Love Conquers All: One Couple’s Journey To The Altar

By Janet Cruz

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner and stories of love, friendship and kindness warm the heart. The story of Shasta and Brandon Cline is one that will make you shed a tear or two.

Brandon and Shasta tied the knot on Thursday, at Restoration Hope Church with Pastor David Rose officiating, with a small gathering of church goers. Many were treated to the surprise wedding. While it wasn’t the easiest road to get to that point, they were all smiles when they finally did.

Restoration Hope Church Lake Havasu City, AZ. news RiverScene Magazine Jillian Danielson Photography

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

The couple first met when they were children. Shasta was also a sibling to another childhood friend. Over the years they had always been in each others lives through tough situations and through other relationships but their friendship always remained strong.

“I would run into him over the years” said Shasta. “But it wasn’t the right time for us.”

Brandon also dealt with cancer in his early 20s and also had a hard time dealing with a drinking addiction that troubled every aspect of his life.

Then, there was a moment when Brandon felt he couldn’t continue drinking anymore and decided that it was enough for him and he wanted to become a different version of himself.

Shasta also had her own struggles with addiction and needed to face her fears and soon became sober herself.

“I don’t feel any shame anymore. My past is not who I am,” she said. I make it a point to come to church and do Bible study instead,” she said.

Brandon and Shasta Cline walk down the aisle together Thursday evening at Restoration Hope Church. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Another obstacle they both had to face was Brandon’s mother being diagnosed with cancer and heart issues. The couple wanted her to be there with them on their special day.

“A few days ago, I noticed how sick she has been and to see her here with us – it’s like her face has changed and she looks happier than when we saw her out of the hospital and we continue to pray for her healing,” said Shasta.

Three weeks ago, the couple gave themselves to Christ, and both are proud to be sober. After Brandon’s mother Carrie Cline got to Havasu from Phoenix and also gave her life to Christ, the couple decided on Tuesday they would marry in two days and it all just came together.

On Thursday, Carrie Cline was present to watch the couple tie the knot and couldn’t be happier to see it happen.

Shasta and Brandon Cline pose for a photo with Brandon’s mother, Carrie Cline. Carrie was diagnosed with colon cancer but left the hospital in Phoenix to spend time with them and attend church. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

“I am very proud of them,” Cline said. “They have overcome so much. I know they will make it.”

“God brought us together at the right time, because it just wouldn’t have worked out years ago,” Shasta said.

“We always knew in our hearts we were right for each other. I am so excited and at peace now that we are together,” Brandon said.

Jillian Danielson/RiverScene

Angelique Byrne prays over Shasta and Brandon Cline after their wedding Thursday night. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene Magazine

Brandon and Shasta Cline raise their hands to God following their wedding at Restoration Hope Church Thursday evening in Lake Havasu City. Jillian Danielson/RiverScene