Wedding Photographer: Brittany Schnell

I don’t even know where to start with Tyler and Miranda’s wedding day. There was so much going on- but I think a wonderful place to start is in the details. 

Miranda’s dress is a one of a kind piece customized just for her. The original design did not have sleeves. Miranda’s keen eye for design knew sleeves were possible. Her incredible seamstress made it happen with appliques directly from the designer. A bit of Miranda’s mother’s dress is also sewn into the lining of Miranda’s wedding dress in the shape of a heart. 

Next, Miranda’s wedding band has diamonds in it from her mother’s original wedding ring (it’s OK, mom got an upgrade years ago). I’m a big fan of this detail. The remainder stones have been set in a custom necklace that Miranda gifted her on the wedding morning. 

The couple’s dog is one of my favorite details of the day. He was around for hunting, getting ready and the ceremony. Who’s a good boy?!

The ladies suite was all sorts of bustling when they were getting ready. There were hair tools and all sorts of cosmetic all about. It all came together to a stunning wedding party. The in house makeup artist is actually the (personal attendant) whom is nurse that’s just really into makeup. I’m really into the looks she created!

JP Denmark’s ballroom has a wall made entirely of windows which is incredible for photos. We used it a few times: for photos of the ladies in their matching pajamas and both first looks: with Dad & with Tyler.

I’ve seen dozens of dozens of first looks and they still tear me up every time.

To avoid the September, South Dakota wind, we took family photos on the deck, close to the building. I love family photos. I get to celebrate the love and connection of family in every image. 

Wedding party photos were taken at the alter. This is when we realized we would be battling extremely strong winds during the wedding ceremony. Partway through photos, we decided to bail and go back to the deck by the building.

Does anyone have a tip for holding down a table cloth on a windy day?

Another great thing about JP Denmark is the little garden house behind the ceremony location. The wedding party was able to wait while guests found their seats. 

The couple’s officiant is a friend through AMD yoga: Jenny. She’s a close mentor to Miranda and was ecstatic to be the one to wed the couple. 

We celebrated God with song and scripture. Each verse and song chosen specifically for the occasion. 

The couple chose to plant a tree to represent their love. I’m excited to see this tree in a decade or two!!

Before every ceremony, I check with the couple and the officiant to see what my movement restrictions are, if any. We also plan specific photos like position for unity ceremony, hand placement for the first kiss, and the final ceremony image. We planned their first kiss to include their guests in the background. I’m so glad we chose to take this shot, it’s amazing!!

Following the ceremony was a little photoshoot with the wedding party and couple. Here we used the wind to our advantage and shot some uber flowy shots with Miranda’s dress. We only took photos for about 15 minutes because it’s important for the couple to enjoy their wedding day with their guests.

Cocktail hour was relaxed with drinks and congratulations. 

The couple kicked off their reception with their first dance to the song All My Life by K-Ci & JoJo. Miranda’s custom bridal jacket has this lettered across the back. 

When it was time to cut the cake, the couple used tools passed down from family. The duo enjoyed their sweet treat together. 

The couple toasted using glasses from their families. They heard from different members of their bridal party and their parents. Toasts are one of my favorite parts of the days because I get to hear about the love the couple shares (and sometimes some super funny stories too). All the love and support from their family was moving to me. 

Miranda and her father danced to a melody of favorites. Dad didn’t know what was in the mix, so each time a new song came on, he would listen to it and start bobbing his head and singing a long.

Malik of Complete Weddings and Events kept the dance floor full all night long. Everyone had their chance to dance with the couple in the dollar dance. This group really knows how to boogie!

Thank you, Miranda and Tyler for trusting me with your wedding photos. I had so much fun visiting with you and your families.