River Ranch is home to countless stories, but few are as full of color, humor, and heart as that of Montgomery John and Bryce Glover. Together for nine years, the couple has built a life filled with creativity, community, and two miniature dachshunds, Reese and Stella.

Montgomery and Bryce first met at a concert in New Orleans and have been together ever since. Bryce grew up in Baton Rouge, while Montgomery, a Lafayette native, sometimes claims Crowley as home “just to see someone’s reaction.” In truth, he’s been in Lafayette since the fourth grade and attended school there growing up—but it wasn’t until he moved away that he realized how deeply the city had shaped him.

After high school, Montgomery lived in a few different places before eventually moving to Baton Rouge so he could finish college. He and Bryce lived there for about four years together before returning home to Lafayette. That time away gave Montgomery a new perspective. “Living in other places really made me appreciate Lafayette so much more,” he says. “The sense of community, the pace, the way people show up for one another—it’s something really special. I didn’t always see it when I was younger, but now I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

Now settled in River Ranch, the couple has created a life rooted in creativity, connection, and a sense of joy that radiates into everything they do.

Together, Montgomery and Bryce run Mood by DMJ, a lifestyle boutique located in the heart of Lafayette’s Oil Center. The shop blends Montgomery’s background in fragrance and design with Bryce’s natural talent for florals, styling, and thoughtful presentation. Montgomery serves as Founder and Owner, with Bryce as Co-Owner and florist. 

Their business is an extension of their relationship—artistic, intentional, and always evolving. (You can read more about their work in this month’s Preferred Partner feature on page ___.)

When they’re not working, you’ll often find Montgomery and Bryce entertaining friends and family at home. “Montgomery does most of the actual entertaining,” Bryce laughs, “while I’m usually in the kitchen or handling the prep. We figured out our rhythm a long time ago.”

Bryce has that extra bit of hospitality in his bones—the kind that knows exactly how to make people feel comfortable without saying a word. He loves cooking hearty comfort food, especially in the fall and winter months. “Gumbo, bolognese, stews—anything that fills the house with a good smell,” he says. His go-to is smothered chicken with rice and brown sugar-glazed carrots, which has become a staple around their table.

Montgomery brings the energy, the candles, the music, and the conversation. “I just love having people around,” he says. “Whether it’s for a holiday, a launch party, or just a Tuesday night, I really believe in making people feel welcomed and celebrated.” 

They also cherish their role as uncles to their niece Parker and nephew Greer. “We love spoiling them,” they grin. “Give them sugar, a toy they don’t need, and send them home. The perks of being uncles are real.”

Their favorite local spots to dine out include Antoni’s, Park Bistro, and Rock N Sake—but more often than not, it’s their own home that hosts the most memorable meals.

Travel is something they both prioritize. Favorite destinations include Switzerland, Turks and Caicos, St. Lucia, and, of course, New York City. “There’s nothing like getting away together to reset and get inspired,” they say. They also love simple nights in with close friends or impromptu gatherings that feel easy and warm.

Montgomery describes himself as “down for anything,” especially if it includes music, art, or the outdoors. “I love being in nature, just not in the middle of summer unless I’m near a beautiful body of water,” he laughs. “But I’ve always loved going down to our camp in Pecan Island to fish with my dad or ride the airboat. Those are some of my best memories.”

He also fully embraces the art of doing nothing. “I love to veg out. Give me music, a show, or a play, and I’m content. I’ve always loved theatre, dance, anything expressive and layered.”

Bryce, on the other hand, has zero shame about avoiding sports. “What are sports…?” he jokes. “I once confidently told someone Travis Kelce played for the Patriots. That was humbling.” These days, he at least knows Kelce plays for the Chiefs—but he’s much more at home watching Bravo or a true crime documentary.

Giving back is something they don’t just talk about—it’s part of their foundation. “We’re proud supporters of Moncus Park. In fact, we’re the park’s youngest legacy donors,” Bryce says. “We believe in building spaces that make people feel connected.”

Their store exclusively features artwork from artists with Louisiana roots, and their mission is to keep traditional Southern charm alive while infusing it with new energy. “We want to breathe fresh life into the elements that have been part of Lafayette for so long,” Bryce adds.

Montgomery nods. “I grew up surrounded by business owners and community leaders who believed in giving back. It shaped me. Since moving home, we’ve made it a point to pour into the Oil Center. There’s so much heart and history here. It just needs people who believe in it again.”

Even with packed schedules, Montgomery and Bryce love life in River Ranch. “We enjoy walking the neighborhood—just not in this heat,” they laugh. “As soon as the first cold front hits, we’re ready to go again. It’s how we unwind, reset, and actually talk about life instead of work.”

Looking back, they both agree that their proudest accomplishment is not just what they’ve built—it’s the life they’ve built together.

“Nine years in, and we’re still laughing, still learning, still dreaming,” Montgomery says. “We’re proud of what we’ve created, but most of all, we’re proud of each other.”