Your Complete St. Augustine Destination Wedding Guide
Planning from out of state? We've coordinated with couples from 30+ states over 600+ weddings to make St. Augustine destination weddings seamless.
Last updated: January 2026
Planning Time Needed
12-18 Months
Marriage License Valid
60 Days
Average Guest Count
60-80 People
Why Choose St. Augustine for Your Destination Wedding
St. Augustine offers something most destination wedding locations can't: 450 years of history combined with 42 miles of pristine beaches. After photographing 600+ weddings here, we've seen couples from California to Maine choose our city for its unique blend of old-world charm and coastal beauty.
What Makes St. Augustine Special
- Year-round destination: Even winter offers 60-70°F days perfect for outdoor ceremonies
- Compact size: Everything within 15 minutes of downtown makes guest logistics simple
- Diverse venues: From beachfront resorts to historic courtyards to private estates
- Guest activities: More than just a wedding - it's a weekend vacation experience
- Established vendor network: Experienced professionals who work together regularly
Unlike bigger cities where vendors might not know each other, St. Augustine's wedding industry is tight-knit. Your florist probably decorated three weddings at your venue last month, and your caterer knows exactly how the kitchen setup works. This local knowledge becomes invaluable when you're planning from 800 miles away.
Remote Planning Timeline
Planning a destination wedding requires different timing than local weddings. Based on our experience with out-of-state couples, here's the realistic timeline that works:
12-18 Months Before
Start Here
- Set your date and budget
- Book major vendors: venue, photographer, band/DJ
- Reserve hotel room blocks
- Send save-the-dates
8-10 Months Before
Planning Phase
- Book remaining vendors: florist, caterer, officiant
- Plan your venue visit (budget for 2-3 day trip)
- Finalize guest accommodations
- Order invitations
4-6 Months Before
Details Phase
- Finalize menu and floral designs
- Book guest activities and group dining
- Coordinate vendor delivery schedules
- Plan rehearsal dinner details
2-3 Months Before
Final Details
- Confirm all vendor details and timing
- Create detailed timeline for wedding party
- Arrange transportation for guests
- Plan your arrival date (arrive 3-5 days early minimum)
Pro Tip: The Venue Visit
Plan one strategic trip to St. Augustine 6-8 months before your wedding. Schedule back-to-back meetings with all major vendors, do a venue walkthrough, and scout photo locations. This face-to-face time builds relationships and catches details you'll miss over video calls.
Venue Selection from Afar
Choosing a venue without seeing it in person feels risky, but it's definitely possible with the right approach. We've worked with couples who booked their venue sight unseen and were thrilled with their choice.
Historic Downtown Venues
Perfect for couples who want authentic Spanish colonial architecture and walkable guest experience.
Best for: 50-150 guests | Indoor/outdoor options | Parking challenges
Beachfront Resorts
All-inclusive convenience with ocean ceremony options and guest accommodations on-site.
Best for: 75-200 guests | Weather backup included | Higher pricing
Private Estates and Rentals
Intimate settings with flexibility for custom timelines and personal touches.
Best for: 30-80 guests | Requires more coordination | Unique photo opportunities
Rental Property Warning
If you're considering an Airbnb or vacation rental, make sure the property owner knows about your wedding plans. We've had management companies and even law enforcement show up because owners were surprised to find 60 people at their beach rental. A small event fee upfront prevents major headaches later.
Key Questions for Virtual Venue Tours
When you can't see the space in person, ask specific questions that photos don't answer:
- Traffic and noise: "What's the noise level during ceremony times?" (A1A can be loud during rush hour)
- Guest flow: "Where do guests go during cocktail hour while we do portraits?"
- Weather backup: "Show me the exact indoor space and guest capacity for rain"
- Vendor access: "Where do vendors load in? Any stairs or tight spaces?"
- Timing restrictions: "What time must music end? Any ceremony time requirements?"
- Hidden costs: "Security deposits, cleaning fees, vendor fees?"
For more venue details, check out our comprehensive St. Augustine wedding venues guide with photos and specifics from each location.
Coordinating Vendors Remotely
The biggest advantage of St. Augustine's wedding industry is how well-connected our vendors are. Your photographer likely knows your florist, who's worked with your caterer at your venue before. This network makes remote coordination much easier.
Essential Vendor Communication Strategy
- Create a vendor group chat: Include key vendors in one text thread for quick updates
- Share a master timeline: Send detailed timeline to all vendors 2 weeks before wedding
- Designate a local contact: Choose someone local as your day-of coordinator contact
- Schedule check-ins: Set up regular video calls 2-3 months out, then weekly the final month
Must-Have Vendors for Destination Weddings
Local Wedding Planner: Worth the Investment
Even couples who normally prefer DIY planning often hire a local planner for destination weddings. They handle permit requirements, know backup plans for weather, and can be your eyes and ears when you can't be there weeks early. Budget $2,000-$5,000 for partial planning services.
Photographer: Look for someone with extensive local venue experience. We know that the courtyard at the Casa Monica is perfect at 4pm in winter but needs different positioning in summer. Local knowledge prevents photo disasters.
Florist: Choose someone familiar with your venue's setup requirements. Some historic venues have strict rules about anchoring arrangements or protecting historic surfaces.
Caterer: If your venue requires outside catering, choose someone who's worked there before. Kitchen limitations and service logistics vary dramatically between venues.
Ready to Start Planning Your St. Augustine Wedding?
We've photographed weddings for couples from across the country and understand the unique challenges of planning from afar. Let's discuss how our local knowledge can make your destination wedding seamless.
View Our Wedding Photography
Planning Your Guests' Experience
Your guests are investing time and money to celebrate with you, so creating a great weekend experience beyond just the wedding day shows you value their effort.
Welcome Activities
Plan something for Friday evening when guests arrive. We've photographed welcome parties at rooftop bars, sunset sailboat cruises, and casual beach bonfires. The goal is to help guests who might not know each other connect before the wedding.
Popular Guest Activities
- Historic trolley tour: Great overview of the city, especially for first-time visitors
- Ghost tour: Evening entertainment that's uniquely St. Augustine
- Beach day: Organize umbrellas and chairs at Vilano or St. Augustine Beach
- Group dinner downtown: Walking dinner at multiple restaurants
- Castillo fort exploration: Historic site that kids and adults enjoy
Transportation Coordination
St. Augustine's historic downtown has limited parking, especially on weekends. For guest counts over 50, consider shuttle service between hotels and your venue. This is especially important for evening weddings when downtown parking fills up with tourists.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Managing guest accommodations from out of state requires extra planning, but getting it right makes your wedding weekend smoother for everyone.
Peak Season (October - May)
Perfect weather, gorgeous light
Higher prices, book early
Hotel rates: $200-400/night downtown, $150-300 at beach
Summer Season (June - September)
Lower rates, more availability
Hot, humid, afternoon storms
Hotel rates: $120-250/night downtown, $100-200 at beach
Hotel Block Strategy
Book Room Blocks Early
Reserve room blocks 6-8 months ahead, especially for peak season weekends. Most hotels require a minimum of 10 rooms but offer group rates and amenities. Include a mix of price points - not everyone wants to pay $300/night.
Historic Downtown Hotels: Walking distance to restaurants and attractions, but limited parking and higher prices. Best for guests who want the full St. Augustine experience.
Beach Hotels: Resort amenities and ocean access, but require driving to downtown attractions. Good for families or guests who want relaxation time.
Chain Hotels (US-1 Corridor): Most affordable option with familiar amenities and easy parking. About 10-15 minutes to downtown or beaches.
Airport and Travel Information
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is 45 minutes away and offers the most flight options. Daytona Beach Airport is closer (60 minutes) but has limited service. Many guests rent cars for the flexibility to explore.
Marriage License and Legal Requirements
Florida marriage license requirements are straightforward, but timing is crucial for out-of-state couples.
Florida Marriage License Requirements
- Where to apply: St. Johns County Clerk of Courts (must apply in person)
- When to apply: 3-5 days before wedding (license valid for 60 days)
- Required documents: Valid government-issued photo ID for both parties
- Waiting period: 3 days unless you complete premarital counseling (waives waiting period)
- Cost: $93.50 (cash or card accepted)
Important Timing Note
Both parties must be present to apply for the license. Plan to arrive in St. Augustine at least 3-5 days before your wedding to account for the waiting period and potential courthouse closures.
Weather and Backup Planning
Florida weather can be unpredictable, especially during summer months. Having solid backup plans reduces stress and ensures beautiful photos regardless of conditions.
Winter (December - February)
Comfortable temps, low humidity
Can be unpredictable, pack layers
Average high: 68°F | Low chance of rain
Spring (March - May)
Perfect weather, blooming flowers
Peak tourist season
Average high: 78°F | Minimal rainfall
Summer (June - August)
Lower venue rates, beach season
Hot, humid, daily afternoon storms
Average high: 89°F | Expect afternoon rain
Fall (September - November)
Crowds thin out, still warm
Hurricane season through November
Average high: 82°F | Monitor weather patterns
Smart Backup Planning
Choose venues with good indoor spaces or covered options. Summer afternoon storms are usually brief but intense. We recommend ceremony times before 2pm or after 6pm to avoid typical storm windows. Always have a "rain or shine" mindset with your vendors.
Budget Considerations for Destination Weddings
Destination weddings often cost more upfront but can save money on guest count (expect 60-70% attendance from out-of-state guests). Here's realistic pricing for different wedding styles:
| Wedding Style |
Venue |
Photography |
Catering |
Total Range |
| Intimate (20-40 guests) |
$2,000-$5,000 |
$3,500-$6,000 |
$1,500-$3,000 |
$15,000-$25,000 |
| Medium (50-80 guests) |
$4,000-$8,000 |
$4,000-$7,000 |
$4,000-$8,000 |
$25,000-$45,000 |
| Large (100+ guests) |
$6,000-$15,000 |
$5,000-$8,500 |
$8,000-$15,000 |
$40,000-$75,000 |
Additional Destination Wedding Costs
- Travel for planning visits: Budget $1,000-$2,000 for 1-2 trips to St. Augustine
- Extended stay: Arrive 3-5 days early, stay 1-2 days after (honeymoon time)
- Guest welcome gifts: Local treats or survival kits help guests feel appreciated
- Transportation: Shuttle service for guests adds $500-$1,500 depending on distance
- Shipping: Getting decorations and personal items to St. Augustine costs $200-$500
Money-Saving Tips
- Choose summer dates for better venue and hotel rates
- Friday or Sunday weddings cost 20-30% less than Saturdays
- Brunch or lunch receptions reduce catering and bar costs
- Use local vendors instead of bringing in outside professionals
- Consider off-peak months (July-September) for significant savings
Planning a destination wedding in St. Augustine requires extra coordination, but the payoff is a unique celebration your guests will remember forever. The combination of historic charm, beautiful beaches, and experienced local vendors makes it worth the effort.
Ready to start planning your St. Augustine destination wedding? Our experience with out-of-state couples and deep local knowledge can help make your planning process smoother and your wedding day flawless.
