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An Edgy Renaissance-Inspired Wedding at San Francisco’s Julia Morgan Ballroom

June 17, 2025 | justine

Some weddings are all about tradition. Others break the mold entirely. Christina and Rick’s Julia Morgan Ballroom wedding did the latter—with an edgy, Renaissance-inspired vibe, immersive guest experiences, and deeply personal details that made their celebration feel like an extension of their creative lives.

Both working in the video game industry, Christina and Rick brought a strong artistic vision to the planning process. Blending gothic elegance with warm, moody tones and a dose of playfulness. “Even though we come from completely different cultures and live thousands of miles apart, we instantly connected with them,” shares Junebug vendor Studio Fotografico Bacci. “That’s one of the most beautiful things about this job—meeting kindred spirits in the most unexpected places.”

What We Love About This Julia Morgan Ballroom Wedding:

  • The seamless blend of minimal ceremony decor and bold, atmospheric reception styling
  • A pair of distinct bridal looks, including a gothic-inspired black dress for the after-party
  • Tarot and palm readers, plus an interactive guest canvas 
  • A venue that offered flexibility and timeless elegance

Featured Vendor:
Studio Fotografico Bacci

Finding the Perfect Venue in the Heart of San Francisco

Located in the city’s Financial District, Julia Morgan Ballroom offered distinct spaces for the ceremony and reception, along with a neoclassical backdrop that balanced grandeur with intimacy.

“It’s a venue with a lot of soul,” the photographers said. “Its architecture naturally complemented the couple’s aesthetic—classic but with room for mood and atmosphere.”

The ceremony took place in the main hall downstairs, while the reception moved upstairs, allowing each part of the celebration to unfold in its own unique way.

A Minimal Yet Meaningful Ceremony at the Julia Morgan Ballroom

Christina and Rick never set out to have a themed wedding, but “edgy” was a consistent thread throughout—starting with the ceremony. Held in the elegant lower-level hall of the Julia Morgan Ballroom, the setting was kept intentionally minimal. Rows of dark wood chairs lined a candlelit marble aisle, leading to a softly draped ivory backdrop accented with a wild, asymmetrical floral installation of seasonal greenery and deep-toned blooms. This stripped-back design allowed the emotional core of the day to shine through, especially during their intimate ceremony officiated by one of Rick’s closest friends.

The focus was entirely on the couple and their words. “It was short, heartfelt, and full of small moments that made it theirs.” With soft lighting and simple styling, the space created the perfect atmosphere for vows that were touching, funny, and deeply personal.

Showcasing Personality Through Wedding Fashion

Christina wore two custom looks from Atelier des Modistes. A more classic ensemble for the ceremony and dinner, and a striking black gown for the party. Bridesmaids were dressed in shades of green, adding to the earthy richness of the reception color palette, while the groomsmen wore timeless tuxedos.

An Immersive, Renaissance-Inspired Julia Morgan Ballroom Wedding Reception

When guests moved upstairs for the reception, the mood shifted entirely. The Julia Morgan Ballroom was transformed into a lush, immersive experience. Dramatic florals spilled across long tables, anchored by ground arrangements and softly glowing candles. The room’s dark wood paneling, moody uplighting, and ornate ceiling added depth and richness to every corner of the space.

Each place setting featured a velvet napkin, a wax-sealed scroll, and a tarot card, which tied into a custom seating chart inspired by the Major Arcana. To make things even more interactive, tarot and palm readers offered mystical insights, and guests were invited to contribute to a collaborative canvas. Each guest painted brushstrokes on a colorful, evolving piece of wedding-day art.

Later in the evening, Christina changed into a dramatic black gown that perfectly matched the celebration’s moody elegance. The formal dinner gave way to a high-energy dance party, and just when it seemed the night couldn’t get more memorable, a glowing McDonald’s sign lit up the room. Guests were treated to a full late-night spread, served with a side of pure nostalgia. 

Trusting the Right Vendors to Bring Their Julia Morgan Ballroom Wedding Vision to Life

The couple’s strong creative instincts helped them curate a team that truly understood their vision. “They actually found us through Instagram and immediately felt that our style matched what they were imagining,” the photographers shared. “That intuition carried through every choice they made. They really nailed it when it came to choosing collaborators.”

A Final Piece of Vendor Advice

From the perspective of a team that’s captured weddings all over the world, Studio Fotografico Bacci offered one standout piece of advice: “Relax and enjoy it.”

“Christina and Rick were clear about their vision, but once the day came, they trusted their team and let go. That’s what made the energy so special. It’s something we always try to tell our couples—don’t get lost in the details when the moment arrives. Live it. It might sound simple, but that mindset is key to truly making the most of one of the most meaningful days of your life.” 

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Studio Fotografico Bacci
Event Planning – Vibrant Event
Venue – Julia Morgan Ballroom
Floral Design – Violets of the Valley
Makeup + Hair Styling – Bun Bun Bridal Lab
Wedding Dress – Atelier des Modistes
Groom’s Apparel – Tailors’ Keep

 

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Dogs Signed the Marriage License at This Stove Prairie Ranch Wedding

June 15, 2025 | justine

Two outdoorsy DIY lovers, four dogs, and a passion for nature—that’s the heart of Jenny and Sean’s Stove Prairie Ranch wedding. What started as a dream for a laid-back, design-forward celebration became a full weekend campout filled with personal touches, pastel florals, and unforgettable memories. From hand-painted signage to ceramics the couple personally decorated,, every element of this Colorado campout wedding reflected a piece of Jenny and Sean.

Jenny and Sean’s love story began on Tinder, and from their first messages, they bonded over bird hunting, camping, and hosting backyard hangouts. It’s no surprise then that they turned their wedding at Stove Prairie Ranch into a weekend-long campout for guests who wanted to join them under the stars. 

This love of the outdoors carried through in their venue choice. Nestled in Northern Colorado, Stove Prairie Ranch offered scenic views, sprawling outdoor space, and even a big red tractor cart that shuttled guests to the ceremony site. An unexpected highlight that added a playful touch.

What We Love About This Stove Prairie Ranch Wedding:

  • The personalized outdoor-inspired details like game bird escort cards
  • Dogs not only walking down the aisle but also signing the marriage license (yep, really!)
  • A weekend-long campout at Stove Prairie Ranch with guests pitching tents and soaking up the Colorado scenery
  • Jenny’s dual wedding-day looks featuring an elegant cape for the ceremony and a party-ready outfit for the reception
  • Custom DIY details, from the invitation suite to  cake plates, that made the day feel uniquely theirs

Featured Vendor:
Katie Fletcher Photography

Fashion That Balanced Elegance with Authenticity

Jenny’s fashion goal was timeless elegance with a nod to old Hollywood glam. She wore a stunning gown that transformed from ceremony to reception with a removable cape instead of a veil, paired with soft waves and a classic makeup look. When it was time to party, both Jenny and Sean changed into relaxed outfits that felt more “them,” embracing the laid-back vibe they wanted their guests to enjoy all weekend. Sean chose a linen suit in a soft pastel that matched the color palette and was ideal for the summer celebration.

A Stove Prairie Ranch Wedding Ceremony Full of Emotion (and Dogs!)

The couple opted for a first look just outside the getting-ready cottage, followed by portraits with family and friends. Without a traditional wedding party, they were able to spend more time with their guests throughout the day, which was one of their top priorities.

Their ceremony, officiated by a close friend, was emotional and heartfelt, telling the full story of their relationship. But the true stars of the show? Their four dogs. Two escorted them down the aisle, while the other two served as ring bearers. After the ceremony, the pups got to sign the marriage license. A unique Colorado perk that allowed Lena and Foster (the dogs they had before meeting each other) to be official witnesses to their union.

Related: How to Include Your Dog in Your Wedding

Bringing Their Vision to Life With a Creative (and Trustworthy) Team

As avid DIYers, Jenny and Sean took the lead on planning and designing the wedding themselves. Jenny created everything from the dog silhouette illustrations in the invite suite to the seating chart and signage. “Lean in to the personal touches and details that matter to you,” she advised. “It’s so fun to see details truly reflect who you are as a couple.”

Still, they knew when to call in the pros. “Find vendors that you trust absolutely to execute on your vision and then enjoy your day,” Jenny said. Some were venue-recommended, while others were discovered through social media and chosen because their portfolio aligned with Jenny’s Pinterest board. The result? A seamless blend of DIY charm and professional execution.

A Stove Prairie Ranch Wedding Reception Rooted in Celebration and Sweetness

The reception felt like one big, joyful party. Guests enjoyed a relaxed outdoor cocktail hour, a nod to Jenny and Sean’s love of nature and community. A painting by Sean’s mom welcomed everyone, and Jenny’s hand-crafted signage brought everything together.

Their cake-cutting moment featured plates they painted themselves on a pre-wedding pottery date. An incredibly sweet DIY keepsake they now use for anniversaries. And instead of a traditional cake dessert, guests were treated to the couple’s favorite ice cream, served up under a glowing Colorado sunset.

As the sun dipped behind the hills, Jenny and Sean changed into their party looks and rejoined the dance floor, ready to celebrate the night away.

Why Personal Details Make All The Difference

Their best advice? “Lean into what matters to you—those details that feel like you as a couple. And when the day comes, let go and trust your team.”

With heartfelt personal touches, a ceremony led by love (and paws), and a weekend spent under the stars, Jenny and Sean’s Stove Prairie Ranch wedding wasn’t just a celebration—it was a memory made for a lifetime.

The Wedding Team:

Photography – Katie Fletcher Photography
Venue – Stove Prairie Ranch
Floral Design – Lace and Lilies
Catering – Foothills Catering
Cake – Mystic Moon Bakery
Officiant – Family Friend, Seth
DJ – Nathan Luebbehusen
Videography – Storybox Film
Invitation Design – Jenny Hudgens
Makeup + Hair Styling – Melissa Camacho Beauty
Wedding Dress – A and Be Bridal Denver
Bridal Accessories – Made With Love Bridal
Rentals – Front Range Event Rental + Foraged Goods Co.
Transportation – NOCO Party Bus
Ice Cream – Walrus Ice Cream

 

Sponsors
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An Effortlessly Elegant Sicily Wedding Inspired by the Mediterranean Landscape

June 14, 2025 | justine

It all started on one of those warm summer nights in Sicily—the air thick with jasmine, the sea just close enough to hear. Edoardo and Charlotte spent hours talking about travel, food, and photography, completely losing track of time. From that night on, they were inseparable. So when it came time to plan their wedding, returning to Sicily felt like the most natural way to honor where it all began.

They envisioned a day that felt authentic and unforced, rooted in the natural beauty of the island. They found it in a rustic countryside villa surrounded by olive trees and vineyards. “We loved how the space felt warm and inviting, especially with all the orange-toned flowers that made everything glow,” they shared. With the help of a trusted team of vendors, Edoardo and Charlotte brought their vision to life—a celebration that felt both deeply personal and perfectly at home in the Sicilian landscape.

What We Love About This Sicily Wedding:

  • A venue that blended rustic architecture with sweeping views of vineyards and olive groves
  • A warm, earthy color palette of terracotta, dusty rose, olive green, and creamy white inspired by the Sicilian landscape
  • A relaxed aperitivo hour with live folk music, local bites, and Aperol Spritz in the garden
  • An open-air reception that fully embraced the beauty and ease of the surrounding countryside

Featured Vendor:

Nucleika

Designing a Sicily Wedding That Felt Like a “Dreamy Escape”

“We wanted our wedding to feel like a dreamy, intimate Mediterranean escape,” Charlotte shared. Inspired by the landscapes of Sicily, they chose a soft, earthy palette that felt at home among the olive trees and golden light.

The floral design was a highlight of the day. “A joyful explosion of textures, colors, and scents. Elegant yet wild, romantic but full of character.” Though they didn’t take the DIY route, their wedding felt personal. “We entrusted everything to Tearose. From the very beginning, they understood our vision even better than we did.”

Thoughtful Wedding Style With a Mediterranean Touch

Charlotte wore an ivory gown with a deep V neckline and dramatic draped sleeves. Lightweight and easy to move in, it was just right for the warm outdoor setting. “I wanted something soft and comfortable that still felt special,” she shared. She paired the dress with a long veil and kept her hair and makeup minimal, opting for a natural look that suited the relaxed atmosphere.

Edoardo opted for a navy suit with a white open-collar shirt, sharp but relaxed. His groomsmen wore beige suits with light blue shirts, no ties, and dark loafers, which suited the warm weather and the overall feel of the day.

The wedding party wore dresses in earthy tones—burnt orange, dusty rose, olive, and ochre. Each look was different, but together they created a palette that fit right in with the surroundings and floral design without feeling too coordinated.

A Ceremony Full of Heart and Humor

Edoardo and Charlotte exchanged vows in a lush garden courtyard framed by olive trees and soft golden light. Garden chairs were arranged beneath the trees in tidy rows, creating a peaceful amphitheater-like setting surrounded by nature. Instead of a traditional altar, bursts of wildflowers in sunny yellows and creamy whites lined the aisle, giving the space a fresh, organic feel that complemented the Sicily wedding setting perfectly.

Guests were dressed in summer-appropriate attire—relaxed yet elegant—adding to the effortless mood of the celebration. The ceremony struck a balance between emotional and lighthearted, especially when the couple accidentally tried to put rings on the wrong hands. “Everyone burst into laughter, including us.”

Creating a Guest Experience Full of Sicilian Flavor

After the ceremony, guests enjoyed an open-air aperitivo hour with Aperol Spritz, traditional Sicilian bites, and live folk music. “It was the perfect transition into the evening,” Edoardo shared. “People wandered the gardens, took photos, and just soaked it all in.”

As the sun began to set, guests made their way to the reception where long tables were dressed in crisp white linens and topped with minimalist centerpieces in soft shades of peach, coral, and pink. The styling was simple but intentional, allowing the landscape—and the food—to take center stage.

Dinner was served al fresco under a pastel sky, with a menu that highlighted seasonal local dishes and Sicilian wine. As night fell, the mood shifted from relaxed to lively. A band flown in from Paris kept the energy up as guests danced beneath string lights and stars. “It was everything we dreamed of. The energy, the food, the people, it all came together perfectly.”

Advice for Couples Planning Their Own Sicily Wedding

Looking back, Edoardo and Charlotte are grateful they trusted their local planning team and stayed true to the kind of experience they wanted to create. “We worked with a wonderful local coordinator who helped bring everything together smoothly. And it really paid off.”

Their biggest takeaway? Don’t sweat the small stuff. Focus on the feeling you want your day to have—and let the beauty of a Sicily wedding do the rest.

The Wedding Team:

Photography + Videography – Nucleika
Event Planning + Floral Design – Tearose
Venue – La Dimora Delle Balze

 

Sponsors
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