The Gilason Family: Building a Life of Love, Community, and Dance

Photo Credit: Karen Presecan Photography

The Gilason family is full of life and energy. Residing in Stafford, Virginia with Amy and Nick Gilason at the helm, their household buzzes with the energy of their four boys—Brayden, 13, identical twins Carter and Colten, 11, and Rory, 9. Together, they navigate the complexities of daily life, balancing careers, school activities, and community involvement while fostering a deep sense of family and togetherness.

High School Sweethearts Turned Lifelong Partners

Amy and Nick's journey together began in high school. "We started dating my junior year; he was a senior," Amy recalled. Their first memorable encounter involved a humorous mishap: "Our first flirt or encounter was at a friend's house, and we accidentally ripped a page out of the phone book looking for the phone number to Outback!" After dating for a decade, they married and embarked on a life filled with love and shared dreams.

Nick attended Virginia Tech and served in the Army Reserves, being called to active duty after 9/11 and spending a year in Kuwait. Upon returning, he pursued a passion for building homes, eventually opening Green Horizons Construction LLC, which has flourished for the past ten years. Amy's academic path took her from local schools in Stafford to a Bachelor's Degree in Business Finance from George Mason University and a Master's Degree in Management and Leadership from Liberty University. She has dedicated over 16 years to her full-time role at Marine Corps University on Quantico Marine Corps Base.

Raising Four Active Boys

The Gilason boys are an enthusiastic team, too, with each son bringing their unique energy and interests to the family dynamic. 

"All four boys are on a Stafford Soccer Travel team! Thankfully, the twins made the same team, but we still travel a lot for games," Amy said. Brayden attends Rodney Thompson Middle School, where Carter and Colten will join next school year, while Rory will be the lone Gilason at Winding Creek Elementary. 

"Math is definitely the boys' best subject," Amy said, "although Brayden is really enjoying Spanish this year."

While Amy may have initially hoped for a daughter to share her passion for dance, she finds fulfillment in her role as the Director and a teacher at The Dance Spot, the studio her mother, Susie Shoop, founded 28 years ago. 

"I still love it after all these years, and yes, I still dance with the girls when I'm teaching, although I can't do everything I used to be able to do when I was younger."

Family Hobbies and Interests

Family time is precious to the Gilasons. They indulge in numerous hobbies and interests when not engaged in work or school activities. Amy is an avid reader, enjoying various genres. 

"I read almost every night, something from the Bible and then a book of my choice," she said. "I'm hoping I'll rub off on the boys."

Traveling, especially to the beach, is a shared passion as well. "The beach is my favorite, specifically Atlantis in the Bahamas, where my husband and I had our wedding, and the Outer Banks– it is just so peaceful!"

Through volunteer work, Nick and Amy also ensure their children experience a sense of community. The Dance Spot frequently participates in local performances, including the Stafford County Fair and various school and church events. "We always do the Stafford County Fair, and in the past, we've done some performances at local schools, churches, and the Stafford County and Quantico parades," Amy explained.

Deep Roots in Stafford

Stafford has been home to the Gilason family for over 35 years. 

"610 looked very different back then," Amy recalled, but the sense of belonging and the strong community ties remain the same. Having close family nearby as well has been crucial to their lives. 

"Stafford is my home, and the studio has always been a huge part of my life," said Amy, who has also enjoyed the proximity to family here in Stafford. "My mom babysat my boys for me when I went to work, and she's been a huge help in helping with childcare," said Amy.

The Gilasons live on Woodlot Court, a street known for its close-knit community. Amy and two of her best friends, who live on the same street, share a unique bond. 

"Between the three of us, we have ten kids that have all grown up together, and our husbands are also terrific friends," Amy explained. "The FRAMILY is our tribe; we rely on each other daily for carpooling, grabbing something at the grocery store, having a quick hangout for a good laugh, traveling together, etc."

The street comes alive in the warmer months, with children playing outside, moms chatting, and dads gathered around a fire pit.

Treasured Places and Family Adventures

The Gilasons love exploring local attractions, with downtown Fredericksburg being a favorite. 

"We LOVE downtown Fredericksburg, being able to walk, shop, explore, and eat—it's a great place to take the kids or enjoy a date night," Amy said. Kings Dominion, the Paragon movie theater, and Sky Zone are popular with the boys. Recently, the family has enjoyed the convenience of the nearby Embrey Mill Town Center.

Vacationing is a cherished family activity, with frequent trips to the Outer Banks and annual visits to Disney World and Great Wolf Lodge in Williamsburg, VA. 

"Atlantis in the Bahamas is a dream come true! We were married there and still love it," Amy shared. These trips offer precious family time and the chance to create lasting memories.

A Life of Love, Community, and Dance

Balancing demanding careers, a bustling household, and a deep commitment to their community, the Gilason family finds joy in the everyday moments and the strong bonds they have built. Their story is a fantastic reminder that, with dedication, love, and support, a family can thrive and dance through life together, creating meaningful memories and a great sense of fulfillment. The Gilasons continue to inspire those around them, embodying the spirit of togetherness and community that defines Stafford.