Barn & Garden

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 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.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Kelly Farm Events

Every wedding is unique, but here's a timeline optimized for this farm venue (this example uses a 5:00 PM ceremony):

2:00 PM

Venue Access

Bride in Bridal Suite, groom in Groom's Room. Both spaces offer privacy and comfort for getting ready.

3:30 PM

First Look

We recommend the oak tree area or pasture for first look—the farm provides beautiful, private settings.

4:00 PM

Wedding Party & Farm Photos

Capture the wedding party in the barn, with the animals, and across the pastures.

4:45 PM

Family Portraits

Efficient family photos in the barn or under the oaks while guests begin arriving.

5:00 PM

Ceremony

Outdoor ceremony with the farm as your backdrop. The pastoral setting creates naturally beautiful imagery.

5:30 PM

Cocktail Hour

Guests mingle while we capture sunset portraits across the property.

6:30 PM

Reception

Dinner and dancing in the barn with string lights creating a magical atmosphere.

Photography 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.