Stephanie and Matt's Argonaut Fisherman's Wharf Wedding
Fisherman’s Wharf has long been known for its stunning views of the Bay, fresh seafood, and historic urban charm - but not many think of it as the perfect place to tie the knot. That is, at least, until the Argonaut Hotel turned Fisherman’s Wharf into one of the premier locations for a wedding in all of San Francisco.
Located in a historic brick warehouse that, like so many other urban relics, has been remodeled and renovated to restore its former glory and bring fresh new utilization, the Argonaut is a boutique hotel that captures the spirit of San Francisco. A maritime theme, sweeping views of the Bay (including Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and Hyde Street Pier), and a historic brick building straight out of the ‘roaring 20’s’ set the stage for anyone’s dream wedding ceremony, rehearsal dinner, or reception. Throw in 10,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event space and you have all the ingredients needed to make wedding dreams come true.
We had the opportunity to shoot Matt and Stephanie’s wedding at the Argonaut last October, and we had an absolute blast. Something David often recommends is to hire photographers who are professionals, but are shooting at a location for the first time. That’s because when you are shooting somewhere for the first time, the sense of awe and wonder and discovery is still there, and often you’ll find shots that someone who has been on location a million times overlooks because they have a routine.
We got to work some of that magic at the Argonaut, capturing rustic images of old ships moored at the pier, an elegant shot of Stephanie’s beautiful white dress draping the brick by a bayside window, and Stephanie’s bridesmaids getting ready in a nautical themed suite.
Matt’s crew rocked a navy blue suit over brown dress shoes, complementing perfectly the old brick that engulfs most of the Argonaut. Getting ready photos are commonplace in the wedding industry, but getting ready while looking outside at sweeping views of the Bay is not! Out in the courtyard, we took groomsmen shots with Matt and the guys. It’s easy to have that James Bond swagger in a place as rustic and charming as this, and of course we had to follow up with the boy band shots!
After the separate bridal party photos, Matt and Stephanie had their first look (highly recommended, but that’s for another blog) before heading to the atrium for some couple photos. This group was lively and fun, always a plus for your bridal party - they can really help set the tone of the day.
Another thing we love about weddings at the Argonaut is the venue is capable of hosting the rehearsal dinner, ceremony, and reception while providing top notch in house catering, so our brides and grooms can have most of the logistics of their day taken care of by just one team - which is incredibly helpful.
After the two exchanged vows, we walked down to a sandy beach right on the harbor for some couple photos. Stephanie’s long veil draped gracefully as Matt swooped her up in front of darkening skies and the Golden Gate Bridge looming in the distance - quite a change of scenery from the solemn brick of the Argonaut, but all within walking distance. This kind of variance is a treat for the couple and us as photographers, and we took full advantage before walking the couple back to Fisherman’s Wharf and the Argonaut to celebrate their reception with friends and family. (Side note - we think Stephanie’s dad looks like Dustin Hoffman. Who do you think he looks like?! Let us know in the comments.
It was a beautiful end to a beautiful day, and turns out that few places are better equipped for a wedding like Fisherman’s Wharf on San Francisco Bay. Check out the Argonaut Hotel to see if they can make your wedding dreams come true.
