Chrysler Museum of Art

Wedding Day

Ceremony

Cocktail Hour

Reception

Our Wedding

How They MetTheir journey began in the most unexpected way—online. Joe reached out to Brittany with kind words of condolence after Virginia Tech's tough loss to UVA during the final football game of the 2019 season. This simple gesture of empathy led to countless conversations, sparking a connection neither of them anticipated. First ImpressionsBrittany's first impression of Joe was that he was incredibly kind and genuinely interested in forming a meaningful relationship. His nerdy and cute side shone through during their first phone conversation when he passionately talked about swords. Joe, on the other hand, was struck by Brittany's beauty and her ability to match wits with him. She indulged his interests and listened attentively, which made him realize she was both empathetic and driven. Their First DateTheir first date was nothing short of a grand adventure. Joe drove five hours to meet Brittany for the first time. They watched the latest Star Wars movie together, following Brittany’s marathon viewing of the entire franchise over the winter holidays to catch up with Joe’s interests. After the movie, Joe joined Brittany at her dart match at a local bar. The night ended perfectly at Brittany's apartment, where they watched Joe’s favorite Disney movie, "Aladdin." Falling in LoveBrittany knew she loved Joe early in the relationship. His gentle demeanor and overwhelming compassion were irresistible. One of her most cherished memories is their first night dancing together. Joe realized he loved Brittany after spending time with her friends and family, witnessing the love they had for her, and sharing life experiences and future goals. A standout moment for him was during their first cabin trip, where the peacefulness and laughter they shared solidified his feelings. Memorable MomentsThey have shared countless memorable moments together. Brittany treasures meeting Joe’s family, Joe meeting her family, their first trips to Orlando and Los Angeles, and seeing Joe being an incredible pet parent to Bam Bam, Holly, and Pepper. Two moments stand out the most: Joe’s proposal and the emotional day they cried together after Brittany’s graduation from college. For Joe, road trips have been a highlight, filled with wild stories, comedy routines, and true crime discussions. He also fondly remembers a sunny day kayaking and singing Motown hits until it got too late to continue. The ProposalJoe had meticulously planned the proposal to coincide with Brittany’s graduation from Virginia Tech. He had explicit instructions to propose only when Brittany's nails were pristine, and the perfect opportunity came before a Coast Guard Ball in Norfolk. Knowing Brittany would be photo-ready in a dress she loved and he in his formal uniform, Joe suggested a visit to a nearby botanical garden for pictures. During a playful photo session, Joe filmed instead of taking pictures. After a few funny poses, he dropped to one knee, pulling out a ring box from his ankle. Brittany was overjoyed, jumping up and down as park goers cheered in the background. They then danced the night away at the Coast Guard Ball. Looking ForwardBrittany is most looking forward to walking down the aisle to the man of her dreams and then dancing the night away surrounded by loved ones. She can't wait to share the rest of her life with Joe. Joe is excited to see Brittany in a dress that (by all accounts) is as beautiful as she is, and to spend time with all their loved ones at the venue, enjoying great music, art, food, and dancing.

When Darth met Dear...

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q + A

Norfolk International Airport

Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport

Richmond International Airport

Amtrak station

Hilton Norfolk The Main

Norfolk Waterside Marriott

Courtyard by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

We have reserved a wedding block for this hotel! Please use the following link to reserve a room: <a href="https://www.marriott.com/events/start.mi?id=1722527256895&amp;key=GRP" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Book your group rate for Dodson Van De Walker Wedding&nbsp;Block</a>

Residence Inn by Marriott Norfolk Downtown

Glass Light Hotel & Gallery, Autograph Collection

Sheraton Norfolk Waterside Hotel

Travel & Accommodations

Waterside District

Nauticus

City Cruises Norfolk

Norfolk Botanical Garden

Virginia Zoo

Virginia Aquarium & Marine Science Center

The Mariners' Museum and Park, And Mariners' Lake

Virginia Beach Boardwalk

Virginia Beach | (OBX) Horseback

First Landing State Park

Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge

Lynnhaven Mall

MacArthur Center

Norfolk Premium Outlets

Circuit Social

Apex Entertainment Virginia Beach

Dave & Buster's Virginia Beach

Rivers Casino Portsmouth

Topgolf

Busch Gardens Williamsburg

Colonial Williamsburg

Back Bay's Farmhouse

Elation Brewing

Hair of the Dog Eatery, Downtown Norfolk

The Dirty Buffalo - Colley Ave

Little Dog Diner

The Bier Garden

Grace O'Malley's Irish Pub and Restaurant

Cogans Pizza North

Benny Damato's

Mellow Mushroom Virginia Beach

East Side Pizza

Del Vecchios

Granby Street Pizza

Things to Do

Registry

Brittany & Joseph

Brittany & Joseph

Registry