Jewish Wedding at Riverside on the Potomac // Lessburg, VA

After 3 postponements, Victoria and Eli finally got to enjoy their Jewish Wedding at Riverside on the Potomac this winter! Although these two have already been legally married for 2 years following a micro-wedding in 2020, we were still overjoyed for the big day. It meant so much to the couple to celebrate with all their friends and family and with Jewish traditions near to their hearts.

While planning their wedding, having fun, spending time with family, and honoring Jewish culture were top priorities for Victoria and Eli. With the help of their coordinator, Maya of Honey and Lavender Events, they planned an entire weekend of events. This ranged from laser tag the day before to a 5k marathon course the morning of the wedding at the venue.

After their first look and portraits, we gathered with their closest family and friends to sign the ketubah. This important tradition honors the Jewish wedding contract, making them legally married in the eyes of their community and faith.

Their Western ceremony was next, which was officiated by Victoria’s sister. They went for a more modern take on a chuppah as you’ll see. They circled the other person 7 times. This tradition is said to create a wall of protection from evil spirits and temptations. They also each drank from a shared wine glass. Following a ring re-exchange, they each completed the fun tradition of stepping on and breaking a piece of glass.

One more fun Jewish tradition you’ll see at their reception is the hora, where the couple and guests dance around in a circle together. Then, the couple is lifted up into the air while seated on a chair. I loved that the couple and also each set of their parents went up!

Victoria thoughtfully incorporated beautiful works of art like Starry Night, and other Van Gogh paintings on bridesmaids dresses and reception decorations. I loved all the thoughtful places the paintings were incorporated! I was so impressed by their artistic talent.

Another thing I’ve admired about this couple since meeting them is their shared desire to better protect and preserve the environment. Their shared interest in this space definitely helped build a strong foundation in their relationship. Victoria’s talked about how much she loves being able to bounce ideas off of Eli, and vice versa. Victoria is the President and Managing Director of The Arctic Institute, while Eli is a lawyer who aids in bringing renewable energy projects together. Needless to say, I’m so incredibly proud of my badass couples!

Keep scrolling to see more from this beautiful Jewish wedding at the Riverside on the Potomac!

Vendor Team

Photography: Xiaoqi Li Photography

Venue: Riverside on the Potomac

Wedding Planner: Maya of Honey and Lavender Events

Catering: Santmier Catering, Purple Onion Catering

Brunch Venue: Lansdowne Resort

Rentals: Purple Onion Catering

Dessert: Ice Cream Jubilee

Florist: Modern Foliage

DJ: Line Check Audio

MUA: Mandy Hollinger