Filed in : Weddings

Meadow Barn at Country Orchards Beautifully Blue Elegant Wedding

Weddings are incredibly special to me for many reasons, but one of the biggest is the honor of being asked to not only be a part of one of the biggest day of a couple’s lives, but to document it. On a wedding day, it’s my job to keep an eye open to everything–the way a bride clasps her hands and plays with her engagement ring while getting her hair done; a groom wiping away a tear when he sees his love for the first time on their wedding day; the dance party that ensues while the kids wait in line for their meal … all of it. I get to be a fly on the wall and truly soak it all in, so the bride and groom can look back on these images and relive their best day for the rest of their lives.

Wedding stories are always important and always magical, but there’s something extra special about the stories that involve some bitter alongside the sweet. Kelsey and Dylan’s day was as happy as can be, but after the passing of Kelsey’s mom, Lori, last year, there was someone very obvious missing from such an otherwise perfect day.

And yet, there was so much joy. So many people who very clearly adore Kelsey and Dylan and are so excited for their lives together. People who love and miss Lori, but know she’s still so clearly present and watching over her girls on their important days. So. Much. Love. And honestly, no matter what happens in the days, weeks, or years leading up to a couple’s wedding day, that’s where the magic is: all that love.

Kelsey and Dylan were married at the Meadow Barn at Country Orchards in Harrisburg, SD, right outside Sioux Falls. I love this area, because not only is the Meadow Barn totally gorgeous, but it’s situated on a picturesque sprawling apple orchard. I was overwhelmed with beauty all day long, and it was so fun to photograph at a venue that had one amazing location after the other.

And if we’re talking about beauty, let’s talk about the beauty these amazing vendors created. Kelsey hired the dream team, ya’ll, and I soooo do not say that to toot my own horn. I was honestly beside myself to be included in this crew! From the incredible invitation suite, to the gorgeous hair and makeup, to the stunning bouquets and floral arrangements, to the killer dance party, and every thing in between, there was no detail left untouched. I’ve said it a million times, but the folks in the wedding industry in Sioux Falls are truly top notch.

I hope you love these photos as much as I do–and hold on to your hats because toward the end THERE ARE FOOD TRUCKS, GUYS. Best. Day. Ever.