April 12, 2025
This Red River wedding comes with quite the back story! I first met Shonell at one of my bride’s weddings in 2019. She was one of the bridesmaids (and cousin) of Kelci! Shonell was also a bridesmaid in my friend’s Jaci’s wedding last year!
And now it was finally her turn! I never visited Red River, New Mexico before, but I’d heard so many great things about it. So when Shonell told me her and Chase were getting married there, I couldn’t wait!
As the day started, I met Marissa, a hair and make-up artist from Denver who specializes in natural looks. She was absolutely radiant—just like the look she created for Shonell. I mean, look how pretty she is!
I, of course, always need to take a moment for the details! It’s the best feeling when I can find the perfect little corner to show off the dress!
Shonell’s cousin, Kelci, handled all the flowers for this Red River wedding! She learned all of her floral skills in a college class, and her skills seriously impressed me.
Also, check out those bridal Hey Dudes! Shonell rocked a pair herself and gifted each of her bridesmaids one too—such a fun (and comfy) touch for the big day!
While everyone finished getting ready for the ceremony, I took some photos of the beautiful reception space!
Okay, story time! Shonell stocks fish for a living, and Chase often tags along to help. To honor that part of their life, Shonell told us the reception centerpieces would be fishbowls. I pictured some flowers arranged inside fishbowls and thought, “Aw, that’s cute!”
But nope—she meant actual, real-life fish swimming around in them! Such a creative and sweet nod to something they love doing together!
Before I knew it, it was time for the ceremony!
During the ceremony, Shonell and Chase participated in what is known as a Love Lock tradition. They locked a lock inscribed with their initials and threw the key in the river! This ritual symbolizes their lives merging into one and their love never being “unlocked” again. Such a unique and perfect idea, especially for a ceremony right by the Red River!
Watching two families become one is always one of my favorite parts of the day!
How cool is this setting for Shonell and Chase’s Red River wedding?! I learned that they found their ceremony location (Tall Pine Resort) because they frequently stock fish there. Tall Pine doesn’t normally host weddings, but because Shonell is like family, they made an exception for her. 🙂
Friends and family from all walks of life came together, all smiles, to support the couple.
Shonell told me that she and Chase have known each other for about 3 years. They both liked each other right away, but each ended up convincing themselves that the other wasn’t interested.
It wasn’t until one of Chase’s friends told them they needed to go for it! And the rest is history!
You know I always try to grab a pic with my couples! It’s one of my favorite traditions! I also got to get a photo of the couple with this amazing Tall Pine Resort Team! You could tell they held a special place in each other’s hearts that was sweet to witness.
As everyone headed into the reception, you could not help but stop to look at the delicious-looking cake and cheesecakes made by Baked by Jordan!
One highlight of the day: speeches! Both the Maid of Honor and Best Man shared fun stories and inside jokes. It was clear just how loved Shonell and Chase are.
Finally, it was time for cake cutting and dancing!
Shonell and Chase, I could not be happier for the two of you! Thank you for letting me be a part of your day! Congratulations and best wishes for the many adventures ahead!!
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