From coast to coast, a love meant to be.
September 2, 2023—The River View at Occoquan, Lorton
Grooms Tommy Dierkes and Michael Ross traveled from California to find their perfect riverfront escape in Lorton. “We fell in love with our River View the moment we saw it,” Michael says. “The setting on the water and the wall of windows made it feel so light and serene.” With Tommy’s parents living in nearby Arlington and unable to fly, NoVa was the ideal choice for both location and atmosphere.
The two met in 2017 on the night before the Fourth of July and exchanged numbers. The next day, Michael sent Tommy a photo of the themed party snacks he was making—ironically, the exact same treat Tommy’s mom made for the holiday. It seemed fate was at play. Four years later, Michael proposed as they decorated their Christmas tree, capturing the moment as part of a holiday time-lapse tradition. It was intimate and meaningful—just like their wedding day.
He Said, He Said
Personal touch?
Tommy said: We had specialty cocktails named after our dogs Dexter and Harry, which were a hit! I also made a slideshow of favorite photos with guests that played during cocktail hour.
First dance song?
Michael said: Tommy loves the movie A Star is Born, so we chose Lady Gaga’s “Is That Alright?” from the soundtrack.
Tommy said: It starts out, “A little boy, a little girl…” so we had to find a special edit.
Cake flavor?
Tommy said: Instead of a wedding cake, we went with a donut wall. It made for a great visual element and was a huge hit with our flower girl and ring bearer.
Advice for the engaged?
Tommy said: Hire Andrea Green!
Michael said: Remember that there’s no one way your wedding “should” be and not to get hung up on small details.
The Details
Photography: Edward Underwood
Planner: Andrea Green Events & Design
Florals: Eilena Mercer-Ehmann, Event Loft PA
DJ: Marquee Artists
Tuxedos: The Black Tux
Donuts: Duck Donuts
This article originally appeared in the February 2025 issue.
