Lana and Oleg had a beautiful wedding ceremony at the Holy Virgin Cathedral in San Francisco. The Russian Orthodox wedding ceremony, held in late July, was fit for royalty! The beautiful, gilded cathedral and purple motif created a jaw-dropping, unforgettable day.

The bride and her bridesmaids prepared for the day at Lana’s parents’ house. The bridesmaids looked gorgeous in their long wisteria-colored dresses draping over their shoulders. They met up with the dapper groomsmen in a limo bus, and headed to the wedding in San Francisco. Before leaving her house, Lana and her parents shared a beautiful moment, gazing at a painting of the Virgin Mary. This, and other sacred paintings, would play a big part in the ceremony and reception.

As the ceremony began, Lana and Oleg met at the entrance of the cathedral. Lana looked every bit the princess in her lacy, flowing gown. The priest greeted them and led them to the altar, Lana’s circular train and long veil flowing behind her. Guests stood in reverence as the couple received blessings and exchanged rings. After the rings were exchanged, they participated in a traditional crowning ceremony. The priest first placed a golden crown on Oleg’s head, and repeated a blessing three times. A crown was then placed on Lana’s head, and a similar blessing was repeated. The couple then followed the priest in a short procession before returning to their spots in front of the altar. As the ceremony concluded, Oleg kissed his beautiful bride. The couple shared celebratory hugs with friends and family members before walking back up the aisle. As they exited the cathedral, they were greeted with a shower of rose petals.

After the ceremony, the wedding party headed to Sutro Heights Park in San Francisco for some group pictures. Oleg and his friends relished the chance to let loose a little after the reverent ceremony. The group found a wall resembling a castle and posed in front of it to capture the sweet moments of the day.

The bridal party and guests headed to the Peninsula Italian American Social Club in San Mateo for the wedding reception. The reception hall kept the royal vibes. Chairs were draped with white covers and purple sashes, and the tables were accented with gold. Tall, lavender flowers served as the centerpieces for each table. Oleg and Lana were introduced for the first time as husband and wife, and they took communion together. They were seated at the head table, and speeches began. So much love was shared between family and friends! The couple hit the dance floor and shared a first dance, which was filled with synchronized moves and spontaneous kisses. Shortly after, Lana danced with her father Vladimir while Oleg danced with his mother Olga, twirling her around the dance floor.

Guests crowded around as Lana threw a bouquet of white and lavender roses. The men waited as Oleg searched for the garter and tossed it their way. The happy celebration continued through the night, and guests left with a sweet memento: a shot glass engraved with the couple’s monogram. This wedding was such a beautiful way to begin what is sure to be a beautiful marriage!

Fun Note – I also photographed Lana’s sister’s wedding (Larissa and Alex), her cousin’s wedding (Kat and Peter), and her friends wedding (Kat and Kon).

Горько!

Reception Coordinator- Tony Vitrano, Peninsula Italian American Social Club//Flowers- Virgina, S & V Collections//DJ- Matthew Catalan, DJ Rufio//Linens- PIASC//Bridal Salon- Salon Gossip//Bridal Dress Designer- Allure//Bridesmaids Dress Designer- David’s Bridal//Men’s Suits- Jim’s Formalwear//Invitations- VistaPrint//Videographer- Sergei Kuzman//