Kathleen and Steve’s wedding kicked off our busy spring wedding season and boy did it set the bar high! Their ceremony took place at St. John the Apostle Catholic Church in Leesburg, Virginia. I’ve had the privilege of photographing a wedding in this church’s historic Chapel of the Immaculate Conception before, but this was my inaugural opportunity photographing in the main church. Let me tell you, as a Catholic wedding photographer, this was a dream come true! Bathed in natural light, this church has a beautifully traditional altar that wonderfully balances the otherwise modern, bright interior. The choir loft also provided a unique vantage point for some truly standout photos.

After the ceremony, we headed off to the reception at Rose Hill Manor. I can confidently say that Rose Hill Manor is one of the best wedding venues in Northern Virginia. We’ve been there before including Nicole and Sam’s wedding photographed by our associate photographer Jo, and I was thrilled to return. With its blend of modern and romantic interior aesthetics and garden grounds, it also offers perfect “getting ready” spaces. On this occasion, Kathleen and Steve’s wedding party used these rooms as a cozy holding area, toasting the newlyweds before the reception festivities kicked off.

Kathleen and Steve ventured out in the rain for a few portraits on the manor’s stunning grounds. There’s an undeniable magic that comes with rainy day photos, a secret every wedding photographer in Northern Virginia knows! The manor’s front porch also served as a fantastic sheltered spot for some additional shots, with beautiful natural light enhancing the scene.

During the reception, Kathleen and Steve donned traditional Vietnamese wedding attire and performed a shortened Vietnamese Tea Ceremony while their guests enjoyed dinner. This merging of two cultures was a beautiful sight, showcasing a unity of two families amidst laughter and love.

As the evening rolled on, it was time to party! This reception was one of the liveliest I’ve ever photographed. Thanks to the impressive DJ skills of Lujan Entertainment, the dance floor was buzzing non-stop, wrapping up a truly unforgettable wedding in Northern Virginia.

Ceremony Venue: St. John the Apostle Catholic Church

Reception Venue: Rose Hill Manor

Bride’s Engagement Ring + Groom’s Ring: Helzberg Diamonds

Bride’s Wedding Ring: NormJewels

Bride’s Dress: BHLDN

Florist: J Morris Flowers

DJ: Lujan Entertainment

Catering: Gala Cuisine

Cake: Minniti Cake Studio