It all began as a friendship in high school, with Courtney and Matt being part of the same friend group, but neither knowing what would unfold. After graduation, Courtney went off to Indiana University, and Matt headed to the University of Illinois. They would come home for breaks and hang out with their friends, always staying in touch, but nothing more than casual pals. Fast forward to junior year of college, when things started to shift. They began chatting constantly—having late-night conversations over FaceTime and sharing an endless stream of dog memes through Facebook Messenger. Courtney had a sneaking suspicion that Matt was starting to want something more than just friendship. And she wasn’t wrong!
During Thanksgiving 2016, Matt took Courtney on their first date to dinner at Maggiano’s, ending with the unforgettable joke, “You’ve got this one, right?” when the check came. That playful banter became a daily tradition. By February 5, 2017, they were officially a couple. From college visits and graduation to moving back to Lemont, they built many memories including Tuesday movie nights, golfing at Cog Hill (where Courtney worked during her CPA studies), and endless ice cream trips to Plush Horse.
In summer 2020, Courtney and Matt moved downtown to live with friends, starting a new chapter in their lives. Two years later, they spent four months together at Courtney’s grandparents' home in Henderson, NV, enjoying the pool, golf, and trips to San Diego, Lake Tahoe, and Utah—experiences they’ll always treasure. Courtney and Matt began 2023 by settling into a cozy West Loop apartment, enjoying moments like cooking dinner while blasting Celine Dion, exploring local restaurants, and enjoying the beauty of their nightly sunset view. Their favorite tradition? Friday Treats, celebrating the week’s end with donuts from Doughnut Vault or coffee from Starbucks.
On August 17, 2024, Matt asked Courtney to spend forever with him on the 19th hole at Cog Hill Golf Course. Of course, it was the easiest “yes” EVER. The newly engaged couple spent the rest of the day celebrating with their closest friends and family. The day was nothing shy of perfection! Now, Courtney and Matt can’t wait to celebrate this incredible journey and their love with all of their favorite people on November 1, 2025! They’re beyond excited for what’s to come—because this is just the beginning.