While living in Pensacola Florida, Dakota and his friend Christian flew to Biloxi, Mississippi for a night at the Hard Rock Casino. Once there, they made their way to the pool deck, which ended up being closed for the night. Upon reaching the pool, they were surprised to see other people, which is when Dakota spotted Amanda. They approached her & her friends. After a few minutes, a bet was made and the rest is history!
Christmas was just around the corner, and it was time for Dawson’s first pictures with Santa. After weeks of coordination with the photographer, the plan was made, and the day had come. While pictures were being taken, the photographer’s assistant was able to sneak behind the decorations and place a small wrapped gift box under the Christmas tree. Just before taking the last round of pictures, Santa picked up the gift box from under the tree, saying he had brought a special gift a little early. Santa then handed the gift box to Dakota and he got down on one knee, asking Amanda to marry him.