Your ultimate resource for planning an unforgettable destination wedding in one of America’s most historic and romantic regions.
Planning a Florida destination wedding? Northeast Florida offers everything couples dream of for their perfect day, from the historic charm of St. Augustine to the vibrant energy of Jacksonville.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about hosting your destination wedding in this stunning coastal region.
Whether you’re drawn to pristine beaches, rich American history, world-class dining, or unique wedding venues, like The Treasury on the Plaza, Northeast Florida offers an unmatched combination of romance, convenience, and unforgettable experiences for you and your guests.
Nicole & Bradley’s St. Augustine Wedding | Photo: Meagan Gaines Photography
Why Choose Northeast Florida for Your Destination Wedding?
The Nation’s Oldest City Meets Modern Sophistication
Northeast Florida uniquely blends centuries of history with contemporary amenities. St. Augustine, founded in 1565, 42 years before Jamestown, offers authentic Old World charm with cobblestone streets, Spanish colonial architecture, and historic landmarks like the Castillo de San Marcos and the Old City Gates.
The European influence and intricate detailing of St. Augustine’s historic buildings evoke a sense of timelessness that few cities can match.
The city prominently features the legacy of railroad tycoon Henry Flagler, who constructed several decadent hotels that still stand today as magnificent venues and accommodations. He built the Flagler Hotel (now Flagler College) and the Alcazar Hotel (now the Lightner Museum), and managed the Cordova Hotel (now the Casa Monica), each representing the pinnacle of Gilded Age architecture and luxury.
These stunning structures not only provide exceptional wedding venues but also serve as dramatic backdrops for wedding photography that captures both elegance and historical significance.
Meanwhile, Jacksonville provides urban sophistication with world-class accommodations, dining, a major airport, and entertainment options. This combination gives your wedding guests the best of both worlds: historic exploration and modern convenience.
The contrast between St. Augustine’s intimate, walkable historic district and Jacksonville’s metropolitan amenities means couples can create a wedding weekend that offers both romantic intimacy and contemporary luxury.
Alicia and Stephen’s wedding at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine | Photo: Sunny Lee Photography
Rich Floridian and American History
St. Augustine’s historic significance extends far beyond its founding date. As the oldest continuously inhabited European-established settlement in what would become the United States, the city offers an unparalleled backdrop for couples seeking a wedding venue steeped in authentic American history.
The Spanish colonial period, which lasted from 1565 to the mid-1700s, left an indelible mark on the city’s architecture and culture, creating a truly unique atmosphere for wedding celebrations.
The Castillo de San Marcos National Monument stands as the oldest masonry star fort in the continental United States, providing a dramatic backdrop for wedding photography. The fort’s coquina stone walls and harbor views create stunning photo opportunities that capture both romance and history.
Similarly, the Old City Gates mark the entrance to the original walled city, offering another iconic location for couples to incorporate into their wedding day photography.
Walking through St. Augustine feels like stepping back in time, particularly along Aviles Street, recognized as the oldest street in the United States. The narrow, brick-lined street with its historic buildings and charming shops provides an intimate setting for engagement photos or romantic strolls during the wedding weekend.
Taking a romantic stroll down St. Augustine’s Aviles Street will have couples feeling as though they’ve wandered over to northern Spain for the afternoon, creating an incredibly romantic and unique atmosphere that guests will remember forever.
Where else can couples have their wedding photos set against the backdrop of St. Augustine’s famous fort, the historic Castillo de San Marcos, or the majestic Bridge of Lions? These authentic historic backdrops provide wedding photography opportunities that simply cannot be replicated anywhere else in the United States, giving couples truly one-of-a-kind wedding images that capture both their love story and America’s rich history.
Year-Round Wedding Weather in Northeast Florida
Unlike many destinations with narrow wedding seasons, Northeast Florida welcomes celebrations year-round. Average temperatures range from 57°F in January to 86°F in August, with cooling ocean breezes that make summers among the coolest in the Sunshine State.
The region enjoys 223 sunny days annually, ensuring beautiful weather for outdoor ceremonies and photos. Nothing says romance quite like sunshine and gentle breezes, and Northeast Florida delivers both consistently throughout the year.
Peak Wedding Season: October Through April
Peak wedding season in Northeast Florida runs from October through April, when the weather is mild and dry. These months offer the most popular wedding times, as temperatures stay comfortable in the mid-60s to low 80s, perfect for outdoor ceremonies and photography sessions.
According to The Knot’s 2024 Real Weddings Study, fall continues to be the most sought-after season for weddings nationwide. Even though December through February are considered the “coldest” months in Florida, couples won’t have to worry about battling frigid temperatures, as average temps stay in the mid-60s.
Lauren and Zach’s wedding during Nights of Lights in St. Augustine | Photo: Angelita Esparar Photography
Winter Weddings and Nights of Lights
Winter weddings have become increasingly popular due to St. Augustine’s annual Nights of Lights celebration, which runs from late November through January and transforms the entire city into a romantic winter wonderland with millions of twinkling lights adorning every building, tree, and historic structure. This magical lighting display creates an enchanting atmosphere for wedding celebrations and provides absolutely stunning photography opportunities.
Spring and Fall Wedding Advantages
Spring and fall are when St. Augustine’s lush scenery comes alive, making outdoor portraits truly spectacular. The city offers countless beautiful locations for wedding photos, no matter the time of year, but these seasons provide the perfect backdrop with blooming flowers in spring and golden light in fall.
If you plan on taking wedding photos outside or hosting an outdoor cocktail hour, fall and spring offer comfortable and breezy conditions with little chance of needing additional warmth.
Summer Wedding Considerations
Summer weddings in Northeast Florida, while requiring some additional planning, offer their own unique advantages. With high temperatures reaching the 90s, couples planning summer celebrations often choose indoor wedding venues with excellent air conditioning to keep guests comfortable.
However, this season also provides better venue availability and often more competitive pricing, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious couples. You might want to forego the beach wedding in favor of an indoor venue with plenty of air conditioning during the hottest months, as your guests will definitely thank you for the comfort.
Ready to Plan Your Dream Northeast Florida Wedding?
Don’t wait to start planning your perfect destination wedding in America’s most historic and romantic region. Schedule a virtual venue tour today to explore stunning ceremony and reception spaces, discuss your vision with experienced wedding coordinators, and get answers to all your destination wedding questions.
Schedule Your Virtual Venue Tour Now
Florida Hurricane Season Wedding Preparedness and Planning
The Atlantic hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30, requires additional planning considerations for couples celebrating during these months. According to the National Hurricane Center, hurricanes outside of peak season, which occurs between mid-August and late October, are relatively infrequent, and the risk of a potential hurricane doesn’t typically deter couples from planning weddings during this timeframe, since the chances of a hurricane disrupting celebrations are relatively rare.
However, responsible planning includes the following, to provide financial protection and peace of mind for couples investing significant resources in destination celebrations. We advise looking into these well in advance of your wedding date.
- Purchasing event cancellation insurance covering natural disasters (this is different from event liability insurance!)
- Travel insurance to protect you and your guests’ trip investments
- A thorough review of vendor contracts for force majeure clauses
Travel + Leisure’s wedding insurance guide provides comprehensive information about protecting your investment against unforeseen circumstances.
Backup planning becomes essential for couples celebrating during hurricane season. This includes identifying indoor venue alternatives for outdoor ceremonies, understanding vendor policies for rescheduling, and developing communication plans for weather updates.
Most reputable wedding venues will do their best to accommodate rescheduling if a state of emergency is declared. Discussing these policies during initial consultations helps couples understand their options.
Hiring a local Florida-based wedding coordinator with several years of experience proves invaluable when planning weddings during hurricane season. If a hurricane does threaten celebration plans, experienced coordinators can help create and implement contingency plans, communicate with vendors and guests, and manage the stress of last-minute changes.
Having someone with experience handling worst-case scenarios provides the best preparation for staying calm and maintaining perspective if Mother Nature has other plans.
Getting Your Wedding Guests to Northeast Florida
Airport Access
Northeast Florida’s strategic location provides multiple airport options for guests traveling from across the country and internationally. The region’s accessibility is one of its greatest strengths as a destination wedding location, offering convenience without sacrificing the romantic, intimate atmosphere that couples desire.
Jacksonville International Airport (JAX) serves as the primary gateway to the region, located just 50 minutes from downtown St. Augustine and 15 minutes from Jacksonville’s city center. The airport provides service to over 150 destinations through major carriers, and the relatively short drive from JAX to St. Augustine means guests can arrive and be in the heart of the historic district within an hour, making it ideal for weekend wedding celebrations.
For couples whose guests prefer additional flight options or want to combine their wedding trip with Orlando-area attractions, Orlando International Airport (MCO) offers an excellent alternative. Located about two hours from St. Augustine, MCO provides service to over 200 destinations worldwide through all major carriers. Many wedding guests choose this option to extend their trip with visits to Disney World, Universal Studios, or other Central Florida attractions, making their wedding weekend part of a larger vacation experience.
Daytona Beach International Airport (DAB) provides another convenient option, located just one hour from St. Augustine. While smaller than JAX or MCO, DAB offers service to 150+ destinations through Delta and American, making it perfect for guests coming from specific regions or those seeking a quieter airport experience with shorter security lines and easier navigation.
For couples arriving by private aircraft or guests with access to corporate jets, Northeast Florida Regional Airport in St. Augustine offers a full-service aviation facility that accommodates private aircraft of all sizes. This option places guests just 15 minutes from downtown St. Augustine, offering the ultimate in convenience and luxury for those who prefer private travel.
Christina and Brandon took advantage of St. Augustine’s famous trolleys for their wedding transportation. | Photo: Angelita Esparar Photography
Transportation Options Throughout Northeast Florida
Once guests arrive in Northeast Florida, getting around the region is straightforward and offers multiple options to suit different preferences and budgets.
Rental Cars and Highway Access
Rental cars are available at all airports with easy highway access to both St. Augustine and Jacksonville. The drive from Jacksonville International Airport to St. Augustine follows Interstate 95 and State Road 16, providing a scenic introduction to the region’s natural beauty with views of coastal marshlands and historic landscapes.
Group Transportation and Private Shuttles
For couples who prefer group transportation, private shuttle services are available for booking and can be coordinated to transport wedding parties and guests directly from airports to their accommodations.
This option works particularly well for destination weddings where most guests are arriving around the same time and staying in similar areas, creating a sense of shared experience from the moment guests arrive.
Rideshare Services and Wedding Day Transportation
Rideshare services, including Uber and Lyft, operate throughout Northeast Florida, providing convenient point-to-point transportation for guests who prefer not to drive.
This is especially popular for wedding day transportation, allowing guests to enjoy cocktails and celebrations without worrying about driving, and it’s particularly useful in St. Augustine’s historic district, where parking can be limited.
Historic Trolley Transportation
One of the unique transportation options in St. Augustine is the historic trolley system, which can be arranged for special group events and wedding day logistics. These charming trolleys not only provide transportation but also serve as entertainment, offering guided tours of the historic district while moving guests between venues or activities.
Trolley services are even available as wedding day transportation, providing a memorable and distinctly St. Augustine experience for wedding parties and guests.
Walking in Historic St. Augustine
For guests who prefer to explore independently, walking is not only feasible but encouraged in St. Augustine’s historic district. Most hotels, restaurants, and attractions are within walking distance of each other, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the city’s charm without needing transportation for every activity.
The Casa Monica Hotel St. Augustine
Where Your Wedding Guests Will Stay
(Download The Treasury on the Plaza’s St. Augustine Hotel Accommodations .pdf Guide Here!)
Diverse Accommodation Options for Every Budget
Northeast Florida offers over 5,800 guest rooms ranging from historic boutique hotels to modern resorts, ensuring options for every budget and preference. The region’s established tourism industry means couples can provide their guests with accommodation recommendations that suit various needs, from luxury romantic getaways to family-friendly resorts.
With such a diverse selection of accommodations, couples can easily provide several suggestions for where guests can stay during wedding festivities, ensuring everyone finds lodging that matches their preferences and budget.
Historic Luxury Hotels in St. Augustine
St. Augustine’s accommodation scene is anchored by several luxury historic hotels that provide guests with an immersive experience in the city’s rich heritage.
The Casa Monica Resort & Spa offers luxury accommodations in the heart of downtown St. Augustine. The hotel’s Moorish Revival architecture and elegant interiors provide guests with a taste of the city’s Spanish colonial heritage while delivering modern amenities and exceptional service.
Hilton Historic Bayfront St. Augustine offers modern luxury accommodations with stunning views of Matanzas Bay and the historic district. This waterfront hotel combines contemporary amenities with a prime location just steps from St. Augustine’s most famous attractions. The hotel features spacious rooms with bay or city views, full-service dining, and easy access to both the historic district and nearby beaches, making it an ideal choice for wedding guests who want upscale accommodations with convenient access to all the area has to offer.
The Collector Luxury Inn & Gardens offers boutique luxury with European charm, featuring individually decorated rooms and suites that reflect St. Augustine’s historic character. This intimate property provides personalized service and attention to detail that makes guests feel like they’re staying in a private estate rather than a traditional hotel.
Beachside Accommodations
For guests seeking beachfront accommodations, the region offers excellent coastal options that combine oceanfront views with easy access to St. Augustine’s historic attractions.
Hampton Inn & Suites St. Augustine-Vilano Beach offers beachfront convenience with reliable service and amenities that appeal to families and business travelers alike.
Charming Bed and Breakfasts
One of St. Augustine’s most charming accommodation options is its extensive collection of bed and breakfasts. With over 30 bed and breakfasts in Historic Downtown alone, couples can recommend intimate, walkable accommodations that immerse guests in local charm.
Historic Inns of St. Augustine represents a collection of intimate historic properties, each with its own character and charm. These properties allow guests to stay in buildings that are themselves pieces of American history, creating an authentic experience that larger chain hotels simply cannot replicate.
Most of these hotels and B&Bs are within walking distance of the best local attractions, including wedding venues, restaurants, museums, and historic sites, meaning guests don’t have to worry about finding transportation if they plan to partake in wedding festivities or explore the city’s offerings.
Start Planning Your St. Augustine Wedding Today
Ready to experience Northeast Florida’s premier wedding venues? Schedule a personalized virtual tour to explore The Treasury on the Plaza and Lightner Museum, discuss availability for your preferred dates, and begin creating the wedding celebration you’ve always imagined.
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Flagler College, St. Augustine
Guest Activities & Experiences Throughout Northeast Florida
Historic St. Augustine Adventures
St. Augustine’s compact historic district makes it incredibly easy for wedding guests to explore centuries of American history on foot.
The downtown historic district serves as an open-air museum where every street corner reveals new discoveries, creating an immersive experience that brings American history to life.
Must-See Historic Attractions:
- Castillo de San Marcos National Monument – Historic fort in St. Augustine along the Matanzas Bay. Guided tours bring Spanish colonial history to life.
- St. Augustine Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – Climb to the top of this historic lighthouse for panoramic coastline views.
- Flagler College Historic Tours – Explore the architecture of Henry Flagler’s former Ponce de Leon Hotel.
- St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park – Florida’s oldest continuously running attraction, featuring every species of crocodilian in the world, plus exotic animals, educational shows, and thrilling zipline adventures.
- St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum – World’s largest collection of authentic pirate artifacts, including interactive exhibits, Captain Kidd’s treasure chest, and hands-on experiences in a Disney Imagineer-designed space.
- Lightner Museum – Gilded Age masterpiece showcasing Henry Flagler’s former Alcazar Hotel with stunning courtyards, art collections, and magnificent architecture.
- Oldest wooden schoolhouse in the United States – Step back in time to learn about colonial education.
- Fountain of Youth Archaeological Park – Discover the legend of the Fountain of Youth and the history of early settlements in St. Augustine.
- Old City Gates – Historic entrance to the original walled city.
- Aviles Street – America’s oldest street with charming shops and cafes.
- St. George Street – Pedestrian-only cobblestone thoroughfare lined with historic buildings, unique boutiques, restaurants, and colonial-era architecture.
Guided Experience Options:
- Historic trolley tours – Group bookings available for wedding parties. Individual tour options for independent exploration.
- Walking tours – Professional guided experiences ranging from 90-minute historical tours to specialized themed walks covering architecture, city planning, and famous residents like Henry Flagler
- Paranormal and Ghost Tours – Evening walking tours through haunted locations featuring authentic ghost stories, paranormal investigations, and visits to St. Augustine’s most haunted buildings, including the Old Jail
- Boat Tours – Scenic harbor cruises offering dolphin watching, sunset sails, and unique waterfront perspectives of historic landmarks, including the Castillo de San Marcos and St. Augustine Lighthouse
These attractions aren’t just tourist destinations; they’re integral parts of American history that provide wedding guests with meaningful experiences and incredible photo opportunities. The trolley tours also serve a practical purpose by helping guests orient themselves to the city’s layout and identify areas they want to revisit for shopping, dining, or photography.
Schooner Freedom, St. Augustine
Outdoor Recreation and Natural Beauty
Northeast Florida’s natural beauty extends far beyond St. Augustine’s historic district, offering wedding guests numerous opportunities to experience the region’s coastal landscapes and outdoor recreation. The region’s diverse ecosystems showcase Florida’s natural diversity while providing activities for every interest level.
Anastasia State Park Activities:
- Kayaking through pristine coastal environments
- Paddleboarding in protected waters
- Nature trails through diverse ecosystems
- Beach, dune, and salt marsh habitat exploration
- Camping and picnic facilities
Beach Experiences Along 42 Miles of Atlantic Coastline:
- Vilano Beach – Wide sandy beaches with excellent surfing conditions and beachfront dining
- St. Augustine Beach – Relaxed coastal experience with gentle waves and family-friendly amenities
- Crescent Beach – Seaside elegance rated among the world’s best beaches
- Anastasia State Park Beach – Natural setting with convenient park amenities
Adventure Activities:
- Guided kayak tours through coastal marshlands
- Sailing expeditions along the Intracoastal Waterway
- Deep-sea fishing charters
- Eco-tours showcasing local wildlife and ecosystems
These unique experiences allow wedding guests to see Northeast Florida from perspectives that few tourists ever experience, whether they prefer relaxing beach days or more adventurous outdoor activities.
Golfing in Northeast Florida
Jacksonville Area Cultural Attractions
Jacksonville’s metropolitan area offers wedding guests a range of cultural attractions and entertainment options that complement St. Augustine’s historic offerings. The city’s diverse cultural scene offers sophisticated experiences for guests interested in arts, culture, and family-friendly entertainment.
Museums and Cultural Institutions:
- Cummer Museum of Art & Gardens – Southeast’s premier art collection with formal gardens overlooking the St. Johns River
- Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens – Innovative exhibits and conservation programs with extensive natural settings
- Museum of Science & History (MOSH) – Interactive exhibits appealing to all ages
- Jacksonville Historical Society – Local history and heritage exhibits
- Ritz Theatre and Museum – African American history and performing arts
Markets and Community Events:
- Riverside Arts Market – Saturday market featuring local artisans, live music, and regional food vendors
- Jacksonville Farmers Market – Fresh local produce and artisanal products
- Monthly art walks in various neighborhoods
- Seasonal festivals and cultural celebrations
Golf and Recreation:
- TPC Sawgrass – Home to THE PLAYERS Championship with the famous island green 17th hole
- World Golf Hall of Fame at World Golf Village – Golf history and interactive exhibits
- Multiple championship courses throughout the region
- Pre- and post-wedding golf tournament opportunities for enthusiast groups
The combination of fine art, natural history, and recreational opportunities provides wedding guests with sophisticated cultural experiences that showcase Jacksonville’s role as Northeast Florida’s metropolitan center.
Casa Reina Restaurant in St. Augustine
St. Augustine Culinary Adventures
Northeast Florida’s culinary scene reflects its rich cultural heritage, blending Spanish, Mediterranean, and Southern influences with fresh coastal ingredients.
The region offers diverse dining options that cater to every occasion during wedding weekends, from rehearsal dinners and farewell brunches to casual group meals.
St. Augustine Fine Dining:
Downtown St. Augustine Favorites:
- The Ice Plant
- River & Fort
- Casa Reina Taqueria & Tequila
- Harry’s Seafood Bar & Grille
- Prohibition Kitchen
- Forgotten Tonic
- The Columbia Restaurant
Casual Coastal Dining:
St. Augustine Nightlife and Entertainment:
As the sun sets, St. Augustine’s entertainment scene comes alive, with the city’s cobblestone streets creating a lively atmosphere in the evening. These locations can be perfect for wedding after-parties or group outings surrounding your wedding festivities.
Bars & Restaurants with Live Music:
- O.C. White’s Seafood & Spirits
- Meehan’s Irish Pub & Seafood House
- Prohibition Kitchen
- Mill Top Tavern
- Chez L’Amour
Live Music Venues:
Florida Theatre in Jacksonville
Jacksonville Dining and Entertainment For Groups:
Downtown Jacksonville Restaurants:
Jacksonville Beaches & Ponte Vedra Restaurants:
- Aqua Grill (Ponte Vedra Beach)
- Nineteen & Traditions at TPC Sawgrass (Ponte Vedra)
- Restaurant Medure (Ponte Vedra Beach)
- Pusser’s Bar & Grille (Ponte Vedra Beach)
- 1912 Ocean Bar & Rooftop (Jacksonville Beach)
Jacksonville Nightlife and Entertainment:
- Intuition Ale Works (Downtown Jacksonville)
- The Volstead (Downtown Jacksonville)
- Topgolf Jacksonville (Near St. Johns Town Center)
- Myth Nightclub (Downtown Jacksonville)
- Live Music at Florida Theatre (Downtown Jacksonville)
- Ponte Vedra Concert Hall (Ponte Vedra)
Discover Your Perfect Wedding Venue in Historic St. Augustine
Experience the magic of Northeast Florida’s most romantic wedding destinations from anywhere in the world. Connect with our wedding specialists for a guided virtual tour of historic venues, personalized planning advice, and exclusive access to preferred vendor recommendations.
Schedule Your Venue Tour Now
Destination Wedding Planning Made Simple
Planning a destination wedding from afar has never been easier, thanks to today’s digital tools and expert local support.
The key to successful virtual wedding planning lies in establishing a clear vision, conducting thorough research, and building strong relationships with local wedding professionals who understand the unique challenges and opportunities of destination celebrations.
Creating Your Digital Wedding Vision
The first step in virtual wedding planning involves creating a comprehensive digital vision for your celebration.
Use platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and The Knot App to establish your wedding aesthetic and gather inspiration that reflects both your personal style and the unique character of Northeast Florida.
Martha Stewart Weddings recommends starting your destination wedding planning at least 12-18 months in advance to secure the best venues and vendors.
Follow local venues and vendors on social media to gain insight into their work and approach to destination wedding planning. Many vendors regularly share behind-the-scenes content, real wedding coverage, and planning tips that can help you understand their communication style and expertise level before scheduling consultations.
Online Venue Research Strategies
Be sure to check out various venue resources and sites to get the best idea of your options. The Knot and WeddingWire provide valuable information about pricing, availability, and most importantly, reviews from real couples who have planned destination weddings.
Use Google Maps to help with location scouting. Google Street View can help you virtually tour the surrounding area and understand proximity between venues, accommodations, and guest activities. Venue websites and virtual tours provide detailed information about facilities and services, while YouTube channels featuring real weddings and venue walkthroughs can be even more useful than still images when you cannot see venues in person.
Reading Reviews and Vendor Research
Reading authentic reviews from couples who planned destination weddings or used virtual planning services provides crucial insight into how venues and vendors handle remote communication and coordination. Look specifically for mentions of communication responsiveness from venue teams, virtual planning support and resources, destination wedding expertise, and vendor coordination capabilities.
Virtual Tours and Consultations
Most premier Northeast Florida venues offer comprehensive virtual tour experiences that go far beyond simple video calls (The Treasury on the Plaza offers self-led or guided virtual tours!).
Guided tours typically include live venue walkthroughs via video conference, interactive question-and-answer sessions with venue experts, real-time availability checking, preliminary pricing discussions, and the creation of customized proposals tailored to your specific needs and preferences.
In-Person Venue Tours
If you can plan in-person venue visits, this can often be the best way to narrow down your options and get a realistic idea of what your wedding day could look like. You’ll be able to walk through all of the spaces, speak to the venue team, and discuss wedding packages and availability.
Planning Your Northeast Florida Destination Wedding
Selecting the Perfect Venue
Northeast Florida offers an exceptional variety of wedding venues that cater to different styles, budgets, and capacities. The region’s established wedding industry means couples have access to venues with extensive experience in destination weddings and the necessary infrastructure to support seamless celebrations for out-of-town couples and their guests.
The Treasury on the Plaza stands as one of St. Augustine’s most distinctive wedding venues, combining Art Deco elegance with modern amenities in the heart of the historic district. Originally constructed as a bank, The Treasury features soaring ceilings, intricate architectural details, and the famous Vault Bar that serves as a conversation piece and unique focal point for cocktail hours.
The venue’s all-indoor facility ensures perfect conditions regardless of weather, while its central location puts guests within walking distance of historic attractions, dining, and accommodations.
For couples drawn to beachfront celebrations, Northeast Florida offers several oceanfront venues that provide ceremony and reception packages with panoramic Atlantic views. These venues range from elegant beach clubs to casual seaside pavilions, allowing couples to choose the level of formality that matches their vision while incorporating the natural beauty of Florida’s coastline.
Garden and outdoor venues throughout the region showcase Northeast Florida’s natural beauty with settings that include historic gardens featuring century-old oak trees draped in Spanish moss, waterfront properties with marsh and river views that provide constantly changing natural backdrops, and golf course clubhouses with manicured landscapes that offer both indoor and outdoor celebration options.
Working with Northeast Florida Wedding Professionals
Northeast Florida’s reputation as a premier destination wedding location has attracted exceptional wedding professionals who specialize in creating seamless experiences for out-of-town couples. The region’s wedding industry has evolved to support destination celebrations with vendors who understand the unique logistics and communication requirements of planning from a distance.
Local wedding planners and coordinators with destination wedding expertise serve as invaluable partners for couples planning from afar. These professionals manage logistics, coordinate with vendors, and provide on-site support during celebrations while maintaining regular communication throughout the planning process.
Experienced destination wedding planners understand the importance of detailed timelines, backup planning, and clear communication protocols that keep remote couples informed and confident about their celebration details.
Photography and videography professionals in Northeast Florida bring intimate knowledge of the region’s most photogenic locations, from historic architecture and pristine beaches to hidden gardens and scenic overlooks. Many photographers offer engagement session packages that allow couples to visit the area before their wedding and capture beautiful images while scouting ceremony and portrait locations.
Floral designers throughout the region understand Northeast Florida’s climate and seasonal availability, enabling them to source both tropical and traditional flowers appropriate for chosen wedding dates. Local florists also bring expertise in working with historic venues and outdoor settings, understanding how to create arrangements that complement rather than compete with the region’s natural and architectural beauty.
The region’s diverse entertainment options include everything from string quartets perfect for ceremony music to full bands specializing in reception dancing. Many entertainment professionals have experience performing in historic venues and outdoor settings, understanding acoustics and logistics that ensure seamless musical experiences regardless of venue choice.
Refer to Treasury on the Plaza’s Preferred Vendor List for more info!
Creating Unforgettable Guest Experiences
Welcome Events and Weekend Itineraries
Creating a memorable destination wedding experience extends beyond the ceremony and reception to encompass the entire weekend celebration. Northeast Florida’s diverse attractions and activities offer numerous opportunities for couples to create wedding weekends that provide guests with authentic experiences of the region’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Welcome events set the tone for the wedding weekend celebrations and provide opportunities for guests to meet each other in a relaxed setting. Historic venues, such as rooftop terraces overlooking St. Augustine’s skyline or beachfront locations with stunning sunset views, create memorable first impressions while introducing guests to the region’s romantic atmosphere.
Pre-wedding activities can include group experiences such as guided trolley tours that provide comprehensive introductions to St. Augustine’s history and culture, beach outings that showcase Northeast Florida’s coastal beauty, or golf outings at championship courses for golf enthusiasts. These group activities serve multiple purposes, helping guests orient themselves to the area, providing opportunities for the wedding party to bond, and creating shared experiences that enhance the overall celebration.
Wedding celebrations benefit from the foundation of connection and familiarity established through welcome events and group activities. Guests who have spent time exploring the region together arrive at ceremonies and receptions with enhanced appreciation for the chosen location and stronger connections with other celebration participants.
Farewell brunches provide an opportunity for final celebrations before guests depart, allowing couples to spend a relaxed time with loved ones after the excitement of their wedding day. Many couples use farewell brunches to share additional photos from their celebration and express gratitude to guests who traveled to share their special day.
Guest Information and Communication
Most couples create a wedding website to share all the important details with their guests in one convenient place. A well-organized website demonstrates thoughtful planning, enabling guests to make the most of their visit.
Be sure to include information such as airport options and distances, recommended accommodations with booking links or group rates, restaurant suggestions tailored to different budgets and dietary needs, weather tips and packing suggestions, as well as venue addresses and local resources.
Couples should also provide guests with information about regional activities and attractions that allow for flexible exploration based on individual interests and schedules. Some guests may prefer structured group activities, while others enjoy independent exploration, and comprehensive information packages support both approaches.
Transportation information helps guests navigate the region efficiently and safely. This includes details about group shuttles for airport transfers, wedding day transportation between venues, trolley or public transport options, and rideshare information, including local taxi services..
As the wedding approaches, you may also want to consider a group text messaging option for communicating with guests. A standard group text works great, or you can look into text messaging apps specifically designed for wedding communication, such as TextMyGuests. These digital tools enable couples to share real-time updates about weather, traffic, or schedule changes that might affect guest experiences.
Budget Planning and Final Considerations
Cost Considerations by Season:
Peak Season (October-April):
- Venue costs: Often 10-30% premium over off-season
- Hotel rates: Higher during winter months and special events. Some hotels also require multi-night stays during peak times.
- Vendor pricing: Varies by vendor and season, but can be higher during peak times. Availability is often the main consideration during peak season.
Off-Season (June-August):
- Venue discounts: Many venues offer reduced rates
- Guest travel: Potentially lower airfares and hotel rates outside peak tourist season
- Better vendor availability: More flexibility in scheduling and potentially lower rates
Regional Budget Factors
- St. Augustine: Historic charm commands premium pricing but offers unique value
- Jacksonville: Pricing varies widely depending on the area and type of venue
- Beach Communities: Oceanfront venues vary widely in pricing based on demand, exclusivity, and amenities
Photo: Jenn Mosley Photography
Ready to Begin Your Northeast Florida Wedding Journey?
Northeast Florida offers everything you’ve dreamed of for your destination wedding: historic romance, natural beauty, exceptional hospitality, and unforgettable experiences for you and your guests. From the cobblestone streets of St. Augustine to the pristine beaches of Amelia Island, this region provides the perfect backdrop for beginning your forever.
The combination of year-round favorable weather, outstanding wedding venues, world-class dining, and exceptional vendor expertise makes Northeast Florida an ideal choice for couples seeking a destination wedding that exceeds expectations.
Take the Next Step Towards Your Florida Wedding
Ready to explore Northeast Florida as your wedding destination?
The best way to envision your perfect day is to experience our venues and region firsthand, even from a distance.
Schedule Your Virtual Venue Tour Today
Connect with our wedding specialists for a personalized virtual tour of The Treasury on the Plaza or Lightner Museum, two of Northeast Florida’s premier wedding venues. During your guided tour, you’ll:
- Explore stunning ceremony and reception spaces via live video
- Discuss your vision with experienced wedding coordinators
- Review availability for your preferred dates
- Receive customized planning resources and vendor recommendations
- Get answers to all your destination wedding questions
Don’t wait to start planning your dream destination wedding. Contact us today to schedule your virtual tour and begin creating the wedding celebration you’ve always imagined in beautiful Northeast Florida.
Contact Information:
- Phone: 904-217-0077
- Email: info@thetreasurycollection.com
- Contact Form
Your perfect Northeast Florida destination wedding awaits!
