In late 2019, as dating apps were becoming more popular, Maddie and her friends joined Hinge with little expectation of finding anything serious. Around that same time, Brett also joined Hinge, thanks to his roommate who created a profile for him. Fast forward to early 2020, and Maddie comes across a cute guy named Brett. His response to the prompt "ideal first date" was "drinks and a Stars game," and this caught her eye. Maddie had lived in Dallas almost all her life but had never attended a professional hockey game, and she shared this news with Brett. Two weeks later, they met and headed to their first date at the American Airlines Center. Brett and Maddie hit it off, and the Stars defeated the Arizona Coyotes – that's a win-win!

One Saturday morning in January of 2024, Brett, Maddie, and Rafa set out for a walk at their favorite spot – Maddie's parents' ranch in Bosque County, TX. After making it up a hill to their usual turnaround point, Brett looked at Rafa and said, "Okay Rafa, it's time," then dropped down to one knee. Maddie said yes, and to her surprise, her parents and Brett's family emerged from their hiding place behind the trees. The rest of the weekend was filled with cake, tennis, and ruthless games of Uno Flip – it was perfect. Now, their favorite place is even more special, and it serves as the backdrop for these cherished photos!