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You’re here because you and your partner are dreaming of an adventurous elopement in St. Augustine, but now you’re wondering how to make it happen. That’s where I come in! I’ve put together this guide to cover the where, when, and how of eloping in St Augustine.

Picture this: waking up at a charming bed and breakfast, taking a morning stroll down St. George Street to a cozy coffee shop, getting ready together back at your room, then heading to the beach to exchange your vows. Afterward, climb to the top of the St. Augustine Lighthouse for some amazing views, and enjoy a tour and tasting at the St. Augustine Distillery. Cap off your day with dinner at the Ice Plant and then set sail on a private yacht for a sunset cruise. Finish the night bar hopping downtown to celebrate your marriage. Sound perfect? Keep reading to find out how to make your St Augustine elopement a reality!

Elope in ST Augustine Planning Basics

Let’s start with the essentials: choosing the perfect time of year to elope in St Augustine, securing your marriage license, and picking a great location. Whether you prefer historic charm, beach vibes, or garden beauty, St. Augustine has it all for your elopement or microwedding.

When to Elope in St Augustine

St. Augustine is beautiful year-round, but the real choice we’re making here is how much heat you can handle.

Spring: February through April

Heat level: Mild

For those who prefer mild weather, spring is ideal for eloping in St Augustine. While March and April are bustling with weddings, booking your venue or BnB early can secure your spot. April’s weather can be unpredictable, so aim for sunrise or sunset photos. Sunrise in downtown is particularly nice with perfect lighting and fewer crowds.

Summer: May through August

Heat level: You might catch fire if you weren’t sweating so much.

Summer is hot but also vibrant with blooming flowers. The late sunsets, around 8 PM, provide ample time for capturing beautiful photos in the golden light. Despite the heat, the extended daylight makes summer a lovely option for your St Augustine elopement.

Fall: September through November

Heat level: Medium.

Fall offers great weather for elopements but keep an eye on the hurricane season. Sunrise is usually the driest and most peaceful time for photos, and the early sunsets allow for a relaxed evening. With fewer tourists, fall is perfect for enjoying the quiet charm of downtown St. Augustine and finding accommodations with ease.

Best Time of Day

For the best photos and a magical experience, sunrise is the best time to elope in St. Augustine. The lighting is fantastic, the streets are quiet, and you’ll have the city to yourselves. Plus, early mornings often mean cooler temperatures and fewer weather surprises, making it the perfect time to say “I do.” If you’re not a morning person, and neither am I — aim for about 1 hour before sunset for photos or your ceremony.

“it was a no brainer to use Roy for our wedding. He made the entire process so easy for us and we have the most incredible photos.”

– Harry & Katie


The legal stuff to Elope in St Augustine

Marriage License

Alright, let’s kick things off with the most exciting part of getting married: the legal paperwork!

Where to Go:

Head to the St. Johns County Clerk of the Court at 4010 Lewis Speedway, St. Augustine, FL 32084. They’re open Monday to Friday, 8 AM — 4:30 PM, but remember, they close on holidays.

Timing: You can apply for your marriage license up to 60 days before your big day. Plenty of time to get this checked off your list.

What to Bring:

ID: Each of you needs one of the following:

  • A U.S. driver’s license
  • Federal or State ID card
  • Passport with your name and date of birth
  • Military ID

For Non-Citizens: An alien registration number, foreign passport, or U.S. driver’s license works.

Social Security Number: You need to provide it, but no need to bring the actual card.

No Blood Tests Needed: Excellent, one less thing to worry about.

Family Law Handbook: Both of you need to affirm that you’ve read it before getting your license. It’s important stuff, promise.

Previous Marriages: If either of you has been married before, you’ll need to state how the last marriage ended and the exact date. No need to bring the death certificate or divorce decree—just the details.



Waiting Periods:

Non-Residents: If one or both of you aren’t Florida residents, you just need to affirm you’ve read the handbook. No premarital course or waiting period required. You could roll into St. Augustine, get your license, and elope all in one day!

Florida Residents: If you’re both Floridians, you must either: Take a 4-hour premarital course from a registered provider in your county, or wait 3 days after getting your license before you can get married.

Fees: The cost varies between $61 and $86, depending on whether you took the premarital course.

Ceremony Timing: Once you have your license, the ceremony must happen within 60 days.

Permit: Don’t forget that some locations will require permits for your St Augustine elopement.

There you have it! The basics of planning your elopement in St Augustine. Next up, we’ll dive into where to stay, what to do, and how to make your day uniquely yours.

Places to Stay for your St Augustine Elopement

When you’re eloping in St Augustine, you’ll want a cozy place to call home for a few days. Let’s check out some options!

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AirBNB

There are some great AirBNB options in St. Augustine. These can be perfect if you want a bit more space or privacy for your elopement.

A few that caught my eye:

DESTINATION WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY

“Unique works of art that perfectly captures you and your partner.

Bed and Breakfasts

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Bayfront Marin House | 142 Avenida Menendez, St. Augustine, FL 32084

If you’re looking for a sweet spot in the heart of St. Augustine’s historic district, Bayfront Marin House is the place to be. This charming B&B offers cozy rooms and suites, each with its own unique style and modern amenities. Wake up to a delicious gourmet breakfast each morning, and wind down with evening wine and hors d’oeuvres. Plus, the water views are pretty great too.

Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast | 21 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Step back in time without sacrificing comfort at Casa de Solana Bed & Breakfast, nestled in the heart of St. Augustine’s oldest neighborhood. This beautifully restored 1763 inn offers ten cozy rooms and suites, each with its own unique character and antique furnishings. Fuel up with a tasty homemade breakfast, and relax in the courtyard garden — the perfect spot for some quiet time before or after your elopement.

The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens | 149 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens is another great option. This 30-room inn is set on an acre of historic gardens right in the heart of St. Augustine. The rooms and suites are packed with modern amenities and lots of character. Savor a gourmet breakfast each morning, sip on complimentary wine and nibble on cheese at the evening reception, and enjoy some quality time together in the inn’s lush gardens and courtyards.

Hotels

casa monica resort wedding venue

Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel | 6 W Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Experience classic elegance at the Renaissance St. Augustine Historic Downtown Hotel. Located in the heart of the historic district, this hotel offers stylish rooms with plush bedding. Enjoy breakfast at the on-site restaurant and cocktails in the evening. Perfect for exploring St. Augustine’s rich history and vibrant culture during your elopement stay.

Casa Monica Resort & Spa, Autograph Collection | 95 Cordova St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

If you’re looking to splurge a bit, check out Casa Monica Resort & Spa. With Spanish-Moorish architecture and modern luxury, it’s a treat. They’ve got beautifully decorated rooms, great dining options, a full-service spa, and an outdoor pool. It’s ideally located for exploring St. Augustine’s top attractions too.

VOCO St. Augustine | 215 Anastasia Blvd, St. Augustine, FL 32080

Stay in style at VOCO St. Augustine, offering modern, well-appointed rooms. Enjoy breakfast at the on-site restaurant and relax by the outdoor pool. It’s conveniently located just across the bridge from the historic district, making it a great base for your St. Augustine elopement.

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St. Augustine Elopement ideas

places to get married in St Augustine

St Augustine has some fantastic small wedding venues for elopements and microweddings. Here are a few of my favorites:

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St. Augustine Distillery + Ice Plant

This place is pretty cool. It blends history and modern style, offering an industrial-chic setting with vintage details. Plus, you can enjoy craft cocktails made from locally distilled spirits. What’s not to love?

 staugustinedistillery.com | 112 Riberia St, St. Augustine, FL

Classic car with blurred couple in foreground

The Assembly Room at Art in motion

The Assembly Room is an incredible industrial wedding venue in St Augustine with a rotation of vintage cars, brick walls, and tons of natural light.

 https://houseofassemblyevents.com/event-spaces/the-assembly-room/ | 283 San Marco Ave suite b, St. Augustine, FL

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Prohibition Kitchen’s Roosevelt Room

For something a bit different, check out the Roosevelt Room at Prohibition Kitchen. It’s got this awesome vintage, speakeasy vibe with unique decor and a lively atmosphere. Perfect if you want a fun and intimate celebration.

prohibitionkitchenstaugustine.com | 119 St George St, St. Augustine, FL

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St. Augustine Lighthouse

If you’re into great views, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is hard to beat. Exchange vows with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop. Pretty cool, right?

staugustinelighthouse.org | 100 Red Cox Dr, St. Augustine, FL

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Lightner Museum

The Lightner Museum is another great option. It’s got this romantic feel with its historic architecture and beautiful gardens. Perfect for a timeless St Augustine elopement.

lightnermuseum.org | 75 King St, St. Augustine, FL

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9 Aviles

Located on the oldest street in the United States, 9 Aviles offers a charming and intimate venue with tons of historic character. It’s perfect if you’re looking for something uniquely St Augustine for your elopement.

9aviles.com | 9 Aviles St, St. Augustine, FL

Woman in green dress by tropical building

Flagler College

Last but not least, there’s Flagler College. With its impressive Spanish Renaissance architecture and rich history, it provides a grand setting for your elopement. The campus’s beautiful buildings and elegant details make for some amazing photo opportunities.

flagler.edu | 74 King St, St. Augustine, FL

Unusual & Non-Traditional places to get married in St. Augustine

If you’re looking for something a bit different for your St Augustine elopement, check out these unique spots:

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Castle Ottis

Yep, you read that right – there’s a castle in St Augustine! Castle Otttis looks like it’s straight out of an Irish fairytale.

castleotttis.com | 103 3rd St, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Sailboat

You can charter a sailboat for your elopement in St Augustine.

Castillo de San Marcos

The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental U.S. Its impressive stone walls and rich history make it a unique spot for an elopement.

nps.gov/casa | 1 S Castillo Dr, St. Augustine, FL 32084

Beaches & Parks

Couple embracing by river and bridge at sunset.

If you’re dreaming of a more natural setting for your St Augustine elopement, you’re in luck. The area has some beautiful beaches and parks that could be perfect for your ceremony:

Anastasia State Park

Pristine beaches and lots of natural beauty.

103 3rd St, St. Augustine, FL

Washington Oaks Gardens State Park

Beautiful gardens on one side and rocky beaches on the other.

6400 N Oceanshore Blvd, Palm Coast, FL

Vilano Beach Pier

A great spot for a laid-back, beachy elopement in St Augustine.

260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL

The Municipal Marina

A great waterfront area with views of the Bridge of Lions.

260 Vilano Rd, St. Augustine, FL

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Elopement Vendors

The awesome people who will help you make your St Augustine elopement amazing:

Florists

Feather + Bloom

featherandbloomflorals.com

Life Bouquets

lifebouquets.com

Simply Designed by Mary

simplydesignedbymary.com

Officiants

Say I Do, Ceremony

sayidoceremony.com

For Love Notary

www.forlovenotary.com

Sensational Ceremonies

sensationalceremonies.com/

Planners

Coastal Celebrations

Coastal Celebrations

The Eventful Gals

The Eventful Gals

Southern Charm Events

Southern Charm Events

Wedding Car Rentals

St. Augustine Vintage Car Rentals

St. Augustine Vintage Car Rentals

Big Day Vintage Cars

Big Day Vintage Cars

Classic Event Cars

Classic Event Cars

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The interior of Casa Reina
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Example Timelines

Alright, let’s talk about how your elopement day in St Augustine might actually look. I’ve put together a few sample timelines to give you an idea. Remember, these are just ideas. Your elopement in St Augustine should reflect you as a couple. If i am lucky enough to be your St Augustine elopement photographer, we’ll curate a custom timeline fit to exactly what you’d like to do. Maybe you want to start with a sunrise ceremony, or end with a midnight ghost tour – it’s all about what feels right for you!

This is for you if you just want to keep things short and sweet – its more like an extended portrait session.

Hour 1:

Arrive at your chosen spot and do any final touch-ups
Have a “first look” if you want (always a tear-jerker!)

Hour 2:
Have your ceremony (don’t forget those personal vows!)
Spend the rest of the time exploring a nearby area for some cool photos

This is for you if you just want to keep things short and sweet – but also tell a story of the day. It’ll cover a ceremony, portraits, and maybe getting ready or an activity. I would say this is really the minimum for a story-telling elopment in St Augustine.

Hour 1:

Getting Ready & Details: Capture the final preparations, including detailed shots of attire, accessories, and any sentimental items. Photograph the bride/groom getting ready.
First Look: Have a private first look moment to capture your reactions and emotions.
Hours 2-3:

Ceremony: Conduct your ceremony, including the exchange of vows, rings, and the kiss.
Post-Ceremony Moments: Capture candid moments immediately following the ceremony, including congratulations and family photos if applicable.

Hour 4:

Mini Adventure: Head to a scenic location for portraits. Utilize the golden hour lighting for stunning couple photos. Capture a mix of candid and posed shots to reflect the joy and romance of your day.

6-8 hours is enough time to cover a full story from getting ready to sunset in most cases and is what I recommend for most couples wanting to make a day of it.


Hours 1-2:



Getting Ready & Details: Document the preparations, including detailed shots of attire, accessories, and any special items. Capture the bride/groom getting ready, and the emotional first look.



Hours 3-4:



Ceremony: Perform the ceremony, including the exchange of vows, rings, and the kiss.



Celebratory Moments: Post-ceremony moments, such as congratulations from any guests and family photos if applicable.



Hour 5:



Adventure & Exploration: Travel to a scenic location for an adventure session. Capture candid and posed photos, utilizing the unique landscape and environment.



Hour 6:



Portraits at Golden Hour: Utilize the golden hour for stunning couple portraits. Capture a variety of shots, from intimate close-ups to wider scenic views, making the most of the natural light.

Hours 1-2:

Getting Ready & Details: Capture the preparations, including detailed shots of attire, accessories, and special items. Document the bride/groom getting ready, and the emotional first look.

Hours 3-4:

Ceremony: Conduct the ceremony with the exchange of vows, rings, and the kiss.

Post-Ceremony Moments: Immediate post-ceremony moments, including congratulations and family photos if applicable.

Hours 5-6:

Half-Day Adventure: Head out for an adventure session, exploring a beautiful location. Capture candid and posed shots that reflect the excitement and joy of the day.

Hour 7:

Portraits at Golden Hour: Utilize the golden hour for breathtaking couple portraits, making the most of the natural light.

Hour 8:

Dinner & Drinks: Conclude your day with a romantic dinner and celebratory drinks. Capture candid moments of your first meal as a married couple

For those who want to capture their entire wedding day from start to finish:

Hours 1-2:

Getting Ready & Details: Document the preparations, including detailed shots of attire, accessories, and any special items. Capture the bride/groom getting ready, and the emotional first look.

Hours 3-5:

Ceremony: Perform the ceremony with the exchange of vows, rings, and the kiss.

Lunch Break: Enjoy a relaxed lunch break, capturing candid moments as you share your first meal together as a married couple.

First Location Adventure: Explore a scenic location, capturing candid and posed photos.

Hours 6-12:

Second Location Adventure: Continue your adventure at a different location. Capture a variety of shots, making the most of the diverse scenery.

Golden Hour & Evening Portraits: Utilize the golden hour for stunning portraits, followed by evening shots to capture the ambiance.

Dinner & Celebration: End the day with a romantic dinner and celebration. Capture the intimate and joyful moments as you enjoy your first evening as a married couple.

Woman lying in sunlight beside flowers

St. Augustine Elopement Photographer

Hey there! I’m Roy Serafin, and I’m all about capturing those real, candid moments of your St Augustine elopement. My style?

Think less “stand here and smile” and more “let’s create some art that really shows who you are as a couple.”


I love working with each couple to make sure their elopement photos are as unique as they are. Whatever I can do to help you create a day you enjoy, I’m here to tell your story through my lens.

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Elopement Packages

01

The Page

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This is a two hour elopement.

  • Roy as your photographer
  • Fully edited & color-graded images
  • Tailored Planning Advice
  • Online gallery
  • Full printing rights

STARTS AT

$2200

02

The Chapter

elope in florida

4 hours is enough time to cover a first look or getting ready, ceremony, and some portraits.

  • Roy as your photographer
  • Fully edited & color-graded images
  • Tailored Planning Advice
  • Online gallery
  • Full printing rights

STARTS AT

$4000

03

The Story

House of refuge beach florida elopement

6-8 hours is enough to cover getting ready, a first look, ceremony, and dinner.

  • Roy as your photographer
  • Fully edited & color-graded images
  • Travel within the continental US
  • Tailored Planning Advice
  • Print credit
  • Online gallery
  • Full printing rights

STARTS AT

$5,900

No matter which package you choose, you’ll get my full attention and creativity to capture your St Augustine elopement in all its glory.

So, what do you say? Ready to start planning your perfect elopement in St Augustine? Let’s chat and create something amazing together! Whether you want to exchange vows at sunrise on the beach, in a hidden garden, or on a sunset sail, I’m here to capture every moment of your unique love story in this beautiful, historic city.

St Augustine Elopement Photo Gallery

You Deserve unique works of art that perfectly capture you and your partner.

NO 321.343.9678 | info@royserafin.com

Fill in the form below and I’ll get right back to you about photography.

Reach out for photography

NO 321.343.9678 | info@royserafin.com

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