The Wedding Authority Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to this charming downtown elopement venue
About The Wedding Authority
The Wedding Authority is a boutique wedding venue in the heart of downtown St. Augustine, specializing in elopements and micro-weddings. Tucked away on Cordova Street, this hidden courtyard offers an intimate escape from the bustling historic district while keeping you steps from everything St. Augustine has to offer.
What sets The Wedding Authority apart is their focus on making small celebrations feel just as special as large weddings. They offer all-inclusive elopement packages that take the stress out of planning—officiant, florals, photography coordination, and more can all be arranged through their team.
The venue's charm lies in its intimate scale. This isn't a grand ballroom or sprawling estate—it's a carefully curated space designed for couples who want their wedding day to feel personal, meaningful, and authentically theirs.
Why We Love Photographing Here
The Wedding Authority is a dream for elopement photography. The courtyard's intimate scale means we're never far from the action—we capture genuine emotions and quiet moments without being intrusive.
The shaded courtyard eliminates harsh shadows, giving us beautiful, even light throughout the afternoon. And the lush greenery provides a natural backdrop that photographs beautifully in any season.
But what we love most is the location. After the ceremony, we can walk with couples through downtown St. Augustine, capturing portraits at the Lightner Museum, Flagler College, St. George Street, and the bayfront—all within a few minutes' walk.
Best Photo Locations
The Wedding Authority offers intimate photo opportunities on-site, plus easy access to downtown St. Augustine:
The Courtyard Garden
A hidden gem tucked away from the busy downtown streets. Lush greenery, string lights, and intimate scale make this perfect for elopement ceremonies and portraits.
The Ceremony Arch
A beautiful arch draped in florals serves as the focal point for ceremonies. Great framing for exchanging vows.
Historic Doorways
The building's Spanish colonial architecture offers charming doorways and textured walls for intimate couple portraits.
Nearby Downtown Spots
Just steps from St. George Street, the Lightner Museum, and Flagler College—perfect for extended portrait sessions after the ceremony.
Sample Elopement Timeline
Here's a timeline that works beautifully for an afternoon elopement at The Wedding Authority:
Arrival & Prep
Arrive at the venue, touch up hair and makeup, and take a breath before the ceremony.
First Look
An intimate first look in the courtyard garden with just the two of you.
Ceremony
Exchange vows in the courtyard surrounded by your closest loved ones.
Portraits
Couple portraits in the courtyard, then venture into downtown St. Augustine for variety.
Celebrate
Toast with champagne and enjoy the moment with your guests.
Photography Tips
Our recommendations for getting the best photos at The Wedding Authority:
Book Their Elopement Package
The Wedding Authority specializes in elopements and micro-weddings. Their all-inclusive packages make planning simple and stress-free.
Afternoon Light is Best
The courtyard is shaded, so harsh midday sun isn't an issue. Late afternoon provides the most flattering, warm light.
Explore Downtown After
Plan extra time after your ceremony to explore downtown St. Augustine for portraits. The historic district is just steps away.
Perfect for Weekday Elopements
Weekdays offer fewer crowds downtown and often better availability. Consider a Tuesday or Thursday ceremony.
Real Elopements at The Wedding Authority
Here's a glimpse of elopements we've photographed at this charming venue:
Venue Details & Contact
Address
7 Cordova Street, St. Augustine, FL 32084
Capacity
Up to 30 guests
Style
Intimate, Courtyard, Historic
Website
Note: Venue details may change. Contact the venue directly for current pricing, availability, and policies.
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Planning a Wedding at The Wedding Authority?
We've photographed dozens of weddings here and know every photo opportunity. Let's talk about your vision.
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