In a heartwarming display of friendship and dedication, former Dancing With the Stars troupe member Hayley Erbert endeared herself to fans once again through a touching gesture at a recent wedding. In an Instagram reel shared by her husband Derek Hough, a DWTS pro-turned-judge, Erbert was seen learning American Sign Language (ASL) to deliver her maid of honor speech during Britt Stewart’s wedding to actor Daniel Durant, who was her partner on the show’s 31st season.
Daniel Durant, who has been deaf since birth, exchanged vows with Britt Stewart in ASL, a meaningful tribute to his language and their connection. Erbert’s commitment to learning ASL for her speech was a tribute to this moment, ensuring her words reached Durant in the most personal way possible.
Describing the wedding, Hough expressed his admiration for Erbert’s dedication in the caption of the Instagram post, noting how her ability to speak directly to Durant through ASL during her speech was incredibly moving. The reel showcased Erbert practicing intently, leading up to the emotional moment when she delivered the speech, touching both the newlyweds and viewers online.
The act of kindness did not go unnoticed by fans and friends, who filled the comments section with praises for Erbert’s thoughtful gesture. The emotional charge was palpable, with many admitting to shedding tears at witnessing such sincerity and dedication.
Britt Stewart and Daniel Durant, who first met as partners on Dancing With the Stars in 2022, saw their on-screen partnership flourish into real-life romance, culminating in a Christmas Day proposal in 2023. Their wedding took place at Riata Ranch in Santa Margarita, California, on August 23.
In keeping with their commitment to a deeply personal ceremony, Stewart chose to sign her vows to Durant without an interpreter’s voice, a sentiment echoed in Erbert’s decision to learn ASL for her speech. This authentic expression of love and friendship highlighted the couple’s and Erbert’s respect for communication in its most sincere form.
This story, filled with heartfelt moments, continues to tug at the heartstrings of many, serving as a reminder of the lengths people will go to honor and connect with those they care about deeply. Hayley Erbert’s gesture is a beautiful testament to friendship and the power of love expressed in all languages.