AJ & Catie’s Joy-Filled Spring Wedding at Riverside on the Potomac | Leesburg, Virginia

Some wedding days just feel like pure joy from beginning to end—and AJ and Catie’s May 2, 2026 celebration was exactly that. Held at the stunning Riverside on the Potomac, their day was filled with meaningful details, beautiful spring weather, and the kind of laughter that never really stops.

A Perfect Spring Day in Leesburg

The weather could not have been more perfect—cool, comfortable, and softly covered with clouds that created the dreamiest light throughout the day. Paired with the lush greenery that makes Northern Virginia weddings so special in early May, Riverside on the Potomac truly showed off, with its expansive views, vibrant gardens, and peaceful countryside setting creating a calm, welcoming atmosphere for everyone.

A Sweet First Look & Private Vows

Before the ceremony, AJ and Catie shared a quiet, intimate first look that set the tone for the entire day. The moment they saw each other, everything else seemed to fade—the nerves, the timeline, the anticipation—leaving just the two of them.

What made it even more meaningful was how it flowed seamlessly into their private vows. With no audience, no pressure, just presence, they exchanged words they had been holding onto. As Catie spoke, AJ’s emotions surfaced in the most genuine way—tears slowly falling down his cheek. It was one of those rare, sacred moments that you don’t just witness… you *feel*.

Just before that, AJ shared a first look with his mom—and it was one of the most tender moments of the day. As she turned and saw her son, fully grown and stepping into this new chapter, the emotion immediately rose to the surface. You could see the tears welling in her eyes, the kind that come from years of memories all meeting one moment.

It was quiet, powerful, and deeply meaningful—a reminder that a wedding day isn’t just about the couple, but about the people who have loved them every step of the way.

Catie also shared a sweet first look with her dad, with her mom and sister watching nearby as the moment unfolded. One of the most special parts of that moment was when she showed him the sentimental pin on her bouquet—a piece that belonged to her grandfather.

You could feel the weight of that exchange without many words. It wasn’t just about seeing her in her dress—it was about honoring where she came from and carrying that love with her into this new chapter. The emotion was immediate, and while it could have easily turned into a full tear-fest, it was gently kept moving (for everyone’s sake 😅).

A Ceremony with a View

Their ceremony took place on the venue’s stunning patio overlooking the pond and rolling fields. It was one of those spaces that doesn’t need much—nature did most of the work—but it was elevated even more by the incredible florals by Blooms Reston Floral. Designed with an elegant, simplistic approach, the neutral palette of ivory and soft greens complemented the natural surroundings beautifully. From the bouquets to the ceremony details and the gorgeous arch framing the space, every floral element added a refined, timeless touch.

Guests were seated with a clear view of the water and open land beyond, creating a serene and unforgettable backdrop as AJ and Catie said “I do.”

And in one of the sweetest touches of the day, their fur baby Raleigh made an appearance—walking down the aisle and later settling comfortably at the groomsmen’s feet, completely at home in the moment.

Meaningful Details Woven Throughout

Catie’s bouquet held a deeply personal detail—a pin that belonged to her grandfather. It was a quiet but powerful way to carry his presence with her throughout the day.

What made this wedding especially unique was how intentionally AJ and Catie wove their lives and careers into the celebration:

* AJ, who works in sports management, had one of the most fun moments of the day—a full football lineup with his groomsmen, with Catie stepping in as the running back. It was playful, personal, and completely *them*.
* Catie, an elementary school teacher, incorporated her students into the reception in the sweetest way. Around the space were adorable signs featuring photos and notes from her students, adding such a heartfelt and joyful layer to the celebration.

These weren’t just details—they were glimpses into who they are and the lives they’ve built.

Portraits in the Gardens & Fields

Riverside’s lush green gardens and towering trees created the perfect setting for wedding party portraits, offering a beautiful mix of structure and natural texture. But what made this part of the day especially memorable was their willingness to step *beyond* the expected.

Before we started sunset portraits, we made a quick stop in the gardens so AJ and Catie could dig up the bourbon they had buried earlier in the year—a Southern wedding tradition meant to keep the rain away. And somehow… it worked. The skies stayed dry all day, adding just a little extra magic (and maybe a bit of good luck) to an already incredible celebration.

As the evening light softened, AJ and Catie fully embraced the landscape—venturing into the tall, wild grass for their sunset portraits. Surrounded by endless green and golden light, it created those epic, meadow-like images that feel both intimate and expansive at the same time.

It’s not always easy to step into the unknown (or the long grass 😅), but those are the moments that often become the most unforgettable. And for them, it was absolutely worth it.

A Love Story That Started at WVU

AJ and Catie’s story goes all the way back to their years at West Virginia University, making their reception finale all the more meaningful. As the night went on and the dance floor stayed packed, there was one moment everyone was waiting for…

“Country Roads.”

With guests gathered in a circle around them, AJ and Catie stood in the center, singing along with full hearts and huge smiles. It was nostalgic, emotional, and the perfect nod to where their story began.

A Reception to Remember

From the very first song to the last, the dance floor was completely full. This wasn’t just a reception—it was a full-on celebration. The energy never dipped, the laughter never faded, and it truly felt like everyone was all-in on celebrating this couple.

After the party, AJ and Catie shared a private last dance—one quiet moment to soak it all in before the day came to a close.

## A Magical Ending

To end the night, they exited through a dreamy bubble tunnel, surrounded by cheers, glowing lights, and so much love. It was the perfect send-off for a day that felt both magical and deeply grounded in what matters most.

Vendor Team

Venue | @riversideotp
Planning | @tatecoevents
Photography | @katherinebeliveauphotography
Videography | @oakandpearlfilms
Florist | @bloomsrestonfloral
HMU Team | @updosforidos
Catering | @travinialeesburgva
DJ | @djmaskell
Artist | @spencergraceartspace
Oysters | @nominibayoysters
Rentals | @waterfordeventrentals
Transportation | Road Yachts

Final Thoughts

AJ and Catie’s wedding day was more than just beautiful—it was intentional, personal, and filled with the kind of joy you can’t manufacture. Every detail pointed back to who they are, where they’ve been, and the life they’re building together.

It was a day full of love, laughter, and unforgettable moments—and one that no one there will forget anytime soon.

Congratulations to the new Mr. and Mrs. Rock! I wish them a lifetime of love, adventure, and happiness.

If you are newly engaged and looking for a wedding photographer, I would love to hear about your vision for your special day. Let’s Chat!!