Photography by: enLuce Photography
About the venue
The Argonaut Hotel near Ghirardelli Square in San Francisco is all about location, location, location. When a couple want to host a downtown party but does not want to have the typical downtown “Ballroom” reception, then they have to go check out the Argonaut Hotel. The nautical-themed hotel is a charming boutique property where service is the order of the day and trendsetting design is all around you.
The hotel redefines a classic Americana look – sort of Ralph Lauren meets Fisherman’s Wharf. I absolutely love the dazzling array of unique artifacts and historical architectural elements blended with a flare for the dramatic that welcome every visitor as they walk into the lobby. The Argonaut Hotel offers several options for a ceremony and reception. The brick “cannery” courtyard is a perfect place to exchange wedding vows, or I love using this space to enjoy sumptuous nibbles paired with wine or cocktails. With the Ghirardelli sign lit up in the background and ships in the harbor, you can’t get a more picture perfect San Francisco scene if you tried. History meets refined detail and casual elegance – we love it!
Ask the expert
This sweet and charming couple obviously abides by the idea of go bold and go bright, and why not?! The whimsical and fun celebration is perfect for a San Francisco Waterfront soiree. The vivid shade of winner’s circle blue is a perfect pairing with the bright and bold shades of meyer lemon and pumpkin.
A splendid ceremony has been detailed in the Maritime room. The white chair-covers are punctuated with a burst of the couple’s signature blue and the arched windows invite wonderful filtered light that softly fills the room. The massive weathered wood columns and brick masonry work of the interior merge the exterior and interior spaces perfectly. Many couples will adjourn from a ceremony in the Maritime room and then lead their guests outdoors to enjoy a pre-dinner snack under the shade trees in the courtyard.
The DIY elements incorporated by the couple keep the whole event grounded in the idea that is San Francisco. The table numbers, which are designed to reflect various points of interest in San Francisco (The Bay Bridge, Palace of Fine Arts, etc.), are a wonderful way to ensure your guests know about all the highlights this amazing “in the heart of the city” location offers. I love the custom cookie – it is a perfect pairing for your guests as a late night snack with a glass of milk after a night of dancing and merriment.
