Intimate Rooftop Wedding at The St. Anthony Hotel in San Antonio

Ryan and Danielle go way back because their mothers have been best friends for decades. They played tennis and their kids grew up together as friends, but especially the bride and the groom’s sister Mary Kate, who was one of the bridesmaids. She had been scheming for years to get Danielle together with her brother Ryan and it finally happened later on when they were both out of college.

This hotel is actually super meaningful to Danielle’s family. Her Grandpa was the Maître d’Hôtel in the 60s. Here’s an excerpt from a story they shared on the menu:

"In 1958, Guillermo Ardid came to America and was recruited by the St Anthony Hotel in San Antonio to be their Maitre D. Guillermo possessed all the old-world charm and European service professionalism required to run the most prestigious dining club in Texas. The St. Anthony was the first fully air-conditioned hotel in the world, frequented by cattle barons and newly rich oil magnates. It boasted a full orchestra nightly, seasonally changed wallpaper, and the poshest bar and dining room where wealthy Texans wanted to be seen."

When I think of this evening, classic and Gatsby are the words that come to mind. Unfortunately because of Covid, they rescheduled their wedding from the spring to the fall and still had to cut down their wedding to only immediate family and a few close friends. Regardless of the circumstances, it really turned out so beautiful. The art deco details were unmatched. Everything from the geometric patterns on the cookies and even her dress, to the typography on the place settings. Add it all to the historic hotel, it was like taking a step back in time.

While Dani got ready, the groom’s mother gifted her a necklace her late husband had given to her when Ryan was born. I also loved witnessing the dynamic between the two mothers and made sure to pay attention. I mean, how often do your kids marry each other? A friendship like that is special.

They exchanged their own written vows on the rooftop of the hotel with the most gorgeous sunset and the intimate dinner was held in the iconic “peacock room.” So much thought was put into every detail making it unique to both their love story and the bride’s heritage and I felt lucky to be included.

Venue/Coordination: St Anthony Luxury Hotel

Photographer: Lauren Parr Photography

Florals: Statue of Design

Cake/Cookies: Hayley Cakes and Cookies