6 Simple Ways to Elevate & Personalize Your San Francisco City Hall Elopement

From a Wedding Photographer Who’s Seen It All (and cried behind the camera more than once)

Ardelyn & Nicholas after saying their vows at San Francisco City Hall in June.

San Francisco City Hall is seriously one of the grandest, most romantic places you can get married. The architecture, the light, the classic feeling... it’s already stunning! But with a few intentional touches, your elopement can feel more personal and way more memorable.

Here are six simple ways to make your City Hall ceremony feel like your own little love story:

Do a First Look

Whether it’s in front of the building or tucked away on one of the quieter floors, it’s such a beautiful way to see each other for the first time, take a deep breath, and have a little moment together. It also gives us more time for photos while everything feels fresh and exciting.

Say Personal Vows After/Before the Ceremony

City Hall ceremonies are usually over in just a few minutes. That’s totally okay, but it can feel like a blur. Taking a few minutes after the official part to step aside and exchange your own vows is such a sweet way to slow down and connect. Whether you write something funny, heartfelt, or poetic, it’s a moment to look each other in the eye and really feel it all.

Bring a Bouquet That Feels Like You

Your bouquet is such a fun way to show off your style. You can go colorful, minimalist, funky, romantic, whatever feels most like you. I’ve seen everything from soft, neutral florals to bright, tropical stems, and they all look amazing. City Hall is beautiful, but does not have much color. If you want that pop of color, it really adds to the photos!

Add a Small Sentimental Detail

You don’t need a dozen personal touches. Just one meaningful detail can say a lot. Think of something like a pin from your mom’s wedding outfit, a vintage ring box, a note from your partner tucked into your pocket, some diet coke or a charm on your bouquet. It can be tiny, but it tells a story and makes a place where dozens of people get married a day more your own - and I always make sure to photograph it.

Bring Your Dog to Greet You Outside

If you have a pet, this is the cutest way to include them. Have a friend bring your dog to meet you right after the ceremony. Seeing your pup run up to you with their tail wagging is such a joyful moment, and it makes for some of the most fun, real photos.

Lily & Bill greet their puppy after their City Hall elopement.

Visit an Iconic SF Spot After

You don’t have to stop at City Hall. Once you’ve said your vows and soaked up that newly married feeling, head somewhere special. We could go to a Golden Gate Bridge lookout point, grab a slice of cake at a bakery or visit your favorite spots in the city.

Your elopement deserves to feel personal and true to you. It can be calm, joyful, stylish, emotional, silly, or all of the above. With just a few thoughtful choices, your City Hall day can become one of those memories that lives with you forever.

If you’re looking for a photographer who knows City Hall like the back of her hand, loves catching the quiet moments, having run and wants to make your day feel easy and exciting, reach out to me!