Derek and Dayna both grew up in Denmark, just five minutes down the road from each other. They rode the same school bus from preschool all the way until they got their driver’s licenses. Funny enough, Derek’s uncle even babysat for the Nemetz family while Dayna’s parents were traveling.

In a small twist of fate, Derek once bought a dirt bike that was originally meant to be Dayna’s — though after tipping it over once, she decided riding might not be her thing!

In 2017, they both found themselves on the homecoming court. Dayna asked Derek to stand up with her because he was the tallest boy on the court and she wanted to wear heels — little did she know how far that simple choice would take her.

The two started talking shortly after homecoming and began dating on November 8th of that year. Even though college took them to different states — nearly six hours apart — they spent countless weekends traveling to see each other and made it all the way to graduation together.

After college, they packed up and headed for the West Coast, where they built a new chapter together. Derek proposed in beautiful Oregon, and Dayna already had the wedding date in mind for years — once she realized their dating anniversary landed on a Saturday in 2025, it felt meant to be.

Now, almost two years after Derek asked the question, they’re finally making it official! Derek and Dayna cannot wait to celebrate their love with all of you who have been part of their journey.

D&D

Wedding Day

12:00 PM–1:30 PM

Ceremony

4:30 PM–12:00 AM

Reception