Historic Downtown

River House Events Wedding Photography Guide

A photographer's guide to St. Augustine's elegant waterfront venue

About River House Events

River House Events is an elegant waterfront wedding venue located in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. Situated directly on the Intracoastal Waterway, this five-star venue offers couples stunning views of the Matanzas River and the historic St. Augustine Lighthouse.

The venue features the Grand Ballroom accommodating up to 300 seated guests with a 32-foot hardwood dance floor, the intimate Library with its fireplace and French doors, and expansive outdoor terraces overlooking the water. The thoughtfully designed interiors blend timeless elegance with comfort, decorated in soft golds and sage greens.

What makes River House special is the combination of waterfront beauty and downtown convenience—complete with private parking, which is rare for St. Augustine venues. The venue also gives back to the community through the Council on Aging.

Why We Love Photographing at River House Events

The Matanzas River creates a constantly changing backdrop throughout the day—sparkling in afternoon sun, glowing at golden hour, and reflecting lights after dark. Add the St. Augustine Lighthouse in the background, and you have iconic imagery that's unmistakably St. Augustine.

The variety of spaces gives us endless creative options. The grand ballroom offers classic elegance, the library provides intimate warmth, and the terrace and dock deliver waterfront drama. We can capture completely different moods without leaving the property.

The covered terrace is a photographer's dream—it protects from harsh sun while maintaining the views, meaning no squinting in ceremony photos. And when the sun goes down, the down-lit dock creates magical reflections on the water.

Best Photo Locations at River House Events

River House offers diverse backdrops from waterfront to library. Here are our favorite spots:

The Waterfront Terrace

Stunning views of the Matanzas River and St. Augustine Lighthouse. The covered terrace and down-lit dock create romantic evening portraits with the water reflecting the lights.

The Grand Ballroom

Spacious ballroom with 32-foot hardwood dance floor, elegant chandeliers, and large windows. The muted gold and sage green palette photographs beautifully in any light.

The Library

Intimate space with hardwood floors, fireplace, built-in bookcases, and leather sofas. French doors open onto the terrace—perfect for groom portraits or quiet couple moments.

The Dock

Down-lit dock extending over the Matanzas River. Magical for sunset portraits and evening shots with the lighthouse in the background.

St. Augustine Lighthouse Views

The iconic black-and-white lighthouse is visible from multiple vantage points. We position couples to capture this beloved landmark in the background.

The Conservatory

Light-filled space with garden views, perfect for bridal portraits and intimate moments before the ceremony.

Sample Wedding Day Timeline at River House Events

Every wedding is unique, but here's a timeline optimized for this waterfront venue (this example uses a 5:30 PM ceremony):

2:30 PM

Venue Access & Getting Ready

Bride and groom prep in separate gathering rooms with mirrors, natural light, and comfortable seating.

4:00 PM

First Look

We recommend the dock or library for an intimate first look with river views.

4:30 PM

Wedding Party Photos

Capture the wedding party on the terrace and dock while the light is soft and flattering.

5:15 PM

Family Portraits

Efficient family photos in the Grand Ballroom or Conservatory while guests arrive.

5:30 PM

Ceremony

Terrace ceremony with the river and lighthouse as your backdrop. The covered area protects from sun while maintaining the views.

6:00 PM

Cocktail Hour

Guests enjoy the terrace and dock while we capture golden hour portraits.

7:00 PM

Reception

Dinner and dancing in the Grand Ballroom with the river twinkling through the windows.

Photography Tips for River House Events

Here are our top recommendations for making the most of this beautiful waterfront venue:

Use the Private Parking

River House has its own parking lot—a huge advantage in downtown St. Augustine. This makes logistics smoother for you and your guests.

Time for Lighthouse Shots

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is visible from the terrace and dock. We recommend scheduling 15 minutes specifically for lighthouse backdrop shots during golden hour.

Embrace the Dock

The down-lit dock creates stunning evening portraits. Plan for a quick escape from the reception for twilight photos with the water reflecting the lights.