Elopement at Breezy Point in Keystone, South Dakota

Luisa and Terrel’s classy Black Hills elopement at Breezy Point in Keystone, South Dakota was everything an elopement should be: meaningful, intimate, flexible, and centered around the people they love most. With sunshine, sweeping views, a small group of their closest friends and family, and sweet sentimental moments woven throughout, their celebration is a perfect example of how simple plans can still feel incredibly special.

Meet Luisa and Terrel

These two have a story that feels both cinematic and down-to-earth. They met in high school, reconnected years later through work, and have now been together for four years. Terrel shares his mother’s maiden name as his first name, which is such a special way to carry his family’s legacy.

When we photographed their engagement session just a few weeks before their elopement, I immediately saw how naturally connected they were. They laugh easily, talk effortlessly, and balance each other in a way that feels effortless. Luisa is a natural beauty who rarely wears makeup, so when she told me she had to buy her very first makeup products for the wedding, I was amazed at how perfectly everything matched. She looked stunning in the most natural way.

And then there’s Terrel’s wedding band, which absolutely deserves a spotlight. He told us he loves diamonds, which you can definitely see in Luisa’s engagement ring and the eternity band that became her wedding band. They hadn’t been having much luck finding a band they loved until a jeweler showed them a custom piece someone had passed on. The moment they saw it, they knew it was the one.

Why They Chose Breezy Point for Their Black Hills Elopement

Their original plan was to elope in Badlands National Park, but after visiting the week before and discovering a huge influx of sand gnats, they pivoted. Breezy Point in Keystone turned out to be the perfect choice.

September in the Black Hills is warm, sunny, and golden, and their day was exactly that. Breezy Point offers scenic overlooks, accessible pathways, and no long hikes. While it’s not challenging, there is a short uphill walk to the ceremony spot. It can be a bit steep for older guests, but with a wheelchair and some helping hands, everyone made it safely, including Luisa’s grandpa. Watching her younger sister do her best to push him up the hill until her dad stepped in was one of the sweetest, most genuine moments of the day.

Because Breezy Point sits within Black Hills National Forest, couples should research the required permits ahead of time and apply through the correct channels. It’s a simple step, but an important one.

A First Look Full of Tears, Laughter, and Private Vows

Before guests arrived, Luisa and Terrel shared a private first look overlooking the hills. It was quiet, emotional, and full of happy tears. They exchanged personal vows alone, and even shared a funny little moment when Terrel revealed his vow book “hack.” He had written his vows in the middle of the notebook to make it look fuller, only to realize he then had to flip around to find the actual page. It gave all of us a good laugh and felt so perfectly them.

The Sweetest Ceremony Surrounded by Their Favorite People

Nearly everyone wore black except for Luisa, giving the whole celebration a modern and elevated feel while keeping the focus beautifully centered on the couple. With just under 20 of their closest people gathered around, the ceremony was short, heartfelt, and intimate. Elopements have a way of stripping away the noise, and theirs was no exception. It was simple, classy, and deeply personal.

Portraits, Champagne, and a Thoughtful Reception Space

After the ceremony, we explored Breezy Point for portraits. These two love a good mix of traditional poses and slightly editorial prompts, which gave us such a fun variety of images. They’re the kind of couple who can laugh about anything, including the discovery that one of the McDonald’s and Taco Bells in Rapid is now open past midnight.

While we were taking portraits, their family friends were decorating their reception space at Murphy’s Pub in downtown Rapid City. It was such a thoughtful touch and made the celebration feel personal and cozy.

What Couples Can Learn from This Black Hills Elopement

This day flowed effortlessly from start to finish, and it’s a beautiful reminder of something I often share with couples: you can always adjust your plans. If the weather, location, or circumstances aren’t what you imagined, you have every right to pivot. Flexible planning is one of the biggest perks of an elopement, and Luisa and Terrel embraced that fully.

Planning Your Own Black Hills Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a Black Hills elopement, Breezy Point is a wonderful location to consider. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Permits and Regulations

Because Breezy Point is inside Black Hills National Forest, be sure to research and secure the correct permits before your date.

Accessibility

The walk is short but uphill. Plan ahead for family members who may need assistance, and consider bringing a wheelchair for comfort and safety.

Timing and Light

September offers beautiful weather and warm, golden light. Breezy Point photographs especially well in the afternoon into golden hour.

Guest Count

Small groups work best at this location, keeping the celebration peaceful and intimate.

Our Time at Breezy Point Picnic Area

Luisa and Terrel’s Black Hills elopement at Breezy Point was warm, timeless, and filled with meaning. It showed that elopements can be simple yet deeply emotional, stylish yet grounded, and centered on the moments that matter most.

If you’re dreaming of an elopement in the Black Hills or anywhere in South Dakota, I’d love to document a day that feels like you from start to finish.

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