For the Shirts and Kelso families, this day was circled on the calendar with immense joy and anticipation. As a wedding photographer, it was a true privilege to capture the beautiful Boise, Idaho wedding of Chris and Mercedes. Every detail, from the quiet moments of prayer before the ceremony to the lively Texas two-stepping on the dance floor later that night, contributed to an unforgettable celebration of love in Boise.
How a Boise, Idaho Pizza Place Sparked a Romance
The story of Chris and Mercedes began in a quintessentially Boise way – at Pie Hole pizza in Boise, Idaho. It was the day before Christmas Eve when their paths first crossed. Chris was immediately captivated by Mercedes’ warm brown eyes and genuine spirit. Mercedes, in turn, found herself drawn to Chris’ distinguished gray hair and his affectionate nature. Their first date followed at Bardenay, a popular Boise distillery and restaurant, and a unique second date involving a Kalimotxo at the Basque Center further solidified their connection to Boise and to each other. Completely smitten, the couple faced an impending separation as Mercedes returned to San Antonio and Chris to his Air Force station in South Korea.
Despite the distance, their budding romance flourished through countless FaceTime dates and a memorable visit in San Francisco. Mercedes then journeyed to South Korea to spend three weeks in March and again in June with Chris.
Early in their relationship, a remarkable piece of news arrived: Chris would be stationed in San Antonio starting in July 2017. This providential turn of events felt like a clear sign to both Chris and Mercedes – a divine hand guiding their relationship forward. They knew that fate, or perhaps something more, had brought them together in Boise and was now allowing their love to blossom.
After establishing their life together in San Antonio, Chris planned a heartfelt proposal. He chose a meaningful location – Weiser, Idaho, not far from Boise – and the day before Christmas Eve, he asked Mercedes to marry him.
A Beautiful Boise Wedding Day Unfolds
The wedding day began for me with Mercedes and her bridesmaids at The Inn at 500 Capitol, a stylish hotel in downtown Boise. As Mercedes enjoyed her makeup session, her adorable niece sat on her lap, watching with wide, curious blue eyes – a charming moment to start the day. The scene was picture-perfect with the bridesmaids dressed in matching purple robes, while the flower girl and Mercedes’s little niece looked equally delightful in coordinating lavender dresses. The atmosphere was filled with excitement and love as Mercedes prepared to say “I do” in Boise, Idaho, surrounded by her closest family and friends.
