Once upon a time in a kingdom far, far away lived the beautiful princess Jessica and her strapping prince Cassidy. They decided to wed and created one of the most spectacular events my lens has ever had the privilege to capture. It was truly the real-life version of Jessica’s dream of an “enchanted fairytale” with crystals dripping from moss-and-rose-adorned trees, gold accents everywhere, and a glorious pink palette set against the magnificent 300′ domed rotunda in San Francisco City Hall. The head of the coordination and design of this magical fete was the incredible Maxine Andrew of Instead of You. It couldn’t have been more perfect.
Jessica was a true vision in her flowy Reem Acra strapless gown and Swarovski-speckled veil.
She and Cassidy opted to see each other before the ceremony so they could take advantage of the stunning architecture of City Hall before the guests arrived. Cassidy was on cloud nine once he saw his beautiful bride. I don’t think he saw anyone else the rest of the day. Photographers? What photographers?
The ceremony was executed beautifully. Guests were treated to an entrance of gold silk drapes and a fuchsia aisle runner to sit at gold chiavari chairs, each with programs and individually bagged jade, a tribute to Jessica’s heritage.
Jessica walked around the Mezzanine to meet her father at the top of the grand stairway as a soloist sang Ave Maria. The humorous and touching ceremony was presided over by one of Cassidy’s best friends.
We took a few quick shots outside of City Hall immediately following the ceremony when the newlyweds were simply enamored with each other.
The cocktail hour was on the Mezzanine level. Paula LeDuc Fine Catering wowed the guests with passed hors d’ouerves of crispy prosciutto cups, peking duck mini tacos, caviar beggars purses, ahi tuna cones, figs with marscapone cheese, and sweet bruschetta with fromage blanc.
Meanwhile, the rotunda was transformed into a deep fuchsia dining area with gold candle centerpieces surrounded by roses, moss, and oversized crystals. Each table setting had its own beautiful bloom.
Dinner was interspersed with toasts and dancing.
Jessica and Cassidy celebrated their wedding with a first dance of Marvin Gaye’s “Let’s Get it On”. I loved it!
Jessica and Cassidy then let their guests into the North Light Court, transformed into the “Pink Crystal Ballroom”. The room was altogether playful, lush, festive, and fantastic. It included huge crystal chandeliers, 24′ crystal columns, a hot pink lounge area, and an awesome dessert bar. The pink lighting of the day became deeper as the night progressed – this crystal ballroom was bathed in delicious hot pink light.
The dessert bar boasted delicious concoctions of s’more bites, raspberry macaroon sandwiches, caramel cheesecake lollipops, banana split trifles, and strawberry topiary trees.
The band, David Martin’s House Party, got the party on its feet.
Jessica darted off to change into a traditional Chinese cheongsam in a non-traditional (what else?) hot pink with the most amazing blue sequined peep toed Badgley Mischka pumps. Jessica’s father surprised her by singing a special song to the couple while silk petals fell from the ceiling.
It was an “enchanted fairytale” indeed.
Jessica and Cassidy, words can hardly describe the day. (Thank goodness I’m a photographer.) I wish you both a fairytale that never ends!
Nothin’ wrong with love
If you want to love me
Just let yourself go
Oh, baby
Let’s get it on
~ Marvin Gaye, “Let’s Get it On!”
p.s. Sadly, I couldn’t photograph Jessica and Cassidy’s engagement session since they were across the country. Jose Villa did a great job with them a few months before the big day.
