About My Fun couple…

Erin and Alyssa are the type of couple everyone wants at their party—energetic, loving, and full of joy. They didn’t stress the small stuff; they simply wanted to throw an incredible party for their closest friends and coworkers. Their laughter and connection made them an absolute joy to work with. Capturing their special day felt more like hanging out with longtime friends than working. I also want to give an honorable mention to Dewey, their Golden Doodle. AKA the fried chicken dog 😀

Wedding Day Highlights

A Stunning Modern Theme

The theme was a perfect blend of modern sophistication and playful charm. I want to give a HUGE shoutout to Tawny and her team at One Sweet Soirée for putting it all together- including this super star vendors team I got to me part of. To comply with the museum’s strict floral restrictions, their florist, Zaddy Blooms, created stunning arrangements using lush greenery and pine trees. These elements elevated the timeless ambiance of the venue while keeping the design simple and chic.

Emotional Moments

While the couple opted into just a reception party, their party didn’t hold back on intimate moments. Special highlights included Alyssa’s dad during the family formals saying how proud he was of her. On the dance floor, so many happy moments there as well! Erin’s dad would come up and start dancing with the newlyweds. It was really sweet…

Museum Photo Tour

One of the best parts of hosting their wedding at the Legion of Honor Museum was exploring its breathtaking spaces for photos. We started in quiet, empty rooms, making our way to the grand gallery housing Monet’s masterpieces. The museum staff kindly closed off the area for five minutes, allowing us to capture magical, private moments. We then made our way outside after the museum had closed to the sides where the sun peaked through the cypress trees. These locations made their museum wedding photo gallery truly unforgettable.

Cocktail Hour in the Galleries

Cocktail hour was hosted in the upstairs galleries, where guests mingled among the artwork while enjoying live music from Lucky Devils Band. This unique experience set the tone for the reception, blending elegance with the vibrant energy of the day. Guests loved taking pictures with the sculptures and paintings, making it a lively start to the evening.

Dinner and Dancing Under the Stars

The dinner reception took place in the intimate, candlelit setting of the museum’s cafe. Guests indulged in international food stations prepared by Global Gourmet Catering, ensuring a dining experience as diverse as it was delicious. Later, the dance floor was moved to the outdoor terrace, where lounge areas and bars on either side created the perfect party atmosphere. Erin and Alyssa’s guests danced the night away under the stars, surrounded by the magic of the museum.

Legion of Honor Wedding info: Everything You Need to Know

The Legion of Honor Museum is one of San Francisco’s premier venues for a stylish and unforgettable wedding. This iconic SF museum wedding location features elegant architecture, stunning art galleries, and expansive gardens. The Legion of Honor wedding price starts at around $11,000 for venue rental, with additional costs for catering, lighting, and setup. Capacity is limited to about 150-450 depending on they type of wedding you book here! You can get married at the court of honor, or on the lawn. My couple decided to host a reception party, which took place in the Rodin Galleries and the Terrace. But with the elegance and class, the true Legion of Honor wedding price is priceless in my book.

It’s important to note that the venue has strict rules for load-in times, security, and decor, including a restriction on florals. Couples should plan ahead to work within these limitations. Be prepared with a plan B for rain, as the outdoor dance floor and terrace areas are weather-dependent. If you need more Legion of Honor wedding Info, here is a very useful link! Or I can reach out to my couple for more wedding information as well.

Additional Legion of Honor Info

1. Court of Honor

• Rental Fee: $18,000 (Sunday–Thursday) / $20,000 (Friday–Saturday)
• Tenting Fee: An additional $32,000 is required for tenting, except for wedding ceremonies.
• Seated Capacity: 450 (with tenting)
• Reception Capacity: 600
• If you are just shooting engagement sessions, or portrait sessions. It is available for free during museum hours!

2. Balustrade Lawn

• Rental Fee: $500
• Note: This space is only available for ceremonies and must be rented in conjunction with another event space.
• Seated Capacity: 250

3. Rodin Galleries

• Rental Fee: $10,000 (Sunday–Thursday) / $12,000 (Friday–Saturday)
• Seated Capacity: 80 (Gallery 10)
• Reception Capacity: 200 standing or 80 seated

4. Terrace Level

• Rental Fee: $7,000 (Sunday–Thursday) / $9,000 (Friday–Saturday)
• Seated Capacity: 150 inside café with dancing area; 180 inside café with dancing on the terrace
• Reception Capacity: 350

My Tips for This Venue

As someone who loves museums, the Legion of Honor Museum was a dream venue for me to shoot at. If you’re planning your wedding here, I recommend scheduling an early start around 4:30 PM to take advantage of the museum passes provided by the staff. This allows time for beautiful photo opportunities in the galleries and garden before your reception kicks off.

Why This Wedding Stands Out

For Erin and Alyssa, the Legion of Honor Museum wedding was a perfect match for their vibe—modern, elegant, and brimming with fun. Whether it was their private garden stroll, the lively cocktail hour in the galleries, or the late-night terrace dance party, every moment was special. It was an honor to capture their day, and the stunning setting only added to the magic.

Scroll below to check out my shots of Erin & Alyssa’s legion of honor wedding photos to see how this incredible celebration came to life!

Interested in another elegant venue?

Check out my City Hall page. It’s not only affordable, but it is just as classy and timeless!

The post Erin & Alyssa’s Stunning Legion of Honor Wedding appeared first on Jacob Cabral Photography.

As a Bay Area-based wedding photographer specializing in editorial and documentary-style photography, I had the privilege of capturing Annalise and Adam’s wedding on September 29, 2024. Their celebration took place at two stunning venues: Hastings House wedding venue in Half Moon Bay for the ceremony and La Costanera for the reception. This day was a perfect blend of coastal charm, boho vibes, and heartfelt moments. Check out this blog on their Hastings House wedding!

About the Hastings House wedding venue in Half Moon Bay

The Hastings House wedding venue is a hidden gem for couples seeking an intimate, nature-inspired wedding venue. Nestled along the coast, it offers a serene garden setting complemented by the gentle sounds of the ocean. Its rustic charm and lush greenery make it an ideal backdrop for romantic ceremonies.

Why Hastings House is Ideal for Weddings:

• Intimate Atmosphere: Perfect for small gatherings with close family and friends.
• Stunning Backdrops: From shaded garden paths to open spaces, there are countless photo opportunities.
• Practical Tips: Limited parking can be a challenge, so consider organizing a carpool or shuttle service for guests. Afternoon ceremonies are especially beautiful, with soft, diffused lighting for photos.

About the Couple

Annalise and Adam’s love story began on the East Coast, where they met after Annalise saw Adam perform at a gig. Adam’s passion for music and Annalise’s easygoing nature made them a perfect match. Now living in San Francisco with their beloved dog, they brought their laid-back energy to their wedding day, making every moment feel effortlessly joyful.

Wedding Day Highlights

Getting Ready

The morning was as relaxed as Annalise and Adam themselves. Adam prepared with his friends at their home in San Francisco, where tying the perfect knot on his tie turned into a fun group effort. Over in Pacifica, Annalise got ready at a charming Airbnb. While kids enjoyed cartoons in the background, Annalise and her closest loved ones shared laughs and quiet moments before the garden venue ceremony.

The Ceremony at Hastings House

Annalise and Adam chose to keep their ceremony traditional, with no first look. This made their walk down the aisle even more emotional and impactful.

Memorable Ceremony Moments:

• Unique Traditions: Guests passed their wedding rings around, blessing them with love and good wishes.
• Heartfelt Words: Adam’s father and Annalise’s brother-in-law shared moving poems and advice, creating a deeply personal ceremony.

The couple’s vibrant red and maroon bouquet by Diosa Blooms added a stunning contrast to the venue’s natural greenery, making it a standout feature in the photos.

Portraits in the Garden

After the ceremony, we had the opportunity to explore the many hidden nooks of Hastings House for portraits. With their guests off preparing the reception, Annalise and Adam had some quiet time to enjoy each other’s company. Their natural chemistry and comfort in front of the camera made capturing these moments a breeze. Being that this was a garden venue, the walk with the newlyweds was special and calm.

Reception at La Costanera

The reception at La Costanera, a coastal venue known for its delicious cuisine and ocean views, was a lively celebration.

Reception Highlights:

• Speeches That Tugged at Heartstrings: Toasts from the Maid of Honor and Best Man were equal parts heartfelt and humorous, reflecting the couple’s personalities.
• Family Dance Party: Annalise’s immediate family kicked off the dancing with a surprise routine, setting the tone for an unforgettable night.
• Parent Dances: These tender moments highlighted the deep bonds they share with their families.

Why This Wedding Was Special

As a musician myself, I felt an instant connection with Annalise and Adam. Their wedding day reflected who they are—authentic, creative, and deeply connected. It was also my first time photographing at Hastings House, and I was blown away by its beauty and versatility. The soft, diffused light that afternoon created the perfect conditions for capturing their love story.

Tips for Future Couples Getting Married at Hastings House

• Plan for Parking: Limited parking means it’s wise to encourage carpooling or arrange a party bus for guests.
• Optimal Lighting: The shaded garden is ideal for afternoon ceremonies when the sun is lower in the sky. Photographers will love the natural light!
• Enjoy the Space: Take time to explore the venue’s many unique spots for portraits—it’s a photographer’s dream!

Vendor Team for Annalise & Adam’s Wedding

• Florist: Diosa Blooms
• Caterer: La Costanera
• Venue Coordinator: Linda at Hastings House

This talented team helped bring Annalise and Adam’s vision to life, making the day seamless and unforgettable.

Why Choose Me as Your Wedding Photographer

As a young wedding photographer in the Bay Area, I bring a fresh perspective and an editorial, film-inspired style to my work. My goal is to capture not just how your wedding day looks, but how it feels—those candid, in-between moments that tell your story. Whether it’s a small intimate ceremony or a lively reception, I’m here to document it all with care and creativity.

If you’re planning a wedding at Hastings House or anywhere in the Bay Area, I’d love to help tell your story.

Interested in another intimate, garden venue? Check out my blog on shelldance garden in Pacifica!

The post Anna & Adam’s intimate love captured: a Hastings House Wedding appeared first on Jacob Cabral Photography.

As a wedding photographer in the SF Bay Area, I’ve had the pleasure of capturing countless love stories, but Alyssa and Paul’s Stable Cafe Wedding at Stable Café was something special. The entire day radiated love, connection, and intimate vibes that were unmistakably them.

Morning Vibes in Pacifica before their stable cafe wedding

The day began at a foggy but lively Airbnb in Pacifica, where Alyssa and Paul’s closest loved ones gathered for their intimate Stable Cafe wedding. Laughter and heartfelt moments filled the morning, creating a sense of something truly special. It was filled with laughter and some of those little moments that make you feel like you’re part of something bigger.

Alyssa and Paul kept the morning personal, writing their vows separately. Their son, glued to Baby Shark, watched as Paul got ready in his suit. The sweetest moment? Alyssa’s bridesmaids teared up when her son walked in and saw her in her wedding dress—pure magic.

For the first look, Alyssa and Paul met outside while family and friends watched through the windows, tearing up at the sight. They chose to keep their vow exchange private, asking even the photographer and videographer to step away. Though I didn’t capture it, those moments were undoubtedly raw and full of love.

Intimate Rustic Vibes at Stable Café

After those heartwarming moments in Pacifica, we headed to San Francisco for their intimate wedding at Stable Cafe. With its perfect mix of rustic charm and intimacy, it was exactly what Alyssa and Paul envisioned. The cozy atmosphere with just 50 guests made the day feel even more special.

Tawny and her team at One Sweet Soirée created a stunning moody chic, modern romantic design. Llave Florals’ breathtaking arrangements added the perfect touch. The dream team truly brought this vision to life, and I’m so grateful to have been part of it.

We embraced the venue’s rustic charm, capturing cozy moments by the fireplace and romantic shots in the gallery space. One favorite memory was Alyssa and Paul bathed in golden light, creating timeless images that perfectly complemented the venue’s textures. It was pure magic

Flipping the space!

What really made Stable Café stand out was how smoothly the space transitioned throughout the day. After the ceremony, Tawny and her team transformed the ceremony site into the dinner area during cocktail hour. It was almost like magic- the couple and I had left for maybe 15 min max and came back to a completely different set-up! Guests enjoyed drinks and hors d’oeuvres in a different area while the team worked behind the scenes to reset the space. By the time the couple and guests were ready to sit down for dinner, the site had been beautifully reimagined into an intimate dining area, complete with candle light, rustic tables, and a cozy atmosphere that matched the whole vibe of the day. In addition to it’s already intimate atmosphere, DJ Eternal and his team, the Crowd Uplifters, provided the right music and audio to make everything perfect! To end the night, the dancefloor was also truly something special.

The Dance floor!

Despite the size of the wedding, this was probably the most energetic, open dance floors I’ve got to shoot! EVERYONE was in the gallery room getting down. Check out this sweet video of the couple by the videographer, Chase Daley.

As the day unfolded, it was clear that Alyssa and Paul’s wedding was about more than just celebrating their love—it was about the bonds they’ve built with their friends, family, and each other. From the foggy Pacifica morning to the sunlit moments at Stable Café, their wedding was a beautiful reflection of who they are as a couple: grounded, deeply connected, and full of love.

Final Thoughts

If you’re dreaming of a wedding with intimate vibes, heartfelt moments, and a venue that blends rustic elegance with warmth, Stable Café is the spot. As a wedding photographer, it’s always an honor to capture days like this, where love takes center stage in such a personal way.

Looking for a wedding photographer for your own intimate celebration? I’d love to chat about how we can make your day just as special.

A Dream Team of Vendors!

Photo- @jacob.cabral
Planning/coordination- @onesweetsoiree.sf
DJ – @itsdjeternal
Florals- @llavefloral
Makeup- @nubiabeautyonline
Rentals/furniture- @abbey.party.rents
Venue- @stablecafe
Videography – @heyitschasedaley

The post Moments of pure love: Alyssa and Paul’s Stable Cafe Wedding appeared first on Jacob Cabral Photography.

Sarah & Menur’s Intimate Wedding at Shelldance Gardens in Pacifica, California.

During Pacifica’s peak fog season, July, Sarah and Mensur tied the knot at Shelldance Gardens in the beautiful coast side city of Pacifica. Photographing this Shelldance Garden Wedding hit home for me because it was literally home. I grew up in Pacifica and am always grateful for its surrounding nature all around. It made me into the person I am today. This tale unfolds in the scenic beauty of Shelldance Orchid Gardens, a haven where love blossomed amidst the orchids and greenhouses. Come checkout some of Sarah and Mensur’s photos from their beautiful Pacifica wedding that day!

A Cloudy Morning by the Pacifica Pier

In separate Airbnbs, anticipation filled the air. Mensur, surrounded by his family who had traveled from Europe, shared a quiet moment with a gift from Sarah – a timeless watch, a symbol of their shared moments. The cloudy skies painted a serene backdrop as Mensur’s brother arrived in a vintage Mustang to sweep him away.

Meanwhile, in her own private haven, Sarah reveled in the thoughtful Tiffany earrings from Mensur. A handwritten card held the essence of their love, setting the tone for the day. At Sarah’s Airbnb, intimate moments were shared between her and her mom after seeing her in the wedding dress for the first time. After everyone was ready, it was time to make our way to Shelldance for the ceremony and celebration.

The Transformation of Shelldance…

Caitlin McDonald Events and H&J Flowers orchestrated a symphony of beauty at Shelldance. What was once a gravel parking lot transformed into an extravagant dreamscape. The ceremony, held inside the greenhouse, bathed in natural light and adorned with air plants, offered an intimate setting for the 80 cherished guests.

Family formals and bridal party portraits unfolded against the verdant backdrop. Amidst hundreds of plants in the greenhouse, Sarah and Mensur stole a moment for themselves, surrounded by the quiet beauty that mirrored their love.

Choosing Shelldance spoke volumes about the couple’s shared passions, turning their wedding day into a reflection of their unique story.

A Moment for the Bride & Groom

The Fog-Kissed Reception

As the day turned into night, the reception kicked off in the cool Pacifica fog. The air buzzed with laughter, music, and dance. Halfway through, Sarah donned Mensur’s traditional wear, adding a cultural touch to the celebration. The fog couldn’t dampen the warmth of their love, and the revelry continued.

The finale featured a spectacular streamer exit, leading the couple to a vintage Mustang waiting to carry them away. A private rendezvous at Mussel Rock Park allowed for late-night photos, capturing the essence of their love against the backdrop of the vintage Mustang and the starlit sky.

And so, under the Pacifica fog and the twinkling stars, Sarah and Mensur’s wedding day concluded – a timeless tale of love, laughter, and the beginning of a new chapter.

If you are interested in a coverage for a Shelldance wedding, please feel free to reach out to me! This is a venue that I absolutely love shooting at due to its intimacy, lighting, and being close to home where I grew up. Thank you!

The Finale at Mussel Rock

As they drove into the night, the vintage Mustang carrying their laughter, love, and dreams, Sarah and Mensur embarked on the journey of forever, leaving behind echoes of joy at Shelldance Orchid Gardens. And in the embrace of the Pacifica fog, their love story continued, a tale written in the heart of nature, sealed in the beauty of Shelldance.

The post Shelldance Orchid Gardens Intimate Wedding, Pacifica // Sarah & Mensur appeared first on Jacob Cabral Photography.

In the heart of Sonoma’s vineyards, Cline Cellars witnessed a celebration that not only united two souls in love but also honored the rich heritage of Triza and Miggy. As a Fil-Am photographer based in the Bay Area, this wedding held a special place in my heart—an intricate dance of tradition and modern romance against the scenic backdrop of Cline Cellars.

Cline Cellars: Where Love and Vineyards Intertwine

Cline Cellars, renowned for its rustic charm and sprawling vineyards, provided the perfect canvas for Triza and Miggy’s love story. The Bay Area’s natural beauty combined with Cline Cellars’ timeless allure set the stage for a wedding that seamlessly blended tradition and modernity.

Fil-Am Fusion: A Photographer’s Perspective

Being a Fil-Am photographer in the Bay Area, capturing Triza and Miggy’s Fil-Am themed wedding felt like capturing a piece of my own journey. The infusion of Filipino traditions, from the vibrant decor to the traditional attire, resonated with me on a personal level. It was more than just a job; it was a celebration of shared roots and cultural pride.

Bay Area Elegance: A Fil-Am Photographer’s Playground

As a Bay Area wedding photographer, the allure of Cline Cellars extended beyond its scenic beauty. It offered a sense of home, a familiar backdrop against which Triza and Miggy’s love story unfolded. The venue, being outdoors, was the perfect vibe that would seem like we were a tropical paradise of the Philippine Islands. The Bay Area, with its diverse communities, provides a unique canvas for Fil-Am couples seeking a wedding that reflects their heritage.

Vendors with Heart: A Fil-Am Collaboration

Collaborating with a team of Fil-Am vendors, we brought Triza and Miggy’s vision to life. From traditional Filipino cuisine to modern decor inspired by Bay Area trends, each vendor contributed to a wedding that echoed with the harmony of cultural elements. It was a testament to the thriving Fil-Am wedding industry in the Bay Area, a community I proudly belong to. These Fil-Am vendors that I worked with included: The amazing Bay Area, award-winning restaurant Abaca. Florist, Nurture State Floristry. And Fil-Am Videographers, FYLM media.

Capturing Fil-Am Love: More Than Photography

As their Fil-Am photographer, my lens wasn’t just a tool; it was a storyteller weaving narratives of love, heritage, and cultural significance. The moments shared between Triza and Miggy resonated with the echoes of my own journey as a Fil-Am individual in the Bay Area. From the inside jokes from family and their friends, I felt a presence of connection with everyone at the wedding. It was a comfortable feeling and I was grateful to be there to capture it all!

A Forever Filled with Bay Area Love

In the embrace of Cline Cellars’ vineyards, surrounded by the love of family and the beauty of tradition, Triza and Miggy embarked on their journey as a married couple. Their Fil-Am theme added an extra layer of warmth and cultural pride to their celebration—a sentiment that mirrored my own experience in the Bay Area.

In Collaboration with a Fil-Am Photographer

For couples seeking a Fil-Am themed wedding in the Bay Area, consider the unique perspective and personal resonance that a Fil-Am photographer can bring. Contact me, your Fil-Am photographer in the Bay Area, and let’s embark on a journey to capture your love story against the backdrop of Cline Cellars and the vibrant Bay Area.

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Stylish, Retro Engagement Session at Jack London Square!

Check out Tia and Michael’s engagement shoot at Jack London Square in Oakland, California! Before I first discussed our session plans and location with Tia and Michael over Zoom, she had sent me inspo pictures. These inspo pictures included many magazine/editorial and retro, urban city vibes. I had never done anything in this style before and I was SO excited for it. It was almost as if this was a styled session with models, but it wasn’t the case because Tia and Michael were actually getting married! The couple also wanted a location that was of course, city, but I did not want to shoot at a busy city like San Francisco due to car and foot traffic. I checked out the Jack London Square area in Oakland because it was nice yet not too crowded during the day! It ended up being perfect. We first started by the docks with the boats and made our way around the block. The boats behind Tia and Michael created a lavish, high-end look with their outfits. Also, I want to point out that Tia’s power suit was such a VIBE! I loved it. Additionally, something different about this shoot was the time we shot at. We met at around 11AM, where the sun was pretty high up. I typically shoot at 5PM or later because I like a low sun. However, this shoot worked out so well because I had put the sun behind the couple. In addition, I used a closer lens to crop in more, hiding the sun in frame. After finishing up at Jack London Square, we walked around the block to find more industrial, urban looking buildings. We came across this cool apartment complex with an interesting pattern. The pattern reminded me of a 1960’s/70’s wallpaper so I figured that it would create that old retro look! It turned out great. Just around the corner we ran into the movie theater, which also screamed old but retro! Since the sign was pretty big, I didn’t want to make the couple look small. To prevent this, we walked across the street so the theater would be in the distance behind them! Finally, we ended our shoot back at the docks with a bottle of champagne for the “celebration” shots! This is always a fun experience for myself and the couple! Overall, Tia and Michael were SO fun to work with. They definitely knew how to work it!!! Congrats Tia and Michael! I wish you both the best!

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I finally shot a styled wedding session! Photography aside, I was always into editorial photos. Whether it was in magazines, the web or social media, editorials have always caught my eye. Why do I like them so much? It’s the creativity I see that makes it so great. One person has a vision for the shoot and puts everything into place. However, like most creative processes, this requires a team of creatives with good chemistry.

When I first started thinking about what I wanted to do, I must admit, it was pretty intimidating. It was a big, blank canvas, and I didn’t want to mess it up! So to calm myself down, I went to my inspo board. This includes checking out my favorite photographers on Instagram, notably Jeremy Chou, and also Pinterest. I want to add that Pinterest was SUPER helpful finding images that match my vision. My inspiration for the styled session was high end with a hint of boho, or ruins. Why this? I feel like this has good contrast and resembles me. One side of me loves the high end film, classy look, but at the same time, I like a hint of “bad”. These elements were achieved by collaborating with an AMAZING team!

First off, this would not be possible without the help of mentors. Naba and Kilen, a wedding photography and videography team, from Oregon and Washington helped me put everything together. They took my inspo board and put the team and location together. With their amazing help, I was able to see how the whole process works, from renting the dress to choosing the right models and vendors. Through them I was able to meet the amazing Suzanne Florals and model couple, Keri and Nick!

The “hard” part was putting everything together. I picture the process as a mountain. The haul going up the mountain is the creative process and getting people together, and the fun part, coasting down the mountain, is the day of shooting! That’s exactly how it went. When I was shooting, I felt so free. I had all the time in the world to be creative while Nick and Keri knew exactly what to do with the directions they were given. It was an amazing day.

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