Vanessa and Howard got married this past weekend on Forbe’s Island, a charming man-made mini-resort that actually sits atop a houseboat, complete with its own “beach” and a working lighthouse! This floating island can be found between Pier 39 and Pier 41, just west of Fisherman’s Wharf, and is literally a stone’s throw from San Francisco’s famous herd of basking sealions.
We began the day by meeting up with Vanessa and her family at the nearby Hyatt, where we took some preparation and family photos. Dave actually knew Vanessa’s brother, Andy, from school, and it was through him and mutual friend, Sandra – whose wedding we shot in 2006 – that we were recommended (we love, love referrals!)
Vanessa was simply gorgeous in her sleek, elegant gown, and even their recent furry friend addition, Rosie, got into the act! Afterward, we scooted over to the Radisson to get shots of Howard and his groomsmen, who are his grown-up sons, before heading to the island itself.
To get onto Forbe’s Island, you actually need to take a short, 3-minute ride on a ferry piloted by the island’s creator, Mr. Forbes. If you ask him what he does for a living, his dead-pan response is, “I do a little lighthousekeeping.” He’s got a ton of one-liners, apparently developed from his many TV appearances over the years.
Forbe’s Island is a perfect little getaway that’s not faraway, and Vanessa and Howard had about 70 guests in the intimate galley, enjoying the scrumptious dinners prepared by the island staff.
There was lots of laughter, hugs and kisses, cake-cutting and dancing. Guests also got to explore the island, get a view from the lighthouse, and take in the many naval details decorating the entire boat.
It was surely a night to remember.
Congratulations, Vanessa and Howard! A hearty pirate’s “Arrrgh!!” to ya!
Here you see the vessel needed to get onto the island. Then up the 55 steps of the lighthouse and you get a great view of the city.
Below deck is the galley, small, but cozy, and filled with wonderful navel-themed artifacts and knick-knacks.
The wedding ceremony was presided over by Vanessa’s father, Bob. It was a relaxed affair, with good laughs and everyone enjoying the break in the weather.composite triple beat