An Outdoor Backyard Wedding in Sedgwick, Kansas

When I think about Mark and Kourtney’s outdoor backyard wedding day, the first words that come to mind are warm, joyful, and deeply personal. Their wedding was a beautiful reflection of who they are as individuals and a couple.

Kourtney and I have known each other for about five years, having met through mutual friends at church. She’s one of those people who lights up a room with her humor and grounded nature, someone who feels effortlessly real and relatable. I always enjoyed catching up whenever our paths crossed, but when she reached out to ask me to photograph her wedding, I was utterly honored! As it turns out, she’d been following my work on social media for a while, and the fact that she trusted me to capture one of the most important days of her life meant the world.

Kourtney and Mark’s venue wasn’t your typical wedding location. They chose to get married at the home of a lifelong family friend, just 40 minutes north of Wichita. This was a place Kourtney had known almost her entire life. Saying their vows there added a layer of nostalgia that made everything feel more personal and intentional.

The morning started with Kourtney getting ready in the house, surrounded by her closest family and friends. There’s something so special about the calm before the chaos—quiet moments filled with laughter, last-minute details, and anticipation. The beauty of a backyard wedding is in its intimacy. It’s not about putting on a show; it’s about being fully present with the people you love. Every detail spoke to the kind of day Kourtney and Mark had envisioned: one that felt like home.

Honoring Loved Ones and a Pre-Ceremony Cocktail Hour

One of the most touching parts of Mark and Kourtney’s wedding day was how they honored their loved ones who couldn’t be there. Just a week before the wedding, Kourtney’s cousin passed away—a loss that was still fresh and deeply felt. To celebrate her life and the lives of other family members who had passed, Kourtney and Mark created a beautiful memorial table (pictured below).

Kourtney and Mark decided to mix things up by hosting a cocktail hour before their ceremony. It was bold, but it was such a thoughtful and intentional choice. They wanted a chance to relax and connect with their guests without the usual rush that came later in the day. It felt like one big, laid-back reunion before the “official” festivities began. During this time, they also took a quiet moment to sign their marriage license. It was an unhurried start to the day.

Their Outdoor Backyard Wedding Ceremony & Sunset Bridal Portraits

Mark and Kourtney’s ceremony was beautiful and romantic. Their vows felt deeply personal and genuine. There was this quiet sense of connection as they stood together under the October sky, surrounded by family and friends.

When it came time for the reception, the magic continued. The head table was a standout, dressed with thoughtful, elegant decor that felt warm and inviting. Soft lighting, meaningful details, and an intimate layout made every guest feel part of the inner circle.

I have to take a moment to gush about the sunset bridal portraits because, wow. God blessed us with the kind of Mid-October golden hour that photographers dream about. The light was warm and golden and so perfectly timed. Mark and Kourtney were absolute naturals, and it was the perfect way to close out their portraits.

I walked away from Mark and Kourtney’s wedding, feeling so grateful to have been part of it. If you dream of an authentic, intimate, and nostalgic day, I’d love to help you capture it. Let’s create something beautiful together. Reach out anytime—I’m here to help make your day everything you’ve imagined and more.

If you loved the relaxed nature of this outdoor backyard wedding, click here to learn how to have a stress-free wedding day!

Vendors

Venue | The Bebermeyer’s Family Home

Coordinator | Merrily Co.

Dress | Dress Gallery

HMUA | Wildflower Hair and Makeup

DJ | KC Productions