The Distillery NC

Wedding Rehearsal

Beasley's Chicken + Honey

Rehearsal Dinner

The Distillery

Olivia & Brian's Wedding

Fall

We’re so excited to celebrate this next chapter with the people we love most. Here you’ll find everything you need to know to join in the celebration!

Our Wedding

Like many modern love stories, ours began with a swipe right on Hinge. Our first date at a local comedy club set the perfect tone for our relationship – full of laughter and joy. After that night, we both knew there was something special between us, and Brian made it official by asking me to be his girlfriend in February of 2022. Since then, we've built a life together that's filled with simple pleasures and shared adventures. You might find us in the kitchen experimenting with new recipes, cheering on the Durham Bulls at the ballpark, or exploring hidden gems across the Research Triangle area. When we're not working out together or playing with our beloved cat Arlo, we're usually surrounded by friends, adding more stories to our collection. Our story took an even more beautiful turn when Brian proposed over brunch at one of our favorite restaurants. Vin Rouge has been home to many of our most meaningful and romantic dates, making it the perfect backdrop for beginning our engagement. Between mimosas and morning light, he asked the question that would start our forever. Our relationship has grown from that first laugh-filled evening into a partnership built on friendship, shared values, and the joy we find in everyday moments together. We can't wait to celebrate our love with all of you and begin this next chapter of our story.

Our Story

The Proposal | October 15, 2023

Engagement Photos | August 30, 2024

Photos

The Wedding Party

We are lucky to have each of you in our corner. Thank you for your love, support, and for making this moment even more special.

Parents

Christian Miller Walker

Teresa O'Rourke

Patrick & Sheila O’Rourke

Bride's Party

Amelia Walker

Gabriella Bates

Jillian Butler

Laurel Detert

Yazminka Morgan

Babs Singh

Kendall Thomas

Jenna Wertsching

Groom's Party

Kerry Sohn

Tyler Bailey

Drew Clark

Blake Ellingsen

Collin Perry

Casey O'Rourke

Shane O'Rourke

Nick Schwartz

Wedding Party

Q + A

Accomodations

We have reserved room blocks with a couple of hotels in the downtown Raleigh area. Please use the link listed for each hotel to reserve a room within the block. If you choose to use reward points instead of booking directly through the room block, please let the bride know so you can be included in the block.

Please use the link below to access the room block reservation online. To book a room over the phone, please call the front desk at the number listed above and use code "WOW" to book within the Walker-O'Rourke Wedding Group Block. If you are planning to arrive in town before October 17th or leave later than the 19th, please contact the hotel's coordinator, Carolyn Schindler, directly via the email link below, or call the number above to reach the front desk. Please note, the room block booking window closes on September 26th.

AC Hotel Raleigh Downtown

Please use the link below to access the room block reservation online. you are planning to arrive in town before October 17th or leave later than the 19th, please contact the please contact the hotel's coordinator, Lilly Spence, directly via the email link below, or call the number above to reach the front desk. Please note, the room block booking window closes on September 17th.

Hampton Inn & Suites Raleigh Downtown

Transportation

We’re excited to provide transportation for guests staying in our hotel room blocks with The Great Raleigh Trolley! Trolleys will begin pick-up at 3:30pm in front of both hotel locations, so please plan to arrive promptly to ensure you make it to the ceremony on time. After the celebration, the first trolley will depart the venue at 9:00pm, and beginning at 10:00pm both trolleys will be available to shuttle guests back to the hotels. Additionally, ample parking is available at the venue and Ubers/Lyfts are easily accessible in the area!

Hotels & Transportation

Welcome to Raleigh!

We've loved calling North Carolina home for the past four years and can't wait to share a little piece of Raleigh with you! To help you make the most of your visit, we’ve put together a list of our favorite places to eat, drink, and explore while you’re in town. We hope you'll love it as much as we do!

Dining

Raleigh has some incredible food, and we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite spots to help you eat your way through the city! Whether you're in the mood for Southern comfort food, the perfect brunch, or a late-night snack, we've got you covered.

If you’re craving authentic North Carolina barbecue, The Pit is a must-visit. This kitchen serves up whole-hog, pit-smoked barbecue with all the classic Southern fixings. Think hush puppies, collard greens, and mac &amp; cheese. Whether you go for the chopped pork, brisket, or fall-off-the-bone ribs, you won’t leave hungry. Pro tip: Save room for the banana pudding!

The Pit Authentic Barbecue

A Raleigh icon, Angus Barn is the perfect spot for a special night out. This legendary steakhouse serves up perfectly cooked steaks, fresh seafood, and an impressive wine selection, all in a cozy, rustic barn setting. The service is top-notch, and the complimentary cheese and crackers are just the beginning of a truly memorable meal. Definitely don't skip the chocolate chess pie for dessert!

Angus Barn

Located in the North Hills area just outside of downtown Raleigh, this vibrant, Colombian-Mexican fusion spot is a go-to for bold flavors, strong margaritas, and a festive atmosphere. The tacos are packed with flavor (the carne asada and shrimp tacos are fan favorites!), and the homemade salsas bring just the right amount of heat.

Gonza Tacos y Tequila

&nbsp;If you're in the mood for sushi while you're in town, O-Ku is the place to go! This stylish spot serves up incredibly fresh fish, creative rolls, and delicious small plates with a unique mix of Japanese and Southern flavors. Plus, the rooftop bar is a great place to sip a cocktail and take in the skyline.&nbsp;

O-Ku

If you're looking for great food, craft beer, and one of the best skyline views in Raleigh, Wye Hill is the place to be! This lively spot has a fantastic selection of house-brewed beers, creative cocktails, and a menu full of delicious, elevated pub fare. For brunch, dinner, or just a drink on the patio, it’s the perfect place to soak in the Raleigh vibes.

Wye Hill Kitchen & Brewing

If you have a sweet tooth, you have to stop by Two Roosters! This local favorite serves up creamy, handcrafted ice cream in fun and unique flavors. Think Girl Scout Mint, Blackberry Hibiscus, and even seasonal surprises. Whether you go classic or adventurous, every scoop is made with love and local ingredients.

Two Roosters Ice Cream

Exploring

From beautiful parks and trails to art galleries and museums, there’s no shortage of things to explore in this vibrant city. We’ve put together a list of some of our favorites—get out there and discover what makes Raleigh so special!

You're in luck – the 2025 NC State Fair begins on October 16th! It’s one of the biggest and most fun events in Raleigh, packed with everything from rides and games to fried food (hello, deep-fried Oreos!) and live music. You can wander through rows of colorful booths, check out local crafts, or even visit the livestock exhibits.

North Carolina State Fair

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to experience Raleigh, catching a Carolina Hurricanes game is a must! Known for their passionate fans (aka Caniacs) and electric atmosphere, Hurricanes games at PNC Arena are always a good time, even if you’re not a die-hard hockey fan. Grab a beer, cheer on the home team, and maybe even witness the famous Storm Surge celebration if they win!&nbsp;

Carolina Hurricanes Hockey

A true Raleigh gem, Pullen Park is the perfect spot for a relaxing afternoon. As one of the oldest amusement parks in the country, it has a charming, nostalgic feel with a beautiful lake, walking paths, and plenty of space to unwind. Take a ride on the historic carousel, rent a pedal boat, or simply enjoy a stroll under the shady trees.

Pullen Park

From towering dinosaur skeletons to live animals and interactive exhibits, there’s something for kids and adults alike. Plus, admission is free, making it a fun and easy stop while you’re exploring downtown!

North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Night Life

The Glenwood South District is packed with some of the best bars and nightlife in Raleigh. You could practically toss a rock and hit a good spot, but we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites—certified by us, of course!

If you're looking for a fun, low-key spot to grab drinks, The Avenue is a great choice. Located right beside the AC Marriott Hotel, this laid-back neighborhood bar has a great selection of cocktails, local beers, and plenty of indoor and outdoor seating.

The Avenue Raleigh

This country-themed bar delivers everything you want in a memorable night out—from an impressive whiskey selection to an always-energetic dance floor that keeps moving until last call. The expansive space strikes that perfect balance between upscale and downright fun, featuring live music that ranges from up-and-coming country artists to top-notch cover bands.

Whiskey Rose Raleigh

This intimate speakeasy captivates with its thoughtful attention to detail—from the carefully curated vintage décor to the masterfully prepared drinks that elevate classic recipes with modern imagination. The expert mixologists take pride in their craft, incorporating seasonal ingredients and house-made infusions into both traditional and innovative cocktails. What makes this venue particularly enchanting is its ability to transport you to another era while maintaining an inviting, unpretentious atmosphere.&nbsp;

Watts & Ward

This Nashville-inspired hotspot comes alive when local and touring bands take the stage, serving up the perfect mix of country, rock, and pop covers that'll keep you moving. The spacious dance floor is always packed, and the atmosphere is infectiously fun. Trust us, once you're caught up in the live music scene here, you might find yourself staying way later than planned!&nbsp;

Tin Roof

Beyond Raleigh

If you're thinking about turning this trip into a longer North Carolina adventure (which we highly recommend—autumn here is stunning), there’s plenty to explore beyond Raleigh! Check out Durham and Chapel Hill, the other two cities that make up the "Research Triangle," or venture further to the sandy shores of Wilmington and the Outer Banks. If mountain views are more your style, Asheville’s Blue Ridge scenery and craft beer scene are worth the trip. No matter where you go, North Carolina has something special waiting for you!

Just a quick 20-minute drive from Raleigh, Durham is a city that perfectly blends historic charm with modern innovation. This former tobacco town has reinvented itself as a hub of culture, technology, and seriously incredible food—in fact, Southern Living once dubbed it the "Tastiest Town in the South," and one bite at any of its award-winning restaurants will show you why! The heart of the city beats in the American Tobacco Campus, a beautifully restored tobacco factory complex that now houses restaurants, offices, and open-air spaces perfect for enjoying those warm Carolina evenings. Don't miss the chance to explore Durham's Brightleaf District, where historic tobacco warehouses have been transformed into a vibrant neighborhood filled with local shops, innovative restaurants, and buzzing bars. Baseball fans will love catching a Durham Bulls game at the iconic Durham Bulls Athletic Park (featured in the classic film "Bull Durham"), while culture enthusiasts should absolutely make time for a visit to the Nasher Museum of Art at Duke University. Speaking of Duke—the university's stunning neo-Gothic architecture and Sarah P. Duke Gardens offer some of the most beautiful photo ops in the state! For food lovers, Durham's dining scene is a must-experience, from James Beard award-winning restaurants to bustling food halls like Durham Food Hall and Transfer Co. Food Hall. End your Durham adventure at one of the city's craft breweries or distilleries, where you can raise a glass to this dynamic city that proves some of North Carolina's biggest surprises come in smaller packages!

Durham

Only 30 minutes from Raleigh, Chapel Hill captures everything we love about a quintessential college town—but with an extra helping of Southern charm! Home to the nation's first public university, UNC-Chapel Hill, this vibrant community absolutely buzzes with energy, especially along the famous Franklin Street. This historic thoroughfare is the heart and soul of Chapel Hill, lined with locally-owned boutiques, cozy coffee shops, and some of the most beloved restaurants in the Triangle (don't leave without trying the iconic Carolina blue cups at He's Not Here or grabbing a bite at Top of the Hill's rooftop restaurant!). Sports fans, get ready—this is Tar Heel country, and the passion for Carolina basketball is infectious! If you're lucky enough to be here during basketball season, the energy around town is absolutely electric. Even if there's no game on, you can still soak in the sports history at the Carolina Basketball Museum or take a stroll through the gorgeous campus, where towering oak trees and historic brick buildings create a picture-perfect setting for an afternoon walk. For a taste of Chapel Hill's thriving arts scene, catch a show at the historic Cat's Cradle (one of the Southeast's most legendary music venues), or explore the Ackland Art Museum's impressive collection. Nature lovers shouldn't miss the NC Botanical Garden, where you can wander through native plant collections and themed gardens that showcase the region's incredible biodiversity. And foodies, you're in for a treat—from James Beard award-winning chefs to beloved college hangouts, Chapel Hill's dining scene proves that a small town can pack a serious culinary punch!

Chapel Hill

About two hours east of Raleigh, Wilmington beckons with its irresistible blend of coastal charm and historic grandeur! This port city captures your heart with its picture-perfect Riverwalk—a scenic boardwalk that winds along the Cape Fear River and was named "America's Best Riverwalk" by USA Today. As you stroll past bobbing boats and waterfront restaurants, you'll understand exactly why this enchanting city has become a favorite filming location for countless movies and TV shows! The heart of Wilmington beats in its Historic District, where centuries-old mansions and cobblestone streets transport you to another era. Take a guided tour of the spectacular Bellamy Mansion, or simply wander through the historic neighborhoods where massive live oaks draped with Spanish moss create magical canopies over the streets. Downtown's brick-lined streets are packed with unique boutiques, art galleries, and some seriously amazing restaurants—from fresh-off-the-boat seafood to innovative Southern fusion cuisine. Beach lovers, you're in for a treat! Wilmington is surrounded by three distinct island beaches, each with its own personality. Wrightsville Beach is perfect for surfing and water sports, Carolina Beach offers classic boardwalk fun (don't miss Britt's Donuts—trust us!), and Kure Beach provides a more laid-back, family-friendly vibe with the North Carolina Aquarium nearby. Pro tip: Time your visit to catch sunset at Wrightsville Beach's Crystal Pier, or join a sunset cruise along the Cape Fear River—both offer absolutely magical views. And if you're into craft beer, Wilmington's brewery scene has exploded in recent years, offering the perfect way to unwind after a day of sun and sand.

Wilmington

About three hours east of Raleigh, the Outer Banks (or "OBX" as the locals call it) is a stunning string of barrier islands that offers the kind of coastal magic you can only find in North Carolina! This certainly isn't your typical beach destination. Instead of high-rise hotels and crowded boardwalks, you'll discover 200+ miles of windswept beaches, rolling sand dunes, and charming coastal villages that feel wonderfully untouched by time. History buffs, get ready to geek out! Visit Kitty Hawk, where the Wright brothers made their first flight (the Wright Brothers National Memorial offers incredible views from the top), or head to Roanoke Island to unravel the mysterious story of the Lost Colony. For lighthouse enthusiasts, the OBX is absolute paradise. Climb to the top of Cape Hatteras Lighthouse (America's tallest!), or capture that perfect photo of the distinctive black-and-white stripes of Bodie Island Lighthouse at sunset. Adventure seekers will find their happy place here too! The consistently strong winds make this one of the best spots on the East Coast for kiteboarding and windsurfing, while the waves at spots like S-Curves and Jennette's Pier are a dream. Nature lovers shouldn't miss the wild horses of Corolla. These majestic creatures are descendants of Spanish colonial horses and still roam freely on the northernmost beaches; you can even take a 4x4 tour to see them in their natural habitat! And when it comes to seafood, you're in for a real treat. From fresh-caught blue crabs to classic fish fries, the local restaurants serve up the kind of coastal cuisine that makes the OBX a food lover's paradise. Whether you're watching the sun rise over the Atlantic from Duck or catching the sunset over the sound in Nags Head, the Outer Banks offers a slice of coastal paradise that feels worlds away from everyday life!

The Outer Banks

About four hours west of Raleigh, nestled in the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is a magical mountain town that perfectly blends artistic spirit with outdoor adventure! This eclectic city has earned its reputation as one of the South's most vibrant cultural hubs, where the crisp mountain air seems to inspire creativity and craft beer in equal measure (fun fact: Asheville has more breweries per capita than any other U.S. city!). At the heart of it all stands the magnificent Biltmore Estate, America's largest private residence and a stunning example of Gilded Age architecture. The 8,000-acre estate offers more than just a glimpse into historical grandeur—you can tour the spectacular gardens, visit the on-site winery, or stay at one of their luxurious hotels. Downtown Asheville is a treasure trove of artistic expression, where street performers provide the soundtrack to your exploration of locally-owned shops, galleries, and farm-to-table restaurants. Don't miss the River Arts District, where more than 200 working artists have transformed former industrial buildings into vibrant studios. For food lovers, Asheville's culinary scene is a revelation—from James Beard-nominated chefs crafting innovative Appalachian cuisine to cozy mountain cafes serving up comfort food with a twist. Outdoor enthusiasts, you're in for a treat! The Blue Ridge Parkway (America's favorite scenic drive) offers endless opportunities for hiking, cycling, and those perfect mountain-vista photos. In autumn, the surrounding mountains explode with fall colors, creating a spectacular backdrop for adventure. End your day at one of Asheville's legendary breweries like Wicked Weed or Highland Brewing, or head to the Grove Park Inn's sunset terrace for breathtaking mountain views with your craft cocktail. Whether you're seeking outdoor adventures, artistic inspiration, or just want to soak in that laid-back mountain vibe, Asheville delivers mountain magic that'll make you want to extend your stay!