The Ribault Club wedding venue photography
Historic

The Ribault Club Wedding Photography Guide

A photographer's guide to Fort George Island's historic gem

About The Ribault Club

The Ribault Club

Historic Waterfront State Park
Price Range $ $ $ $ $
Guest Capacity 50–400 guests
Spaces Getting Ready Outdoor Ceremony Indoor Ceremony Outdoor Reception Indoor Reception
Best Photo Time Golden hour / Sunset
More details Less details
Catering Approved vendors
BYOB No
Accommodations Nearby
Parking On-site
Pet Friendly No
Music Curfew Contact venue
Weather Backup Indoor spaces
Photo Restrictions None

The Ribault Club is a historic treasure nestled on Fort George Island, just north of Jacksonville. Built in 1928 and designed by renowned architect Maurice Fatio, this neoclassical beauty is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and sits within Fort George Island Cultural State Park.

What sets The Ribault Club apart is its perfect balance of historic elegance and natural Florida beauty. Ancient live oaks draped in Spanish moss frame the property, while the waterfront setting provides stunning marsh and river views. The combination of formal architecture and wild surroundings creates a uniquely romantic atmosphere.

Event Spaces & Capacity

  • Full Facility: Up to 350 seated / 400 cocktail
  • Ballroom & North Salon: Up to 190 seated / 225 cocktail
  • Dining Room & South Salon: Up to 160 seated / 200 cocktail

What's Included

  • Tables and Chiavari chairs
  • Setup and breakdown
  • Ceremony and reception locations
  • Indoor rain plan backup
  • Parking and AV screens
  • Enhanced WiFi
  • On-site event manager
  • Up-lighting on walking paths

Best Photo Locations

The Grand Oak Trees

The property is surrounded by magnificent live oaks draped in Spanish moss. These ancient trees create a canopy of natural beauty that's quintessentially Florida and photographs beautifully in any light.

The Veranda

The sweeping veranda with French doors and columns offers a classic Southern backdrop. The covered porch provides gorgeous diffused light and a timeless, elegant feel.

The Waterfront Grounds

Fort George Island's waterfront setting means beautiful marsh and river views. The natural landscape provides a wild, romantic backdrop that contrasts beautifully with the formal architecture.

The Ballroom

Original terrazzo floors and neoclassical architecture create an elegant indoor space. The room accommodates up to 190 seated guests and features beautiful natural light from large windows.

The Walking Paths

Lit pathways wind through the property, creating romantic portrait opportunities especially as the sun sets. The up-lighting adds magic to evening celebrations.

The Historic Facade

Designed by architect Maurice Fatio in 1928, the neoclassical facade is stunning. The columns, symmetry, and period details create timeless portraits.

Photographer Tips

Day-of Coordinator Required

The Ribault Club requires a professional wedding planner for day-of coordination. This is actually a blessing - it means your day runs smoothly and we can focus on capturing moments.

The Oaks Are the Star

Those live oak trees are hundreds of years old and absolutely stunning. We'll build time into your portrait session specifically for photos under these majestic trees.

Plan for the State Park Setting

The venue is part of Fort George Island Cultural State Park, which means natural, unspoiled surroundings. Embrace the wild Florida beauty in your portraits.

Lighting Adds Magic

The venue includes up-lighting on walking paths. As the sun sets, these create a romantic atmosphere that's perfect for evening portraits.

Approved Vendor List

You'll choose from an approved caterer and bartender list. The venue provides tables, Chiavari chairs, and setup/breakdown - everything coordinates beautifully.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline at The Ribault Club

Every wedding is unique, but here's a sample timeline to help you plan your day:

View Sample Timeline
2:00 PM

Venue Access

Bridal party arrives to begin preparations.

3:30 PM

First Look

Private first look under the oak trees or on the veranda.

4:00 PM

Wedding Party Photos

Portraits throughout the grounds, oak trees, and historic architecture.

4:45 PM

Family Portraits

Family combinations while guests arrive.

5:00 PM

Ceremony

Outdoor ceremony under the oaks or indoor in the ballroom.

5:30 PM

Cocktail Hour

Guests enjoy the veranda and grounds while we capture couple portraits.

6:30 PM

Reception

Dinner and dancing in the ballroom or outdoor under string lights.

Sunset

Golden Hour Portraits

Sneak away for portraits along the waterfront or under the oaks.

Note: This is a sample timeline. Sunset times vary significantly by season, so we'll customize yours based on your wedding date, ceremony time, and priorities.

Ribault Club Wedding Cost

Wedding packages at The Ribault Club start at $6,800 with a 50% non-refundable deposit required to secure your date.

Requirements

  • Professional wedding planner (required for day-of coordination)
  • Licensed caterer from approved vendor list
  • Licensed bartenders
  • $1 million liability insurance

The venue fee includes tables, Chiavari chairs, setup/breakdown, ceremony and reception spaces, AV equipment, and on-site event management. You'll select catering and bar services from their approved vendor list.

For current pricing and availability, contact the venue at 904-251-1050 or visit theribaultclub.com.

Planning a Wedding at The Ribault Club?

We'd love to capture your day at this historic Fort George Island venue. With 15 years of experience and deep knowledge of Northeast Florida's most beautiful locations, we know how to make the most of those ancient oaks, waterfront views, and elegant architecture.

Get in Touch