New Years Eve Destination Winter Wedding
Talk about sending 2020 off in perfect style!
Congratulations to Jonathan and April!
I’m so happy that you were finally able to celebrate your marriage! If you’re not privy to the journey they had to take in order to make this union happen, take a moment to think about how large and difficult of a task it is to plan a wedding. Then, stick the start of COVID in about a month before their original wedding date and then replanning that wedding in the middle of a pandemic…
2020 was a difficult year for us all, but we made it and your wedding turned out perfect! I’m not sure how you got fresh snow with 40+ degrees in South Dakota on New Year’s weekend but what a blessing. Everyone in attendance was so happy to get together to honor and celebrate your love!
The State Game Lodge is a beautiful venue for a winter wedding allowing for many photographic opportunities. It is located within Custer State Park, about 40 minutes SSW of Rapid City, SD. Rehearsal dinner was held in the historic President's Dining Room (Used by President Calvin Coolidge in 1927 as part of his summer residence. My favorite historical photo was of the first lady, Grace Coolidge with her pet raccoon, Rebecca). The food catered throughout the weekend was outstanding and added another wonderful layer to the celebration.
The weather allowed for an outdoor ceremony under the pavilion that is conveniently nestled amongst the pine trees directly west of the Game Lodge. (In true 2020 style, during dinner the pavilion’s chimney caught fire and had to be put out!)
After the ceremony, we captured portraits of the families and the newlyweds, and took some couples photos, when everyone else headed into the Lodge for cocktail hour.
The reception happened next door in the Event Barn. I’m bummed that this building is so far from Billings, I would very much like to have the opportunity to photograph there regularly! We danced and partied in the barn until 2020 became 2021!
I know many of you were not able to attend and therefore are excited to see photos. So, now is the time to queue up a few of your favorite love songs, and enjoy the slideshow below!
Congratulations again to the newlyweds, I’m glad you enjoyed your honeymoon in Mexico, you absolutely earned the rest and relaxation!
Planning a winter destination wedding?
Hi, my name is Zak Jokela! I’ve been a wedding photographer in the Billings area for about 7 years now. If you are looking for a photojournalistic approach for your wedding photography you can set up your complimentary consultation by clicking the button below!
