Welcome Dinner

The North Carolina Museum of Art

Wedding Day

Casual light continental brunch

Our Wedding

Once upon a time, a little boy in New Zealand and a little girl in Texas both had curls, big cheeks and a bright vision for the future 🤩

Then on May 17, 2023, these two crazy kids had their first date. Soon enough they were inseparable and meeting the important people, and pets, in each other’s lives. For example, this was the first time that Jason met Norm. Zoom in and see just how excited Norm was to have a new person around the house….😾

Then, before we knew it, Norm fell in love 😻

And then the moments and days started to show what we both knew….a love was developing that we had both longed for. During quiet times at home, amazing trips together and just blending our day to day lives, we each found our lobster 🦞

Our Story

Photos

Jason's sister, the better looking, funnier and cooler sibling (she made Jason write this)

Claire Romanos

Jason is one of Joanna’s “lifers”. Upon meeting in first grade at Porter Elementary in Mesquite, Texas, they became fast friends. Jason is the kind of friend everyone deserves…kind, funny, and caring with an open heart and mind. He has been there through thick and thin, always willing to listen. He brings perfectly timed advice and wit. Thank you for serving in this special role, Jason! ❤️

Jason Fowler

Jason's hip Chicago based daughter.  Funny, beautiful and will be ready to judge your dance moves at a moment's notice. 

Aly Roberts

Emma is Joanna’s daughter. Emma is currently a sophomore at UNC Charlotte and majoring in Elementary Education and Special Education. Emma is thoughtful, hilarious and always ready for a Taylor Swift song. She gives the best hugs as well as spot on fashion advice. So glad to have you by our side! 💖

Emma Triebel

Bobby is Joanna’s son. He is a Freshman at UNC Charlotte studying Business with a focus in Marketing. Bobby has a contagious smile and always ready for a party. He is funny, charming and can quote any Travis Scott lyric at any time. A music lover, you will no doubt find him on the dance floor during the reception. Thank you for being by us on this special day! 💖

Bobby Triebel

Wedding Party

Q + A

Durham Marriott City Center sits at 201 Foster Street in the heart of downtown Durham—an ideal base if you're looking to explore the city’s dynamic energy and cultural gems. This contemporary hotel blends comfort with convenience, directly connected to the Durham Convention Center and within easy walking distance of the Carolina Theatre, Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC), and Durham Bulls Athletic Park.

Durham Marriott City Center

An innovative addition to Durham's cultural landscape, the 21c Museum Hotel transforms the historic Hill Building—a 17-story Art Deco landmark originally completed in 1937—into a vibrant convergence of boutique lodging, contemporary art, and culinary finesse. Stay + See Art: The hotel features over 10,500 square feet of rotating and curated exhibit space, accessible 24/7 and free to the public. It’s an immersive experience where guests and visitors alike can explore cutting-edge modern art while lounging in a luxury setting Historic Meets Modern Design: Inside and out, 21c Durham reflects the elegant Art Deco aesthetic of its past—think terrazzo floors, wood-paneled lobbies, and preserved architectural details—seamlessly reprised with contemporary furnishings and design sensibilities. Creative Culinary Venue: Dining at Counting House, the hotel’s signature restaurant, is simultaneously a cultural and gastronomic outing—where you can savor regional flavors amidst gallery-like sophistication. Comfort &amp; Convenience: With 125 thoughtfully designed rooms and suites (from Deluxe King to the expansive 21c Suite with rooftop terrace), high-end amenities like Nespresso machines, HD TVs, plush bedding, spa and fitness facilities, and pet-friendly options, the hotel offers both comfort and style

21c Museum Hotel Durham

The Durham Hotel, located at 315 E Chapel Hill Street, is a boutique, independently owned gem in the heart of Durham. Housed in a mid-century modern building originally designed by Perry C. Langston in 1968 as the Home Savings and Loan Association, the hotel radiates period charm alongside modern comfort. Recent renovations by Commune (Los Angeles) and Maurer Architecture (Raleigh) vividly preserved the hotel's iconic façade—think metallic accents and a geometric form—while reimagining the interiors with bold color palettes and architectural flair. Highlights include dramatic mezzanines, bank-vault bars, custom geometric carpets, Moroccan-tile lobbies, and thoughtfully elevated common areas

The Durham Hotel

Travel

At the heart of Durham’s revitalized downtown lies Durham Central Park, a community-focused, arts-themed urban green space at 502 Foster Street. Its open Great Lawn, public art installations, Butterfly and Grace Gardens, and seasonal Farmers' Market inside the Pavilion make it a local favorite. Beyond the park, Downtown Durham brims with distinctive shops, award-winning restaurants, arts venues, and historic architecture. Highlights include:Durham Performing Arts Center (DPAC) hosting Broadway shows and touring acts. The historic Carolina Theatre, an architectural gem from the 1920s housing films, concerts, and festivals The striking Downtown Historic District, featuring Colonial Revival, Italianate, and Art Deco styles—including the Durham Armory and Arts Council building. J&amp;J's first date started at the Rooftop of the Durham Hotel in Downtown Durham. For the record, Jason was not late!

Downtown Durham, Inc.

Nestled on Duke University’s campus in Durham, this 55-acre oasis features beautifully landscaped gardens, winding walking paths, and seasonal blooms. Visitors can explore the tranquil Asiatic Arboretum, vibrant flower terraces, and serene woodland trails. Perfect for a peaceful stroll, photography, or a relaxing picnic, the gardens are open year-round and free to the public. J&amp;J have been to Sarah Duke Gardens many times, it was close to Jason's house and Joanna found the Davison building on Duke's campus.

Sarah P. Duke Gardens

The Streets at Southpoint is Durham’s premier shopping and leisure destination, uniquely blending an indoor mall with an outdoor, open-air Main Street concept. It’s located just off I-40 on Fayetteville Road and is one of the region’s top attractions. Shop 'til you drop: With over 150+ stores and services spanning high-end fashion (like Nordstrom and Apple Store) to more affordable brands such as H&amp;M and Old Navy, this center offers something for every shopper. Dining &amp; Entertainment: Grab a meal at standout spots like The Cheesecake Factory, Maggiano’s Little Italy, or California Pizza Kitchen. Catch the latest blockbusters—including IMAX screenings—at its 17-screen AMC theater. Unique Ambience &amp; Design: The mall’s architecture was inspired by downtown Durham and UNC’s red-brick charm—complete with bronze statues of children playing, vintage murals, murals, smokestack features, and pedestrian-friendly pathways. A Social Experience: Since 2024, adults 21+ can enjoy a designated social district, allowing them to stroll with alcoholic beverages purchased on-site—adding to the community feel, especially during events like “Music on Main” concerts. This is also where J&amp;J purchased their engagement presents for each other.

The Streets at Southpoint

Franklin Street is the vibrant heart of Chapel Hill—a lively stretch packed with coffee shops, eclectic bookstores, local eateries, and bustling nightlife. Strolling through UNC’s historic campus, you can visit landmarks like the Old Well, a neoclassical icon said to bring good luck if you sip its water on the first day of classes. Guided walking tours are also available, offering rich insights into campus traditions, architecture, and the spirit of the Tar Heels. J&amp;J have spent many an evening dining in the restaurants that inhabit Franklin Street.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

An outdoor enthusiast’s playground, the park offers:Over 34 miles of trails—22 miles designed for hiking and an additional 13 miles for mountain biking, horseback riding, and multi-use activities. Opportunities for camping, picnicking, fishing, canoe or paddleboat rentals, and nature study at the visitor center. Part of the East Coast Greenway, a trail network stretching from Maine to Florida. Notable highlights include tranquil lakes like Big Lake, Sycamore Lake, and Reedy Creek Lake, as well as unique features like chainsaw-carved art along the multi-use trails. Ecology &amp; Natural FeaturesThe park features rolling Piedmont terrain, mixed forests, and several manmade lakes. It also contains the Piedmont Beech Natural Area, a 61-acre designated National Natural Landmark preserving mature beech and mesophytic forest, accessible by special permit. This is one of the few places that Joanna will hike in!

William B. Umstead State Park

Downtown Raleigh is the historic, cultural, and civic heart of the city—where government buildings, creative energy, museums, eateries, and green spaces converge to create a compact and walkable urban experience. Culture &amp; CreativityRich with nationally recognized museums, historic landmarks, and a strong local business presence—over 90% of establishments here are locally owned Things to DoFrom museum-hopping to grabbing Southern comfort food, playing arcade games, touring a chocolate factory, or browsing local boutiques—all within easy walking distance. Distinct Districts to ExploreFayetteville Street: Raleigh’s ceremonial core lined with attractions like the State Capitol, museums, and grand event spaces. Moore Square Historic District: Around this restored park, you’ll find City Market, art galleries, children-friendly museums (like Marbles Kids Museum), and historic landmarks. Warehouse District: A trendy hub of repurposed brick buildings housing CAM Raleigh, breweries, nightlife, and creative entrepreneurs. Glenwood South: Known for its buzzworthy nightlife, restaurants, cafes, and an energetic social scene. Local Favorites &amp; Unique EatsThings to try:Relax at Moore Square or browse Historic City Market for boutique finds.Catch a live show at the Martin Marietta Center for the Performing Arts or concert at Red Hat Amphitheater Indulge your sweet tooth at Videri Chocolate Factory, or sip at Raleigh Beer Garden—the beer list is huge! Don’t miss the iconic Acorn sculpture (especially during New Year’s Eve celebrations) or the serene Municipal Rose GardenWander into the NC Museum of Natural Sciences or the NC Museum of History for insightful, free exhibits. Recommended Local Itinerary PicksOriginal Raleigh Rickshaw: A fun, breezy way to tour the area.“All Are Welcome” mural: A great photo spot along Fayetteville Street.Downtown dining and cocktail gems: Try insect picks like Crawford and Son, The Pit for BBQ, and Boulted Bread for pastries. For a thoughtfully curated day: enjoy coffee and breakfast, hit a museum, stroll Districts, dine, then cap the night with dessert and drinks—sounds like a solid downtown plan. J&amp;J Recommendations, cocktails at the Longleaf Hotel (Mid-Century Modern Vibes), then Barcelona wine bar for a wonderful Tapas meal and then a nightcap at the Raleigh Times rooftop bar.

Raleigh Downtown

Nestled in the breathtaking Blue Ridge Mountains, Asheville is celebrated for its mix of natural beauty, artsy energy, and culinary flair—earning nicknames like the "City of Land and Sky" and even the “Paris of the South” 1. Explore Arts &amp; CultureDowntown Asheville &amp; River Arts DistrictWander through a walkable core filled with independent shops, galleries, craft breweries, and award-winning restaurants. Street performances, murals, and live music add to the vibrant atmosphere. In the nearby River Arts District, former industrial buildings house over 200 artist studios where you can peek into creative processes—from glassblowing to painting. Art Museums &amp; Historic ArchitectureVisit the Asheville Art Museum in downtown, showcasing 20th and 21st-century American art with a special focus on regional heritage. Admire varied architectural styles—from Neoclassical to Art Deco—in landmarks like Asheville City Hall, designed by Douglas Ellington. 2. Indulge in Gastronomy &amp; BreweriesAsheville boasts the highest number of breweries per capita in the U.S. Thanks to both local gems like Burial, Green Man, and Highland—and major names like Sierra Nevada—beer lovers will be spoiled for choice. The city also shines on the culinary scene, with acclaimed spots like Cúrate, Chai Pani, Rhubarb, and Laughing Seed, plus inventive fare at Sunny Point Café and more. 3. Step Into History &amp; GrandeurNo trip to Asheville is complete without touring the Biltmore Estate—America's largest private home. Explore its stunning architecture, winery, trails, and lush gardens. 4. Outdoor ExplorationImmerse in Appalachia’s natural splendor via scenic escapes: Blue Ridge Parkway—renowned for sweeping views and stunning drives.Pisgah National Forest and nearby waterfalls like Sliding Rock, Graveyard Fields, and Upper Whitewater Falls offer hikes, swimming, and adventure.Trails like Mountain-to-Sea Trail, Mount Mitchell, and Bearwallow Mountain deliver immersive hikes and unforgettable vistas. 5. Neighborhoods &amp; Unique TownscapesBiltmore Village: A Tudor-style, quaint area built for estate workers that now charms with boutiques, eateries, and historic architecture.Grovewood Village and Montford Historic District offer crafts, preserved architecture, and museums worth discovering One of our favorite places to go and if you have a couple of extra days, Asheville should be on the top of your list of things to do while you are in North Carolina. A 3.5 hour drive from Durham.

Joanna & Jason

Joanna & Jason

J&J

Wedding Day