An Elegant Wedding at The Fairmont in San Francisco, California

Katie Collier and Ricky Kaluza have a funny love story – one that reminds people that everything in life happens for a reason.

Although the two were set up through mutual friends, Ricky was not the “Rick” that Katie’s friends originally had matched her with. But, to make a long story short, the confusion of whether or not Ricky was the right Rick is what brought him and Katie together.

Ricky and Katie’s first date was over drinks, chatting away as if they had known each other for years. While Ricky felt nervous from not having been on a date in a long time, Katie was able to see his sweet and soft demeanor. For their second date, the two spent the day around Ricky’s favorite spots at the marina; and since then, they’ve been inseparable. A year and a half later, a trip to the St. Francis Yacht club turned into an engagement party overlooking the bay.

The wedding planning process was an adventure that involved both the bride and groom-to-be. Ricky was enthusiastic, which Katie loved, and helped make decisions regarding the smallest details. His family also helped inspire the choice of wedding venue, as his grandparents celebrated their wedding at the Fairmont, San Francisco in 1935. Once Katie heard that, she knew they had to host their reception at the same location.

With “the most beautiful church in San Francisco” being just steps away, Katie also found out that her grandparents spent many Sundays at Grace Cathedral in the 1950s and 1960s. It seemed like fate to be celebrating their marriage at these two locations – Grace Cathedral and the Fairmont – which are sentimental locations for both families. 

After months of planning, tasting, sipping, and picking out every detail for their special day, the wedding finally arrived. At the reception, beautiful crystal glasses were filled as the newlyweds and their guests dined on a surf and turf meal. 

The evening was filled with love and dancing until the early hours of the morning.

Delighted to see their friends and family come together to celebrate their union,the newlyweds felt like their wedding was an absolute dream come true.