It all started with a Tinder DM—one that Payton left sitting unanswered for about two weeks before finally replying. They began talking at the end of 2020, and after a couple of weeks, Larson asked her on a date. Payton may have bailed the first time (oops!), but luckily, Larson gave her a second chance. Their first date was worth the wait—dinner, Top Golf, and ending the night listening to country music in Larson’s truck. From that night on, everything just felt right. On January 15, 2021, they made it official. For the next few years, they navigated a medium long-distance relationship, making two-hour drives every weekend just to be together. One of Payton’s favorite memories from the early days happened just a few weeks into dating. Somehow, Larson managed to keep her completely distracted while her mom and cousin surprised her with her soul dog, Athena. It was a special moment—and little did she know, Athena would end up falling just as in love with Larson as she did. In September 2023, they took the next big step and rented their first home together. A year later, in one of their favorite places—Key West, Florida—Larson planned the perfect proposal. Payton’s family had her convinced they were just taking sunset photos, when someone pointed something out. She turned around, and there he was, down on one knee. Now, they can’t wait for the next chapter—their wedding day and the rest of their forever.