It was a dark and stormy night in Austin, Texas when two local singles, Joe Gerringer and Victoria Rod, were swiping away the losers on Hinge. Their thumbs both came to an immediate halt at that fateful moment their profiles digitally crossed paths. Tori was immediately attracted to Joe and his “humble brag” of “owning a headboard”, and the feeling was mutual, as they matched. Their hearts leapt from either side of town upon the notification. Joe swears that a big, beautiful clap of thunder happened at that moment, as if the universe was applauding their soon-to-be love. When they met at Bar Peached on September 3rd, 2021, they couldn’t take their eyes off each other. Naturally, the next stop as Austinites was a romantic evening at The White Horse, where Joe literally swept Tori off her feet by teaching her how to two-step. That night, Tori sneakily texted her sister a picture of Joe’s face while he was driving, saying “look at the jawline on this man” (she received a thumbs up in response). On October 14th, 2021, Joe decided to make it official by saying “I could see us being exclusive”. Thankfully, Tori agreed. Just one month later, they couldn’t hold back their true feelings, and dropped the L-bomb! As their love grew stronger, so did their bond. In May 2022, Tori & Joe moved in together with Tori’s two cats, Autumn and Salem. They had a little family now. Much to Tori’s dismay, Autumn even grew to prefer the company of Joe over hers. Alas, the winds of change were blowing West. They decided to pack their bags and their cats and move out to Long Beach, California in April 2025. A decision they would not regret, as much as they miss their friends and family back in Texas. Two months later, in June 2025, Joe went to pick up Tori from the hellscape of an airport that is LAX. On the way home, Tori spotted a stray dog in peril. She insisted Joe pull over and come to the rescue. Joe obliged, and after a stressful chase, they brought the dog home for safe keeping. When they arrived, Tori was so stressed out by the chaos of the dog rescue and getting the poor thing past the cats that she almost failed to notice a bouquet of flowers, and an arrangement of her favorite things, including Diet Coke, on the counter. Then, Joe turned to the confused dog and said “I’m sorry, but I have to prioritize my relationship.” He got down on one knee with a diamond ring from Tori’s mother in hand and said many nice things, such as “I can’t live without you” and “I want to spend the rest of my life with you.” Though, he forgot to ask her if she would marry him. It’s a love story, and baby, she said YES! So, you think you’re here for a wedding? Wrong. You’re too late. Because in July 2025, they tied the knot at the registrar/county clerk. Their only witness was someone they paid $20 for the task. Didn’t even wait for Tori’s sister to get back from Europe to do it, which she totally would have (for free). But their love was so strong and Tori’s insurance was running out, so they could not wait. Quick, clean, simple, no frills. Just their style. But fear not, you are making it to beautiful Dale, Texas on Saturday, December 5th, 2026 for a stunning party to celebrate the eternal love of Joe & Tori, where they are making an exception to the “no frills” rule. Enjoy the evening with friends, family, and the cutest couple this side of the Mississippi, Joemeo and Toriette! Cheers! –Blurb written by sister of the bride, Deb Rod