounding gardens are ideal for capturing more intimate and cozy photos. The gardens offer seasonal flowers and lush greenery, adding a vibrant and colorful element to your shots.
6. The Picnic Shelter
The picnic shelter area, with its large open space and nearby trees, provides a relaxed and family-friendly setting. It’s great for candid shots of families enjoying time together in a beautiful outdoor environment.
7. The Bluebell Mesa Trail
This trail leads to some of the most stunning views in the park. The higher elevation offers panoramic vistas of Boulder and the surrounding areas, perfect for wide-angle shots that capture the expansive beauty of the landscape.
8. The Ski Jump Trail
For those willing to hike a bit, the Ski Jump Trail offers secluded and scenic spots away from the crowds. The trail’s varied terrain and beautiful vistas make it a fantastic choice for more adventurous photo sessions.
9. The Sunrise Circle
For early risers, the Sunrise Circle near the entrance of the park provides a spectacular view of the sunrise over the Flatirons. The soft morning light and serene atmosphere make it a magical spot for photos.
10. The Historic Cottages
The historic cottages scattered throughout the park add a touch of charm and history to your photos. The unique architecture and quaint settings make them a lovely backdrop for more nostalgic and timeless shots.
Each of these spots offers its own unique charm and beauty, making Chautauqua Park a versatile and stunning location for any photo session.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole for her Boulder Family Photographer session above.
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A beautiful Minnesota backyard tent wedding set the scene to celebrate the newlyweds–Cody and Cassandra Ballengee. The wedding took place on Cassandra’s family farm near Madison, MN, under a grand 100-foot white tent. Rain graced the morning and early afternoon, but it cleared up just 30 minutes before the ceremony. The sun came out, making the day warm and beautiful.
Cody’s family traveled from Texas, and Cassandra’s family came from all over the U.S. It was an intimate gathering of 50 guests, creating a warm and close atmosphere.
Cassandra and Cody’s Minnesota backyard tent Wedding Details
Cassandra wore her mother’s wedding dress, adding a sentimental touch to the day. Her bouquet, crafted by Florals and Finds in Clear Lake, SD, was stunning. Cassandra also hand-designed the wedding decor and florals, turning the tent into a floral wonderland.
As the rain stopped and the ceremony began, the farm’s beauty shone through. The sun cast a golden glow as Cassandra and Cody exchanged vows, filling the day with joy and love. Tears were shed during their private vows. My associate, Amanda, and I tag teamed capturing the day and every photograph captured the warmth and happiness of the moment.
In the evening, we headed to a local fishing pond to capture more memories. The sunset was magnificent, with vibrant colors reflecting on the water. The golden light embraced Cassandra and Cody, making every shot a testament to their love and the beautiful day.
Photographing Cassandra and Cody’s wedding was filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable moments, all framed by nature’s perfect timing.
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