Saint Thomas The Apostle Church

Ceremony

Ballroom at Ellis Preserve

Reception

Our Wedding

Julia and Mark's first date story depends on who you are asking. Julia believes the first date was to Red Robin (lol) because she had never been and Mark said he would take her. Mark thought this dinner was a friendly get together (as-if). According to Mark, the first date was when they ordered sushi and watched Indiana Jones. So, reader, Julia and Mark's first date story is very much up to you.

Julia and Mark's First Date

The first vacation this crazy couple took was to Boston, Massachusetts. They stayed in a shoebox apartment and walked thousands of miles a day. They drank tea, ate clam chowdah, and visited all the tourist locations. The best part of the entire trip (and the reason for the trip) was to visit Fenway Park to watch the Boston Red Sox. A truly exhilarating experience which sparked the couples goal of visiting every MLB stadium.

We like our tea... overboard

Julia landed a dream gig in Seattle, Washington. As you know, that is pretty far from New Jersey aka from Mark. Somehow the happy couple made it work. Together they navigated flights, FaceTimes, and time differences. Luckily, after about six months, Julia was able to work from the Pennsylvania area (much better).

Seattle Called for Julia

At one year of dating, Julia and Mark decided to head to Key West, Florida. The vibes? Immaculate. The food? Even better. The drinks? Well, they can't remember. At one point, on a walk to whichever bar they could find, Julia noticed a street sign that was surely an indicator as to her future. Julia, being the bold woman she is, insisted they take a photo. Guess it was really meant to be.

spoiler alert

One of the many yearly commitments Julia and Mark have (well, just Mark) is the Broad Street Run. Broad Street is a 10 mile run down, you guessed it, Broad Street in Philadelphia. Now you may understand why this is just a Mark event. Julia, being of sound mind, does not run for fun. You must also know, this race is the only one Mark runs. He does not train, however somehow makes a personal record every. single. year. The math is not mathing that is for sure. So every year, Mark wakes up at the crack of dawn to run while Julia stays up late making signs to cheer him on at the finish line. This is what they like to call ~balance~.

gone running

Julia and Mark are regulars in Naples. They seldom miss an opportunity to visit paradise. They even made a day trip to Miami to watch the Phillies vs. Marlins game (checked that off the bucket list). They spend Thanksgiving with Julia's family, quick getaways in the Summer, and BFF vacations all in Naples, Florida. Naples is also the place with the BEST Cuban sandwiches. Try not to bring those up to Julia, she is a huge fan and WILL talk your ear off.

sunset state of mind

She said "yes"! Like it was even a question... Earlier that day, Julia and Mark were served breakfast by a private chef (Mr. Bowes). It was 95 degrees that day and Mark had previously hinted, earlier that week, he would love to go on walk. That day, with it being 95 degrees outside, did not seem like a walking day. Furthermore, that day was not an outside day at all. So, obviously, Mark got some push back from Julia. With the help from Julia's younger sister, Georgia, and best friend, Grace, the picnic area was beautifully set up. Evidently, Mark was able to persevere and Julia came home with a brand new rock!

relationship status upgrade

On August 19th, Julia and Mark bought a house! Fun fact, Mark and his Mom had toured this house while Julia was on vacation. Mark called Julia and told her the house was perfect for them and they agreed to put in an offer. Luckily their offer was accepted and they found their forever home.

home sweet home

Our Story

Photos

Georgia Bowes

John Butler

Emily Butler

Matthew Bowes

Alexa Blue

Mathew Fiduk

Grace Brennan

Benjamin Joback

Erin Gray

Jason Russack

Maya Iovacchini

Casey Robinson

Molly Joyce

Christopher Lentini

Wedding Party

Dress Code

The Marriott is down the street from the Ballroom, it is just a 5 minute walk. The last day to book at the discounted rate is Tuesday October 20th, 2026. Please book using the link below or call the hotel directly at 484-424-6950 and mention the Bowes Butler Wedding to book your room. Reservations made through the&nbsp;Marriott&nbsp;Bonvoy app must enter your group code twice ( Ex. JMWJMW adding an "A" for a King Bed or JMWJMW adding a "B "for two queen beds )

Julia & Mark

Julia & Mark

J&M

Ceremony

Reception