Classic San Francisco Elegance at James Leary Flood Mansion

By Kevin Harson22 May 2025

White with gold and green accents

Classic San Francisco Elegance

Carmel-by-the-Sea is special to the couple as it was the first place they went on a trip together. For the proposal, Alex surprised Madalyn with a trip to Carmel and popped the big question on the beach.

The bridal gown was a Martina Liana purchased at Novella Bridal in San Francisco. Later in the evening, the bride changed into a fun mini dress so she could let loose and dance.

The couple opted for a very simple wedding party. During the ceremony, Madalyn’s sister stood by her side, and Alex’s sister stood by his at the chuppah. Both sisters were free to wear whatever they felt beautiful in.

Instead of a formal groom’s party, Madalyn’s stepbrothers and Alex’s brother-in-law donned tuxedos and acted as ushers, welcoming guests as they arrived.

Cocktails at the bar included some of the couple’s favorites – an Espresso Martini for the bride, a classic Old Fashioned for the groom, and a Gin Cucumber Cooler.

The chuppah was the most important decor element for the couple. They wanted it to be lush and a key focal point for the ceremony.

For the three-tiered wedding cake, they wanted it to be tasty and elegant. The couple decided on SusieCakes and a smooth buttercream frosting with pops of white and green from the flowers.

The overwhelming theme for the ceremony music was love: “All of Me” by John Legend for the processional, “I Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley for the bridal entrance, and “This Will Be an Everlasting Love” by Natalie Cole for the recessional. The couple took full advantage of their amazing band and had all the song for their special dances sung live – first dance “Coming Home” by Leon Bridges, “Cupid” by Sam Cooke for Madalyn’s dance with her father, and “I’ll Be There” by the Jackson 5 for Alex’s dance with his mother.

As he had done at his other nieces and nephews’ weddings, Madalyn’s uncle, a musician, joined the band and sang “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” by Stevie Wonder.

While she wasn’t able to stay for the festivities, the couple’s dog, Rosie, was brought to the venue after the ceremony so they could include her in some of the formal photos. She also got a nod with her image on their cocktail napkins.

Photos of the couple’s families greeted guests at the entrance to the Grand Hall.