It All Started with a DM | Courtney and Abbey’s Cozy Crestline Reception

“You have to message this guy for me,” was never a phrase I thought would come out of my cousin’s mouth.

“Jenny, you would adore him! He has a great personality. Just reach out to him… he needs a photographer. What’s the worst that could happen?”

And that’s how I found myself sliding into Courtney Dober’s DMs… in the most respectful way possible.

At the time, I was in my early twenties and had photographed influencers, entertainers, and TV personalities, so when I finally met Courtney in person, I was honestly a little caught off guard. He was just a regular guy who happened to need new headshots. Well… a regular guy with an adventurous Aussie spirit who was completely willing to sneak onto rooftops with me to get the perfect shot.

During our first session together, I remember asking him, “So… no offense, but how did you end up on The Bachelor? You seem so… laid back and normal.”

His answer?

Friends.

It’s always the friends.

And despite everything reality TV can stir up, he had nothing but wonderful things to say about the experience.

Over the years, we’d reconnect every so often for another photoshoot and always managed to stay in touch. Then one day I noticed a beautiful girl showing up on his Instagram, and before I knew it… they were engaged.

It had been a while since we’d seen each other, so naturally, I slid back into his DMs to congratulate both him and Abbey.

And let me tell you…

She is absolutely perfect for him.

We had talked on the phone and texted several times before the wedding, so by the time I arrived at their reception in Crestline, it already felt like I knew her. Meeting face-to-face only confirmed what I already suspected.

When I say she is the perfect match for this man, I truly mean it.

They flow together effortlessly. They laugh easily. Their kindness is evident in every interaction, and their joy is completely contagious. Their love is sweet, playful, and somehow feels like it was always meant to be.

Now… about the day.

I arrived a little early to photograph all of the beautiful details. The reception space was filled with what felt like hundreds of glowing tapered candles and the most organic floral arrangements that somehow made an indoor venue feel like you were dining outside. It was warm, inviting, and incredibly cozy.

Honestly, it reminded me of Courtney and Abbey themselves.

The kind of people who make you feel like an old friend within minutes of meeting them.

As the evening unfolded, the celebration only became more joyful. Thoughtful nods to their Mongolian wedding traditions were woven throughout the reception. The fire crackled, glasses continued to be filled, conversations grew louder, and laughter echoed through the room.

But what I loved most wasn’t the beautiful decor.

It was the people.

I honestly don’t know if I’ve ever photographed so many hugs in one evening. Every direction I turned, someone was smiling, embracing, laughing, or celebrating. Courtney and Abbey’s joy seemed to ripple through every guest in the room, creating the kind of atmosphere you simply can’t manufacture.

It was genuine.

And that’s always my favorite thing to photograph.

I will admit, though… I do have one regret from this wedding.

I never got on the mechanical bull… but at the next Dober shindig, you absolutely know I will.

Courtney and Abbey, thank you for inviting me into your lives and making me feel like family. I’ll always be grateful for the adventures we’ve already shared. I can’t wait for more adventures to come and I can’t wait to see where life takes you both next.

Cheers!