10 Elopement Trends in Historic Downtown St. Augustine for 2023 and 2024
Historic downtown St. Augustine is a timeless backdrop for intimate elopements, and as we move into 2023 and 2024, elopement trends are evolving to make these moments even more special. Whether you're planning a romantic getaway or a small, intimate ceremony, here are ten elopement trends to consider and how you can achieve each one:
1. Micro Weddings with a Twist
In 2023 and 2024, micro weddings are still all the rage, but couples are putting their unique spin on them. Think about hosting your mini ceremony at an unexpected location, such as a hidden garden courtyard or a historic B&B.
Check out these B&Bs in downtown St. Augustine that have those secret garden vibes:
CASA DE SOLANA
This gorgeous historic BnB has a breathtaking courtyard/garden that is perfect for an intimate ceremony. They offer elopement packages ranging from simple one-hour ceremony with an officiant and a bottle of sparkling, to more involved with options to include guests, engraved champagne flutes, cake, and even a “Just Married” horse carriage ride.
Additionally, you can choose to add on 1-2 night stay at the inn!
BAYFRONT MARIN HOUSE
Located right on the bayfront, Bayfront Marin House has a quaint and secluded backyard with a gazebo and a mini fountain perfect for an elopement backdrop. They have an elopement package that includes an officiant, music, champagne, small wedding cake and a choice of breakfast in bed or chocolate covered strawberries.
CASA DE SUENOS OR ST FRANCIS INN
Casa de Suenos and St Francis Inn are both amazing locations if you plan on staying a couple nights. Their elopement packages all include a private ceremony at St Francis Inn courtyard, an officiant, champagne, keepsake flutes, cake for two, breakfast in bed. You can choose to add on guests, a dinner gift certificate, flowers & boutonniere and a wedding carriage ride.
CEDAR HOUSE INN
Cedar House Inn is a Victorian Bed & Breakfast and is also perfect if you plan on staying at least two nights at our town. You can have an intimate Ceremony in their Gazebo, Garden or in front of their Fireplace or the Tiffany Window Parlor inside. They offer a few packages, the simplest of which includes an officiant, simple décor, set up and break down, music, classic wedding cake for two, champagne and flutes for the couple and options to add guests, flowers, sunset cruise on the water, horse & carriage rides, florals and more.
2. Eclectic & Colorful Elopements
Embrace the vibrancy of 2023 and 2024 with eclectic and colorful elopements. Show off your vision with a playful mix of patterns, textures, and hues, vibrant florals, and bold, statement-making decor. To achieve this trend, work closely with a local florist and decorator who can infuse your elopement with a kaleidoscope of colors. My go to florist is Soirees For Days. She has the best personality and can bring any vision to life. She has worked almost every single one of my styled shoots and elopement packages with me.
Consider locations like the Lightner Museum courtyard or 9 Aviles Street for a colorful backdrop that complements your eclectic vision.
3. Sustainable Elopements
Embrace eco-friendly elopements by selecting local, seasonal blooms for your bouquet (think wildflowers!) and decor. Choose a caterer who focuses on farm-to-table dining (try Ice Plant or The Floridian), and consider eco-conscious transportation options like horse-drawn carriages or electric trolleys.
4. Vintage Film Aesthetic
In 2023 and 2024, eloping with a vintage film aesthetic is making a comeback. Capture the magic of old Hollywood with grainy, motion blur photos and vintage-inspired attire. Choose a historic location, like the Lightner Museum, Casa Monica, or the Villa Zorayda, for that timeless backdrop. Make sure your photographer specializes in creating the nostalgic look of vintage film, and consider renting a classic car or using vintage props to enhance the cinematic feel of your elopement.
5. Destination Elopements with Local Flair
St. Augustine is a sought-after destination for elopements, and couples are embracing the local culture to create unforgettable experiences. Incorporate elements like a Spanish guitar serenade, historic carriage ride, or a private sunset sail along the Matanzas River.
6. Waterfront Elopements
St. Augustine boasts stunning waterfront locations along the Matanzas River and the Atlantic Ocean. In 2023 and 2024, waterfront elopements are gaining popularity. Think about exchanging vows on a private yacht or sailboat. I recommend Saint Augustine Sailing. They offer an amazing elopement experience to couples!
7. Cultural Fusion Elopements
Celebrate your love story by blending cultures and traditions in your elopement. Incorporate elements from both your backgrounds, such as cultural attire, rituals, or cuisine. St. Augustine's rich history and diverse community provide a perfect backdrop for cultural fusion elopements.
8. Retro Vintage Elopements
Step back in time with a retro vintage elopement in the heart of St. Augustine's historic district. Choose a specific era, like the Roaring Twenties or the 1950s, and embrace the fashion, music, and decor of that time. To achieve this trend, rent period-appropriate attire, hire a vintage band or DJ, and select a historic venue like the Ximenez-Fatio House or Roosevelt Room at PK for an authentic vintage atmosphere.
9. Intimate Garden Elopements
Escape the city's hustle and bustle by opting for an intimate garden elopement in one of St. Augustine's lush, private gardens. With picturesque greenery, blooming flowers, and charming pathways, these gardens provide a serene and romantic setting.
THE PEÑA-PECK HOUSE
A lush garden nestled behind old city architecture. Mix of romantic garden vibes and historic downtown buildings and streets. Located right on the corner of historic St George and Treasury St. in the heart of downtown. Tables and tent rental is available upon request. Requires licensed caterers for food and drinks, allows the use of their kitchen.
OLDEST HOUSE GARDENS / LLAMBIAS HOUSE GARDENS
Both options are directly next to each other and both include a lush property adorned by romantic oak trees, stone arches, draping Spanish moss and charming brick pavers. The Llambias House also offers a lush arbor, colonial balcony, spiraling brick pavers, and a fairy tale wishing well. Located on Charlotte - my number one favorite street to photograph on.
XIMENEZ-FATIO HOUSE MUSEUM
Spanish era building on Aviles St featuring a lush private courtyard in a tropical oasis amongst banana plants plus a beautifully preserved historic indoor museum space. May require working with their preferred wedding planner and supplying a caterer/bartender.
10. Art Gallery Elopements
In 2023 and 2024, couples are embracing the opportunity to infuse their elopements with artistic expression. Consider hosting your ceremony and celebration at a local art gallery or a venue with a strong artistic ambiance. Lightner Museum (indoor art museum) is pricey but incredibly worth it for that European vintage romantic art gallery look
