Brian and Mackensi’s love story is a beautiful one of a friendship turned romance, and reconnection after years apart! 

Brian and Mackensi were friends in high school as they both grew up in the small town of Tillamook, Oregon. One day Brian took Mackensi out to dinner, which she only later realized was actually their first date, and the moment their friendship became something more! Time passed as their lives moved them in different directions, but they were of course brought back together after 5 years apart, and they’ve been inseparable ever since!  

After 5 years together, Brian privately proposed to Mackensi before settling down at their dining room table to eat dinner one evening. With just their dog Fern as a witness, it was especially  meaningful because they were in the house they bought together and were crafting into a home. 

Mackensi eagerly prepped for her dress appointment at Charlotte’s by scouring our Pinterest page for inspiration. She knew she wanted a dress that had some element of sparkle, and she wanted something that would make a statement just like her one of a kind wedding. With a Pinterest board filled with gorgeous beaded and sparkly dresses, and a pre appointment call with her stylist Tara done, Mackensi headed into her appointment at Charlotte’s confident and excited to find her dress. 

With a clear vision in mind, Tara pulled dresses that were fitted and sparkly, and it only took four dresses to find the one! Mackensi anticipated the moment of finding her dress to be emotional and a big celebration, but in fact it was a moment of complete calm. She tried on 5956 PL by Julia Leigh and immediately told Tara, “Yep, this is it!” and trusted that feeling of peace the dress gave her! 

Mackensi describes their wedding day itself as an absolute dream! The beautiful couple got married on July 15th of 2023 at Mackensi’s parents property in Tillamook, Oregon, which was something they both suggested to each other almost immediately after Brian proposed. Mackensi felt so connected to the place where she grew up, and it was so perfect to get married surrounded by the beautiful fully bloomed flowers and summery coast property. 

“My favorite part was getting married to my best friend. It was unbelievable that after ten months of planning, it all came down to this very moment as I walked down the aisle. I got to spend my favorite day, wearing the most beautiful gown, with all of my favorite people. I wish I could replay that day over and over again!” 

When asked what advice she would give to future brides, Mackensi said to enjoy every moment of your wedding day! She explains that during such a busy day where there are so many people to see and talk to, it’s so important to take a moment to yourself to look around and see all of the people that are there to celebrate you and your partner. 

Thank you so much to Mackensi and Brian for telling your beautiful story, and acting as an inspiration to all present and future brides for their big day! 

VENDORS:

Dress: 5956 by Julia Leigh 

Venue/Location: Tillamook, OR

Photographer: Natalie Kate Images

Florist: Sunflower Flats 

Hair and Makeup: N V Lash, Kirsten Bennett

Caterer: Fat Head BBQ

Rentals: The Party Pros

Bar: Bottoms Up Bar