San Francisco Wedding from Sarah Maren Photographers + Kate Whelan Events

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August 9, 2012

Every image from this wedding is more breathtaking than the last. Sarah Maren Photographers took a beyond beautiful, absolutely stunning day and turned it into a work of art. Planned and designed by the talented Kate Whelan Events, the entire soiree will leave you with your chin on the floor. You very well may want to take a deep breath before you dive into the utter gorgeousness that is the gallery.

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From Kate Whelan Events ... Samantha and Ryan truly are world travelers. Having met when they were younger, in the Philippines, the couple reunited as adults and kept in touch while Samantha finished her MBA in Spain and Ryan stayed busy with work in San Francisco and Napa. Initially, they wanted a romantic and intimate wedding in Napa - but later decided to move the wedding to The Fairmont in San Francisco to better serve their International guest list. We strived to create the same sense of intimacy while still accommodating the growing guest list - all while telling the love story of our traveling duo.

Inspired by their love of travel, we stole from Italian, Spanish and Moroccan design to create their Modern Mediterranean design. Our design-savvy bride created an invitation suite that was infused with vibrant jewel-toned colors like ruby red, golden yellow, turquoise blue, deep eggplant and warm amber. These colors were used throughout the design from tabletop to attire.

Samantha's gown was custom-designed by Veluz. The layers of silk, custom lace and champagne sequins made for a truly stunning bride - especially with a matching cathedral length veil. Her bouquet was filled with both lush jewel-toned blossoms, as well as gorgeous vibrant brooches that added a bit of sparkle to an already stunning bouquet. The bridesmaids all wore custom turquoise silk chiffon long gowns, accented by brooches and carried matching jewel-toned bouquets, while the groomsmen wore black suits and matching turquoise ties and Ryan wore a light grey suit and turquoise tie.

The ceremony was held at one of the oldest cathedrals still standing in California, Old St. Mary's. Guests then traveled to the Fairmont Pavilion Room, by way of hosted Cable Cars, where they enjoyed a vast array of Mediterranean hors d'oeuvres. Drinks were served in the round, beneath the absolutely stunning crystal chandelier that anchored the majority of the ceiling.

Once the cocktails and bites had been consumed, guests were invited across the Rooftop Garden up to the Crown Room - a space where all of San Francisco can easily be seen during an incredible sunset, filled with sparkling city lights. Guests were greeted with a display of Mediterranean treats, which doubled as an escort card to help them find their seats. Each table was swathed in a rustic turquoise drape, accented with white chairs and chargers and topped with a beautiful Florentine-inspired menu tucked into a rustic orange napkin. Lush table arrangements sat atop white carved stands and were filled with Tuscan sunflowers, lisianthus and accented with succulents, white Moroccan lanterns and fresh miniature apples. Elements from their Mediterranean travels were included in the centerpieces and decor, making it even more personalized and special - Moroccan wax candles, Spanish tiles and Italian pottery added a unique touch to each table.

Once seated for dinner, guests enjoyed a delicious five course meal, finishing with a delectable dessert display of mini cannoli, French macarons, and a gorgeous ruffled wedding cake. Post-dinner, the couple had prepared a surprise coordinated Wedding Party dance, games, multimedia presentations and had an amazing photo booth, complete with Moroccan tent backdrop, throughout the evening. Guests stayed late into the night, dancing to the music and enjoying the incredible surrounding city views.