Lauren and Jonathan met on a sunny August afternoon in 2013 on the picturesque back porch of 1026 W Trinity Ave (better known as "The Swamp"). They bonded over their shared love of electronic dance music and lack of knowledge of Duke sports. Jonathan asked Lauren for her number and shortly afterwards they shared their first kiss at the charming western saloon Shooters 2.

Over the next 4 years, Lauren and Jonathan completed their degrees at Duke while enjoying everything that the university and Durham, NC had to offer. This included the shared trauma of pre-med classes, Heavenly Buffalo's vegan wings, and extravagant fraternity parties (I mean, who doesn't love a good jungle party?).

We were fortunate to spend a lot of time with each other's families. Jonathan learned about the magic of family snake hunts, (kosher) Philly cheese steaks, and the joy of growing our own vegetable garden. Lauren experienced the delights of Belgian cuisine, family bike rides in Knokke, and long walks in the park.

Fueled by their love of travel, Lauren and Jonathan decided to pursue their medical degrees in Dublin, Ireland. Over those 5 years, they supported each other through their studies, traveled much of Europe, and developed a passion for a well poured Guinness. Despite living through a pandemic together as medical students, a lovingly home cooked meal was never more than an hour flight away in Antwerp.

After medical school, the couples match brought them to Phoenix, AZ, where they are currently in residency training and enjoying the desert life (it's a dry heat!).

In 2023, Jonathan took Lauren on a surprise trip to Peru to celebrate their 10 year anniversary. They hiked the Inca trail and slept in a tent for 4 days and 4 nights. When they reached Machu Picchu, Jonathan dropped to one knee and proposed.

Lauren & Jonathan and their families are so excited to invite you to celebrate their love with them! We hope to see you all on the Chesapeake Bay in May.

L&J