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palmpalm

Dalton Lauer

and

Valerie O’Toole

March 15, 2026

ISLAMORADA, FLORIDA

How We Met

A love story written against all odds.

Dalton and Valerie’s journey started nearly eight years ago when fate brought them together at a friend’s wedding in Hawaii. At the time, Dalton was stationed there with the Air Force, and Valerie was pursuing her degree at UCF in Orlando. Ask either of them about their first introduction and you’ll hear two hilariously different versions of the same story. Though their time together was brief, both walked away with a lingering sense of wonder, asking the same thing: “Will I ever see them again..?” That thought lingered for five months until Dalton decided to fly to Orlando to see Valerie. She must’ve had a pretty good feeling about him too since she took him home to meet her entire family. Dalton still remembers being nervous, but what stood out was Valerie’s love for family. That trip sealed the deal, and they officially became a couple. What they didn’t realize then was that their dream of being closer together was about to take a detour, leading to three and a half years of long distance, countless time zones apart, and a love that refused to fade no matter where the military sent Dalton. Despite the miles between them, Dalton and Valerie always searched for ways to keep their relationship strong. Most of their vacation time was spent traveling to visit each other, creating new adventures and memories they still cherish. Most of all they supported each other’s dreams and careers. Knowing one day they would finally be together for good. Dalton and Valerie moved in together when Dalton decided to separate from the military in June 2022. Fast forward to Leap Day in 2024, Dalton asked the big question & she said yes!!! Now, that long-awaited day that marks them together forever has finally arrived. Dalton and Valerie are overjoyed to celebrate their love surrounded by the people who have been part of their story from the very beginning. Each of you has played a role in shaping their journey, standing beside them through every season of life, and your presence will make this day truly unforgettable. This celebration isn’t just the start of their marriage, it’s a heartfelt “thank you” to everyone who’s supported them along the way. And when the celebration ends, they’ll begin their next adventure together... A honeymoon back where it all began: The Islands of Hawaii.

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