Historic Downtown

Casa Monica Resort & Spa Wedding Photography Guide

A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's most iconic luxury hotel wedding venue

About Casa Monica Resort & Spa

Casa Monica Resort & Spa is one of St. Augustine's most iconic hotels, originally built in 1888 as the Cordova Hotel. The Moorish Revival architecture, with its distinctive towers and ornate details, makes it an instantly recognizable landmark in the historic district.

The hotel offers wedding ceremonies in its beautiful central courtyard, surrounded by tropical plants and Moorish architectural details, with receptions in elegant ballroom spaces. As a full-service luxury resort, Casa Monica provides comprehensive wedding services along with convenient guest accommodations.

We've photographed numerous weddings at Casa Monica and never tire of capturing the hotel's unique character. The Moorish design creates a sense of exotic elegance unlike any other venue in the region.

Why We Love Photographing at Casa Monica

Casa Monica offers a visual richness that translates beautifully into photographs. The Moorish architecture, with its arched doorways, ornate tiles, and exotic details, provides backdrops with instant character and elegance.

The courtyard is particularly wonderful for ceremonies. The enclosed space with its fountain and tropical plants feels like a hidden oasis in the middle of downtown. Light filters softly through the surrounding architecture, creating flattering illumination throughout the day.

We also appreciate the hotel's location in the heart of the historic district. With Flagler College's stunning Ponce de León Hall just across the street, we can incorporate multiple architectural landmarks into portrait sessions without traveling far.

Best Photo Locations at Casa Monica

The hotel's historic character offers exceptional photo opportunities. Here are our favorites:

The Courtyard

Central courtyard with Moorish fountain, tropical plants, and ornate architecture. Beautiful diffused light throughout the day—ideal for ceremonies and portraits.

The Grand Lobby

Opulent lobby with dramatic architecture, rich colors, and elegant details. The Moorish design creates a sense of exotic luxury.

The Exterior Facade

The iconic Moorish Revival architecture is stunning at dusk when warm light illuminates the ornate towers and details.

The Staircase

Elegant interior staircase perfect for bridal portraits and dramatic entrances.

Sultan's Suite

The penthouse suite offers rooftop views and luxurious surroundings for getting-ready photos.

Nearby Historic District

Steps from Flagler College and the Lightner Museum, we can incorporate additional historic architecture into portraits.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Casa Monica

Hotel weddings benefit from having everything in one location. Here's a sample timeline:

2:00 PM

Suite Access

Getting ready in a luxury suite with elegant surroundings and city views.

4:00 PM

First Look

Private first look in the courtyard or a quiet corner of the hotel.

4:30 PM

Hotel Portraits

Couple and wedding party photos throughout the hotel's stunning spaces.

5:00 PM

Family Portraits

Efficient family combinations in the courtyard or lobby.

5:30 PM

Ceremony

Courtyard ceremony surrounded by Moorish architecture and lush greenery.

6:00 PM

Cocktail Hour

Guests enjoy the hotel while we capture exterior portraits at golden hour.

7:00 PM

Reception

Ballroom reception in one of St. Augustine's most elegant spaces.

Photography Tips for Casa Monica

Based on our experience at this luxury hotel, these are our top recommendations:

Exterior Photos at Dusk

Casa Monica's facade is most photogenic when illuminated at dusk. Build time for exterior portraits as the sun sets and lights come on.

Use the Courtyard Light

The enclosed courtyard provides soft, even light throughout the day—no harsh shadows or squinting. This flexibility is a major advantage for ceremony and portrait timing.

Coordinate with Hotel Events

As a full-service hotel, there may be other guests and events. Work with your coordinator to plan portrait timing for optimal privacy.

Explore Nearby Locations

Flagler College's stunning architecture is just across the street. With time, we can incorporate these additional historic backdrops into your portrait session.