If you have never been to a Jewish wedding, then you are missing the best time of your life. I was privileged to capture Maryana and Alex’s intimate downtown San Francisco wedding last month, and it was incredible.

Alex and Maryana are an easygoing, fun-loving couple who wholeheartedly enjoy being together. Their wedding was as passionate and full of love as they are.

The couple chose not to have a bridal party, but you would never have missed it. Everyone there seemed like a part of the bridal party! Maryana’s mom helped her get ready, and it was easy to see how close they are.

We strolled around Union Square before the ceremony for some portraits of the bride and groom, and even popped into the Sir Francis Drake hotel for a few. I loved that Maryana was up for walking around. They both looked fabulous all dolled up against the bustling city backdrop.

First there was an intimate ceremony where they signed the Ketubah. The wedding ceremony itself was held at sundown for Jewish tradition, and the sunset that day was beautiful.

Even the ceremony was lively for this wedding; as Maryana was coming down the aisle, guests were all gathering around at the front and in the aisles to catch a glimpse.

The Marriott Union Square ballroom at the Marriott was fully transformed. It made the perfect backdrop for the constant food, fun and dancing, with drapes and lights all around the room.

Finally, the reception was non-stop fun! Constant food, fun and dancing the whole time; guests entered the reception first, to tables already full of food. Then the bride and groom were announced and immediately began dancing, as everyone joined in. The night went on with blessing the Challah, the Hora, Mitzvah dances, more courses, speeches, and much more dancing.

Mazel Tov, Alex and Maryana!

Scroll down to see this Downtown San Francisco Wedding: