There was so much to love about this wedding day. Kimia and Connor’s genuine kindness, warmth, and generosity made being in their company an absolute joy. On top of that, their wedding took place at not one, but two awesome venues in San Francisco. The ceremony was held in the backyard of the Haas-Lilienthal House, one of the most impressive Victorian-era buildings in the city that feels like stepping back in time.
There are endless cool details to take in, like the floral wallpaper, antique furniture, and stained glass windows in the getting ready bedrooms. The ceremony incorporated Iranian traditions like their gorgeous Sofreh and Persian sugar rubbing ritual that was fun for everyone participating and witnessing. Afterwards, we moved inside for cocktails and hors d'oeuvres in the formal living and dining rooms. (I’ve seen the house used in different ways, and it works well for both small and large weddings.)
After stopping at their apartment for a quick rest and outfit change, we headed to the chic Moongate Lounge in Chinatown for their party, festively dressed in sparkly attire, where every single family member and friend was on the dance floor for the rest of the night. Between music sets, guests took short breaks for yummy banquet-style food (dinner and late night snacks) from Mister Jiu’s and then took part in the Persian cake knife dance (Ragsheh Chagoo). No guests were harmed by the cake knife… scroll down for the late night fun. :)
Tip: these two venues are so perfectly fitting for a winter city celebration. Both are quintessential San Francisco. It’s almost never too cold for an outdoor ceremony year-round in SF, but still very nice to have indoor options before and after.
BEHIND-THE-SCENES ♡ ceremony venue: Haas-Lilienthal House ~ reception venue: Moongate Lounge ~ food: Mister Jiu’s ~ photographer: Rachelle Derouin [p.s. If you're planning a wedding at Haas-Lilienthal or Moongate Lounge, contact me and I’d be happy to share more about my experience there]
