The South Dakota State Fair… as residents of the town that hosts the SDSF, Jon and I have always loved and adored the fair. We love the corn dogs, the mini donuts, the indian tacos…. Okay, so maybe we really just adore the food at the fair! Just joking… we love the grandstand concerts, the midway games, and we love the buzz it brings to our town! The fair is usually held over Labor Day weekend, and honestly, that’s one of our absolute favorite things about living here!

So when we heard Abby and Zeb were going to be married on the Freedom Stage, our hearts nearly exploded with happiness. What an honor to photograph this moment in State Fair history – AND Abby and Zeb history! A double whammy!

The day was perfect September weather – not too hot, not too cold, just warm and sunny like it ought to be. This is saying a lot, as all good South Dakotans know, the weather is just not very reliable here sometimes! The weekend before it was 97 degrees! We will take a 70 degree day anytime.

Abby and Zeb’s wedding ceremony was held right at the Freedom Stage, and their reception followed shortly after at the Expo building. You couldn’t plan this any better!

Pay attention to the handmade details in the bridesmaids’ hoops. They carried these in lieu of a bouquet. This is a huge Pinterest craze right now and I. am. LOVING. IT. It’s something that gave Abby and Zeb’s day an extra special flair, and they look great in the photos too! They were also able to use the hoops for décor at the reception! Win-win!

You may also notice an old buggy in some of Abby and Zeb’s pictures. I am told this buggy is over 150 years old and one of Zeb’s family members has been working so hard to restore it. With Zeb being a rancher, and Abby also growing up on a ranch, I just love the country charm that this gave their pictures!

As they exchanged their vows, I noticed this incredible look of joy just melt across Abby’s face. Today was their day. The day they had been planning for months. And it was perfect.

Abby and Zeb, thank you so much for having Jon and I photograph your big day! We loved being a part of this incredible moment of your lives and wish you all of the happiness in the world!
XO,
Emma