Flagler College Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's architectural masterpiece
About Flagler College
Flagler College
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Flagler College isn't just a wedding venue—it's a masterpiece. Built by Henry Flagler in 1888 as the Ponce de León Hotel, this Spanish Renaissance landmark is one of the most photographed buildings in Florida. The Rotunda, with its hand-painted murals and domed ceiling. The Dining Hall, lit by original Tiffany stained glass. The courtyard, framed by towers and palm trees. Every corner is extraordinary.
What I love most about photographing weddings here is the reaction. When guests walk in for the first time, their jaws drop. You can't prepare people for how stunning it is—you have to see it to believe it. That sense of wonder carries through the entire day.
And here's something a lot of couples don't realize: you don't have to be an alum to get married here. Flagler College is open to anyone who wants to celebrate in one of the most beautiful venues in the country.
Best Photo Locations
48 Sevilla Street (Bridal Suite)
A charming Flagler-owned property just steps from the main campus, 48 Sevilla Street serves as the perfect bridal getting-ready space. The historic home offers beautiful natural light, elegant interiors, and a quiet retreat for the bride and her party before walking over to the ceremony. It's a hidden gem that most guests never see, but the photos from those morning prep moments are always some of my favorites.
The Rotunda
The heart of Flagler College—a stunning domed space with intricate murals, ornate columns, and light that pours in from above. Every angle is a photograph. This is the kind of space that makes guests audibly gasp.
The Dining Hall
Soaring ceilings, original Tiffany stained glass windows, and hand-carved woodwork. This room was designed to impress, and over a century later, it still does. The light through those Tiffany windows is unlike anything else.
The Courtyard
Palm trees, Spanish moss, and the iconic architecture framing every shot. Perfect for ceremonies, cocktail hour, or stealing the couple away for portraits. The symmetry and grandeur make it effortlessly photogenic.
The Grand Staircase
A sweeping staircase with ornate railings—perfect for bridal portraits or that dramatic entrance moment.
The Exterior & Grounds
The Spanish Renaissance architecture photographs beautifully from any angle. The towers, archways, and palm-lined paths give you endless options.
Photographer Tips
Prepare for the Guest Reaction
One of my favorite things about Flagler weddings is watching guests see it for the first time. It's one of a kind—you have to see it to believe it. Their faces say it all.
You Don't Have to Be an Alum
A lot of couples don't realize this, but you can get married at Flagler College even if you didn't attend. It's open to everyone who wants to celebrate in one of the most stunning venues in Florida.
Beautiful Year-Round
Unlike some outdoor venues, Flagler photographs beautifully in every season. The architecture, the interior spaces, the grounds—they're timeless no matter when you book.
Trust the Architecture
The venue does the heavy lifting. You don't need elaborate decorations when you're surrounded by hand-painted murals, Tiffany glass, and Spanish Renaissance grandeur.
Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Flagler College
Every wedding is unique, but here's a sample timeline to help you plan your day:
View Sample Timeline
Venue Access
Getting ready in the beautiful bridal suites with that historic charm.
First Look
The courtyard or rotunda—either one is an incredible backdrop for this moment.
Wedding Party Photos
Portraits throughout the venue—staircase, courtyard, exterior grounds.
Family Portraits
Quick family combinations before guests arrive.
Ceremony
Courtyard ceremony surrounded by that iconic architecture.
Cocktail Hour
Guests explore while we capture a few more portraits.
Reception
Dinner and dancing in the Dining Hall under those Tiffany windows.
Golden Hour Portraits
Quick sneak-away for sunset shots on the grounds.
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.
Real Weddings at Flagler College
See more from Megan & James's wedding: A black-tie holiday wedding with a ceremony at Cathedral Basilica and reception under Flagler's painted ceilings and Christmas trees.
Flagler College Wedding FAQ
Common questions about weddings at Flagler College
Flagler College is a premium historic venue with pricing to match. Venue rental typically ranges from $10,000 to $20,000+ depending on spaces used, day of week, and season. Full wedding costs including catering and rentals usually range from $35,000 to $80,000+ for 150-250 guests. The Dining Hall and Rotunda command premium rates due to their extraordinary character.
No! This is one of the most common misconceptions. Flagler College is open to any couple who wants to celebrate in this stunning venue. You don't need any connection to the school—just an appreciation for beautiful architecture.
Yes, the Rotunda is available for ceremonies. With its domed ceiling, hand-painted murals, and ornate columns, it's one of the most breathtaking ceremony spaces in Florida. Ceremonies here are truly unforgettable.
The Dining Hall features original Tiffany stained glass windows designed by Louis Comfort Tiffany himself in 1888. These windows are priceless works of art that fill the space with colored light. They're original to the building and one of the largest collections of Tiffany glass in a private building.
Flagler College can accommodate 100-300 guests depending on your configuration. The Dining Hall seats up to 250 for a seated dinner, while the courtyard can host larger ceremonies. Smaller intimate weddings of 100-150 guests are also popular.
The St. Augustine Parking Garage on St. George Street is the closest public parking (about a 3-minute walk). Street parking is available but fills quickly in downtown. Many couples arrange shuttles from their hotel block—Casa Monica and the Collector Luxury Inn are both walking distance. Flagler does have some event parking, but availability depends on your contract.
Planning a Wedding at Flagler College?
As a preferred vendor at Flagler College, we know every inch of this incredible venue. We'd love to help you capture your day in one of the most stunning locations in St. Augustine.
Get in TouchReal Weddings at Flagler College
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue:
