The Oldest House Museum Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to one of St. Augustine's most treasured celebration venues
About This Property
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The Oldest House Museum is one of St. Augustine's most treasured celebration venues—and one of the most storied surviving structures in the entire country. Dating back to 1723, the Gonzalez-Alvarez House blends Spanish, British, and American architectural influences, creating a backdrop unlike anywhere else.
Celebrations take place in the beautifully preserved grounds surrounding the building. The walled garden area features a magnificent live oak tree draped in Spanish moss, brick pathways, lush plantings, and distinctive pink colonial buildings. It's a completely open-air setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Managed by the St. Augustine Historical Society, the property offers two distinct spaces: the main grounds (ideal for larger events under the oak tree) and the Llambias House area (featuring a charming balcony, arbor, and wishing well).
Perfect for Micro Weddings & Elopements
This is one of our favorite spots for intimate celebrations. The walled setting creates a sense of privacy that larger properties can't match—it feels like you've discovered a secret oasis in the middle of downtown St. Augustine.
For couples organizing a micro wedding (under 50 people) or elopement, the property offers:
- Intimate scale: The grounds feel full and romantic even with a small headcount, unlike larger properties that can feel empty
- All-inclusive backdrop: The oak tree, colonial architecture, and brick pathways provide endless variety for portraits without leaving
- Affordable packages: Budget-friendly options make this a great choice for elopements
- Flexible event types: The property welcomes elopements, vow renewals, commitment celebrations, and encore nuptials
- Easy to organize: Fewer loved ones means more quality time with each person—and more time for portraits in these gorgeous grounds
We've photographed micro celebrations here where couples exchanged vows under the oak tree with just their parents present, then enjoyed dinner nearby. Simple, meaningful, and absolutely beautiful.
Why We Love Photographing Here
There's something magical about saying your I dos under a 300-year-old oak tree draped in Spanish moss. This property offers a sense of heritage and romance that you simply can't replicate at newer locations. The late afternoon light filtering through the moss creates an ethereal glow that photographs beautifully.
What we love most is the variety within a single location. The coquina archways provide architectural interest, the pink walls add a pop of color unique to this property, and the winding paths create intimate moments surrounded by greenery. Every corner offers something different.
The open-air setting also means natural, flattering light throughout the occasion—no fighting with harsh indoor lighting or dim reception halls. And when the sun sets and the string lights come on, the grounds transform into a romantic evening affair.
Best Portrait Locations
The grounds offer endless portrait opportunities. Here are our favorite spots:
The Grand Oak Tree
The magnificent live oak draped in Spanish moss is THE spot for exchanging vows. The spreading branches create a natural canopy, and the pink colonial buildings provide a stunning backdrop. Golden hour light filters through the moss beautifully.
The Walled Courtyard
The walled grounds offer intimate charm with paved pathways, lush tropical plants, and colonial architecture. Perfect for bridal portraits and couple shots throughout the afternoon.
Coquina Archways
The iconic coquina stone arches frame couples beautifully. The weathered texture and warm tones photograph wonderfully, especially during soft afternoon light.
Pink Colonial Building
The distinctive pink/salmon colored walls create a unique and photogenic backdrop. The color complements virtually any floral palette.
Llambias House Gardens
A second garden space featuring a charming balcony, spiraling stone pavements, a lavish arbor, and a mystical wishing well. Great for your celebration or reception variety.
Brick Pathways
The red paths winding through the grounds create natural leading lines for portraits. Beautiful for processional images and romantic walks.
Lush Greenery
Tropical plants, ferns, and flowering beds surround the grounds. We use these for intimate close-up portraits and detail shots with natural framing.
Planning Your Timeline at The Oldest House Museum
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 The Oldest House Museum
The garden area faces south and gets soft, even light throughout the afternoon. The period interiors provide dramatic contrast.
Time for Photos
We recommend 45-60 minutes for portraits at The Oldest House Museum, covering the garden area, period rooms, and surrounding grounds.
Want more variety? Nearby options:
- Bayfront — 3 minutes walk, add 15-20 minutes
- Aviles Street — 5 minutes walk, add 15-20 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
Walking distance to Nights of Lights displays for evening portraits.
Venue Timing Notes
- Music curfew at 9pm
- Protected property—some areas may have restrictions
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 celebrations here, these are our top recommendations:
Time Your Ceremony for Golden Hour
The oak tree faces west, making late afternoon vows ideal. Schedule your I dos 1-2 hours before sunset for the best light filtering through the Spanish moss.
Embrace the Open-Air Setting
This is a completely open-air property—plan for Florida weather. Have a backup plan and consider the season. October-May offers the most comfortable temperatures.
Work with the Architecture
The coquina archways, pink walls, and centuries-old details are your friends. We incorporate these unique elements throughout your gallery for a strong sense of place.
Plan for the 9 PM Music Cutoff
Amplified music must end by 9:00 PM. Organize your timeline accordingly—consider an earlier start for a longer reception.
Use Both Spaces
The main grounds and Llambias area offer different aesthetics. We move between both for variety in your images.
Consider the Heat
Summer celebrations are beautiful but hot. Plan for shade during family portraits, have fans or parasols for attendees, and stay hydrated.
Preparing for Your Event
Practical tips to help you prepare for your occasion at this treasured property:
Pricing & Packages
Several package options are available for your celebration and reception, including 8 hours of event time. Vow-exchange-only packages are also offered. Contact the property directly for current pricing and deposit requirements.
Insurance & Requirements
General liability insurance is required for your event. The venue can provide details on coverage requirements.
Best Seasons
Peak season is February-May and October-December when temperatures are comfortable for open-air celebrations. Summer works but prepare for heat and afternoon storms.
On-Site Coordination
On-site coordination is included in the rental fee, helping ensure your event runs smoothly.
Where to Stay: Nearby Hotels
One of the perks of this downtown location is the abundance of nearby accommodations. Your loved ones can walk to the venue, and you can get ready just steps away. Here are our top picks:
Walking Distance (Old Town)
The Collector Inn & Gardens
5-minute walk
Nine heritage homes on one square block, with beautiful gardens perfect for getting-ready shots. Adults only (16+). Complimentary bicycles for exploring downtown.
St. George Inn
7-minute walk
Boutique hotel at the north end of pedestrian-only St. George Street. Steps from Castillo de San Marcos and downtown restaurants.
Kenwood Inn
8-minute walk
St. Augustine's longest-running B&B, full of old-world charm. Intimate setting ideal for smaller parties.
Old City House Inn
10-minute walk
Premier B&B with on-site restaurant. Over 20 years serving visitors in the heart of downtown.
Bayfront Marin House
10-minute walk
Award-winning B&B directly across from Matanzas Bay. Beautiful bay views and elegant accommodations.
Budget-Friendly Options
For more affordable rates, look to hotels on Anastasia Island (just over the Bridge of Lions). The Days Inn, Hampton Inn, and several vacation rentals offer good value with easy access to downtown—about a 5-10 minute drive.
For Destination Weddings
Flying in? Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from St. Augustine. The regional Northeast Florida Regional Airport in St. Augustine handles smaller aircraft and charters.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about getting married here
The property offers several package options for your celebration and reception, which include 8 hours of event time (including setup and cleanup). Vow-exchange-only packages are also available. Contact the property directly for current pricing, package details, and availability.
The main grounds can accommodate up to 250 attendees for vow-exchange-only events. For celebrations with receptions, capacity is around 130-150 depending on your setup. The Llambias area offers additional space for up to 100 people.
This is a completely open-air property. Celebrations take place in the walled grounds. While this makes for beautiful images and a unique atmosphere, you'll need to consider weather contingencies. The staff can discuss backup options during your tour.
February through May and October through December offer the most comfortable temperatures for open-air events in St. Augustine. Summer is possible but plan for heat and afternoon thunderstorms. Winter offers mild weather and smaller crowds.
Yes, BYO alcohol is permitted here. However, it must be served by a licensed bartender or caterer—you cannot self-serve. This can help with budget while ensuring responsible service.
The combination of the magnificent oak tree with Spanish moss, coquina architecture, and the distinctive pink buildings creates a uniquely St. Augustine backdrop. The variety of spaces means diverse portrait opportunities without leaving the grounds. The west-facing oak tree delivers beautiful golden hour light.
Yes! The property is formally known as the Gonzalez-Alvarez House, dating back to 1723. It's one of the most storied surviving structures in the country and is maintained by the St. Augustine Historical Society. The grounds include both the main event area and the nearby Llambias space.
Real Weddings Here
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this location
