Lightner Museum Elopement | Stephanie + Matthew

Ever wonder what happens when two people ditch the traditional wedding playbook and just decide to have a freaking fantastic day, exactly the way they want? Let me tell you—Stephanie and Matthew’s elopement at the Lightner Museum in St. Augustine was IT. Every part of this day was intimate yet spontaneous, from the hidden Airbnb garden to bourbon bottling and a completely unplanned splash fight in the fountain. If you’re even thinking about eloping in St. Augustine, take notes because this day is a masterclass in making an elopement feel like an adventure.

The Garden First Look

We kicked things off at Stephanie and Matthew’s Airbnb, a tucked-away cottage with this gorgeous little garden that felt like their own secret spot. They got ready together (how freaking cool and chill is that?), and Matthew even took the time to steam Stephanie’s dress—like, yes, this is the kind of partnership we all want. But they kept the final looks a secret for their first look, and when Stephanie looked through the window of their AirBnB and saw Matthew standing there waiting for her, all the feels were there.

Eloping at the Lightner Museum Courtyard

We strolled over to the Lightner Museum through the historic streets of St. Augustine, which felt like we’d stepped into another century. Since it was a weekday, the Lightner courtyard was peaceful, with no crowds—just us, a few passerbys, and the beautiful gardens. And here’s the thing about this bridge where they exchanged vows: it’s like it was made for these private, heartfelt moments. Stephanie and Matthew read their vows to each other, and you could see how real this was for them. No fluff, no audience, no awkward interruptions—just them, in a space that felt like their own.

Post-vows, we wandered around the Lightner for portraits, and it was like everywhere we turned, there was another backdrop waiting for us. This place is a photographer’s dream, with architecture that’s both timeless and dramatic. And to top it all off, they celebrated with a bottle of champagne. Popping a bottle in the garden felt like the perfect way to kick off this new adventure they’d started together. We kept it laid-back and fun—exactly the vibe these two were after.

Truffle Fries, Cocktails, and Vibes at Ice Plant

Now, Stephanie had a vision of swanky bar photos. So, naturally, we hit up the Ice Plant Bar, the coolest modern industrial bar around. With its moody lighting and industrial-chic vibes, Ice Plant was the perfect stop. Since we rolled in early, we practically had the place to ourselves—no crowds, no noise, just the two of them and some seriously killer cocktails. They ordered a round of drinks and truffle fries, and I captured them in this cozy, laid-back moment that looked like it was straight out of a movie.

Tour through St. Augustine Distillery

After Ice Plant, we headed over to the St. Augustine Distillery, which is right next door. They did a self-guided tour, stopping for tastings (I was partial to the Florida Moscow Mule), but the real magic happened when they tried the bourbon. The bartender and the salesmen he was told them about how they can commemorate their elopement by bottling their own bourbon. They decided right then and there it was happening. Yep, they filled, capped, and labeled their own bourbon bottle, and it was SO much fun to watch. Plus, now they have this piece of their elopement day to take back with them—how awesome is that?

Cake by the Fountain & Splash Fight in the Water

After the distillery, we grabbed their cake from Crème de la Cocoa (a local legend in desserts), then headed back to the Lightner Museum’s fountains. The plan was simple: eat cake, enjoy the moment, and soak in the end of an amazing day. But then the fountain was just looking too much fun not to get into. Stephanie and Matthew decided to jump in the fountain. Shoes off, laughter everywhere, they splashed around like absolute kids. This wasn’t some carefully staged moment; it was pure, unfiltered joy. These two ended their day soaked and totally happy, walking back to their Airbnb like they’d just conquered the world.

Want to Plan Your Own Lightner Museum Elopement?

Stephanie and Matthew’s Lightner Museum elopement is proof that you don’t have to follow anyone’s rules. This was a day that reflected who they are, start to finish, and that is what makes an elopement unforgettable. If you’re ready to ditch tradition and create an elopement that’s 100% YOU, let’s talk. Whether you want to explore hidden gardens, pop champagne, or dive into a fountain fully clothed, I’ll help you plan a day that feels like an adventure worth remembering. Hit me up, and let’s start designing your dream day in St. Augustine! And if you want to learn how to elope at the Lightner Museum, check out my resource that explains the ins and outs of the process!

Lightner Museum Elopement Vendors

Ceremony: Lightner Museum Courtyard (learn how to elope at the Lightner Museum)
Cocktail Bar: Ice Plant Bar
Distillery: St. Augustine Distillery
Cake: Crème de la Cocoa

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