How to Propose During Nights of Lights + Engagement Photos in St Augustine
Nights of Lights in historic downtown St Augustine is a magical time starting on November 15 and ending on January 11. The city is adorned with over 3 million lights and is unbelievably romantic for nighttime couples’ photos.
You should absolutely propose to the love of your life during Nights of Lights and I am going to tell you how to pull off the most romantic proposal of the century AND enjoy the festivities after.
WHERE TO PROPOSE DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS IN ST AUGUSTINE
Look no further than the Courtyard inside the Lightner Museum. There is a gorgeous koi pond bridge and every tree is wrapped in Christmas lights all around. This will be the most secluded location in the midst of Disney World style foot traffic and will allow you both the privacy to soak in the proposal before heading off to take pictures and celebrate.
You have to reserve this spot ahead of time. Contact the Wedding Authority and your photographer asap to get it scheduled.
BEST TIME TO PROPOSE IN DOWNTOWN ST AUGUSTINE DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS FOR PHOTOS
As a local St Augustine Nights of Lights photographer, I highly recommend setting up the proposal anytime at or after 5:30 PM if you want the nighttime glow and vibes. The lights will turn on at 5:30 PM nightly.
If you prefer to have both dusky/sunset photos AND Christmas lit nighttime photos, then move the start time up to 4:45 PM. I am happy to answer any questions and discuss options with you if you decide to book with me this holiday season.
Showing both styles below (the first set is done at or after 5:30, but all the photos that look lighter are done at 4:30).
BEST TIME TO VISIT ST AUGUSTINE DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS
Nights of Lights is a special time to visit the romantic downtown St Augustine, which is why it has been getting so busy that it is best to plan ahead and know a few things in advance. I strongly recommend proposing and doing pictures during a weeknight, if at all possible. It will be easier to find parking, book a hotel and make a restaurant reservation to celebrate after.
Most of all - there will be a lot less people out and about which will make you and your partner more comfortable during photo time.
Think about proposing on a Thursday night, with the weekend to enjoy the festivities after or enjoy your weekend first and propose on a Monday night.
Can you still do it on the weekend? Yes - if you must! But it will be much busier, consider this a heads up. If you are driving leave at least an hour to two early to get through traffic. Especially if you are driving from the island or from anywhere outside of downtown (yes, it is THAT bad), because if you are making a reservation at the koi bridge or have a photo appointment, being on time is important.
HOW DO I SURPRISE MY PARTNER WITH THE NIGHTS OF LIGHTS ENGAGEMENT PROPOSAL BUT STILL LOOK NICE FOR PHOTOS
Just an idea to make sure your partner does not see the proposal coming from a mile away but is still dressed for the occasion and enjoys photos: pretend like you have a private dining experience booked inside Lightner Museum (or anywhere). You heard that there is a giant historic hollowed out pool that has been turned into a restaurant, so naturally you booked a tour and a private experience. And you have to be there right at 5:30 PM.
There really is a hollowed out pool restaurant by the way, it’s called Cafe Alcazar, but it closes at 3 PM. Which is why you could pretend it’s a private tour. Instead of heading into the restaurant wing at Lightner, you will take your love across the bridge first to “feed the fish” or “gaze at the stars”. In the middle of the bridge - pop the question. Just don’t leave this guide open in a tab on your computer!
Also it is wise to inform the Wedding Authority when you are making the booking and your photographer of the plan.
WHAT TO WEAR DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS PROPOSAL & ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS
It is best to wear white, cream, tan, or sparkly silver if you want to truly stand out and look fabulous. A collared white or tan shirt can be very nice as well with black pants. You could suggest that during your special tour and dining experience, they offer photos as keepsakes as well and recommend specific colors. Just don’t make it too obvious.
Other colors and textures that can work with the decor: burgundy, dark green, gold, black, linen, sequence, sparkle, velvet, silk.
Colors and outfits that might clash: bright blue jeans, neon, anything with pattern, anything with logos or distracting sayings.
Happy to brainstorm some ideas if you need extra help planning this out without dropping hints.
OTHER IDEAS & LOCATIONS FOR DOWNTOWN PROPOSAL + ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS DURING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS IN ST AUGUSTINE
If Lightner Museum Courtyard is out of the question, here are some other ideas and spots that will work beautifully for your proposal:
In front of our fort, Castillo de San Marcos - sunset is divine here. You do not need permission for simple engagement photos.
In front of the Lightner Museum fountain, but keep in mind - it will be busy.
In front of Flagler College
In front of the Bayfront with the Bridge of Lions in the background
San Francis downtown public park in front of the giant mossy tree
In front of Casa de Solana’s gorgeous garden (best to call and ask permission). Explain that it will be a quick photo opp.
City Gates
BEST NIGHTS OF LIGHTS RESTAURANTS IN ST AUGUSTINE FOR DECOR & PEOPLE WATCHING
We all love a good people watching opportunity. My husband and I enjoy:
The balconies (and dining) at River & Fort, Meehan’s, SAINT, Casa Reina, and Sangria’s.
The decor and martinis at Tini Martini (long wait but super worth it). The vibe and food at Forgotten Tonic or La Nouvelle Bistro.
The dining experience followed by a Magic Show at Casa Monica’s Magic Hideaway
The live music, fun and craft cocktails at Prohibition Kitchen
I have created a full guide to good dining options and fun & romantic things to do as a couple in St Augustine FL.
NIGHTS OF LIGHTS PARKING OPTIONS IF YOU DON’T WANT TO LOSE YOUR MIND
Parking is no joke in St Augustine – the parking garage (that’s right, we only have one) is a great option but is on the outskirts of town.
You can also try the multiple parking options behind Lightner Museum and the streets alongside Dog Rose Brewing, but as of last year these areas were also very busy.
I suggest taking an Uber or taking advantage of the city’s free shuttle service if you don’t want to deal with the parking.
SIGHTSEEING & ENJOYING NIGHTS OF LIGHTS LIKE A ST AUGUSTINE LOCAL
If you are up for a sightseeing experience, park behind Lightner Museum, stop at Dog Rose Brewing for a quick refreshment, then walk up Bridge street going toward the Bayfront, and take a left on Aviles. Head straight, to dead end into the city square – the mecca of lights complete with a giant Christmas tree! Before you exit Aviles Street, stop by for ice cream at Peace Pie or grab a totty at The Forbidden Tonic.
Check out trolley information, city schedules, events & more on the official Nights of Lights website to get the most out of your stay,
I hope this blog post served as a mini guide to visiting our beautiful city during its peak romantic time & proposing to the love of your life in style.
Don’t forget to book your photographer (hey, that’s me!) :)
