NEON

Welcome Celebration

St. Ignatius Church

Ceremony

Golden Gate Club at the Presidio

Reception

Our Wedding

Our Story

The year was 2021, and the Bay Area brought us together. We first crossed paths at a work training, but the real spark was ignited on the trails of Pinnacles National Park, a place fittingly "on theme" for the adventures to come. It turns out, we have a matchmaker to thank: Mel's roommate and Brian's coworker, Danielle, who expertly planted the seed that led to Brian asking Mel out. Our first official date started with a comical misunderstanding: Mel, being the avid runner, thought it was a friendly running hangout (and even pre-ran the route, since Brian wasn't a runner yet!). Luckily, that friendly outing blossomed into something much more profound. From that day forward, we realized we were meant to grow together. Our relationship has since become a thrilling adventure log: 24 National Parks, a trip to Italy, shredding 13 ski resorts, catching over 30 concerts, and running hundreds of miles, including 3 marathons! Today, we're building a beautiful life together, fueled by coffee and wine, spent enjoying Sundays at the Mountain View Farmers Market and cheering on football, and giving back through Habitat for Humanity. We are so grateful for all the friends we’ve made and the life we’ve started. We can't wait to share this next, most important milestone in our story with all of you!

*Click the image icon to view the whole image!*

Engagement Photos

Fun Runs! 

National Parks

Family & Friends 

Hobbies and Things! 

Photos

Annmarie and Mel met through the J&J rotational program, and their friendship accelerated when they had the luck of living next door to each other during one of Mel's assignments. That time was filled with countless memorable movie nights, game nights, and deep conversations that cemented their bond. Annmarie is Mel's constant source of support, always there to listen and able to perfectly relate to all of life's "craziness." After Mel stood by Annmarie's side on her wedding day, she is thrilled to have Annmarie returning the favor as her supportive Maid of Honor for this next big step.

Annmarie Mullen

Casey is Mel's older sister, and she has been lovingly putting up with her since birth from Mel invading her room as a child to serving as a trusted confidante as an adult. Though they have navigated the natural differences that come with sisterhood, Casey has always been one of Mel's biggest supporters. Mel deeply admires Casey's strength and loves how she is always confident in being her true, authentic self. After sharing all the chapters of life together, Mel is overjoyed to have Casey sharing in this significant milestone.

Casey Schweizer

Mel and Emily's friendship began in college, and from the start, it has been a blend of fun and deep connection. Whether they were competing over board games at Penn or discussing life's big questions in their own two-person book club, their time together is always meaningful. Mel is incredibly grateful for Emily's presence, valuing her as one of the most passionately caring and thoughtful people she knows. Mel & Brian are thrilled to have Emily, with her thoughtful and caring nature, standing up with them as they celebrate their marriage.

Emily Pugh

Mel and Vidisha met during their time at Penn, and their bond was solidified during a summer spent binge-watching favorites like Black Mirror and New Girl. Vidisha is a truly stand-up friend who Mel knows she can always rely on for honest truth and unwavering support. Mel deeply cherishes her ability to push her to see the best in herself, and she is thrilled to have Vidisha by her side as she begins this next chapter.

Vidisha Srivastav

Dan and Brian first connected through Mel, and their friendship quickly grew deeper as they discovered a mutual love for challenging big-box board games. Brian happily accepts the title of "fun uncle" to Dan and his wife's cats, which perfectly captures the lighthearted nature of their friendship. Having recently served as a groomsman in Dan's wedding, Brian is incredibly honored to have Dan's thoughtful and intentional presence standing by him for his own big day.


Dan Vasconcellos

Joe holds the important title of Mel's favorite brother, and Brian couldn't be happier to officially call him family soon! Brian and Joe have built their friendship through endurance, quite literally. They recently solidified their bond by running the entire San Francisco Marathon together, mile after grueling mile. Joe is one of the most dedicated and fun-loving people they know, and they are so honored to have his support on our wedding day. Brian can't wait to share many more adventures with him as brothers!

Joe Schweizer

Ben holds the title of being one of Brian's oldest and closest friends, with a history that dates all the way back to age four when Ben moved into the house next door. Their friendship was forged in the classic summer traditions of childhood: endless hours of video games and swimming pool adventures. Brian is honored to have a friend who has been there for every chapter of his life, and he can’t wait to celebrate this milestone with him standing by his side.

Ben Bailey

Brian and Michael met through Mel, and quickly discovered their shared interests, leading to a wonderful friendship built on engaging conversations and activities. Some favorite memories include a fascinating local tree walk in Golden Gate Park and board game marathons over Winterfest. Brian values Michael's ability to be both creative and a deep thinker, always offering insightful perspectives. They are delighted to have his thoughtful presence supporting them as they take this next big step.

Michael Good

Wedding Party

More Q&amp;As coming soon!

Q + A

This is where Brian and I will be staying! (Click the link to book through our hotel block!)

Argonaut Hotel

Family fun hotel with game room in lobby, bike rentals and more! (Click the link to book through our hotel block!)

Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf

Cute boutique hotel with central courtyard.(click the link to book through the hotel block!)

Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Good for those who want to use Hyatt Points! Just as a heads up there will be renovations during this time, however, should be of minimal inconvenience to guests.Rooms are defaulted as 1 King Bed. If you would like 2 double beds instead - let us know!

Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco

Accommodations

Air Transportation

San Francisco is serviced by two main airports: 1. San Francisco International Airport (SFO)Approximately 15 miles from Fisherman's Wharf Area 2. Oakland San Francisco Bay Airport (OAK)Approximately 21 miles from Fisherman's Wharf Area From both airports, we would recommend ride share. You can also take public transportation from both airports to the city.

Public Transportation

San Francisco has a robust public transportation system that you can use to get around the city! We recommend using the transit feature in Google or Apple Maps to help you get around.There are two main transportation systems within San Francisco that we recommend: MUNI is the municipal transportation system that includes buses and subways within the city of San Francisco. BART is the Bay Area regional transit system that has multiple subway/train routes that take you from San Francisco outside of the city to surrounding areas including East Bay and the Airport. TO RIDE:To ride, all forms of contactless payment (i.e. tap to pay credit cards, Apple Pay, Google Pay etc.) are accepted for BART and MUNI transportation systems. If desired, you can also buy a Clipper Card at select stations or by downloading the Clipper Card app. All passengers in your party will need their own form of payment to ride (you cannot use the same credit card or clipper card to pay for multiple people). For those with children 18yrs or younger, MUNI is free.

Event Transportation

We plan to provide transportation to our wedding weekend events from the hotel. Please check back soon for more details!

Event Parking

Welcome Party: There is limited street parking in the Cow Hollow neighborhood. There are two paid parking garages that are within one block of Neon: <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/yv3zgeHUZmEqmU789" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Option 1</a> and <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/mh2ksTXwKvjgoX7K6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Option 2</a>. Wedding Ceremony: Free garage parking is available in the garage under <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/GXsuJq7pKsJjBN6u5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Kendrick Hall</a>, accessed on Shrader Street. Additionally, free parking is available at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/BJ2E5uYewHUZeihD6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Upper Koret Lot</a>. Signs at these lots may indicate that a permit is required, but guests may park in any available space for the duration of the wedding ceremony. There is street parking available near St. Ignatius church, but please be sure to check the parking restriction signs. Wedding Reception: Parking is available at the Golden Gate Club <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/U3yDtHNZ2E3Ez4eCA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">here</a>. Payment is required until 6:00 p.m. and is free for the rest of the night.

Transportation

Welcome to San Francisco! 

We are so excited to celebrate with you. If you have some extra time during your visit, here are our top picks for must-see sights, delicious treats, and iconic experiences.

No trip to San Francisco is complete without visiting the Golden Gate Bridge, trust us! It is easily one of our favorite spots in the city, and we even chose our reception venue specifically to showcase this incredible view. Whether you take it in from the North or South viewpoint, be prepared for some truly breathtaking scenery, and remember to dress in layers so you can stay comfortable in that famous bay breeze. Golden Gate South View Point - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/MbvHb1ChqAjmoM167" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here </a>Golden Gate North View Point - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/UbfHyehHi68jeFvx6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>

Golden Gate Bridge

Grab a bite to eat and a coffee in San Francisco's Italian district. While you are in the area, visit Brian's favorite building in San Francisco (Transamerica Pyramid) or climb Coit Tower for a great view of the city. North Beach - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/UtDuV6apytJJdyrC6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Transamerica Pyramid - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/R29LK5U6wGXhyRPw6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Coit Tower - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Fs3ukpsyPB9EvUrf9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>

North Beach & Telegraph Hill

Take a day trip out of the city and experience the quiet majesty of ancient coastal redwoods in Muir Woods, where towering giants and mist covered trails provide a serene, natural escape, just minutes from the city. We recommend a stroll through Cathedral Grove. Visit the website below to plan your trip. Note that reservations are required.

Muir Woods

Experience the grand scale of Golden Gate Park, a sprawling sanctuary that offers even more room to wander than New York’s Central Park. Whether you’re passing the Conservatory of Flowers or the Dutch Windmill, the miles of scenic paths are our favorite places to run in San Francisco. Conservatory of Flowers - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/R3hw4FBtbgUdVf3R6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Botanical Gardens (Where our engagement pictures were taken!) - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/3m1eKYzV29dTDNy6A" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>California Academy of Sciences (Great for kids and adults!) - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/dhi6rNuwmAfq5UBP7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Blue Heron Lake / Strawberry Hill - <a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/stow-lake-and-strawberry-hill-loop?sh=zox3oi&amp;utm_medium=trail_share&amp;utm_source=alltrails_virality" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Japanese Tea Garden - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/517MgMPmW15s2grz5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>De Young Museum - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/3RokGimNr2gPZp6t6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>

Golden Gate Park

Just a short walk from our recommended hotels, you’ll find the absolute best of Fisherman’s Wharf right at your fingertips. You can catch a vibe on the historic Powell &amp; Hyde Cable Car, wander down the iconic curves of Lombard Street, grab an indulgent chocolate at Ghirardelli Square (our favorites are the crispy rice and extreme dark raspberry flavors), or head to Pier 39 to hear the sea lions claim the bay. Powell &amp; Hyde Cable Car - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/XYiCsovE2s6QWV1e7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Lombard Street - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/jisiUXjw2ArHFKoq5" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Ghirardelli Square - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/4gtc8C5ZNWaotfqdA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>Sea Lion Viewing Area - <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/RMAVcUrEnWRphbmo8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Find Location Here</a>

Fisherman's Wharf & Ghirardelli Square

Take a scenic ferry ride and take an audio tour of the cellhouse of America's most famous penitentiary. We recommend buying tickets in advance. Visit the website below to plan your trip.

Alcatraz

From tree walks to stair climbs, we love to explore the city by foot. We have compiled some of our favorite city hikes below: <a href="https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=1313" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Angel Island</a><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/twin-peaks-loop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Twin Peaks</a><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/lands-end-trail" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Land's End</a><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/bernal-hill-loop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bernal Heights</a><a href="https://www.alltrails.com/trail/us/california/stow-lake-and-strawberry-hill-loop" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Strawberry Hill</a>

City Hikes

Other City Recommendations

Located in the heart of the Presidio, the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/qe1k3xEAbZoiJsyM6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Walt Disney Family Museum</a> offers an inspiring look into the life and legacy of a creative visionary through interactive galleries and rare artifacts, and since it’s just a short walk from our reception venue, it’s the perfect place to explore before our reception! Soak up the sun at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/vycp6pAN8QvSe27u6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Crissy Beach</a>, a stunning waterfront park where you can stroll along the sandy shoreline and through blooming spring wildflowers while enjoying some of the most iconic, unobstructed views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Wander through the grand colonnades and enjoy a peaceful moment by the water at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/LRwuqTrcjjqCuwEZA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">the Palace of Fine Arts</a>, which feels like a hidden slice of ancient Europe in the heard of the Marina District. Descend the beautifully manicured <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/eunCYqyUPNnJ8HK68" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Lyon Street Stairs</a> in Pacific Heights for one of the best photo ops in the city, featuring sweeping views of the Palace of Fine Arts and the San Francisco Bay. Step through the iconic <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/XHnmwgKLjSPgFca28" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dragon's Gate</a> to explore the oldest Chinatown in North America, a vibrant neighborhood packed with authentic dim sum parlors, bustling tea shops, and the famous <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/YfRKr1v9gcehn6458" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Golden Gate Fortune Cookie Factory</a>. Dive into the heart of San Francisco’s heritage at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/R3rnL7jvp3dW5pW88" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cable Car Museum</a>, where you can see the massive, spinning wheels that power the city’s iconic cars and explore the vintage machinery that has kept them running since the 1870s. Indulge in a decadent treat at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ALYtqeYchioMmCgd8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Dandelion Chocolate</a>, our favorite place to get chocolate in San Francisco, where you can watch their small-batch "bean-to-bar" process in action or even take an immersive chocolate tour to see exactly how their delicious bars are made. We recommend their s’more! Located right on the water, the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/AX9YQveHa7oWdsuo7" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ferry Building</a> Marketplace is a food lover’s paradise where you can sample artisanal local treats, browse unique boutiques, and enjoy incredible views of the Bay Bridge. Step into a world of wonder at the <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/gknGirq5U4RcUAd76" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Exploratorium</a>, a hands-on science museum at Pier 15 where hundreds of interactive exhibits turn the laws of science and perception into an unforgettable playground for all ages. Soak up the local scene at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Z7ZiQJqbmpExqh2K9" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mission Dolores Park</a>, a favorite city hangout where you can lounge on the sunny slopes with a scoop of ice cream from one of our personal favorites, <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/2GueycQd6GoyXvR96" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Bi-Rite Creamery</a>, while taking in a stunning panoramic view of the San Francisco skyline. Take a stroll through <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/g6Vx5MBLBtMpb84AA" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Alamo Square Park</a> to admire the Painted Ladies, an iconic row of colorful Victorian homes set against a stunning backdrop of the modern San Francisco skyline. Dive into a world of creativity at the San Francisco <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Y5Gv5coQcNhWhVBC8" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Museum of Modern Art</a>, a premier destination where you can explore seven floors of incredible masterpieces, innovative installations, and one of the largest living walls in the country.

Special Events in San Francisco

Experience the vibrant spirit of spring at the <a href="https://sfcherryblossom.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival</a>, where Japantown comes alive with traditional Taiko drumming, stunning floral displays, and delicious Japanese street food. Explore a world-class collection of contemporary masterpieces at the <a href="https://sanfranciscoartfair.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">San Francisco Art Fair</a>, where the historic <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/LXhBSfbLcwFn6PoP6" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fort Mason</a> Center transforms into a stunning waterfront gallery featuring top artists and galleries from around the globe.

Melissa & Brian

Melissa & Brian

Accommodations

Argonaut Hotel

Hotel Caza Fisherman’s Wharf

Hotel Zoe Fisherman’s Wharf

Hyatt Centric Fisherman's Wharf San Francisco