Ivory North Wedding | Owen & Hallee

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!

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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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CLICK HERE to learn about the MBDN Wedding Experience!

Meet me, Danielle Nicole, and hear about my own photography business journey!
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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.