In October, I made a trip to San Fransisco with my husband’s company, Amplio Recruiting. We went so that he could speak at SOCAP 2018. SOCAP, which stands for Social Capital Markets, was beyond anything I could have imagined or expected. It was a four-day event, jam-packed with respected speakers, activities, non-stop coffee and incredible food – all set right along the San Fransisco Bay! We had the best time and came away with inspiration for our businesses + new connections to build upon over the coming years. We were especially touched by the inclusivity demonstrated by not only attendees but the overall planning of the conference. As a working mom, I loved how children were actually welcome and nursing stations advertised. It truly was a warm, welcoming environment, where it’s okay to just be HUMAN.
My biggest takeaway was from a session called Got $25? $25 million? Why and How EVERY Woman can Invest in Women. During this session, I learned that statistics show, women invest 80% of what they make back into the community, while men invest closer to 35%. Boss ladies, let’s stop feeling bad about growing a business, a vision, a team and making money. Let’s stop being afraid to talk numbers and invest in each other. Let’s make a difference in our communities together and cheer each other on in the process.
Can I get an Amen?
Side note, I got to see this beautiful friend while in San Fran. Lauren and her husband Melvin, were Chancey Charm clients, years ago and now they are dear friends. I’ve so enjoyed watching their post-wedding journey + marriage grow into something so beautiful. Our time together was brief but reminded me just how much I love the wedding industry / wedding planner profession. It’s so cool to see the people God has brought into my life, as friends, because of my role in their wedding day. What other job lends itself to such meaningful connections and friendships? Lauren and I both graduated from the UGA interior design school and were made to be friends. So thankful we got some time together!
While staying in San Fransisco, we decided to stay at Cavallo Point. It was just on the other side of the bridge from the conference (a short 15 min drive over the bridge each morning) and has a special place in our heart. We stayed at Cavallo over 6 years ago, and the memories flooded back so quickly. It’s hilarious how God works things out. Six years ago, we were working at Chick-fil-A. We were struggling financially, trying to finish grad school in Denver, I was homesick for family and an escape to San Fran was just what we needed to get through one more Colorado winter. On that visit, we stumbled upon Fort Mason Center for the Arts, the facility where the SOCAP was held, upon a whim. I was elated to find a Farmers Market outside the building. Taking photos of Famers Markets was a hobby at that time. We never could have imagined returning to Cavallo and Fort Mason over six years later, for Amplio. Life is crazy.
Cavallo is one of my very favorite places in the world. Ever since our first visit, I’ve been dying to go back and share it with our clients and readers. Set within Golden Gate National Park, it’s such a serene setting, engulfed in the magic of the bay, with a breath-taking view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Once the site of the Fort Baker military base, it’s been restored with a pristine historical context. There is a casual elegance to this resort, that encourages guests to go on a hike, visit the spa and enjoy the stunning natural surroundings. Our last morning in San Fran, we ate on the porch overlooking the bay, on-site at their restaurant, Murray Circle. It was a fabulous way to end our time in California. A few of my favorite highlights as a guest were the wine happy hour, every day from 4-6pm, and free use of a Lexus for exploring the area. We actually decided to make a spur of the moment trip to Muir Beach followed by dinner in Sausalito in one of the cars, which was a fun adventure.
I am a HUGE fan of San Fransisco, the food, the people and the vistas. BUT, want to know a secret? The other side of the bridge (Sausalito, Muir Beach +Cavallo), that’s my happy place! Why? Because I love the escape, fresh air, incredible views and small town, waterside vibe. Check out my Instagram stories for the BTS scoop on all the reasons why this secret retreat is my favorite.
It would be ridiculous at this point, if I didn’t give you a quick rundown on why Cavallo Point Lodge is the most amazing destination wedding location in the Bay Area! So, let’s do this! Cavallo offers multiple indoor AND outdoor event spaces, with dramatic views and an intimate atmosphere. Built to accommodate large and small gatherings, rest assured, you can find exactly the space you need at Cavallo. For couples looking for a place that their guests can both stay and enjoy all weekend long, Cavallo is perfect. There are large historic homes for rent, that are perfect for a large wedding party, along with more contemporary, private rooms with balconies and fireplaces. We LOVED our accommodations. The hotel also boasts a buy 2 nights, get one free policy, encouraging your guests to make a long weekend of their trip. Finally, with a quick commute to the city’s best restaurants + sweet town of Sausalito, there is an endless supply of entertainment to keep guests busy.
The long and short, I can’t recommend Cavallo Point Lodge enough to our destination wedding clients, looking for something on the west coast! Thanks for tagging along.
Cheers!
Sarah Chancey