We Are Getting Married
Derrick & Paulette
May 2, 2026
Our Story
By Paulette
It all began on October 15, 2022, during East Carolina University’s Homecoming weekend. My DST line sister and I had our weekend all mapped out. She was excited about the grand opening of 13Eleven Nightlife Lounge, where DJ Cleve was spinning. I, on the other hand, had my heart set on CoCO’s Sports Bar and Restaurant—also celebrating its grand opening.
CoCO’s was special to me because all three owners were from my hometown of Wilson, NC—and one of them was even a fellow James B. Hunt High School alum (my homie).
Since we had tickets to both venues, we decided to start at CoCO’s to show some hometown love, then head to 13Eleven.
When we arrived at 13Eleven, we went straight to the VIP area where DJ Cleve was spinning all the classics from our era. I remember “Saturday Love” by Cherrelle and Alexander O’Neal playing—and that’s when I saw him. Derrick.
He was standing just to my left, and we locked eyes for a moment—long enough for something to spark.
Just then, I heard a familiar “Oo-Oop!”—our signature Delta call. It was a group of my Sorors and ECU friends. We exchanged hugs, caught up, and enjoyed the moment.
Every now and then, I’d glance his way—and he’d be looking at me too. He was so handsome!
While my friends and I were taking pictures, he stepped up onto the platform and introduced himself. He reminded me that we were already friends on social media—and just like that, he vanished into the crowd.
Later, as my line sister and I was leaving, she realized she had left her phone inside. We retraced our steps and found it in the restroom. As we walked back out—I saw him again.
This time, he walked over and asked for my number.
I smiled and typed it into his phone, saving my name as:
“Paulette (the one you should be with) Grimes.”
From that night on, we started as friends. And then—something beautiful happened.
I later found out Derrick had only come out that evening to support his friend, the owner of 13Eleven.
That small twist of fate—two grand openings and one bold moment of connection—brought me to the most patient, kind-hearted, and caring man I could have ever hoped to meet.
And the rest… is just the beginning.
Our Story
By Derrick
In the age of social media and the era of unconventionality, I met Paulette before I met her.
Posing in her profile picture! Smiling for the whole world to see. Yet, I never said a word.
One summer evening, I finally saw her in person as she was getting into her car at a close by Food Lion. My thoughts were “that’s the girl from social media, the newly Delta, the one that was posing with all those other girls that were holding up “gang signs!” lol!
“But wait,” I thought to myself! She’s at this Food Lion, which seems odd, especially, with her living in Wilson. Even still, life’s circumstances prevented me from getting her attention.
As life moved on, and event after event began to turn over, I never saw her again, not sure that I was searching.
However, the success of my classmates and friends made the inevitable occur.
The birth of 1311 nightclub, grand opening, ECU Homecoming, and my showing support for it all put me in the same room as Paulette.
I stood by looking important while she stood in the VIP BOOTH with other very important people. Out of shear awkwardness, I stepped up on the platform where she was standing. I took no game nor any confidence with me. I felt so out of place.
We both agreed that we were both “staring” and what came next would be a portrait for the ages. We took a picture and framed a future for ourselves even after that night had ended.
But before it did, the night, I tried something I had never done before. I asked her to put her number in my phone. She knocked my senses loose and locked a space in my life forever.
She wrote:
“Paulette (This is who you should be with) Grimes.”
For a long time, when she called, I was reminded of whom I should be with.
On May 2, 2026, my phone will ring and the caller will be none other than Paulette Clark…my darling, sweet baby, the one that drives me crazy, the one I will forever be with.
Started with a spark and now we are becoming the Clarks!
Event Attractions
Accommodation
A block of rooms has been reserved at the Greenville Hilton, conveniently located just steps from the Greenville Convention Center—our wedding and reception venue. We encourage guests to book early for the best availability and rates.
Documentation
We’d love for you to capture and share the joy of our day! Feel free to take pictures during the ceremony and reception—just be mindful not to block the photographer. Don’t forget to tag your favorite moments with our wedding hashtag: #sparksNowWeAreTheClarks! Let’s fill our feeds with love and laughter!
Meet the Crew
It wouldn't be a celebration without our incredible wedding party! Get to know the cherished friends and family who will be standing beside us on this unforgettable day. Meet the crew that helped shape our love story.
What to Wear
Dressy casual or cocktail attire is welcome for both the ceremony and reception.
Think polished but comfortable—sundresses, jumpsuits, or slacks and button-downs by day, and cocktail dresses or sport coats by evening.
Come ready to celebrate in style!
Parking Area
Self-parking is available at the Greenville Convention Center just steps from the venue. A detailed parking map and directionsis available to make your arrival easy and stress-fress . Just click below to access the map.
Food & Drinks
We’ve curated a delicious selection of meal options to suit every palate —
from savory entrées to sweet indulgences.
You’ll be able to make your food and drink choices directly through our RSVP form.
Stay tuned for menu details as the big day approaches!
Will You Attend?
When & Where
The Ceremony
- May 2, 2026
- 3:00 PM
- 303 Greenville Blvd SW
- Greenville, NC 27834
Happy Hour
- May 2, 2026
- 3:30 PM
- 303 Greenville Blvd SW
- Greenville, NC 27834
The Reception
- May 2, 2026
- 4:30 PM
- 303 Greenville Blvd SW
- Greenville, NC 27834