As we prepare for our big day, we would love to spend time in worship and fellowship with our friends and family. We will be attending the 11:15 AM - 12:30 PM service on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at The Summit Church (Apex Campus), and we would be thrilled if you could join us! This service is an opportunity for us to reflect, give thanks, and start our wedding week surrounded by the people we love. Whether you're a regular churchgoer or just want to be part of this special moment with us, you are more than welcome. We hope to see you there!
We strongly recommend Fount Coffee in Raleigh—it's one of our favorite spots. It's a family-owned, Christian-based coffee shop that serves up amazing brews in a warm and welcoming atmosphere. The only thing to note is that seating can be hard to find, so you might want to grab a spot early! But if you're looking for great coffee and a cozy vibe, we highly recommend
We recommend Foxtail Coffee in Apex for a cozy spot to grab a coffee. They serve up delicious brews in a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a morning pick-me-up.
For a true taste of Southern comfort, we recommend State Farmers Market Restaurant in Raleigh. They serve up hearty, made-from-scratch breakfasts and lunches with fresh, local ingredients—think biscuits, country ham, grits, and more. It’s a cozy, welcoming spot that’s popular with locals, so you may want to go early!
First Watch is a modern, health-minded breakfast and brunch restaurant that emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients and creative flavors. The inviting, bright interior sets a cheerful tone for the day, making it a favorite for both early birds and those looking for a relaxed brunch experience. Their menu features innovative twists on classics—think avocado toast, hearty grain bowls, and unique egg dishes—all designed to offer a nourishing start to the day. Whether you're in the mood for something light and healthy or a more indulgent option, First Watch provides a comfortable and stylish setting with a focus on quality and creativity that's sure to brighten any morning.
Located in the heart of downtown Raleigh, Big Ed’s is a beloved local spot known for its classic Southern breakfast served in a charming, rustic setting. Expect warm hospitality, vintage decor, and hearty favorites like fluffy pancakes, fried eggs, country ham, biscuits with red-eye gravy, and fatback bacon. They serve generous portions and everything is made with that old-school Southern touch. It’s a great place for guests looking to enjoy an authentic and relaxed breakfast before the day gets busy. Pro tip: Go early—Big Ed’s is popular, especially on weekends!
We strongly recommend Scratch Kitchen in Apex as a great spot to check out while you're in town for the wedding. It's a farm-to-table restaurant with delicious, made-from-scratch dishes that change seasonally. They offer a variety of fresh and locally sourced options, perfect for brunch, lunch, or dinner. It's definitely a local gem, and we think you'll love it!
We strongly recommend this spot for the best Mexican food in Raleigh!!
We recommend Tap Station in Apex for a fun, laid-back spot to grab a drink. They have a great selection of craft beers and a rooftop bar with awesome views!
We recommend checking out Morgan Street Food Hall in downtown Raleigh. It’s a great place to try a variety of local food from different vendors, all in one spot. Whether you're craving tacos, pizza, or something sweet, there's something for everyone in a fun, lively atmosphere.
We recommend checking out Howling Cow Creamery in Raleigh. It's a local favorite with delicious, homemade ice cream made from NC State’s own dairy farm. The flavors are amazing, and it's a fun, casual spot to enjoy a sweet treat.
We highly recommend Fresh.Local Ice Cream in Apex. They offer delicious, locally made ice cream with unique flavors that are a real treat. It’s a perfect spot to grab something sweet!
We recommend checking out Drive Shack in Raleigh for a fun, interactive experience. It's a great place to hang out with friends, play a round of golf in their high-tech bays, and enjoy food and drinks.
We recommend visiting the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences in Raleigh. It’s a fantastic spot for anyone interested in science, with exhibits on everything from dinosaurs to marine life. It’s fun, educational, and great for all ages—definitely worth checking out while you're in town.
If you're near RDU Airport and want to catch some aviation action, Natalie and I recommend the RDU Airport Observation Park. It's a great spot to watch planes take off and land. (Free Parking at Observation Park).
We recommend ParTee Shack in Apex. It’s a fun, laid-back spot with a great atmosphere, offering food, drinks, and an exciting mini-golf course. Whether you’re looking to grab a bite or enjoy some friendly competition, it’s a perfect place to relax and have fun.
We recommend checking out Boxcar Bar + Arcade in Raleigh. It's a super fun spot with a wide selection of arcade games, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere. Perfect for a casual night out to enjoy some games and drinks.
We recommend checking out PBR Cary. It’s a fun country bar with a great atmosphere, offering live music, dancing, and mechanical bull rides. Perfect for a night out if you're looking for some fun while you're in town.
We recommend checking out Tin Roof in Raleigh. It’s a lively live music bar with a great vibe, offering tasty food, drinks, and plenty of entertainment. Perfect for a night out if you’re in the mood for good music and a fun atmosphere while you're in town. Please note that this is a very college-heavy bar after 9pm.
We recommend checking out Whiskey Rose in Cary. It’s a country bar with great drinks, live music, and a fun atmosphere. Keep in mind, though, that it’s a college-heavy spot after 9 pm.