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.

SAMANTHA AND LUKE’S SF CITY HALL WEDDING BLOG…

When Sam and Luke reached out to me to shoot their city hall ceremony, I was so excited! Luke, being another talented photographer in the bay area, has been a friend of mine for quite sometime and when another photographer reaches out to me to shoot their wedding, I get excited and nervous at the same time! However, when I FaceTimed with the couple prior to their wedding, that nervous feeling went away and I was filled with excited to shoot Sam and Luke’s wedding. They were just my type- chill, out-going, but more importantly, they trust me and my craft. On the day of the ceremony, they both looked absolutely stunning! I was greeted with not with just their close friends and family, but their German Shepard…If you don’t know me, I love dogs! Shooting Sam and Luke was a blast. We went all around city hall and the lighting was perfect. Something new this time for me was shooting the ceremony on the balcony by the window. This was great because I did not have to use flash this time under the usual ceremony spot at the top of the staircase. At the end of day, I am so happy with how everything turned out! Sam and Luke were amazing to work with, they did exactly what I ask and expect- take me direction into their own hands and be in the moment. Congrats to the newlyweds, Sam and Luke!

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Gill & Jared: A Transcontinental Love Story at San Francisco City Hall

In the heart of San Francisco, where the iconic City Hall stands as a symbol of love and unity, Gill and Jared embarked on a journey that transcended borders. As a San Francisco City Hall wedding photographer, capturing their special day was not just about documenting moments but also about immersing myself in their unique love story.

Love Across Borders: Gill from Canada, Jared from San Diego

Gill, hailing from the picturesque landscapes of Canada, and Jared, a sun-kissed Californian from San Diego, found themselves in the vibrant tapestry of San Francisco. Their love story unfolded against the backdrop of this eclectic city, a meeting point of diverse backgrounds and shared dreams.

San Francisco City Hall: A Timeless Union

San Francisco City Hall, with its grand architecture and timeless elegance, served as the perfect setting for Gill and Jared’s union. The majestic beauty of the building mirrored the grandeur of their love, a love that blossomed in the midst of the city’s iconic landmarks.

Immersed in Their Story: A Photographer’s Joy

As a San Francisco City Hall wedding photographer, I find immense joy in not just capturing images but in listening to and understanding the love stories that unfold before my lens. Gill and Jared’s story, a tale of two souls finding each other in the City by the Bay, resonated deeply with me.

Families United: Canada, Florida, and San Diego Meet in San Francisco

What made Gill and Jared’s day even more special was the union of their families, representing different corners of North America. Gill’s family traveled from Canada and Florida, bringing with them a touch of international warmth. Jared’s family made the journey up from San Diego, adding the sun-soaked vibes of Southern California to the celebration.

A Transcontinental Celebration of Love

The marriage of Gill and Jared was more than a ceremony; it was a celebration of love that spanned continents. San Francisco City Hall, with its historic charm, witnessed not only the union of two individuals but also the merging of diverse cultures and traditions.

San Francisco City Hall Marriage: A Love Letter to Diversity

For couples seeking a San Francisco City Hall marriage, Gill and Jared’s story is a testament to the city’s ability to embrace love in all its forms. The iconic City Hall serves as a canvas for love stories that unfold against the backdrop of San Francisco’s rich history.

Contact Your San Francisco City Hall Wedding Photographer

If you’re planning a San Francisco City Hall marriage and want your love story to be captured with a blend of artistry and passion, I would be honored to be your photographer. Contact me to embark on a journey of creating timeless memories against the stunning backdrop of San Francisco City Hall.

The post San Francisco City Hall Wedding // Gill & Jared appeared first on Jacob Cabral Photography.

When I arrived at the church, it was a calm atmosphere. The family was setting up while the pianist was warming up. Darrick, both nervous and excited, was thinking about the big day ahead of him and his soon-to-be wife, Faye! Prior to the wedding day, the couple had decided that they wanted to do a first look at the church right  before the ceremony. These are always so fun to shoot and experience, I was very excited to see how they would react to seeing each other for the first time that day! Once Faye had arrived, I took her solos before the first look. Like Darrick, she was also nervous but happy that the day was finally happening! As Faye slowly walked up towards Darrick, their close friends were off to the side watching and waiting for that special moment to happen. During this time, Mark, the videographer, and I were getting shots of the couple from different angles. The excitement was building up. Once Faye tapped Darrick to turn around, it was like the New Years Ball had dropped. They smiled with joy, laughed, and were amazed at how beautiful they both looked.

The ceremony was both beautiful and intimate. St. Cecilia’s, being a big church, only had the first few rows filled due to covid restrictions, and all the of the guest, including myself and Mark, wore a mask- I felt very safe and comfortable shooting Faye and Darrick’s big day! After the ceremony and alter photos, myself, Mark, Darrick, Faye, and her bridesmaids headed over to Legion of Honor to do their wedding photos!

Legion is always good location to get the light and airy look. Its high, marble-colored columns adds that high-end touch to the photos! Faye and Darrick looked great here, this was the perfect location. The overcast also helped a lot with the lighting! Though the courtyard was closed, we were able to really utilize the surrounding columns and entrance walkway. With the nerves out of the way, I could tell how comfortable they were knowing that they have just tied the knot. Because of this, they looked so good in front of the camera! I would like to also add that, normally, when the exhibits are open, Legion likes to add big (ugly) banners to the columns, but since they were closed due to the pandemic, we were fortunate to have banner-free columns!!! I could not be happier with how these shots turned out! After finishing Faye and Darrick’s wedding photos, we then headed over to Berkeley Double Tree for their reception.

The reception room at Double Tree was perfect. It had enough space to accommodate a small wedding, and even had a dance floor! Before the program had started, I was able to get some detail shots of the table settings, flowers, and also had time to set up my off-camera flash. Being that this was an intimate wedding, the reception was beautiful and straight to the point. The program had everything a big wedding would have, but instead it was a close collective of friends and family. Everyone knew each other and shared good vibes throughout the night. I too felt very comfortable with the wedding guest! They were all so nice and were not even afraid to ask me to take their pictures! I feel that sometimes, at bigger weddings, guest are always shy when it comes to asking any photographer to take their picture. This was definitely not the case here! By the end of the night, I felt as if I was part of that close collective of friends and family! As I was packing my stuff, I felt very fortunate and blessed to have shot this specific wedding with this specific couple and their family during this time. Everything worked out perfectly, and I hope it shows through Faye and Darrick’s beautiful gallery. Congrats, Faye and Darrick! I wish you the best!

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