Through the luck of the internet gods, Preston and Autumn stumbled upon each other online mere days after Autumn's 29th birthday. Within days of getting to know each other, Preston invited Autumn out for their first date. They ventured to a local favorite burger bar, Jack Brown's, and enjoyed easy conversation and fried Oreos. Preston arrived early, as usual, and Autumn arrived late, also as usual, but neither minded and ended up losing track of time. Preston, at the time, was in the navy and considering leaving it to pursue his dream career of firefighting. With the instant chemistry between them, he shared this career crossroads dilemma with Autumn over their sweet potato fries and burgers. Autumn didn't let this big life decision spook her but instead offered advice the best way she knew how. Preston walked her back to her car and sealed the deal with a kiss. Autumn began dreaming of their next date. And they both knew then that it was just the beginning.

Autumn and Preston enjoy walking their dogs Wesson and Hobie, especially on trails. Behind a local school is a trail they frequented often and enjoyed because of its solitude and privacy. On a warm and sunny St. Patrick's Day, Preston asked Autumn to take the dogs to the trail for a midday walk. As they wandered through the fallen leaves watching the dogs speed ahead, Preston fell back and went down on his knee. He asked Autumn to marry him and be his forever. In shock, Autumn could only muster, "Are you serious? Oh my gosh!" When he asked if that was a "yes", she said, "It's an overwhelming yes!" It wasn't until afterward that Preston realized it was St. Patrick's Day, but now the two have a reason to feel lucky every year.