This Pelican Inn wedding was like out of the pages of a fairytale.
Bridget and Brad have something very special and it makes them… twinkle. Yes I said twinkle! I know it’s an odd word to describe a couple but it’s the word that keeps coming to my mind when I think of them! When in their company you can really feel their happiness, their love and their enthusiasm for each other, their family and friends and life. Being around them makes you want to believe in love, celebrate love and well- get your twinkle on!
The Pelican Inn sits all nice and cozy in the Muir Beach region just north of the Golden Gate Bridge.
While Greg and I were visiting there once, a British man said to me, “this place is more British than an Inn in England!” So it was only fitting to complete the whole setting of the wedding day that Bridget and Brad’s day also had some England-like weather.
While some couples may have been upset that their day was soggy, Bridget and Brad took it all in stride. Nothing could take away from what was truly exciting- they were getting married! What I adore about these two is that they were more focused on just that- their marriage not their wedding day. Many soon-to-be married couples forget that. They have their priorities right and therefore wore big bright smiles and had an amazing wedding celebration- rain drops and all!
While Greg and I, along with Ric and Rose of Grover Films were planning out the First Look location, Bridget cheerfully popped her head out to say hello!
Upstairs the ladies, comfy in their robes, were swooning over Bridget’s incredible dress.
This Monique Lhuillier dress was a show stopper on the hanger- later when Bridget put it on it became a work of art! The intricate details were truly something unique and very special. 
The ladies!!
It was time for Bridget to get dressed but this was no easy zip-up dress!
All those delicate little buttons take teamwork!
Looking so elegant, Bridget was ready for her First Look with Brad! But before we get to that storybook moment, let’s swing into the Snug and check on the guys. 
What’s a Snug you might be asking? Well traditionally a Snug is a private room off a pub, with frosted windows, to allow patrons to have a drink without being seen at the bar. At the Pelican Inn it is only open to those staying at the Inn. It’s a cozy little room with plush furniture and a fireplace! Of course, this Snug has Charles and Diana’s wedding album which I devoured every page of!
“Fear Knocked At The Door, Faith Answered – No One Was There”
Brad was getting ready with his two brothers and his buddies. True to being guys they stood around talking and having a beer until the very last minute where they had to get dressed!
All was going well until the bow tie! With help from YouTube the job got done. There was even a few minutes left to spare for practicing his vows!
An aspect I’m loving in the wedding industry currently is how there is more artistry being put into the flowers. Bouquets have always been so beautiful and I’m sure hard to make but now they are becoming little works of sculptural art. And boutonnieres? They have come so far! My Friend Ingrid (Not my actual friend – it’s the business name) did such an incredible job on the flowers! The boutonnieres were delivered on this beautiful piece of wood, such a nice way to present her work.
The guys in the pub looking so dapper!
It was time for the First Look and of course the weather was kicking up a notch. So many couples may have said, “No, it’s raining let’s not go outside” but Bridget and Brad, full of adventure said the opposite!
We are so glad they did as we were able to get a different twist on the First Look! I wish I could take credit for this idea but it all goes to Ric from Grover Films. Before the day started, while we were chewing on ideas for the First Look, he saw this vision! Ric’s idea was that Bridget and Brad would walk towards each other using the design of the building to block their view of each other until they reached the corner! So great collaborating with other creatives!
Can you feel the anticipation?!
And that moment when they saw each other? It was SO magical, so much fun and oh so romantic! I think the rain might have even added to it all.
A reaction that every woman dreams of from her groom!
Bridget and I shared a mutual love of the long line of mailboxes outside the Inn. I bet the mail carrier loves that too 😉 It makes me imagine people coming down from their secluded homes in the woods to retrieve their mail and have a drink at the pub, sharing laughs with their neighbors.
I could photograph these two ALL DAY LONG!
Our time outdoors may have been short but it was certainly sweet. Mama Nature was ready to let loose and luckily we had a beautiful Inn to take some pictures in too!
Brad looked amazing in his custom suit created by Andreas Gorges out of San Francisco. I think Bridget thought so too!
A window seat perfectly made for two love birds!
Guests had started to arrive so Bridget and her bridesmaids escaped to the rooms upstairs. As sensational as Bridget’s dress was, she saved a special touch for the ceremony! Bridget’s dress had an additional skirt that went over the outside of her dress. 
Bridget’s Mom was there to add the last touch- the beautiful veil!
Due to Mother Nature deciding that some rain and wind would add to the fun, the ceremony was obviously inside. Downstairs in the Conservatory, with fun signage to personalize the room, family and friends gathered in closely. Excitement filled the air!
Maybe too much excitement for this little beauty. But a flower girls job is to melt hearts and she did just that- job well done!
Bridget was escorted down the aisle by her Uncle Mike.
Proud moment for Bridget’s Mom! She raised Bridget by herself and the bond between them is so special. What a wonderful job she did!
The ceremony was officiated by Dr. Frederick Parrella who was Bridget’s Theology of Marriage professor from her alma mater, Santa Clara University. He did a wonderful job and if I may add, he is a fellow New Yorker so I liked him instantly! 
Brad’s Dad came up and shared a special reading. 
Bridget and Brad spoke personalized vows to each other, filled with so much love and devotion to one another. 
The rings were exchanged…
Excitement building!
KISS the bride! 
Married!!
The newlyweds retreated into The Snug! I love the “awwww” face Bridget is giving Brad!!
Celebration time!!!! Bridget and Brad had adorable Polaroid cameras out for guests to take a portrait! 
I love that weddings now have their own hashtags so guests can tag their pictures and the couple can see them! I can’t wait to hear what the next few generations think of hashtags!
The adorable flower girl all done with her duties relaxing with her wedding Barbie!
Brad’s parents!!
While the guests were in the pub and the Snug enjoying cocktail hour, the staff at the Inn were flipping the rooms for the reception. The result was magical! The staff at the Pelican are top notch and did such an incredible job all day. 
Bridget and Brad’s favor to their guests was an engraved Welsh Lovespoon. The history behind these spoons is really interesting. Men gave them to women as a gesture that they wanted to court them. The spoon represents feeding which in turn symbolizes taking care of the person. 
Bridget and Brad made their way in for their grand entrance! 
Everyone had such a great time dining on exquisite food in such a charming Inn! 
After a delicious meal, Bridget’s Mom started off by welcoming everyone to the wedding and telling beautiful stories of their travels together!
Next up was Brad’s best man and some tasteful roasting had everyone laughing!
Last but certainly not least, Bridget’s maid of honor gave a toast, part of which was reminding Brad of all the ways he came make Bridget a happy wife! Wine and chocolate were key words!
A Naked Cake by Batter Bakery! Delicious and so interesting to look at!
And trays and trays of cookies! Sweet tooth satisfaction achieved!
Adorable!
Family and Friends were called back into the room that held the ceremony for some dancing. Bridget and Brad kicked it off with a sweet first dance that had everyone smiling!
And then the dance floor erupted! 
I love how some people watched the dance floor from the windows!
A slight pause to the dance floor was given when Bridget and and her Mom shared a dance!
HUGS! So much happiness!
Brad then took his Mom out for a spin on the dance floor!
Moments like this are what I always hope to capture on a wedding day! Bridget and her Mom watching Brad and his Mom with so much love!
The action started up again and this group knew how to have a good time! Outside the rain was pouring down, the winds were kicking up and there wasn’t a care in the world!
It was time for us to end our night but the party was still in full swing. We left as Bridget and Brad were enjoying their wedding night to the fullest! Bridget and Brad, you were so much fun to work with from start to finish! You’re an amazing couple, so full of sparkle for each other and life! Your wedding day was perfection and that was fitting since you two deserve the best- twinkle on!
Venue and catering: The Pelican Inn
Hair and Makeup: Dreamcatcher Artistry
Bridget’s Dress: Monique Lhuillier
Brad’s suit: Andreas Gorges
Filmmakers: Ric & Rose Grover Films
Florist: My Friend Ingrid
DJ: Lovesick DJs
Invitations and all paper goods: Rifle Paper Co.
Photography: Susannah Gill
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