After previously meeting briefly in high school, Paxton was working at Taco Mac with Brendon’s sister, Ellarie. Brendon was deployed in Afghanistan while his sister was on assignment being a match maker. Paxton decided to reach out. For the next 2 months Paxton & Brendon chatted every chance they could until he returned stateside. In May of 2018, Brendon flew Paxton up to his duty station Anchorage, Alaska for a military ball. Although they weren’t sure of each other at first, they soon discovered they were meant to be.

When the commitment to each other was clear, Paxton became a bit fixated on when and how the proposal would happen. After some not so subtle hints to Brendon with no action, Paxton decided to shift her attention to their move to a new home in Augusta. She had convinced herself that Brendon had not purchased the ring but that they were a step closer! On August 5th, Brendon & Paxton woke up for a busy day. They went to the farmers market and had brunch. Paxton drove to her Aunt’s house for a family get together. When it was over, her siblings Allen, Colby, and Taylor, pretended to head back to their own homes. Instead they quickly but safely drove to Brendon's parents home. The cover story was that they were having a small farewell party for Taylor. Siblings & family were stashed in the house peering out of windows. Ellarie was tucked in some bushes trying to capture the surprise. Upon arrival Brendon summoned Paxton to the backyard to come help with setting up a folding table. What she didn't know was Brendon had placed the engagement ring in the grill. He quickly retrieved it and dropped down on one knee before Paxton knew what was happening. Family watched as Paxton nodded "yes", flapped her hands gleefully and hugged Brendon. The family all flew out of the house and had a tearful group hug. Mission accomplished. Paxton was completely surprised!