John "JP" Peterson and Shannon Caldwell grew up in the same small Texas town of Keller, but never met until years later when a mutual friend introduced them in Dallas. It was love at first sight.
"I know it sounds cheesy," says JP with a sheepish grin, "but Shannon's smile and upbeat vibes really bring energy to the room."
When they look at each other, they beam — it's the kind of happiness that a movie or TV show can't imitate, and it's that real, honest emotion that earned them enough votes to win the Hilton Austin's Win-A-Wedding contest.
In 2017, Hilton started asking Texans to share their love stories for the chance to win a wedding that included a reception for up to 75 guests, an open bar, photography, cake, and more, all from local vendors. While several couples entered and stole hearts of their own, it was JP and Shannon's earnest brand of quirkiness that captured the attention of voters and won them the main prize.
After the announcement party at The Reverebery on February 13, the bride and groom worked with the Hilton to plan and design their dream wedding. The couple wanted a cool, effortless theme that was evocative of their personalities.
"I think what draws me and others to JP is that he's so outgoing and creative," says Shannon of her now-husband.
It was important for the two of them to make their ceremony really stand out. Working with The Reverbery, Premiere Events, Austin Stuart Photography, Lemon Leaf Florist, DJ Sal Talbi, and Sugar Mommy's, the Caldwells crafted a wedding that served as the perfect start of their long, happy life together.
Earlier in October, JP, Shannon, and their son, Denver, made it official in a fun but elegant ceremony with friends and family. Denver, wearing a groomsmen outfit complete with vest and bow tie, "walked" down the aisle in style in a white wagon with a sign that read "Here Comes My Mommy." With a beautiful ceremony by Reverend Christel Stuart, JP, and Shannon were joined in holy matrimony in front of their son and their family.
Needless to say, once the vows were said there were very few dry eyes left in the room.
