When Martin and Ashley first reached out to me on Instagram, I could tell right away that they were a special couple. Their excitement was contagious, and after our first phone call, it felt like we had known each other for years! They were on the lookout for a wedding planner who could help bring their vision to life, and after a few discussions, we found the perfect venue for their intimate San Francisco wedding — The Presidio Yacht Club. Situated under the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, this industrial venue was the ideal backdrop for the couple’s unforgettable day.
An Intimate Wedding With a Unique Industrial Venue
What makes The Presidio Yacht Club such a hidden gem is its unique blend of industrial charm and stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge. It’s not your typical wedding venue — in fact, it’s not even close! The venue is full of rustic charm with historical boat memorabilia and weathered walls, giving it a distinctive and raw beauty that appealed to Martin and Ashley’s vision for a wedding that felt both intimate and full of character.
The yacht club is located just outside of San Francisco, yet the hustle and bustle of the city is easily forgotten once you’re on the grounds. With the tranquil setting of boats and sparkling lights of the city in the background, the venue offers a peaceful, almost magical atmosphere for couples to tie the knot. The charming imperfections of the space helped create a setting that was warm, welcoming, and full of character.
Getting Ready for the Big Day
One of the things that made this intimate wedding special was the space at The Presidio Yacht Club that allowed the bride and groom to prepare separately before the ceremony. Ashley had the perfect setup with her bridesmaids and mom, sharing sweet moments and laughter in a cozy backroom before walking down the aisle. Meanwhile, Martin and his best men enjoyed a cold beer and a few laughs before heading to the ceremony, making for the perfect pre-wedding celebration!
A Ceremony Overlooking the Golden Gate Bridge
When it came time for the ceremony, the weather didn’t exactly cooperate — the day started off gloomy and gray. But sometimes, a little bit of fog can work wonders for creating a magical atmosphere, and that’s exactly what happened. As Ashley walked down the aisle with her father, the soft mist surrounding the Golden Gate Bridge created a stunning backdrop that made the moment even more romantic. There was something about the misty weather that added to the intimacy of the occasion, turning the day into something truly unforgettable.
With the iconic Golden Gate Bridge standing tall behind them, Martin and Ashley exchanged their vows, surrounded by their closest family and friends. The moment was full of emotion, and the love these two shared was undeniable.
A Fun Reception with a View
After the ceremony, the party kicked off! With the Golden Gate Bridge lighting up the San Francisco skyline in the background, Martin and Ashley shared their first dance as newlyweds. We set up the reception with a head table for the couple, surrounded by intimate round tables for their closest guests. The reception space had a cozy, welcoming vibe — perfect for this couple who just wanted to share their love with their favorite people.
As the night went on, everyone let loose, enjoying the fun, intimate celebration. And of course, we couldn’t resist taking a few iconic photos in front of the Golden Gate Bridge, making for some unforgettable memories. The venue’s industrial sliding doors also made for the perfect grand entrance for the bride and groom — giving the night the perfect touch of elegance and excitement.
Intimate Photos and Golden Gate Bridge Moments
What’s more romantic than having your wedding photos taken with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background? After saying “I do,” Martin and Ashley stepped outside to capture some intimate moments by the water, with the bridge in full view. It was an unforgettable moment, and those photos will surely be cherished for years to come.
A Wedding Full of Meaning and Love
One of the things I love about working with couples like Martin and Ashley is how intentional they are with their wedding. Every choice they made — from their venue selection to the details of the ceremony and reception — was a reflection of their love and personalities. Their intimate wedding at The Presidio Yacht Club was a beautiful blend of uniqueness, warmth, and love, and I’m so grateful I had the chance to be a part of their special day.
If you’re dreaming of an intimate wedding in San Francisco, or if you’re interested in planning your own unique celebration, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Whether it’s a small gathering with the Golden Gate Bridge in the background or a completely different vibe, let’s chat!
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Vendor Team:
Venue: Presidio Yacht Club, San Francisco, CA
Planning: Marissa @hometowngatherings
Photography: Sarah @sarowlyphoto
