Karoline Leavitt, the youngest White House Press Secretary in U.S. history, is no stranger to the spotlight. However, while her career has made headlines, little is known about the man by her side: Nicholas Riccio. In this article, we take a deep dive into Riccio’s life and the intriguing details about how he built a multi-million-dollar empire, along with the role he plays in Karoline’s meteoric rise. Prepare to be inspired by his story.
A Love Story That Began with Fate
The unlikely romance between Karoline Leavitt and Nicholas Riccio began at a political event in 2022. While Karoline was attending a gathering in New Hampshire, a mutual friend introduced her to Nicholas—a businessman whose success had been built behind the scenes. What seemed like a typical political networking opportunity turned into an enduring love story.
Nicholas, 32 years her senior, does not crave the public spotlight, preferring to remain out of the limelight despite his considerable achievements. While Karoline shines on TV and in political circles, Nicholas stays focused on his real estate ventures.
Despite their contrasting personalities—Karoline being outspoken and driven by public challenges, while Nicholas prefers working behind the scenes—the couple shares a deep mutual respect and support for one another. Karoline once said, “At first, the age gap seemed unusual, but Nicholas supported me unconditionally and built a successful career that allowed me to pursue mine.” Their relationship isn’t just romantic—it’s a blend of strategy, vision, and shared goals.
From Homelessness to a Real Estate Empire
Nicholas Riccio’s rise from nothing to success is nothing short of remarkable. Born in New Hampshire, Riccio didn’t have a silver spoon handed to him. At just 18, after his parents’ divorce, he found himself homeless and without financial support. But instead of succumbing to his circumstances, he worked hard at a supermarket to pay for his college education.
Riccio’s real turning point came when he enrolled in a real estate course. While many investors were chasing after luxury properties, Nicholas saw potential in neglected and rundown buildings. Through smart investments, leveraging opportunities, and a solid strategy, he transformed abandoned apartments and underdeveloped neighborhoods into profitable assets. Within a decade, Riccio owned 70 rental units and 15 commercial buildings, making millions from passive income.
His real estate business, Riccio Enterprises LLC, now spans across key areas in New Hampshire and Boston. With a calculated focus on intrinsic property value, Riccio’s empire is valued at $45 million, all built without any inherited wealth or privileged connections. His story proves that success is a matter of vision, hard work, and an entrepreneurial mindset.
A Personal Connection and a Promise
Beyond business, Nicholas Riccio’s personal life has unfolded with as much intention as his career. In 2023, on Christmas Day, Nicholas proposed to Karoline in an intimate and meaningful moment. The simple act of him getting down on one knee, with a diamond ring in hand, marked the beginning of a new chapter in their shared life.
In a world where grand gestures often dominate, Nicholas and Karoline chose to keep their engagement personal, away from the public eye. Just one day after, Karoline shared a heartfelt Instagram post about the moment, writing, “The best Christmas of my life. I get to marry the man of my dreams.”
In 2024, they exchanged vows in a private ceremony. Karoline, who thrives in the political spotlight, kept her wedding low-key, reflecting the balance they have between their public personas and their personal lives.
Building a Life Together
The couple’s life together is anything but typical. After Karoline gave birth to their son, Nico, just days later, she was already back in the political spotlight—demonstrating her resilience, dedication, and ability to balance family and career. Despite the demands of her role, Karoline and Nicholas have managed to create a life based on shared commitment and support.
Nicholas, a devoted partner, continues to play a vital role in their shared journey, providing unwavering support behind the scenes. His dedication to both family and business success has been an anchor in Karoline’s life.
Success Through Strategic Balance
One of the secrets to their success lies in how they manage their time. Both are deeply committed to their roles—Karoline in the political sphere, Nicholas in business—but they’ve structured their lives in a way that allows them to thrive without burning out. Their disciplined schedules allow for both high-level work and quality family time.
Nicholas’s ability to manage business pressures while prioritizing family has been integral to their success. He emphasizes fitness, stress management, and maintaining mental clarity to keep up with the demands of his business empire. Karoline, meanwhile, manages the balance between her high-profile career and the well-being of their family, ensuring self-care remains a priority despite the high stakes.
Real Estate, Wealth, and Legacy
Karoline and Nicholas’s approach to real estate reflects their broader approach to life—careful, strategic, and long-term. Karoline’s Washington, D.C. home is a prime example of her commitment to investing wisely, blending style with functionality to create a space where work and personal life merge seamlessly.
Additionally, their New Hampshire property represents both a sentimental connection to Karoline’s roots and a smart investment. The home’s rustic charm allows for respite away from the demands of D.C. while remaining a key asset in their growing portfolio.
What’s Next for the Power Couple?
With a growing influence in both the political and real estate landscapes, it’s clear that Karoline and Nicholas Riccio are far from finished. Their story is one of strategic partnerships, from politics to business, creating a legacy that continues to build on each success.
As they continue to navigate both their personal and professional paths, one thing is certain: the future holds even more possibilities for this power couple.