Mo and Ryan have traveled the world together, exploring the waters and reefs of Australia and hiking Japan's Mt. Fuji for an epic proposal. They're a perfect team of adventurers. On their wedding day, the world came to them. Their friends and family traveled to San Francisco, gathering together for a joyous weekend to celebrate their love.
On a sunny September day, the couple got ready in their respective rooms at the Intercontinental Mark Hopkins. Ryan was poised, on point, ready to go: with a tweak of his bowtie, he was dressed way before any of his six groomsmen. Mo relaxed in her silk bride's robe, lounging with the gals on the bed, swapping jokes and sipping champagne, before stepping into her gorgeous wedding gown.
Entering the vaulted ceiling of Grace Cathedral, one can't help but feel lifted by the grand space. The light was subdued, and the stain glass windows softly glowed from above. The bride entered with her dad, walking directly across the cathedral's Chartres labyrinth, her aim straight and true for her groom down the aisle.
After a beautiful ceremony, and a small detour to pick up more champagne for the thirsty bridal party, the limo parked at the SF Botanical Garden for couple's photos. With its diverse plant collection and varied foliage, from maple leaves to palm fronds, the bride and groom looked as if they traveled the world in a few short steps. Beautiful backgrounds for a stunning couple!
The Julia Morgan Ballroom is a sumptuously elegant space for a wedding reception with its stone fireplaces, contoured ceilings, and hardwood paneled walls. After the cocktail hour, the bride and groom made a grand entrance transitioning to a beautiful first dance. Toasts and dinner followed. The mood was jubilant: the bride and groom's joy was contagious. Dancing was unrestrained and celebratory. Even Mo's grandmother was coaxed onto the dance floor to show off her moves. The guests were game for anything: the conga line, the Italian chicken dance, the electric slide.... bring it on! It was such a pleasure to see families and friends coming together and dancing. Everyone was moving with such enthusiasm and love in their hearts for the couple. Mo + Ryan, danced together, in the whirling center, pausing only to kiss.
Congratulations Mo + Ryan!!! You are both extraordinary: talented, hard-working, hard-playing, and clearly meant for one another. May your happiness and love continue to shine bright and inspire us all.
xoxo,
Sam + Ariel (Bowerbird Photography)
Wedding Vendors
Wedding Planner: Chelsea Events & Floral Design, Chelsea Bowman Wonnell
Reception Venue & Catering: Julia Morgan Ballroom
Ceremony Location: Grace Cathedral
Wedding Prep Location: Intercontinental Mark Hopkins Hotel
Florist: Floramor
Videography: Thomas Hughes Films, with Foster Chen
DJ/Sound: Verducci Event Productions
Cake/Dessert: Jasmine Rae Cakes
Photo Booth: Verducci Event Productions
Transportation: Best Way Limosines
Makeup + Hair: Belle By Marine, Taylor Monroe
Suit: Spoon Tailor
Wedding Dress: Bridal Galleria