Elegant City Hall Elopement in San Francisco, CA

We are obsessed with this elegant city hall elopement featured in our Winter 2021 magazine. But Akalia and Vonzell’s decision to downsize their wedding was not taken lightly.

They had known each other for eight years since meeting as undergraduates at the University of Wisconsin in Madison. Everyone was super excited when Vonzell proposed during a trip to the Philippines to celebrate Akaila’s graduation from medical school.

For nearly two years, they thought of what their perfect celebration would look like, and eventually, they decided to elope. Akaila shares, “We had originally thought we’d have a big wedding, and then downsized to family-only for financial/logistical considerations, and then decided to just elope, us two and our photographer. It was what we should have done all along. My advice would be to prioritize what really matters–– you and your fiancé–– and do what is best for you. If eloping feels right, your friends and family will understand.”

Even though they eloped, they made sure their intimate nuptials were gorgeous and hired a photographer to capture all of the lovely moments, so they could share them with family and friends later. Their ceremony on the third-floor balcony of San Francisco City Hall, with its majestic staircases and towering windows, was simply stunning. Afterward, they headed to the picturesque beach where they read their personal vows to each other. Finally, they ended up at the ruins at Sutro Baths. It was a perfect contrast to the structured, grand elegance of City Hall, representing both their classically luxurious and wildly adventurous sides.

Full names of couple: Akaila Cabell + Vonzell Coleman
Occupations: Stanford surgeon resident & banker
Wedding date: 09/03/2019
Wedding location: San Francisco City Hall + Sutro Baths

Wedding Style

I wore the minimalist C Bassette dress by Floravere, which was perfect for both locations. It suited the classic elegance of San Francisco City Hall, while staying natural and comfortable enough for our elopement adventure at the beach. The shopping experience with Floravere is very interesting and unique. As a busy resident, I opted for their in-home try-on experience, where I got to try on dresses at home before ordering. Vonzell’s suit was from Ted Baker and he looked handsome as ever!

What is your best memory from your wedding?

Saying our vows to each other, in private, beside the ocean. I took my hair down and it was so windy, emotional. and perfect.

Advice

We had originally thought we’d have a big wedding, and then downsized to family-only for financial/logistical considerations, and then decided to just elope, us two and our photographer. It was what we should have done all along. My advice would be to prioritize what really matters–– you and your fiancé–– and do what is best for you. If eloping feels right, your friends and family will understand.