In 2022, Kiarra and Don met at an Italian restaurant on Aviano Air Base, just an hour away from Venice, Italy. He was new to Aviano and his frat brothers were introducing him to the “who’s who” around base. What Kiarra didn’t know was that Don already had his eye on her. Classic Don, he asked his friend to ‘hook him up,’ only to be told he’d have to handle that part on his own. The next day, they all decided to grab some sushi (yes, in Italy) before a mutual friend’s upcoming deployment. During dinner, the Kiarra and Don exchanged glances and shared a few jokes.
Don says that from that moment on, Kiarra never took her eyes off him. While Kiarra says, Don was pulling out all his best (and worst) jokes—clearly trying to make an impression! They went on their first date on Valentine’s Day and the two have been inseparable ever since. Check out the details of their timeless engagement session, captured by our Bridal Suite member Nativ Lens.
Bride: Kiarra Brown, 33, Military Lawyer
Groom: Donald Gardner, Jr, 35, Non-Profit Manager
Photography By: Nativ Lens
Place of Residence: Tampa, FL
Engagement Shoot Location: Grand Bohemian Hotel, Orlando, FL
Wedding Date: April 7, 2025










Engagement story (please tell us the story of your engagement proposal)
Don surprised me on our 1-year anniversary with the most beautiful evening. I thought we were just going to have dinner, drinks, and stay at one of our favorite downtown hotels. Instead, he took me to the stunning Tampa Edition, where we had an incredible dinner.
When we returned to the room, I walked into a suite filled with rose petals, champagne, chocolates, and my favorite flowers—white lilies. Then, I found a card that said, ‘Congratulations to Mr. and Mrs. Gardner.’ I laughed, thinking it was a funny mistake since we weren’t even engaged yet. When I turned around to show Don, he was on one knee with a ring, asking me to marry him. It was the most perfect, romantic moment—one I’ll cherish forever.
What are you most looking forward to about your wedding?
We are so excited to share this deeply meaningful moment with each other, surrounded by the people we love most. Celebrating our commitment in the presence of family and friends makes this day even more special. It feels like the beginning of a beautiful new chapter, and we can’t wait to create memories that will last a lifetime.







Congratulations to the happy couple!
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