Bianca & Dominic : A Love Story from a San Francisco Elopement Photographer

Some love stories are written while unfolding over familiar streets and routine days. Others stretch across countries and long flights—built on patience, adventure, and the undeniable pull toward one person. Bianca and Dominic’s was the latter.

They met in Mexico, Bianca was on a work trip and Dominic was traveling with his family. Some might say that it started one night out or possibly in the hotel pool the next day - but both sides agree that they couldn't get enough. What started as 8 hours of talking throughout the night turned into exchanged numbers, and daily long-distance FaceTime calls.

When they decided to get married, they wanted something meaningful, intimate, and reflective of their deep connection.

Their elopement wasn’t just about saying “I do.” It was a day that honored their journey, and the simple joy of just being together.

This is the story of how their San Francisco elopement unfolded.

Details of the Day:

Morning: Getting Ready & BARTing to City Hall

Bianca and Dominic opted to take the BART to City Hall - as vegans who are busy with establishing an alternative protein startup, they know public transport and moving quickly.

Side Note - I think subways make for such a romantic location for photos! Maybe it's the fast trains creating the dramatic breezes or the moody lighting.. but if you have the courage for a bit of PDA and eloping in a place with a subway, I highly recommend getting on that bus! I always map out the timeline for my clients and will help with every step of the process - all the planning is included in my packages as a San Fransisco elopement photographer.

Late Morning: San Francisco City Hall

San Francisco City Hall is the place to elope if you want something timeless and cinematic. The grand Beaux-Arts architecture, the sweeping staircase, the soft glow of light filtering through the windows—it’s effortlessly elegant without trying too hard.

Bianca and Dominic opted to sign their marriage license there and exchange their vows later on in nature. That's the magic of eloping - you get to choose what and when reflects your personality and values.

Afternoon: Exploring the Palace of Fine Arts

After City Hall, they made their way to the Palace of Fine Arts, one of San Francisco’s most breathtaking locations. With its grand columns, reflective lagoon, and quiet walking paths, it felt like a scene out of a European fairytale.

They wandered hand in hand, pausing to take it all in. Their connection was palpable and it was so fun to hold the space for their love. I surprised them by playing At Last by Etta James as an opportunity for them to take a first dance together.

Crossing the Street to Crissy Field

When planning elopement timelines, I always check out what is within walking distance to get the most out of the location. And when I scout out the locations on foot I make sure that it all ties together. I saw that Crissy Field is just a short walk away (and conveniently located next to bathrooms) and offers views of the Golden Gate Bridge!

By this time of the day, Bianca and Dominic were in the flow of photos and getting giggly. In classic San Fransisco fashion, the weather quickly changed to chilly with a few rain drops, only for a few minutes.

Private Vows at Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio

For Bianca and Dominic, they wanted something more personal—words spoken just for each other, without an audience. Lovers’ Lane at the Presidio was the perfect spot.

Tucked away in a eucalyptus grove, the trail was quiet except for the sound of leaves rustling in the wind. They found a secluded spot, just the two of them, and took turns reading letters they had written the night before. They played a playlist of their favorite love songs and the energy was magnetic. The sound of the wind, the tears streaming down their faces, and glowing smiles.

It reminded me exactly of why I love elopements so much. They aren’t about skipping tradition. They’re about making your own.

Your Day, Your Way - Take it from me your San Francisco Elopement, Photographer

Bianca and Dominic’s elopement was a love letter to their journey, and the simple joy of being together. It was proof that elopements aren’t about sacrificing the magic of a wedding day—they’re about crafting a day that feels exactly like you.

If you’re dreaming of a San Francisco elopement—whether it’s at City Hall, in the Presidio, or somewhere completely unexpected—I’d love to help you bring it to life. Let’s create a day that’s filled with meaning, adventure, and those quiet, unforgettable moments.

Book a free consultation call here, and let’s start planning your dream elopement. For more information about how to elope in the Bay Area, check out this blog post or get inspired by the story behind other elopements like Mel and Jordan.