Ximenez-Fatio House Wedding Photography Guide
A photographer's guide to intimate weddings at one of St. Augustine's oldest buildings
About Ximenez-Fatio House
Ximenez-Fatio House
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The Ximenez-Fatio House is one of St. Augustine's oldest surviving buildings, with portions dating to 1798. Located on historic Aviles Street—America's oldest street—the property offers an intimate glimpse into the city's Spanish colonial past.
The house museum features a charming walled courtyard garden that serves as a ceremony space for small weddings. Original coquina walls, tropical plantings, and authentic period details create an atmosphere of old-world romance that larger venues simply cannot match.
We treasure the opportunity to photograph weddings at Ximenez-Fatio House. The intimate scale and genuine historic character create images with soul—photographs that feel rooted in place and time rather than generic wedding venue shots.
Why We Love Photographing at Ximenez-Fatio House
In a world of increasingly large and elaborate wedding venues, Ximenez-Fatio House offers something precious: authentic intimacy. Weddings here feel personal, meaningful, and deeply connected to place.
The courtyard garden is a hidden gem. Enclosed by original coquina walls and filled with tropical plants, it feels like a secret garden in the middle of the historic district. The soft, diffused light is ideal for portraits, and the textures—weathered stone, wrought iron, aged wood—add visual richness to every image.
Location also matters. Being on Aviles Street means we can step outside for portraits with incredible historic backdrops. The narrow lane feels more like a European alley than a typical American street—it photographs beautifully.
Best Photo Locations at Ximenez-Fatio House
Despite its intimate size, the property offers wonderful photo variety. Here are our favorites:
The Courtyard Garden
Intimate walled garden with lush tropical plants, historic coquina walls, and old-world charm. Perfect for small ceremonies with authentic Spanish colonial character.
The Coquina Walls
Original 18th-century coquina shell walls provide textured, historic backdrops with incredible character.
Aviles Street
America's oldest street is just outside the door. The narrow lane with historic buildings creates romantic, European-feeling portraits.
The Historic Interior
Period rooms with antique furnishings and authentic details—wonderful for intimate portraits with historic ambiance.
Garden Details
Wrought iron gates, vintage planters, and colonial garden elements add visual interest throughout.
Nearby Historic District
Steps from Cathedral Basilica, the bayfront, and other iconic locations for expanded portrait sessions.
Sample Wedding Day Timeline at Ximenez-Fatio House
Intimate weddings have simpler timelines. Here's a sample for this historic venue:
View Sample Timeline
Arrival
Early arrival to prepare and enjoy the historic atmosphere.
First Look
Private first look in the courtyard garden or a quiet corner of the property.
Portraits
Couple and small wedding party portraits on the property and nearby Aviles Street.
Ceremony
Intimate courtyard ceremony surrounded by history.
Celebration
Intimate reception or move to a nearby restaurant for dinner.
Note: This is a sample timeline. Sunset times vary significantly by season, so we'll customize yours based on your wedding date, ceremony time, and priorities.
Photography Tips for Ximenez-Fatio House
Based on our experience at this intimate historic venue:
Embrace Intimacy
Ximenez-Fatio House is designed for small weddings—50 guests maximum. This intimacy is its strength. Couples who embrace the close, personal atmosphere create beautiful, meaningful celebrations.
Use Aviles Street
Step outside for portraits on America's oldest street. The narrow lane, historic buildings, and charming shops create romantic backdrops steps from the venue.
Afternoon Light is Best
The walled courtyard receives beautiful soft light in late afternoon. We recommend ceremonies timed for 4-5 PM for optimal photography conditions.
Plan for Limited Space
The intimate scale means less room for large photography setups. We work with available light and the natural beauty of the space rather than elaborate equipment.
Real Weddings at Ximenez-Fatio House
Browse galleries from weddings we've photographed at this beautiful venue
