Clear Lake Photo Session Locations
Step one of picking an option out of my Clear Lake photo session locations list is to consider the overall vibe or mood you want your photos to convey. Think about the look and feel that best represents you or the story you want to tell through your images. Do you envision a natural, relaxed outdoor setting, or something more urban and edgy? Are you drawn to wide-open landscapes, cozy wooded areas, or serene waterfronts? Defining the atmosphere you’re aiming for will help narrow down the location options and ensure that the backdrop complements your personality and the tone of the session.
Why your Clear Lake photo session location matters
Choosing the right location for your photography session is essential in shaping the overall feel and impact of your photos. The setting you pick influences everything from the mood to the style, adding personality and depth to each shot. Whether you want an intimate, serene environment or a bold, expansive backdrop, the location sets the tone and enhances the connection between you and the environment. A well-chosen spot can make your session feel more personal and meaningful, highlighting your unique story. It’s about finding a place that reflects who you are while creating stunning images that stand the test of time.
Your chosen Clear Lake photo session location picks your session time
The Clear Lake photo session locations you choose from for your session significantly impacts the timing, as natural lighting plays a key role in creating beautiful images. Open spaces, such as fields or lakeshores, provide soft, golden light about one hour after sunrise or before sunset, known as the golden hour. However, if you’re shooting in a wooded area or near tall buildings, the light may be filtered or blocked, meaning earlier or later times might be better for optimal lighting. Our South Dakota hills also can cause our sun to disappear a little quicker than flatter areas, so if we shoot in a hilly spot, we will have to adjust timing as well. Once we pick a season, date, and location, then we will find the perfect time to start our session time together!
My favorite Clear Lake photo session locations
1. The Outdoor Studio Area – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: all day
Best session options: every session type
This is one of my absolute favorite Clear Lake photo session locations offers a pretty tree-line that is stunning in the fall with it’s colors at peak fall season (usually first two weeks in October). This is located at my private residence, so there is free parking and this back pasture area is private. I also have a huge flower garden area on-site in the summer months (July-late August) which makes for a pretty backdrop. In June-early July, the tall grass has lots of pretty alfalfa blooms, so it looks very colorful.
2. West Clear Lake Beach – Clear Lake, SD
This side of the lake offers three really pretty late afternoon spots! You can get a range of lake-side, gravel road, and grassy area photos just into a few hundred feet of one another!
Time of year best shot at: Summer and Fall
Best time of day shot there: late afternoon and sunset
Best session options: small immediate families, high-school graduates, maternity, couples
Amount of rain in the spring through fall may shorten or make shoreline disappear altogether, so keep this in mind! This is also a busy road around the lake, so it is not as private.
3. East Clear Lake Beach – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: Late afternoon or at sunset
Best session options: every session type
Fall is absolutely gorgeous at this spot! The lake is in the background at golden hour and it’s the perfect sandy beach for kiddos who want to run and play. The pups will love coming to this spot too! It offers a cute white bench as well. This spot is best captured at sunset or late afternoon.
4. Ulven Park – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: Summer
Time of day best shot at: 1 hour before sunset on beach or afternoon in shaded area
Best session options: every session type
This is location offers the cutest beach that makes for the best background for playful family and couple adventures. Tall trees provide tons of shade too, making it a great location in the afternoon and sunset hour. There is a larger area for extended families to fit in late afternoon as well. There is a dock, lake-side beach area, and also a huge wildflower area too!
5. Clear Lake Evergreens + Slew – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: one hour before sunset
Best session options: every session type
This is a newer location I’ve started shooting at and its amazing! As you can see, it’s a great location in both our green and “dead” late fall and early spring seasons. There is parking alongside the road and this is area is right off the road, so not a far walk. It hosts a pretty slew in the background and a line of evergreen trees. There is tall grass in the summer, then short grass fall-spring.
6. Open Grassy Field with Trees – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: can be shot at in the afternoon, but best one hour before sunset
Best session options: every session type
Right next to location #5 above, this spot offers a different backdrop that is STUNNING as the sun fades. There are tons of wildflowers at this spot during the summer too! Lots of area for kids to run and large, extended families!
7. The Hills – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: one hour before sunset
Best session options: maternity, couples, immediate families
This spot is located just about a mile from the Crystal Springs Rodeo grounds. It is a very popular, busy road, so there may be quite a few cards that drive by and force us to pop onto the side of the road as they drive by. Just down the road is a nature preserve to shoot at during sunset too! The sun sets about an hour before sunset due to the tall hills.
8. Riverbend – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All year
Time of day best shot at: At Sunset
Best session options: couples, maternity, immediate families
There is only room for two vehicles to pull off at this spot. It is right on the edge of town off the busy highway, so it is not private at all. There is a river that runs through the area making it super pretty at sunset or cloudy days! I do not shoot here in full sunlight as lighting does not work out.
9. Jacobson Fen Preserve – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: At Sunset
Best session options: couples, maternity, immediate families
There is room to pull off at this spot on the side of the road. It is right next to the Crystal Springs Rodeo grounds. It is a preserve area, so it includes tall grass, wildflowers, and the most epic hilly views! I only shoot here right at sunset for the best lighting.
10. Coteau Lake Road – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: June through August
Time of day best shot at: late afternoon
Best session options: every session type
Coteau Lake Road hosts an amazingly shaded road for family photos in the afternoon and early evening!
10. Ketchum Lake – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: At Sunrise or Sunset
Best session options: every session type
This is a new spot for me to use! It has a little lake-side area that is perfect for early morning sunrise sessions. It has a cute tall grassy trail for family photos!
10. Veterans Park Big Rock – Clear Lake, SD
Time of year best shot at: All seasons
Time of day best shot at: Late afternoon or 2 hours before sunset
Best session options: couples, maternity, high-school graduates, immediate families
This is such a hidden gem! It hosts the cutest of rock garden areas for one of a kind family photos and also a cute small lake-side area.
Will you travel to our location?
Yes, yes, and yes! If you have a favorite location that holds sentimental value either on your private property or at a place you love to travel to/have take photos at before, I will absolutely love to come capture magic there! A mileage fee of the standard government fee will apply to session locations outside of the 30 mile roundtrip radius of Clear Lake, SD from my studio address.
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.
All photography credits go to Moments By Danielle Nicole and associate Amanda!
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Kallan and Chris’s wedding at the Goss Opera House in Watertown, SD, created a celebration marked by elegance and simplicity. The wedding decor featured lush greenery with white and ivory accents, creating a timeless and sophisticated atmosphere. Kallan wore an absolutely breathtaking ivory dress. The bridesmaids dressed in sleek black gowns by Azazie, while the groomsmen donned stylish suits by Michael Kors, completed with black ties. This refined color palette and elegant style perfectly complement the historic charm of the Goss Opera House. During the ceremony, a string quartet played the most beautiful melodies. They had family join them in celebration from all over the United States.
Chris and Kallan’s exquisite wedding created countless authentic memories with their customized touches.
There were so many, many unique moments handcrafted by both Chris and Kallan. All of these moments weaved together not only their individual skills and love story, but also the love of generations who came before them. Many of Kallan’s details included heirloom items passed down from her mother and grandmothers, which made capturing her thoughtful details so fun. Kallan and his groomsmen spent countless hours composing music to serenade Kallan during their ceremony, which brought many tears to the eyes of everyone hearing the breathtaking song, and also during the couple’s first dance and remaining part of the reception. Every moment weaved together touches from past love stories and their own to design the most intricate day celebrating their decade of friendship.
Their love story started twelve years ago…
Kallan and Chris met during their undergraduate studies at NSU in 2012, and their first impressions were marked by an immediate attraction to each other’s souls. Their first date was a cozy visit to a coffee house on campus, setting the stage for their deep friendship to form. Chris proposed to Kallan on his birthday at Canyon Lake in Rapid City, shortly after introducing her to his grandparents—a moment that made the occasion even more special.
They share a playful habit of giving each other nicknames, with Chris affectionately calling Kallan “Duchess.” This reflects their fun-loving nature and tendency to create new words together. Both are musicians, competitive, animal lovers, and avid snackers, and they compliment each other out perfectly.
When asked what they love most about each other, they said they deeply appreciate each other’s company and love how they motivate each other to achieve their best. Their favorite activities include traveling, golfing, bowling, watching movies, and simply being together. As they look forward to their wedding day, the most exciting part for them is finally marrying the love of their lives.
Goss Opera House Wedding Day Vendor Team
The couple carefully selected a talented team of vendors to bring their vision to life. Betsy Fjelland coordinated the day as the wedding planner on behalf of The Goss Opera House, and did a fantastic job as always. Russ Hadden captured their video, while my team (Moments by Danielle Nicole) created the photography imagery. Herb Cleveland, the groom’s grandfather, officiated the wedding, adding a personal touch to their ceremony.
Blu Salon and Spa did a fantastic job with hair and makeup. Dakota Giftware Supply Inc designed stunning florals, and DJ Henry, along with live music from the groomsmen, creating the most lively reception entertainment. Walmart Bakery crafted the wedding cake and desserts, while Mavericks served yet another amazingly scrumptious meal. Zola provided the invitations. This talented team truly made Kallan and Chris’s Goss Opera House wedding a beautifully memorable event.
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