San Francisco City Hall Elopement | Olga + Jim
This was a San Francisco city hall elopement, but they originally wanted an elopement in the redwoods, which I’m totally used to too, but they pivoted to do a city hall elopement with San Francisco as the backdrop instead. But they also wanted not the tried and true version of San Francisco. No Golden Gate Bridge. No cable cars. They wanted architecture and bay views, clean lines. Something that felt a little more elevated.
So not without a hitch but the couple headed to city hall and arrived early, but realized they had forgotten their marriage license! Which if you know, is kind something you need to do the ceremony!
They live in Oakland. So going back and forth wasn’t exactly quick. But they have a neighbor who is apparently the real MVP because he agreed to go (break) into their house, grab the license, and get it back to the city in time for their appointment. It was a little (ok a lot) nerve wracking. I kept saying it would be fine (even while checking the time in my head), and it was. Honestly it gave us more time for portraits before the ceremony, which I was not mad about. And the neighbor did in fact make it! Thanks neighbor for saving the day! Our hero!
Family and their heritage was very important to them. The bride is from Ukraine and her family brought a Rushnyk for her. It’s a long embroidered cloth couples stand on during their vows. Even though this was a courthouse wedding, the officiant let them incorporate it, which was really kind. It was a simple gesture and but so meaningful and a great personal touch, without being a production.
After the ceremony and family portraits at city hall, we headed to North Beach, just the couple and the groom’s sister and partner (who helped chauffer us around!). We walked around and headed to all the spots: City Lights Bookstore. The Zoetrope cafe building. Vesuvio Cafe and the alley next to it. Moving thru crowds and traffic. Crossed streets and let the city move around us. Stopped at spots when I was squealing about the light or wind. I LOVED it.
If you’re planning a San Francisco city hall elopement but want something beyond the standard, this is your sign to explore a little and even break with tradition, while still incorporating some of your meaningful traditions too ;)! Reach out, would love to document the day for you!
