Two States, One Love

Tara Nicole Martinez & Shane Leon Cottle

Davis | 12.9.2023

PHOTOGRAPHED BY The Oberports

Tara, from Guymon, Oklahoma, and Shane, a Reedy native, first met in their high school Spanish class in 1992, but it would be 30 years before their lives became fully intertwined.

In May 2022, the couple were visiting family in Oklahoma. The visit was wonderful, only made better when Shane pulled Tara and her daughter, Tova, aside and asked his love to be his wife—an easy “Yes!” They tied the knot in Oklahoma first, with Tara’s family and friends from the area.

Their West Virginia nuptials took place at Lindy Point at Blackwater Falls State Park with Shane’s family and friends in a laid-back celebration of love and togetherness. They spent the morning getting ready together, exploring as a family, and making memories—Shane and Tova even found some time to work a little softball practice in. Having already said “I do” in their previous ceremony, the couple opted for a simple ceremony out on the rocks.

Their friend Drew Ross officiated as Tova and Shane’s best friend, Allen Atkinson, served as the wedding party. They celebrated with an intimate reception at Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge. Being so close to Christmas, they leaned into the holiday spirit with lots of sparkles, shades of red and green, and a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Guests enjoyed a meal from the park’s restaurant, The Smokehouse, and a variety of desserts such as cupcakes, mini pies, pumpkin rolls, and cookies. They danced to an acoustic cover of Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One” before Shane took Tova’s hand for their own dance to Elvie Shane’s version of “My Girl.” Guests left the festivities with winter-themed fleece throw blankets, wooden cardinal ornaments, and, smartly, hangover cures. A honeymoon may still be in the works, and these newlyweds are looking forward to many new adventures.

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