Like many other plans that had to be altered this year, Keely and Sam’s larger party was put on hold but they still wanted to honor their original wedding date with a tiny family celebration. When the opportunity for Sam’s parents to stay at Cavallo Point Lodge, Keely and Sam decided to switch their minimony plans from a backyard ceremony at Keely’s parent’s home in Oakland to Golden Gate Bridge views in Sausalito. As luck would have it, the air quality and smoke from California wildfires cleared in time for their sweet celebration. It was a warm and sunny September evening, when I met the couple and their families at their lodge. After a few portraits, we headed over to Battery Yates where we chose a spot with sweeping Bay views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. A close family friend officiated while Keely and Sam shared poems and exchanged vows just as the prettiest golden hour sunset lighting illuminated everyone. Afterwards, everyone congratulated the couple with hugs and cheers before heading back to their lodge for a few more portraits before dinner. With all the never-ending changes of this year, it’s been heartwarming to see how DIY wedding plans create wedding moments that are so much more meaningful and magical in their own humble ways.
