A Watertown SD wedding in November can go one of two ways: complete blizzard with closed roads or a delightful fall day. The Moeller’s lucked out with the latter of the two. On November 4, 2023, Scott and Lindsey tied the knot. They had the most perfect weather. As any South Dakotan would say, “today would be perfect if it wasn’t windy.” Despite the wind, the sunshine and non-freezing temps made for a day to remember.
After some getting ready shots at the salon, we headed across town to create some epic Terry Redlin Fine Arts Center wedding portraits. Afterwards, the church offered the most magical light beaming through it’s stained glass windows and it easily became one of my favorite ceremonies to date. A few golden hour portraits later and we headed to their reception venue Second Street Station to enjoy some yummy food and dance the night away. Trust me, EVERYONE danced the night away and it was such a fun environment.
They then matched on Tinder and of course it was a match made in Heaven. Scott loves to fish and, because of that, Lindsey started to enjoy it as well. So Scott proposed to her at the same spot they had our first fishing date and where she met his parents, isn’t that just the cutest, Notebook-type of love story ever?!! Scott and Lindsey are not only a married couple, but dog parents to a poodle named Layla and oh my gosh she is the cutest!
Scott’s favorite memory of their relationship is, in Lindsey words, “From when we were in MX and there was a Silent Disco one of the nights. Typically, being first on the dance floor and trying something new in public, we would be a little more skeptical. However, Scott brought me on the dance floor and we were in sync with each other through the headphones and while the crowd started to join around us and on the outside, all Scott could see was him and I in that moment enjoying each other’s presence no matter who was watching.”
On the flip side, Lindsey’s favorite shared memory is: “Our first fishing date. This was my first time fishing for years and I was determined to act like I knew what I was doing. I caught a Northern and after Scott took the picture and removed the fish from the hook, he told me I could throw it back in the water. I paused for a moment not really knowing what to do with this slimy fish in my hand and my fingers wrapped around its head, so like any typical person would do when they tell you to throw something, I chucked the fish back in the water. Scott looked at me and he goes “TOSS THE FISH ” don’t throw it! I was laughing while he looked at me for a moment. But after a few seconds his face settled into patience, laughter, and admiration.”
During our timeline planning meeting for her Watertown SD wedding, Lindsey let me know her bridesmaids were not going to have a traditional bouquet. Instead, they would carry medal rings with an arrangement of flowers that Lindsey herself arranged and created. They were so unique and I LOVE all of Lindsey’s DIY touches for her big day.
One of my favorite unique touches that stood out of their big day was hands down sneaking Lindsey away, at her bridesmaid’s requests, to take a few photos near the glass windows in the stairwell. Due to it being a tad too dark, we decided to go up a flight to the next floor and WOW! The light, the windows, the staircase, the BRIDE, ya’ll…it was TOO PERFECT. I love those photos and I am so thankful for brides like Lindsey who are always up to sneak away from 5 minutes to take those “hidden shots” most people wouldn’t.
Oftentimes, ceremonies can seem repetitive, but not Scott and Lindsey’s. Not only did Grace Lutheran Church have the most spectacular colored glass windows with the most beautiful light beaming through them, but there were so many special moments weaved throughout the ceremony between the couple and their loved ones. From Lindsey’s sister tears of joy and attempts to not look at Scott to avoid making him laugh to Lindsey’s sudden burst of laughter and joy during their unity portion of their ceremony that made me giggle a tad too on the side. All in all, it was a lovely ceremony.
I feel so abundantly blessed I met Lindsey through my last full-time job position at Wurth Electronics. From the moment I met her, I could tell people gravitated towards Lindsey’s bright, cheerful soul. She is kind, thoughtful, and always ready for a good laugh. I love her bubbly spirit and she is always up for the next adventure, and that is what I love most about her. Capturing her Watertown SD wedding was a dream for me!
According to Lindsey, “Danielle has such a kind heart! She is patient, easy going, flexible, and makes any session fun! I appreciate Danielle going above and beyond for her clients by providing so many items to prep for your engagement session and wedding!”
Portraits Venue: Terry Redlin Fine Arts Center
Ceremony Venue: Grace Lutheran Church
Reception Venue: Second Street Station
Photographer: Moments by Danielle Nicole
Officiant: Neil Cheryl Rondeau-Bassett
Florist: Lindsey Groon
DJ: Velocity Entertainment
Cake: Hyvee
Grooms attire: Modern Groom
Bride’s Dress Designer: Wilderly
Caterer: Second Street Station
Makeup & Hair: Key Creations Salon
Invitations: Canva
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November 4, 2023
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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If you just got engaged, here are 10 things to do after getting engaged! But first off, congratulations on your engagement! As a photographer who has captured countless love stories, I’m thrilled to share some insights on the next steps after you’ve said “yes!” This is an incredibly exciting time, and there are some important things to consider that will help make your journey to the altar smooth and joyful.
First and foremost, take a moment to bask in the joy with your partner. This is a special milestone, and it deserves a celebration. Whether it’s a romantic dinner, a weekend getaway, or simply a quiet evening together, savor this moment before the whirlwind of planning begins.
Before announcing your engagement on social media, share the news with your closest family and friends. They’ll appreciate hearing it directly from you rather than finding out online. This also gives you a chance to see their reactions and share in their excitement.
Ensure your engagement ring fits perfectly by getting it sized. Additionally, securing insurance for your ring is crucial to protect against loss, theft, or damage. It’s a small step that offers significant peace of mind. Most insurances have a free ring cleaning service every 6 months, so definitely do that and make sure to clean your ring right before your engagement session and wedding!
Discuss with your partner and decide on a potential wedding date or at least a range of dates. This decision will influence many of your subsequent planning steps, including venue selection and booking other key vendors like photographers. Picking a range of dates or a season you like best is KEY to ensuring your top two vendors (like venue and photographer) have a similar date open!
Start discussing your budget early. Knowing how much you’re willing to spend will help you make informed decisions and avoid financial stress. Consider all aspects of the wedding, including the photographer, venue, catering, and attire.
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