California academy of Sciences in San Francisco Wedding | Sabrina and Austin
Sabrina and Austin's wedding holds a special place in my heart. My connection with Sabrina goes back to 2020 when she was a bridesmaid at a wedding I had the pleasure of photographing (hello Luke and Megan!). Having the opportunity to capture Sabrina's special day is the ultimate compliment for a wedding photographer. I feel most relaxed when couples and guests are familiar to me, so as I stood at the altar just before the ceremony commenced, the sight of so many familiar faces was truly heartwarming.
Now, let's talk about Sabrina and Austin. Besides the fact that they're a stunning couple and were naturals in front of the camera, witnessing their love unfold throughout the day was an unforgettable experience. Their connection was so effortless and playful. At times, I would forget that they were hosting the biggest party ever because they were so natural with all their interactions. I didn't want the day to end! So much so that it took very little convincing to join the after-party as a guest.
“We became really good friends in college because we both have an affinity for Studio Ghibli films. Our wedding music had songs from Howl's Moving Castle, Spirited Away, and Kiki's Delivery Service.” - S & A
Any favorite moment’s that stand out from your wedding day?
“Having Elsa pass notes to each other while getting ready!”
in: parent gifts
“He looked so handsome and it definitely calmed my nerves before walking down the aisle. It was also magical to be alone in the aquarium with him for photos. I have been going to the museum since I was a child and I feel so lucky to have had that once in a lifetime experience.” - Sabrina
Austin’s favorite moment:
“Seeing Sabrina during the first look and walking through the aquarium with her. Saying "my wife!" in the Borat voice all night.”
Advice to future couples who are currently planning their wedding:
“Don't let anyone try to take control of your day. There will be tons of people telling you how to plan a wedding but you do whatever makes you happy!” - A
“Austin and I agreed that even if the whole wedding was a disaster we wouldn't let that take away from what mattered, which was finally marrying each other. And honestly there were probably tons of things that went wrong that night but were having too much fun to notice! Also, create an email just for the wedding because you will get hundreds of emails from your vendors and it can quickly become overwhelming.”
Future travel plans?
“We are looking into renting a sailboat and taking a long honeymoon in Europe! This is a lifelong dream of ours. “
Fun facts about Sabrina & Austin:
Austin's original proposal plan was foiled when they were left stranded in King Salmon, Alaska for 10 hours because of dangerous flying conditions so he instead proposed to Sabrina in the hallway of their hotel.
Austin grew up with 2 sisters and always wanted a brother and Sabrina grew up with 3 brothers and always wanted a sister. Both of us adore each other's siblings!
Our favorite thing EVER is skiing.
“Thank you for always being there for us. We wish we could have danced forever with you all. We love you :)“
Wedding Details
Wedding Theme: Contemporary San Francisco Museum/Aquarium
Venue: California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco
About the venue: Elevate an unforgettable day into a truly unique adventure at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Explore captivating scenes, from the beautifully illuminated Steinhart Aquarium housing 38,000 live animals and a touch Tide Pool, to the world's second-largest all-digital Morrison Planetarium. Only at the Academy can you encounter an aquarium, natural history museum, and planetarium all beneath one living roof! The outcome will be a significant experience, infused with the marvels of science and nature, etched in everyone's memory for generations to come.
Planner: Jessica Goldblatt for Dreams on a Dime
Makeup: La Di Da
Florist: Green Petal Designs
Caterer: Carrie Dove Catering
Dress: Mariee Bridal in Scottsdale
Jewelry: I wore my mother's blue topaz earrings and necklace and diamond hair pins.
Shoes: Badgley Mischa heels
DJ: Verducci Events