Bride raising bouquet in front of San Francisco City Hall sign after wedding ceremony

This particular SF City Hall wedding holds a special place in my heart. Arlynda and I actually met back in college (Go Aggies!), so when she asked me to be her San Francisco City Hall wedding photographer, it was an immediate "Yes!"

Capturing an intimate ceremony with just immediate family and close friends allows the ability to be intentional with their day - more about making space for the real moments that happen when you’re surrounded by your favorite people.

From Tinder First Dates to a City Hall Wedding

Arlynda and Allen’s story started with a modern spark on Tinder, leading to a first date strolling through Christmas Tree Lane in Alameda. Since then, they’ve built a life together, including having their rabbits and cats as part of their family.

When they began planning their Bay Area wedding, they chose to have two parts. Part One was this intimate San Francisco City Hall ceremony, and Part Two was a grand Chinese Banquet the following day. Splitting the celebration ensured they could stay present for every guest without the rush of a tight timeline.

Planning an Intimate San Francisco City Hall Ceremony

Planning a San Francisco City Hall wedding allows couples to focus on what matters most — the ceremony, the architecture, and their closest loved ones. We started the morning with a First Look before the ceremony. If you're debating a First Look for your City Hall wedding, Allen’s sweet reaction to Arlynda in her wedding dress is all the proof you need- it’s the perfect way to start the day!

Best Photo Locations Inside San Francisco City Hall

After checking in at Room 160, the couple exchanged vows at the top of the Grand Staircase Rotunda. As an experienced SF City Hall photographer, I always recommend moving to the Fourth Floor immediately after the ceremony. The architecture provides stunning natural light for family portraits and allows for those candid and classic couples photos that capture the newly married feeling. We wrapped up the session with celebratory shots outside the iconic gold doors.

A Note to the Newlyweds

Arlynda and Allen, thank you for trusting me to document this chapter of your story. I can’t wait to celebrate at the banquet (this time as a guest!) and see where your journey takes you next!