I first met Sera and Julius in person the night before their wedding at a bonfire they hosted for family and friends at their home in Oakland. I had just flown into SFO a few hours prior, but I wanted to make sure I could talk with them face-to-face before being present to photograph one of the most special days of their lives. Call me crazy, but that’s just how I roll.
Sera and Julius welcomed me into their home with open arms and treated me as if I were an old friend. Their friends and family were just as welcoming and I had a great night chit-chatting by the fire until well past my bedtime. I was so glad I went to the bonfire because it made me so excited for the wedding the following afternoon. Nothing makes me happier than shooting photos of people I genuinely like.
The wedding took place at the South End Rowing Club in the Ghirardelli Square area of San Francisco. The small and intimate ceremony was held at the end of the club’s pier, which had a beautiful bay view–perfect for a beautifully sunny afternoon. Sera and Julius planned the entire wedding themselves and loyal friends pitched in to oversee various tasks throughout the day. It was a classically simple wedding with a DIY feel, which I loved.
I looove bagpipers, so I was really excited to see this guy!
Julius really laid one on his bride at the end of the ceremony–what a kiss!
The Mr. and Mrs. and I hung out immediately following the ceremony for some formal portraits. There wasn’t a bridal party, so it was just the three of us, which was so much fun! This is probably one of my faves from the day.
Here are some more from the day…
A friend dutifully handed out programs before the ceremony
These decadent chocolate cupcakes with lime-flavored cream cheese frosting were provided by Jennifer of Oye Cookie! Not only did they look good, but they tasted absolutely divine!
No matter the wedding, there is always at least one pretty girl in a party dress stealing the show. This time, there were two!
The youngest ladies weren’t the only ones hamming it up, though. I loved how fancy Sera’s mother and grandmother looked.
An extremely cool dancing shot
Sera and Julius were so happy and in their element during the toasts from family and friends
The official song of the wedding was Will His Love Be Like His Rum? by Harry Belafonte. While the song was played, shots of rum were handed out to all in attendance. They all sang along merrily and Sera made sure the rum continued to flow.
And, of course, where there’s rum, there’s a bride and groom getting their groove on.
Sera and Julius, I had such a blast at your wedding. Thanks for inviting me to document it. Hope you’re enjoying Wine Country!
