‘The Epitome The of Us’

Couple’s wedding theme is a perfect pairing

Newlyweds Ashley Battaglia Brueske and Gabe Brueske were brought together by family, friends and fate in the form of a well-timed guitar workshop. Love bloomed, and an interstate romance flourished. After a few years, Gabe—a wine and spirits professional and lauded local guitarist—and Ashley—a VP of business development and partnerships, foodie and dog lover—knew it was time to savor the moment in a big day that “was the epitome of ‘US.’”

How did you meet?

Ashley: We met at my cousin’s birthday dinner and reconnected maybe a year later in New York, where sparks flew. After that, we started dating long-distance for three years, which was quite an experience.

Gabe: We met at my best friend’s brother’s birthday party. We connected a year later when Ashley lived in New York, and I traveled there for a guitar workshop.

When and how did you know each other was the “One?”

Ashley: On Gabe’s first trip to NYC, we were sipping champagne and eating oysters with our friends in SoHo, and I turned to my cousin and said that’s the guy I will marry. He laughed, but I was serious. Gabe was the missing piece to my puzzle, the one I didn’t even know I was searching for. When you know, you know. He also had the most endearing smile.

Gabe: When our conversations didn’t stop.

Please describe the process/proposal that led to “Yes.”

Gabe: We started our day with a picnic at the Palace of Fine Arts in San Francisco. After that, I took her to a hotel room decorated with roses. I serenaded her with a song before getting down on one knee and proposing. She said yes!

Ashley: What Gabe said. It was amazing. It’s always a plus when your partner can play an instrument and sing well.

What was your vision for your wedding? Was there a theme or a particular vibe you wanted to create?

Gabe: Elegant Rock ‘n’ Roll

Ashley: Nailing down the vision for our wedding was a bit of a rollercoaster ride. Every day seemed to bring new ideas and inspirations, and it felt like we were constantly evolving the plan. But it ended up being everything we dreamed of and more. Our big day was the epitome of “US”—a perfect blend of rock'n' roll vibes, timeless elegance and a touch of Italian flair.

How did it go? Nerve-wracking, easy-peasy? Spill some tea.

Ashley: The wedding was amazing! It was stressful because we decided to plan it in two months, but I thrive under pressure. What made it truly special was the involvement of our loved ones. From my sister baking our wedding cake and acting as our day-of coordinator, to my cousin officiating the ceremony and our friends arranging the stunning floral arrangements— each guest contributed something truly meaningful. It was a day filled with love and support that exceeded all our expectations.

Gabe: Nerves were there, but so was excitement. We didn’t spill

any tea, but some champagne definitely got spilled.

Any shoutouts to vendors that went above and beyond?

Gabe/Ashley: Yes! Big shoutout to...

Photographer Oscar Urizar, redeyecollection.com

Hair & Makeup Artist Caysi Jean, caysijean.com

Shane Baldwin from North Beach Restaurant, northbeachrestaurant.com

How has life changed postwedding?

Gabe: We call each other wife/ husband and have a little more swagger.

Ashley: Not much has changed except for the extra bling and a longer last name. Life is good!

— Weeklys Staff