When Gina and Richard were looking for their perfect wedding venue, finding a way to incorporate their dogs was a top priority. Animals are Gina’s life work. She is a huge advocate for animals and works at the local shelter. Richard fully supports her passion and has been known to help at the shelter so often; those other shelter workers consider him an honorary employee.

They found the Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection in Sacramento, Ca! This place allowed pups and was the perfect venue for an indoor January wedding. Their vision of a formal, art Deco, wedding celebration came to fruition. The color palette was navy blue, burgundy, ivory, blush, and gold. The geometric arbor was custom made by the groom, and the table centerpieces were glass and gold atriums. These elements can be seen throughout the decor and through the wedding invitations.

The bride & groom had three dream photo requests — all of which are hilarious, and awesome in my personal opinion.

1. Gina wanted a photo of her and three of her close high school friends, holding a pillow, that had a picture of them on it at Emily’s wedding (the maid of honors) holding a pillow, of a photo of them holding a pillow. It’s “PILLOW-CEPTION” – needless to say, that moment was all laughs.
2. Gina & Richard asked their dear friend Christian to be the officiant. It just so happens that Christian has a hidden talent of sabering champagne! He has done it on a handful of occasions but generally at night with low-quality iPhone video. But this time, they wanted us to capture it! It was an incredibly clean cut!
3. Gina wanted photos with a group of friends in front of graffiti. Luckily for us, being in downtown Sacramento there was plenty of different mural graffiti art to choose from.

This wedding was the FIRST of 2020, and it set the bar high! Cheers to the new Mrs. Gina Catallo-Kokoletsos & Mr. Richard Kokoletsos!

Side note about this venue: It was my first time working at this venue. It was truly an enjoyable experience, even as a vendor! Tina, the manager and the entire staff treated our photo and video team like guests and had incredible hospitality to every person that walked through doors. Not the mention, the food was TO DIE FOR good. If you are in the area, stop by – their restaurant is open to the public.

Vendor Credits:

Photographer: Ashley Carlascio Photography

Venue: Citizen Hotel, Autograph Collection, Sacramento

Wedding Coordinator: Tina Marshall

Videographer: Daniel at The Uncommon Weddings

Stationary: Alycia Jones

Makeup + Hair Stylist: Jennifer Brielle Beauty

Dress Designer: Wtoo by Watters

Dress Boutique: AE Bridal in Chico

Brides Shoes: Blue by Betsey Johnson & Jeffrey Campbell

Bridesmaid Dresses: Lulu’s “Always Stunning Convertible” in Burgundy

Men’s Attire: Formal Education

Florals: Erica at The Party Concierge

DJ: Pat at Nightowl Media

Cake: Freeport Bakery

Specialty linens: La Tavola Fine Linen

If you loved this, chances are you’re engaged and planning a wedding of your own! I think you’ll LOVE my engagement session guide jam packed with EIGHT helpful tips all about preparing for your engagement photos! The best part? It’s FREE!