Boy meets girl. Girl fails to hit it off with boy (a longer story that Brian will never quite let Sarah live down). They both end up coming around, and girl marries boy. It sounds like the script of the latest Hollywood romantic comedy, but it was the unscripted real life love story that left everyone in tears of joy during the elegant Bently Reserve wedding of Sarah and Brian.

My favorite weddings are the ones in which many family members have special roles to play, and Sarah and Brian’s wedding took the cake. From a beautifully officiated ceremony by the bride’s brother to a heartfelt speech by her mother at the reception, it was clear how special family is to these two. Still a great wedding is often made even greater by the presence of outstanding vendors, and this San Francisco wedding was full of memorable standouts.

Katharina Stuart and her team brilliantly assembled the florals, which included luxurious, peony-filled centerpieces and a hanging staircase garland. Amanda Fabbri of Carrie Dove Catering and Events left no detail to chance and flawlessly executed one of the most organized weddings I’ve ever attended. Nearly every guest paused on their way into the reception space to stop and photograph the stylish wedding cake, designed by Mazzetti’s Bakery. Finally, Sarah’s breathtaking Monique Lhullier gown from Bridal Galleria provided the perfect amount of romance and drama to the incredible day.

But the biggest highlight of any wedding is photographing the love between the bride and groom throughout the day. A few days before the wedding, I met with Sarah and Brian to scope out the venue, and together, we found the most perfect rooftop garden near the Bently Reserve. The tree-lined walkway and leafy containers gave this urban romance some natural flair, and we snuck away during “golden hour” for some incredible bridal portraits. During the first look, Sarah, who always has the most honest and expressive reactions, was brought to tears by her famously stoic groom’s reaction, as Brian’s eyes lit up and his face split in a wide grin. The smile didn’t leave his face for the rest of the day!

Sarah and Brian’s wedding was one of those events you go into just KNOWING that the day will be incredibly special. Their joy was absolutely contagious and carried on by family and friends throughout the entire night. These two have absolute hearts of gold – every guest, no matter their age, background, or connection to the wedding, was greeted individually and thanked for their attendance. A tiny placard set on every plate quietly announced that a donation had been made to the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of each and every attendee as a token of the bride and groom’s appreciation for their diverse and loving community. The laughter-filled celebration carried on well into the evening, pausing only for a late-night snack break as Sarah carried an entire tray of burritos to the dance floor!

Sarah and Brian’s wedding was one I will never forget. Check out some of my favorite photos from their wedding below!

Photo Assistance: Stella Yang Photography | Film Lab: Photovision | Getting Ready Venue: Le Meredien | Ceremony + Reception Venue: Bently Reserve | Planning + Catering: Carrie Dove Catering & Events | Wedding Dress: Monique Lhuillier | Dress Boutique: Bridal Galleria | Floral Design: Katharina Stuart | Cake Design: Mazzetti’s Bakery | Ring: Derco Fine Jewelers | Videography: Jon Chou | Bar: Best Beverage Catering | Photobooth: Snap Fiesta Photo Booth | DJ: The Mix Guys | Rentals: Standard Party Rentals