It all started on a hot summer day in 2013 when Drew, Jacob's friend, brought him to his Aunt Debbie's neighborhood swimming pool. Drew's cousins, Charles and Maria, decided to join the fun. Jacob couldn't help but make jokes to Drew on the way home about dating Maria in the future. While Drew thought he was kidding, Jacob invited Maria to a Kings of Leon concert to be his date months later. Over the next year, the two began dating while Maria was still at UGA.

Set for a double-date in Chattanooga, the other couple had a "last-minute conflict" arise and had to cancel. Jacob strongly suggested to Maria they still go since they had a full day planned. After exploring Lookout Mountain and downtown Chattanooga all day, they headed to the Walnut Street bridge. They found a seat at a nearby bench which had sentimental value...it was the first spot they both said, "I love you" back in July of 2015. Much to Maria's surprise, Jacob got down on one knee and popped the question.