Jennifer & James

San Francisco, CA

Wedding Date: October 8, 2011

Number of Guests: 75

Wedding Cost: $40,000

Wedding Ceremony Location: Sir Francis Drake Hotel

Wedding Reception Location: Sir Francis Drake Hotel

Why did you have an intimate wedding?

We wanted to be able to enjoy our wedding day with our closest friends and relatives, not spend the day greeting a massive number of people. In addition, many of our friends and family live on the east coast and are not able to travel across the country.

What are some of the challenges that you faced planning an intimate wedding?

For us, the challenge was that we were getting married in San Francisco, but had only moved here a few months prior. We didn’t have any idea where we wanted to get married, so we spent a lot of time checking out different wedding venues in the Bay Area.

Was it difficult to pare down the guest list?

Not really.

Did you have any ‘issues’ with the small guest list from friends and family? If so, how did you address them?

Not really. Since most of our guests were from out of town, only our closest friends and family were going to be able to make the trip.

What were the highlights of the ceremony?

We wrote vows for the wedding, and although we didn’t share them in advance, they turned out to be very similar.

What were the highlights of the reception?

The first dance and last dance were exceptionally special. We had some fun speeches, as well, which I think happen when you have an intimate wedding. Speakers aren’t as intimidated when they aren’t faced with a huge crowd.

What was the best thing about having an intimate wedding?

Being able to have fun and spend a significant amount of time with friends and family.

What advice do you have for couples who are considering an intimate wedding?

Make everyone aware early on of the maximum number of people you want at the wedding. This helps to set expectations and reduces the number of last minute “additions” that “helpers” try to make.

Vendors:

Photographer:  Vero Suh Photography

Florist: Huckleberry Karen Designs

Stationery: Union Street Papery

Caterer/Cake: Scala’s Bistro

Entertainment: Bay City Music

Gown Design: Allure Bridal

Bridal Shoes: Benjamin Adams

Bridal Jewelry: ABS

Bridesmaids Dresses: Love by Enzoani

Wedding Rings: David Clay Jewelers

Gift Registry: Macy’s

Honeymoon Destination: London, Paris, Alsace

Filed Under: Modern Weddings, Real Weddings  |  5 Comments

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