(Apollo Fotografie)

Wedding Inspiration: A Classic Ceremony in San Francisco's Presidio

Nov 22, 2019

Ariana Parsons and Grady Kidder met, as many do in college, at a bar.

But for their big day several years later, they decided to take it outside—to San Francisco's Presidio, where a lush eucalyptus grove provided the backdrop for their ceremony.

The day was a family affair, with Parsons' aunt officiating and her brother playing music. They read the vows they wrote themselves beneath a wooden arch covered in white blooms and leafy greens.

"We went pretty classic—long white dress and tux," says Parsons, who wore an ivory satin number. "It looked classic and simple in the front, but was 'party in the back' with plunging mesh." Plus, it made for great twirling on the dance floor. Her bridesmaids each selected their own frocks—all floor-length and in slate gray.

Reflecting the dense foliage of the surrounds, the reception inside also burst with greenery and white florals, including garland centerpieces illuminated by candles. It's here that the real fun began with a taco bar, Ghirardelli chocolates as favors, and a band that got guests moving all night.

"My family loves to dance, and we repeatedly got comments from guests that this was the most grown-ups they had ever seen on the dance floor at a wedding," says Parsons.