Kelly Farm Events Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's premier working farm venue
About Kelly Farm Events
Kelly Farm Events
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Kelly Farm Events is St. Augustine's premier barn wedding venue, set on a working 95-acre farm with horses, miniature donkeys, and other friendly animals. What started as Vernon and Nancy Kelly's dream property has become one of Northeast Florida's most sought-after wedding destinations.
The venue features a beautifully renovated barn with string lighting and draping, spacious bridal and groom suites, and endless outdoor ceremony options across the pastoral landscape. The property blends rustic charm with modern convenience—you get the farm experience without sacrificing comfort.
Built in 2000 as a family farm and converted to an event venue in 2020, Kelly Farm maintains its working farm character while offering professional event services including day-of coordinators, tables, chairs, and complete setup and breakdown.
Why We Love Photographing at Kelly Farm Events
The farm animals steal the show. There's nothing quite like a bride in her wedding dress posing with a miniature horse, or groomsmen hamming it up with the donkeys. These photos become instant favorites and give couples something truly unique in their wedding album.
But beyond the animals, the 95 acres offer incredible variety. We can capture intimate moments under ancient oak trees, sweeping landscapes with the couple as tiny figures in vast pastures, and cozy barn shots with romantic string lights—all in one wedding.
The sunset views are spectacular. Without buildings or trees blocking the horizon, we get those big, dramatic Florida sky sunsets that make couples gasp when they see the photos. The farm's relaxed atmosphere also helps everyone feel comfortable and natural in front of the camera.
Best Photo Locations at Kelly Farm Events
With 95 acres, the photo opportunities are endless. Here are our favorite spots:
The Renovated Barn
Beautiful barn space with string lighting and draping creating romantic ambiance. The rustic wood contrasts beautifully with elegant wedding attire.
The Pastures
95 acres of rolling pastures, oak trees, and open fields. Endless options for wide-angle couple portraits with that classic Florida farm feel.
The Animal Paddocks
Miniature horses, donkeys, and other friendly farm animals make for unique, playful photos that guests love. A Kelly Farm signature.
Bridal Suite
Spacious getting-ready space with natural light and elegant finishes. Perfect for detail shots and preparation photos.
Oak Tree Alley
Mature oak trees create natural archways and dappled light—stunning for portraits and processionals.
Sunset Overlook
Open fields facing west deliver spectacular Florida sunsets. We time portraits here for golden hour magic.
Weddings at Kelly Farm Events
Real weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue.
View Recent Weddings
Planning Your Timeline at Kelly Farm Events
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 Kelly Farm Events
Open farmland setting allows golden hour light to flood the property. The rustic barn and pastoral landscape create authentic country charm.
Time for Photos
We recommend 45-60 minutes for portraits at Kelly Farm Events, covering the barn, ceremony field, and farm grounds.
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.
Venue Timing Notes
- Music curfew at 10pm
- Farm setting—weather and seasonal considerations
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 for Kelly Farm Events
Here are our top recommendations for making the most of this beautiful farm venue:
Plan for Animal Photos
Kelly Farm's miniature horses and donkeys are adorable and surprisingly photogenic. Schedule 15-20 minutes specifically for animal photos—couples always love these.
Embrace the Space
With 95 acres, don't limit yourselves to the barn area. We love taking couples on brief adventures to the pastures for dramatic wide-angle portraits.
Watch the Weather
Farm venues mean outdoor settings. Have a backup plan for rain, and embrace the beautiful overcast light when it comes—it's actually great for portraits.
Sunset Timing is Everything
The open pastures offer unobstructed sunset views. We recommend timing the ceremony so cocktail hour aligns with golden hour for maximum portrait opportunities.
Real Weddings at Kelly Farm Events
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue