Under the Veil

Planning your wedding flowers can feel overwhelming—but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode of Under the Veil, Helena sits down with Eleanor Gerber-Siff, founder and creative director of Wallflower San Francisco, one of the Bay Area’s top floral design studios. With 16+ years of experience creating lush, romantic, garden-style arrangements, Eleanor shares what really goes into wedding floral design, why flowers are an investment, and how couples can collaborate with their florist for a seamless wedding day.

From full-service wedding flowers to a la carte bouquets for San Francisco City Hall weddings, Eleanor walks us through her process, artistic inspiration, and tips for couples and photographers alike. Whether you’re a bride, groom, planner, or vendor, you’ll walk away with practical advice and a new appreciation for the artistry behind unforgettable wedding flowers.

✨ Topics we cover in this episode:

• Eleanor’s journey from her first Mother’s Day at a flower shop to launching Wallflower SF
• How she approaches design, color palettes, and seasonal blooms
• The difference between full-service vs. a la carte wedding florals
• Current trends in Bay Area wedding flowers (and why staying true to your style matters)
• What couples should prepare before reaching out to a florist
• How photographers can capture flowers at their best on wedding days
• Why wedding flowers are a true investment

Connect with Eleanor (Wallflower SF)

• Instagram: @wallflower.sanfrancisco
  
  
• Website: wallflowersanfrancisco.com
  
  
• Studio (by appointment only): 746 Arguello Blvd, San Francisco, CA

Connect with Helena

• Instagram: @undertheveilpodcast
  
  
• Photography: Helena Wong Photography

Host: Helena Wong | Under the Veil Podcast

In this solo episode, I’m giving you the full inside scoop on how San Francisco City Hall weddings actually work — from someone who photographs there 30 to 50 times a year. Whether you're planning a quick civil ceremony or renting City Hall for the entire weekend, I break down every option, give you my honest tips (including what time to book!), and share timelines to make your day run smoothly. If you're dreaming of getting married at SF City Hall, this episode is your ultimate guide.

✨ What You’ll Learn:

• The different ceremony types (civil, 1-hour, full-day, and Saturday options)
• The ideal time to book for the best light and minimal crowds
• How to time your ceremony, portraits, and guest arrival
• A sample timeline to help you stay stress-free
• Why working with an experienced City Hall photographer matters

📲 Follow Me for More Tips & Inquiries:
@helenawongphotography
@undertheveilpodcast

In this episode, I’m joined by Bay Area planner Caitlin McDonald of Caitlin McDonald Events! From her start at Villa Montalvo to launching her own design-forward wedding planning biz, Caitlin shares insider insights on 2025–2026 design trends, spicy takes on rentals (spoiler: linens > chairs), and real-talk advice on budgeting in the Bay. We also break down the key differences between a planner and a venue coordinator, plus the most memorable wedding moments we’ve witnessed.

What You’ll Learn:

• 2025–2026 wedding trends (think bold color, pattern, and personality)
• What a $100K wedding really looks like in the Bay Area
• The difference between venue coordinators vs. planners
• Why planners are essential for both design + logistics
• Creative ideas for tablescapes, welcome parties, and signature details

Follow Caitlin:
@caitlinmcdonaldevents

Follow Me:
@helenawongphotography
@undertheveilpodcast

In this episode, I’m joined by the lovely Cynthia Huang-Wang, content creator and newlywed, to talk all about her dreamy destination wedding at Nobu Hotel in Cabo. From how she met her husband during the pandemic, to working with her planner, building her dream vendor team, and creating an unforgettable experience for her guests, Cynthia shares the real behind-the-scenes of planning a destination wedding. Whether you’re deep in the planning process or just gathering ideas, this episode is filled with thoughtful advice, heartfelt stories, and so many tips to help you bring your own vision to life.

What Cynthia shares:

• How Cynthia chose Cabo (and the planner who helped her make it happen)
• The upgrades that made the biggest impact — and where she saved
• Why trusting your vendor’s style is key
• Tips for balancing guest experience with your own vision
• What to know about destination wedding logistics
• Her favorite memory of the night (spoiler: it includes fireworks)
  
  

Follow Cynthia:
@cynthiamhuang on Tiktok and Instagram

@Cynthiamhuang on Youtube

Follow Me:
@helenawongphotography
@undertheveilpodcast

Episode Description:
In this episode of Under the Veil, Helena Wong Photography sits down with marketing expert and wedding photographer Elizabeth Pishal (@elizabethpishalphoto) to dive deep into the world of marketing strategies, ideal clients, and entrepreneurship. Elizabeth shares her inspiring journey from a corporate marketing career to building a thriving photography business after COVID, offering real-world advice for wedding photographers ready to grow.

Together, they explore the power of blogging, the role of Instagram and TikTok in today's wedding industry, and how hashtags, authenticity, and client communication all work together to attract dream clients. Elizabeth also shares why outsourcing, mentorship, and staying consistent on social media are critical to business growth. Whether you're just starting out or looking to elevate your photography brand, this conversation is packed with tangible marketing tips, social media strategies, and encouragement to build a business you love.

Keywords:
wedding photography, marketing strategies, ideal client, Instagram tips, blogging, entrepreneurship, photography business, wedding vendors, social media marketing, business growth, photography, hashtags, social media, Instagram, TikTok, marketing, client communication, engagement strategies, mentorship

🎙️ Loved this episode?
 Make sure to follow @elizabethpishalphoto, @undertheveilpodcast, and @helenawongphotography for more wedding photography tips, marketing strategies, and real conversations about growing your business.

Tag us when you tune in — and don't forget to hit "follow" so you never miss an episode! ✨

In this episode of Under the Veil Podcast, host Helena welcomes makeup artist Jasmine Yin (@beautybyjasmineyin) to discuss essential tips for wedding hair and makeup. Jasmine shares her journey into the beauty industry, the importance of early bookings, and the rising trend of makeup services for grooms. They delve into the significance of full-day makeup services, skincare preparation, and the necessity of trials for hair and makeup. The conversation also touches on a viral TikTok incident involving a bride washing off her wedding makeup, highlighting the personal nature of beauty and self-perception. In this conversation, Jasmine Yin and Helena discuss the complexities of social media interactions, particularly in the wedding industry, where a viral TikTok video led to a significant fallout for a makeup artist. They explore the emotional impact of negative reviews, the importance of communication with clients, and the lessons learned from challenging experiences, including a Bridezilla story. The discussion also emphasizes the need for a supportive community among wedding vendors and the significance of creating an ideal getting ready space for brides and their parties.

If you like what you hear, subscribe and like for more content!

Follow jasmine @beautybyjasmineyin

Follow us at: @helenawongphotography and @undertheveilpodcast

In this episode of the Under the Veil podcast, host Helena Wong (@helenawongphotography) and her cousin-in-law Kelly Pham discuss planning a micro wedding in Yosemite. They cover logistical considerations, such as obtaining a wedding permit and choosing the right location within the park. They also share tips for finding vendors, preparing for the ceremony, and ensuring a smooth wedding day. The conversation highlights the importance of preparation, communication, and attention to detail when planning a wedding in a natural setting like Yosemite.

Takeaways

• Planning a micro wedding in Yosemite requires careful consideration of logistical details, such as obtaining a wedding permit and choosing the right location within the park.
• Research and choose vendors who have experience with outdoor weddings and can provide the desired style and atmosphere for the event.
• Preparation and communication are key to ensuring a smooth wedding day, including coordinating with vendors, practicing hair and makeup, and planning the ceremony flow.
• Consider the comfort and convenience of guests, such as providing transportation, clear directions, and accessible restrooms.
• Print and preserve wedding photos to create lasting memories of the special day.

If you like what you hear, follow us @undertheveilpodcast and @helenawongphotography for more updates!

In this conversation, Helena (@helenawongphotography)and Jeremy (@jeremychouphotography) discuss their experiences with destination weddings and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. Jeremy shares his favorite wedding locations, with Italy being at the top of the list. They also talk about the preparation required for destination weddings, including backup plans and gear management. In this conversation, Jeremy Chou discusses the logistics and challenges of being a destination wedding photographer. He talks about the importance of having a second shooter and the need to minimize risks during travel. Jeremy also shares advice for couples looking for a destination wedding photographer, emphasizing the importance of reviewing the photographer's entire portfolio and ensuring they have experience shooting actual weddings. He also discusses the enduring appeal of film photography and the creative process it offers. (IS FILM DEAD?) 
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If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, and follow us at @undertheveilpodcast and @helenawongphotography for more updates! 

Wondering how to get your Wedding Bod? THIS EPISODE IS FOR YOU! 

Discover more about fitness content creator Amy Luong (IG: @amyluongggg), from her personal journey to the science of fitness, and get expert tips on starting your own fitness journey to achieve your dream wedding body.

Follow her at:
ig: @amyluongggg
Tiktok:@amyluong96 (290k)
youtube: @ADHDwithAmy

Follow us at:
@helenawongphotography
@undertheveilpodcast

In this episode, host Helena (@helenawongphotography) interviews wedding photographer Zhazha (@zhazha) about her experience in the industry. They discuss the evolution of the wedding industry, the importance of connection and communication between couples and photographers, and the process of preparing for a wedding day. They also touch on topics such as using inspiration pages, dealing with unexpected delays, and the post-processing and editing process. The episode provides valuable insights for couples looking for a wedding photographer and offers a behind-the-scenes look at the work that goes into capturing and delivering beautiful wedding photos.
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If you like what you hear, subscribe, like, and follow us at @undertheveilpodcast for more updates!