SF Winter Wedding: Alison + Alex

Alison and Alex wanted a really intimate winter wedding in San Francisco. And it was. The evening began with a beautiful ceremony complete with the fireplace aglow at one of San Francisco's prettiest churches. The couple chose Spruce, one of their favorite restaurants (and mine!), as the setting for their reception with their closest friends and family. Event mastermind Stanlee Gatti incorporated deep red tones into the centerpieces and linens which worked perfectly with Spruce's decor. Gatti's genius was on full display with the lush garlands comprised of bay leaves and rosemary that he draped above the dinner tables. The garlands added so much dimension and drama to the space without compromising precious space on the narrow dinner tables.

Spruce created a tasting menu for the evening that guests are still raving about. The dinner began with a shaved fennel and tangerine salad, which was followed by pasta course of chickpea ravioli and a fish course of seared black bass with chanterelle mushrooms. The entree was a delicious Moroccan spiced lamb chop with bulgar and winter vegetables, followed by a cheese course and wedding cake from Perfect Endings. Doesn't that sound amazing? It was - trust me!

After dinner, a cigar roller worked his craft for the groom and his friends. We served Spruce Bakery's famous chocolate chip cookies and milk shots for who preferred sweets to cigars, while guests snapped photos of themselves in a self-portrait booth.

My Favorite Moment? I really loved the toasts at this wedding. From the father of the bride to the bride and groom's close friends. They were funny, sincere, beautifully spoken, heartfelt and made me want to laugh and cry at the same time.

Photography by Thayer Gowdy. Event Design and Flowers by Stanlee Gatti Designs. Ceremony at Swedenborgian Church. Reception at Spruce. Bride's hair and make-up by Jim Avila. Cake by Perfect Endings. Bride's gown from Joan Gilbert Bride.