Sam + Obadiah | Surprise Palisades Mini-Styled Shoot
Sam and Obadiah originally got married earlier this year in a micro-ceremony, with every intention of having a bigger celebration this fall.
Sam wore a really cute white dress she bought last minute for the micro-ceremony, but not her actual wedding dress. Due to COVID numbers increasing and a few other factors they made the tough decision to forgo their fall celebration.
My heart was broken for them, and I wanted to make sure Sam got the chance to wear her wedding dress. I then called in Jennifer from Plan to Party, who Sam had hired for her wedding, and she helped make this all come to life. We called in Prairie Lane Vintage Rentals and Olive & Grace Floral Co. to help us pull it off.
I kept it all secret from Sam and Obadiah and was trying to think to think of the best way to capture their reaction to the surprise. I suggested meeting at their house and Sam mentioned wanting to do a first look. I suggested their house and that sealed the deal. They had just moved into their new house the Friday before so it was the best way possible to break in the new place.
Sam got her hair done by her normal stylist Natasha with JGMG Salon, and even did the post-wedding chop! Her good friend came over to help with finishing touches and I let her in on the secret right before she left. Sam and Obadiah were then able to share the sweetest ‘first look’ in their new backyard and we made them officially married by having them match up their swings on the play set. Playground rules, now it’s super official.
We headed out to Palisades State Park in Garrestson, South Dakota where I knew Jennifer was already setting things up. Once we pulled into the park I pulled out my phone and told them to look to the left. The surprise was revealed and we pulled it off, as they had no idea! To see the video, check out my Facebook page!
Now, enjoy the photos below, knowing that we were being attacked the entire time by ‘no-seeums’, yet Obadiah and Sam made these photos SO amazing. I’m so happy we were able to give them a beautiful gift in these weird times we are living in.
Photography: Bethany Melvin Photography | Decor & Set up: Plan to Party | Loveseat + Rentals: Prairie Lane Vintage Rentals | Floral: Olive & Grace Floral Co. | HMUA: Natasha of JGMG Salon
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Bethany Melvin Photography is a Sioux Falls, SD wedding photographer who specializes in capturing love stories. Bethany Melvin Photography is based in the Midwest, but is available nationwide and for destination weddings. Have a question or want more information on booking? Contact Bethany today at hello@bethanymelvin.com or visit bethanymelvin.com
Although the kids could not have the BIG wedding they dreamed of these pictures have caught the joy and love these kids have for each other. Thank you so much for giving us a chance to also see that. We love you both very much and so happy for you! Love Ron and Cherie 💕
These are overwhelmingly beautiful! I am all teary (but the good kind!)!! Thanks for gifting them these treasures, you are the best!