Aya and Richie’s Intimate Wedding at Old Saint Hilary’s Church in Tiburon, California

Aya and Richie’s wedding was a perfect blend of intimacy, adventure, and stunning California views. Set in the picturesque town of Tiburon, their day was a beautiful reflection of their love story. From the quiet moments at a charming chapel overlooking the bay to a fun, memorable ferry ride to Sausalito, every detail was thoughtfully curated to create a celebration as unique as the couple themselves.

Getting Ready at Waters Edge Hotel

The day started at the Waters Edge Hotel, located just a stone’s throw from the water, with its sweeping views of the bay. Aya and Richie each had their own space to get ready, surrounded by their closest friends and family.

Aya’s bridal suite had the most serene atmosphere—soft light streaming in through the windows, highlighting her unique birdcage veil. Richie and his groomsmen were in high spirits, preparing for the day ahead with laughter and anticipation. It was the perfect setting to capture those meaningful, behind-the-scenes moments that make wedding days so special.

While the forecast had called for rain, it didn’t dampen the excitement. There was a palpable sense of joy in the air, and though it drizzled on and off throughout the day, the couple never let it get in the way of their celebration. In fact, the rain only added to the romantic atmosphere, giving everything a soft, dreamy quality.

After Aya had finished getting ready she went outside onto the deck to do a first look with her best friends and her father.

Bride and Groom Portraits: A Moment to Remember

Before their guests arrived, Aya and Richie took a moment to themselves. We ventured outside to capture some quiet, intimate bride and groom portraits. The sky was still clearing, and the crisp air was filled with the fresh scent of rain-soaked earth. The stunning views of the bay made for the perfect backdrop as we wandered around the chapel grounds. Aya and Richie shared a few quiet moments together, taking it all in—just the two of them, surrounded by nature’s beauty and the love they’d just pledged to one another.

It’s moments like these that I love to capture—the stillness between the excitement, where couples can truly be present in their wedding day and reflect on the journey they’ve just begun together.

The Ceremony at Old Saint Hilary’s Church

The ceremony was held at Old Saint Hilary’s Church, a charming white chapel perched atop a hill with breathtaking views of the bay. As we made our way to the chapel, the rain cleared up just in time, unveiling a soft, golden light over the surrounding hills and sparkling water below. There was something almost ethereal about the setting—a calmness that matched the deep connection between Aya and Richie.

Inside the chapel, the space felt warm and intimate. The small size of the venue allowed every guest to feel closely connected to the couple as they exchanged vows. Aya looked stunning in her unique bridal jumpsuit and birdcage veil, and Richie’s smile was absolutely infectious as he gazed at his bride. The ceremony was filled with love, laughter, and meaningful moments—just the way a wedding should be. The tranquility of the chapel, combined with its breathtaking view, made it a truly magical place for them to say “I do.”

A Ferry Ride to Sausalito

After the ceremony, guests were whisked away by shuttles back to Tiburon, where a privately rented ferry awaited to transport everyone across the bay to Sausalito. This unique mode of transportation made the day feel even more special and gave guests the chance to mingle, sip drinks, and take in the magnificent views of the Golden Gate Bridge stretching across the bay. As the boat cruised along the water, guests enjoyed panoramic vistas of San Francisco and the Marin Headlands, and the sky lit up with the soft colors of the late afternoon.

Aya and Richie’s wedding was full of beautiful moments like these—thoughtful touches that made their day not just about the ceremony, but about enjoying time with their closest friends and family in a way that was true to who they are. The ferry ride was the perfect way to kick off the next phase of the celebration.

Strolling Through Sausalito at Sunset

As the ferry docked in Sausalito, Aya and Richie led their guests on a short, sunset stroll through the charming streets, with San Francisco’s skyline glowing in the distance across the bay. The air was crisp, and the setting sun cast everything in a warm, golden glow. It was a quiet, intimate walk that felt like a moment just for them—an opportunity to pause, reflect, and take in the beauty of the day as the world around them celebrated.

The walk ended at an Italian restaurant in Sausalito that Aya and Richie had rented out exclusively for their guests. The restaurant, with its cozy ambiance and exceptional food, was the perfect setting for their reception. The space was filled with laughter, cheers, and heartfelt speeches as guests enjoyed a delicious meal to cap off the day.

The Cake Cutting: A Sword, a Tradition, and Lots of Laughter

No wedding celebration is complete without a little bit of fun, and Aya and Richie definitely brought the fun to their reception. Instead of the typical cake-cutting ritual, they decided to do things a bit differently. With a sword in hand, the couple cut their wedding cake in a grand, playful gesture. Their guests cheered, and the moment became one of the highlights of the evening—full of smiles, laughter, and a dash of silliness.

The remainder of the evening was filled with music, dancing, and more unforgettable moments as Aya and Richie celebrated their love in the company of those who mattered most to them.

A Day to Remember

Aya and Richie’s wedding in Tiburon was an unforgettable experience. From the intimate ceremony at Old Saint Hilary’s Church to the fun-filled ferry ride to Sausalito and the cozy Italian reception, every detail was infused with their love for adventure and family. It was an honor to capture their story—a day that was uniquely theirs, and one I’m sure they’ll cherish for years to come.

Their wedding was the perfect reminder that it’s not the grand, extravagant moments that make a day memorable—it’s the intimate, meaningful ones. The quiet exchanges, the laughter shared with loved ones, and the moments that allow you to truly be present in your love. I couldn’t have asked for a better couple to work with, and I’m so grateful to have been a part of Aya and Richie’s special day.