Bolger Center Wedding: A Fun and Family-Focused Celebration in Bethesda, MD
When Sonja and TJ chose the Bolger Center wedding venue for their big day, they knew it would be the perfect backdrop to celebrate their love surrounded by family and friends. Located in Bethesda, MD, Bolger Center offered the perfect combination of indoor and outdoor spaces, making it an ideal location for their vibrant and fun-filled wedding. As their wedding planner, I had the honor of helping them design a day that was not only special but also a reflection of their shared love of family, sports, and fun.
All Photo Credit – Megan Beth Photography
Why Sonja and TJ Chose Bolger Center for Their Wedding
Sonja and TJ both come from athletic backgrounds—Sonja played and coached lacrosse, while TJ played and coached basketball. So, when it came time to choose a venue for their wedding, they wanted something that felt spacious, lively, and comfortable for their large group of family and friends. Bolger Center was perfect because it offered the right combination of elegance and flexibility. The venue’s grand indoor spaces and beautiful outdoor areas allowed for a seamless flow from the ceremony to cocktails, dinner, and dancing.
Bolger Center’s versatility made it easy to integrate Sonja and TJ’s vision for their wedding. They were able to use the outdoor areas for oversized lawn games, which brought out the competitive side of their guests while still maintaining the fun and relaxed atmosphere they were aiming for. The venue’s large reception area was perfect for their guest list, and we made use of the space to create a dynamic and engaging environment that kept the energy high throughout the night.
Planner – O’Neil Events
Ceremony – Blessed Sacrament Church
Venue – Bolger Center
Photographer – Megan Beth Photography
Videographer – Bella Vista Weddings
DJ –DJ Garret
Cake – Classic Bakery
Transportation – Vintage Limos
Florist – Da Vinici Florist
All Photo Credit – Megan Beth Photography
A Day Full of Fun, Family, and Tradition
The wedding day was everything Sonja and TJ hoped for—full of family, fun, and laughter. The weather was perfect for an outdoor ceremony at Blessed Sacrament Church in Bethesda, MD, followed by a vibrant reception at Bolger Center. The couple’s vibe was energetic and joyful, as they wanted their wedding to feel like a celebration of their love and their shared passions for athletics and family.
One of the things I loved most about this wedding was how Sonja and TJ incorporated family traditions and personal touches into the day. The floral backdrop for the photo booth was a unique touch they planned months ahead of time. It was still relatively rare to have this type of backdrop at weddings back then, and it turned out to be a big hit with their guests. It was a perfect way for everyone to capture memories in a creative and fun way.
A Unique Touch: The Father of the Bride’s Surprise
A standout moment during the day came when the father of the bride surprised Sonja with a vintage car to take her to the church and later drive the newlyweds to the reception. It was such a sweet and memorable surprise that added another layer of specialness to the already emotional day. The vintage car became a unique part of their wedding story and provided an unforgettable photo opportunity that the couple and their families will treasure forever.
All Photo Credit – Megan Beth Photography
Why Sonja and TJ Chose O’Neil Events
I had the privilege of working with Sonja and TJ because of our connections within the local community. We initially met through coaching—Sonja and I coached against each other—and my mom also worked at the same school where TJ taught. I had helped Sonja’s sister plan her wedding, and when it came time for her own, they knew I was the right person to help bring their vision to life. I was honored to be chosen as their planner, especially knowing how close-knit their families were and how important it was for them to have a day that reflected their personalities.
Our Role: Bringing Their Wedding Day Vision to Life
One of the key aspects of Bolger Center wedding planning is ensuring the outdoor spaces can be utilized to their fullest potential. Sonja and TJ wanted to have oversized lawn games for their guests to enjoy during the cocktail hour. It was important to make sure that everything flowed smoothly and that the games fit well with the overall vibe of the wedding. I worked with the team at Bolger Center to ensure that the logistics of the outdoor space were handled, and guests enjoyed the games as part of the fun and relaxed atmosphere.
In addition to the lawn games, we also worked with the couple to create a cohesive design that made the most of the indoor and outdoor spaces. The lighting and decor were key elements that helped set the mood for the night. We used lighting to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere inside the venue and made sure everything was designed to reflect the couple’s vibrant personalities.
About O’Neil Events: Your Partner for a Dacor Bacon House Wedding
At O’Neil Events, we specialize in creating stress-free, meaningful, and personalized weddings for couples in Washington, DC, and the surrounding areas. Whether you’re planning your wedding at Bolger Center, another beautiful Bethesda MD venue, or anywhere else, we’re here to help bring your vision to life. With over 15 years of experience, we know how to make your big day seamless and unforgettable.
If you’re dreaming of a Bolger Center wedding, or if you need help planning your wedding anywhere in the DC area, I’d love to be part of your journey. Let’s work together to create a wedding that is everything you’ve imagined!
