This timeless backyard wedding in Oregon was one of those days when the heat couldn’t melt the joy in the air, even if it were the hottest summer day thus far. Makenzie, who’s followed my photography journey from the very beginning, had actually booked me before Jeff even proposed—yep, she knew that ring was coming. She wasn’t about to let anyone else snatch up their date! When the big day arrived, they tied the knot in the backyard of a dear family friend, surrounded by towering trees and vibrant blooms. It felt like a hidden oasis, and more importantly, it felt like them—laid-back, intimate, and warm. The venue couldn’t have been more perfect for them, set in a place close to their hearts and brimming with personal touches.
A Heartfelt Outdoor Backyard Wedding Ceremony
The Bishop's wedding was the epitome of family love and connection. Jeff's son, Owen, stood proudly as his best man while their sweet daughter, Tate, rocked it as the flower girl. What made this wedding extra special was how deeply rooted it was in their family bonds—only close family made up the bridal party, which felt like a genuine reflection of who they were. I'd seen this love firsthand during their engagement session, where Owen's protective love for his baby sister was on full display, and it was the same on their wedding day.
Even though little Tate wasn't feeling her best, she never missed a moment to snuggle up with her big brother, and the sight of them together had everyone feeling all the feels. My favorite moment was definitely during Kenzie and Jeff's first dance. Kenzie pulled Owen into her arms as Jeff scooped up Tate. I swear I didn't cry; I suddenly had something in my eye. Dust must have flown in from the surrounding fields because it seemed like most guests also had something in their eyes, lol.
Makenzie & Jeff's Timeless Wedding in Oregon
The ceremony was filled with love and emotion, but the reception was where the magic came alive. Their classic black and white decor kept things sleek and elevated. The speeches brought laughter and tears, with Kenzie's cousin Kassidy, her maid of honor, setting the tone with a heartfelt tribute. She reminisced about their childhood dreams of wedding days and shared how selfless Kenzie is, touching on how Kenzie recently became a surrogate, bringing a baby girl into the world for a New York couple. There wasn't a dry eye in the room after that! Then Owen, Jeff's son and best man, took the mic with a perfect mix of humor and heart. He joked about their "bachelor days" (even though he was still in high school, lol) and how they'd bet on who would get a girlfriend first—Owen was sure it wouldn't be his dad. But when Makenzie entered Jeff's life, everything changed for the better. Owen closed by saying how lucky they were to have Kenzie in their lives, even if it meant fewer spontaneous golf trips with his dad. The night was full of laughter, love, and a whole lot of dancing—exactly how a celebration of family should be!
Dying to see more wedding fun? See Allison and Christopher's Pratt Gardens Wedding in Oregon!
Sweet Words From the Bishop's
"Sydney made my wedding photo dreams come true. To be able to relive one of the most special days through our photos is something I will always cherish. Sydney was thorough in capturing every detail of our day, even the ones I didn’t see or ask for. She is professional but also makes you feel comfortable, as if she is a good friend. I can’t thank her enough for portraying the beauty that our wedding day was."
Vendors
Dress | David's Bridal
Catering | Tate's Umapine Mercantile
DJ | Kailey VanOcker
Hair | Brianna Knight
MUA | Kaila Gibson
