Matthew May Photography — San Francisco, CA — The Blog

High atop the streets of Pacific Heights, the James Leary Flood Mansion provided some of the most spectacular views of San Francisco for Emily & Jan’s wedding day. And it was a rare fog-free day as Jan & Emily exchanged their vows in the rotunda, surround by the huge bay windows. However, when Jan surprised Emily and all their guests by playing his guitar and singing, the ceremony became a very heart-warming moment for everyone. After happily becoming husband and wife, the main hall was flipped into an elegant setting for their reception. Of course, there were some unique touches that were spot-on reflections of Emily and Jan’s fun personalities. Since they had gotten engaged at the World Cup, each guest was given a Vuvuzela — a perfect way for everyone to loudly join the celebration. And, an ice sculpture of the World Cup logo, which doubled as a luge, delivered an alcoholic shot of choice! The night was a wonderful celebration of love and laughter for everyone. Congrats Emily & Jan!

Fall makes for some of the most beautiful, fog-free days in San Francisco, and it was exactly one of these lovely days when Ed arrived and Brenda’s doorstep, red envelope in hand, to pick up his beautiful bride. However, as is the tradition, before Brenda’s family will allow Ed in, Ed has to prove his love and dedication by accomplishing some good-humored “hazing” games. With the help of his groomsmen, Ed not only completed every task, but did so with a style and grace that convinced Brenda’s family that yes, he could be allowed in. Games and laughter were soon replaced by a very sweet reveal for them, which then was topped off by tea and more red envelopes. Afterwards, it was off to San Francisco’s famous City Hall, where at the top of the grand staircase, Brenda & Ed became husband and wife. A few stops at some classic San Francisco locations for photos, and then it was off to a wonderful dinner at Wayfare Tavern where more guests were waiting to join the celebration in the private Bartlett Room. The evening was perfect with loving speeches, wine, an incredible dinner, and of course, delicious wedding cake. Congrats Brenda & Ed!

The University of Santa Clara is where Jessica and Evan first met, so  Mission Santa Clara de Asis, in the center of campus, was the perfect place to return to become husband and wife. Choir voices filled the Mission as Jessica arrived in a yellow school bus, where inside, at the end of the long dramatic aisle, Evan awaited his beautiful bride. Their ceremony was full of love, tradition, and some incredible singing by their wedding party, that filled everyone’s heart. After the ceremony, the Mission Gardens offered a place for the newlyweds to enjoy a few minutes of quiet time together. But not for long — their elegant reception awaited at Villa Ragusa, where everyone celebrated the night’s theme, “All You Need is Love.” In what was a surprise for most everyone, Jessica, being the professional dancer and choreographer that she is, had clearly taught everyone in her wedding party multiple complex dances that were performed with perfection and joyous energy. From the wild introduction of the wedding party to the emotional first dance as husband and wife, their dances left every guest speechless. And with a love like that, their guests joined them in dancing well into the night, where all that was needed — was love. Congrats Jessica & Evan!