Wow, what a beautiful day for Thomas and Maddie’s wedding at St. Mary’s & Yelduz Shriners, in Aberdeen, South Dakota.
St. Mary’s was absolutely stunning inside for their ceremony. The church did not need any decoration, as it clearly decorated itself. The huge balcony added a fun photo opportunity to grab shots from above.
Additionally, Yelduz Shriners was a fun out-of-the-box reception center as well. Thomas and Maddie decorated it so well, and even had a huge glow-up LOVE sign. What a fun backdrop! They had a large white backdrop added in behind the large bridal party too, which made it easy to capture bright candids during speeches and their first dances. I can honestly say the speeches made me tear up a bit from laughing so hard.
I can honestly say their bridal party truly BROUGHT THE PARTY. Thomas and Maddie’s wedding at St. Mary’s & Yelduz Shriners was packed full of upbeat vibe due to a very large wedding party, which made for a lot of fun! We got blessed in a downpour of rain during our bridal party and couple portraits. This group had so much fun with it and made it a cheerful experience.
Ceremony Venue: St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Aberdeen, South Dakota
Reception Venue: Yelduz Shriners in Aberdeen, South Dakota
Officiant: Fr. Mitch McLaughlin
Bride’s Dress Designer: David’s Bridal
Bridesmaid’s Dress Designer: David’s Bridal
Groomsmen & Groom Attire Designer: Men’s Wearhouse
Hair & Makeup: Reaghan Smith (hair) Emily Fairbanks (bridesmaid- makeup)
**DJ/Entertainment: Rob Moore
Catering: Kesslers
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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.
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 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.
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.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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 for A Chautauqua Park Family Session:
Cons for A Chautauqua Park Family Session:
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.
Chautauqua Park in Boulder, Colorado, offers many picturesque spots perfect for capturing stunning photos. Here are some of the best locations within the park:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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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