9 Aviles Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to this historic gem on America's oldest street
About 9 Aviles
9 Aviles
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9 Aviles sits on Aviles Street—the oldest documented street in the United States, laid out in 1572. This intimate venue occupies a beautifully restored historic building that has been thoughtfully updated while preserving its 18th-century character.
The venue centers around a private courtyard, an oasis of calm in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Brick pavers, tropical landscaping, and historic architecture create a setting that feels both timeless and romantic.
What makes 9 Aviles special is the combination of history and intimacy. This isn't a venue trying to accommodate 200 guests—it's designed for couples who want their wedding day to feel personal and connected. Every corner has character, every detail has a story.
Why We Love Photographing at 9 Aviles
As preferred vendors at 9 Aviles, we've had the privilege of photographing many weddings in this historic space. We know where the light falls at every hour, which angles capture the courtyard's magic, and how to use the surrounding streets to expand your portrait possibilities.
The venue's intimate scale is a gift for photography. We're close to the emotion—the tears during vows, the laughter during toasts, the quiet moments between the couple. Nothing feels staged or distant.
And the location is unbeatable. Step outside and you're on America's oldest street, surrounded by 450 years of history. The Cathedral Basilica, the Plaza, the bayfront—all within walking distance for portrait variety.
Best Photo Locations
9 Aviles offers beautiful on-site locations plus easy access to historic downtown:
The Courtyard
A stunning private courtyard with brick pavers, lush tropical plants, and historic architecture. The heart of ceremonies and receptions at 9 Aviles.
The Veranda
A covered porch overlooking the courtyard—perfect for intimate moments, toasts, and weather backup.
Aviles Street
Step outside onto America's oldest street. The cobblestones, historic facades, and Spanish colonial architecture create an unmatched backdrop.
The Historic Building
The venue's interior features exposed brick, historic details, and warm ambient lighting for indoor portraits and candid moments.
Nearby Historic Sites
Just a short walk to the Cathedral Basilica, Plaza de la Constitución, and the bayfront for expanded portrait sessions.
Planning Your Timeline at 9 Aviles
We don't publish generic sample timelines because they're useless without knowing your wedding date. Here's why:
A 5pm ceremony works beautifully in summer but means portraits in the dark in winter. Your timeline needs to be built around your actual date and what matters most to you.
Light at 9 Aviles
The courtyard catches warm golden light from the west, with the historic brick walls and iron chandeliers glowing beautifully 30-45 minutes before sunset. The covered veranda provides open shade all day.
Aviles Street is quietest before 10am and after 6pm for uninterrupted portraits on the cobblestones.
Time for Photos
We recommend 45-60 minutes for portraits at 9 Aviles, covering the courtyard, veranda, and Aviles Street.
Want more variety? Nearby options:
- Bayfront & Bridge of Lions — 5 minutes walk, add 20-30 minutes
- Cathedral Basilica — 3 minutes walk, add 10-15 minutes
- Plaza de la Constitución — 2 minutes walk, add 10 minutes
Timeline Strategies
Sunset Portraits
Want that golden hour magic? We work backwards from sunset. Ceremony ends 60-90 minutes before, giving time for family photos, couple portraits, and catching the best light.
Brunch or Daytime
Morning ceremonies and daytime receptions mean lots of beautiful natural light all day. Great for summer when afternoons can get pretty warm.
Winter & Nights of Lights
December and January weddings can incorporate Nights of Lights—the Plaza and downtown are just steps away for those magical twinkling photos after dark.
Venue Timing Notes
- Music curfew at 10pm
- Venue access typically begins 2 hours before ceremony
Get a Timeline Built for Your Day
Tell us your wedding date, ceremony time preferences, and what moments matter most. We'll send you a custom timeline that accounts for sunset, this venue's best light, and your priorities.
Request Your Custom TimelinePhotography Tips
After photographing many weddings here, these are our top recommendations:
Use Aviles Street
Don't stay confined to the venue—Aviles Street itself is one of the most photogenic spots in St. Augustine. Step outside for variety in your portraits.
Time Your Ceremony for the Light
The courtyard faces west and glows during golden hour. We'll help you pick a ceremony time based on your wedding date—sunset varies from 5:30pm in winter to 8:30pm in summer.
Embrace the Intimacy
This venue shines for small weddings. The intimate scale means genuine connections and candid moments we can capture authentically.
Walk to the Bayfront
After the ceremony, a 5-minute walk brings you to the bayfront and Bridge of Lions for sunset portraits.
Weddings at 9 Aviles
Iron chandeliers, wildflower arrangements, and 450 years of history on America's oldest street.
View Recent Weddings
Real Weddings at 9 Aviles
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue
