As a Phoenix-based destination wedding photographer, I thrive on the adventure of capturing love stories in breathtaking locations. When Peyton and Marshall invited me to South Dakota for their wedding, I knew it would be something special. Their journey began in high school, and after nine years as sweethearts—navigating long distance while Marshall attended college in South Dakota—their love story led me to a brand-new destination.
After our beautiful engagement session in Phoenix near the Superstition Mountains, Peyton and Marshall asked if I’d be willing to travel for their wedding in Brookings, South Dakota. Without hesitation, I said yes! While I’ve captured countless desert landscapes in Arizona, I also love documenting weddings in unique locations. This was the perfect opportunity to add another pin to my map and experience the wide-open beauty of the Midwest.
A Wedding in the Heart of South Dakota
South Dakota didn’t disappoint. The rolling farmlands, golden fields, and sprawling prairies created the most breathtaking backdrop for Peyton and Marshall’s big day. Their ceremony and reception took place at GracePoint Wesleyan Church in Brookings, a charming and intimate setting filled with love and support from family and friends.
As a wedding photographer, I’m often asked how I handle low-light venues, and this wedding was the perfect example. The church’s lighting was warm and dim, but I always embrace these challenges—capturing intimate moments without flash to preserve the natural ambiance of the day.
As a wedding photographer, I’m often asked how I handle low-light venues, and this wedding was the perfect example. The church’s lighting was warm and dim, but I always embrace these challenges—capturing intimate moments without flash to preserve the natural ambiance of the day.
Golden Hour at Dakota Nature Park
What made Peyton and Marshall’s wedding even more special was the time we took to focus on couple photos after the reception. We carved out an hour and a half at sunset to explore different locations, and the golden South Dakota light was absolutely divine. It’s every wedding photographer’s dream to have this kind of dedicated time with a couple—it allows for such intimate, magical shots. Peyton was an absolute vision in her wedding dress, and I have to say, it was one of my favorite bridal looks this year!
We started at Dakota Nature Park in Brookings, where the soft golden glow reflected beautifully off the water. Then, we headed to Big Sioux River Bridge, capturing the final moments of their wedding day in such a peaceful, romantic sunset setting. The combination of golden fields, quiet water reflections, and the joy these two shared made for an unforgettable portrait session.
Being a Phoenix-based wedding photographer, it’s an honor to not only work with local couples but also to be trusted to travel for destination weddings like this. South Dakota gave us perfect weather, stunning backdrops, and a wedding day filled with love.
Planning a Destination Wedding? Let’s Connect!
Peyton and Marshall’s day was a dream come true—both for them and for me as their destination wedding photographer. If you’re looking for a Phoenix wedding photographer who’s ready to travel and capture your love story—whether here in the Arizona desert, the Colorado mountains, or across the country—I’d love to help bring your vision to life.
