couple kissing in front of White Iron Ridge wedding venue.

Sophie & Kyle’s Timeless Winter Wedding at White Iron Ridge

My Journal

Charity Dowell

December 3, 2024

Couple kissing in front of white iron ridge wedding venue.

Sophie & Kyle’s Timeless Winter Wedding at White Iron Ridge

When Sophie and Kyle tied the knot at White Iron Ridge in Smithville, Missouri, their wedding was a stunning celebration of timeless elegance. From the sleek black and white color palette to the beautiful white barn venue, every detail of their classic winter wedding was picture-perfect.

The Perfect Venue for a Classic Winter Wedding

White Iron Ridge is one of the most beautiful wedding venues I’ve had the pleasure of working at. Its stark white backdrop creates a clean and timeless look that complements any wedding theme, but it was especially perfect for Sophie and Kyle’s black and white color scheme.

The bridal suite at White Iron Ridge was another highlight of the day. Filled with natural light, it was the perfect space for Sophie and her bridal party to prepare for the day. As a South Dakota photographer and videographer, I can’t stress enough how important good lighting is for capturing those special getting-ready moments, and this venue provided exactly that.

The couples wedding bands while they hold hands.

Bride and Groom Portraits

Although Sophie and Kyle’s wedding took place in December, the weather was kind to us, allowing us to step outside for their portraits. There was a slight chill in the air, but you wouldn’t know it from the warmth and joy radiating from this couple.

Sophie looked absolutely stunning in her classic wedding gown, which featured timeless details that will never go out of style. Paired with Kyle’s crisp suit, the two looked like they stepped straight out of a wedding magazine. Their love for each other was palpable, making their portraits my favorite part of the day.

As I was shooting video for their wedding, I couldn’t resist snapping a few images throughout the day. I typically take 70-100 photos to help with color grading for video, but I’m always drawn to capturing timeless portraits and small details that tell the couple’s story.

S&K light sign in front of the DJ stand.

Black and White Elegance

Sophie and Kyle’s black and white color palette was a perfect choice for their winter wedding. The simplicity and contrast of these classic colors added sophistication and elegance to every element of the day. From the tablescapes to the florals, every detail was thoughtfully curated to fit their vision.

As a South Dakota videographer, I was particularly drawn to how the black and white details popped against the bright, clean backdrop of White Iron Ridge. It’s a perfect example of how choosing the right venue and color scheme can create a cohesive, visually stunning wedding.

Classic white wedding cake with a bow embelishment.

3 Tips for Planning a December Wedding

Planning a wedding in December comes with unique considerations. Here are three tips to ensure your winter wedding is as magical as Sophie and Kyle’s:

1. Plan for an Earlier Ceremony to Capture Golden Hour Portraits

The sun sets much earlier in the winter months, so if golden hour portraits are important to you, plan your ceremony earlier in the day. This will give you plenty of time for outdoor photos in that dreamy, soft light. Sophie and Kyle’s outdoor portraits were enhanced by the golden glow of the winter sun, and it made all the difference.

2. Keep Guests Comfortable with Thoughtful Touches

Even if the weather is mild, December weddings can be chilly. Provide blankets or warm drinks like hot cocoa or mulled cider for your guests to enjoy. These small touches not only keep everyone cozy but also add to the charm and atmosphere of a classic winter wedding.

3. Choose a Venue That Offers Indoor and Outdoor Options

A venue like White Iron Ridge, with both indoor and outdoor spaces, is ideal for a winter wedding. While we were able to take stunning outdoor portraits, the beautiful indoor space ensured that the ceremony and reception could be comfortable regardless of the weather.

Close up detail of bride and groom portrait.

A Day to Remember

Sophie and Kyle’s wedding at White Iron Ridge was truly unforgettable. From their elegant black and white theme to their heartfelt moments captured on video and in portraits, every detail came together to create a day that was as timeless as their love for each other.

As a South Dakota photographer and videographer, I love working with couples who put so much thought into making their day unique and meaningful. If you’re planning a beautiful white barn wedding or a classic winter wedding, I’d love to help capture your story. Contact me today to learn more about my photography and videography services!

The bride wedding details laid out.
The bride's Louboutin Shoes and wedding ring.
The bride getting her makeup done in the bridal suite.
The bride's grandmother's wedding bands for something borrowed and something blue.
The bride toasting with her bridesmaids.
The mother of the bride helping the bride into her wedding gown in the bridal suite.
Bride and groom portraits after the first look.
Bride and groom portraits in front of the ceremony space.
Up close detail during portraits.
S&K light sign in front of DJ stand.
Bride and groom kissing in front of white iron ridge wedding venue.
Golden hour portraits in a field.
Black and white image of the bride and groom during golden hour.
Close up of the bride's veil during golden hour portraits.
Dress detail picture during golden hour pictures.
The bride and groom in a field.
The bride and groom's hands.
The bride and groom in a field during portraits.
The bride and groom standing side by side during portraits.
The bride and groom kissing in front of white iron ridge wedding venue.
Close up detail of the bride and groom.
Bridal details during bridal portraits.
Bride portraits in a field during golden hour.
Bride and groom hand picture showing off their wedding bands.
Bride and groom holding out their hands to show off their wedding rings.
The bride and groom portraits during golden hour.
Black and White portrait of the bride and groom during golden hour.
Wedding cake with bow details.

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Let’s Capture Your Day

Sophie and Kyle’s wedding was timeless and elegant, and it was a privilege to capture their story. If you’re planning your own classic winter wedding or beautiful white barn wedding, I’d love to document your day. Contact me to learn more about my photography and videography services and to check availability!

Looking for a beautiful wedding venue like this near the Black Hills of South Dakota? Check out The Barn at Aspen Acres.

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