Rory and Payton first met in November of 2022. A local band was playing at Wiseman Brewery and they had each gone with friends to kick off their weekend with a beer and live music. Rory recognized Payton as the pitcher of an opposing kickball team that he had just played against earlier that week. He introduced himself, and they went on their way. Later that night he found an opportunity to talk with her again, and he made sure to get her number before they left. After hitting it off on the first few dates, they began to spend a lot more time together. Their common interest in travel and the outdoors led to many exciting events and trips taken together over the next few years. From concerts to weddings, local trails to national parks, and US cities to international travel, they covered a lot of ground. Some of their favorite highlights are: hiking Stone Mountain, skiing Park City, glacier expedition in Iceland, wine tour in Italy, hiking through the Badlands, camping in the NC mountains. What ended as one of the most special trips for the couple, was not supposed to include Rory at all. With lots of help from Alyson and Morgan, Rory was able to pull off a surprise engagement on the Kilby family vacation to Maine in fall 2025. As Payton traveled to Maine, she had no idea that Rory was also flying to Maine with a plan to meet them in Acadia National Park. After a lot of coordination and a little bit of nerves the plan came together at Little Hunter’s Beach. As Payton walked down the rocky beach taking pictures, Rory was waiting with a rock of his own. He proposed to a very surprised Payton, who said “Yes”! Payton and Rory cannot wait to share their special day with all of you! They are so excited to reach this huge milestone in their relationship and spend it celebrating with all the people they love.