When and where Kathleen Florita and Josh Amrani met is up for debate: He thinks it was at a birthday party; she says it was over a game of shuffle board at the Castro bar Hi Tops. But it's generally agreed upon that their mutual friend Lisa introduced them; and roughly three years later, she would officiate their wedding.
The details of the engagement are more concrete. On a Friday afternoon, Amrani got down on one knee at their favorite bookstore, Green Apple Books on Clement Street. He carried a custom-designed ring and a book with a card tucked in: "Will you marry me?" it said. Yes, Florita said.
Months before she got engaged, Florita and her brother had been walking his dog in the Presidio when they came across the Chapel of Our Lady. She and Amrani loved everything about it—the lighting, the large glass windows, and the gold etching in the beams. A celebration in the iconic Presidio would be a perfect way to entertain their guests from around the world—a natural, minimalist space that would achieve that "simple but elegant, practical but classy" vibe.
Relaxation and comfort were top priorities, so the pair planned a day that would be geared toward just hanging out. After the ceremony, a lunchtime reception was held just for the family at the Presidio restaurant The Commissary. To keep things comfy, Florita's bridesmaids wore jumpsuits with pockets (also totally re-wearable), but the bride and groom rocked it, her in a floor-length gown from BHLDN, and him in a Tom Ford suit and Alexander McQueen kicks.
The city of San Francisco was also something of a star here: Their invitations and cake were printed with a graphic of the skyline, and florals were sourced at the SF Flower Mart; the bride made all the arrangements and boutonnieres herself. She also designed the programs, seating cards, guest book, and even a crossword puzzle with details about them as a couple. The personal touches didn't stop there, though—both of their mothers and brothers read at the ceremony; Florita's younger brother played "Steps and Stairs" by Charlie Keys on the piano as she walked down the aisle; their macaroons came from Amrani's father's chocolate shop in Philadelphia; tables were named for their favorite authors; and wooden signs were made by the beloved Lisa.
That night, a second reception. at SFCameraWork, was held to welcome the newlyweds' friends, complete with drinks, dessert, and dancing. "We had boba tea, mini cupcakes, and churros, and closed out the night with Super Duper burgers being delivered. With an amazing DJ, we danced all night."
Venue: Chapel of Our Lady
Reception: The Commissary
Dress: BHLN
Hair: Lindsay Bauman booked through StyleBee
Makeup:Makeup by Elisa booked through StyleBee
Shoes: Darling Ones from Macys
Suit: Tom Ford
Groom's Shoes: Alexander McQueen
Bridesmaids Jumpsuits: Vince Camuto
Flowers: DIY with flowers from SF flower mart
Decor: Wood signs by Lisa Schaaf
Cake:Butter&
Macaroons: Delice et Chocolat
Wine: Balletto Winery
Photographer:enbphotos
Videographer:Devad Weddings