St. Augustine Lighthouse Elopement | Rocio + German

Rocio + German’s St. Augustine Lighthouse Elopement: A Date Night Dream

Rocio and German’s St. Augustine lighthouse elopement was date night vibes turned elopement…and it was amazing. It wasn’t about traditions, big parties, or checking boxes—it was about them. Every moment felt intimate, intentional, and full of love. If you’re dreaming of an elopement day that’s less about a courthouse appointment and more about an entire day adventure with your partner —this one’s for you.

Vows at the St. Augustine Lighthouse

We started the day with a quiet moment at the St. Augustine Lighthouse. I picked up Rocio and German at their cozy Airbnb, and from the jump, it felt like we were heading out for a fun day with friends. When we arrived at the lighthouse, we found a tucked-away spot at its base—just them, their vows, and the quiet magic of the moment.

German had the cutest thing inside of his vow book — a little flipbook cartoon he’d drawn himself that ended with them holding hands and the phrase “you complete me”. I mean, is this not the kind of personal touch every elopement needs? 🥹 Rocio and German exchanged vows that were heartfelt, raw, and full of little inside jokes that made each other laugh. They said “I do,” and as a Florida notary, I had the honor of officially marrying them.

Afterward, we climbed all the way to the top of the lighthouse. From up there, the views stretched out over St. Augustine, with the Atlantic Ocean and the historic city below. It was one of those moments where time stands still and you’re taking it all in.

Exploring St. George Street: Pretzels + Coffee

Once we’d soaked up the lighthouse view, it was time to grab a quick snack and Rocio’s favorite – iced coffee. We made our way to St. George Street, one of St. Augustine’s most iconic spots. This charming street is packed with cozy cafes, historic buildings, and little nooks that feel like they’re straight out of a movie.

Our first stop? Ben’s Soft Pretzels. But not just any pretzels—we’re talking golden, doughy perfection enjoyed in Ben’s Secret Garden. If you haven’t been to Ben’s Secret Garden, it’s this tucked-away gem that feels like a hidden garden paradise in the middle of the city. Rocio and German shared laughs, snacks, and just basked in the low-key, date-night energy of it all.

With pretzels checked off the list, it was time for coffee at St. Augustine Coffee House. After a few hiccups in the order, Rocio finally got her iced coffee. Before heading to their next adventure, Rocio and German hung out by the fountain in the plaza and sipped coffee. It was the perfect pick-me-up for the next leg of our adventure.

Mini Golf at Ripley’s Believe It or Not

Because no epic date-night-style elopement is complete without a little friendly competition, Rocio and German hit up Ripley’s Bayfront Mini Golf. The best part? They had the entire course to themselves. It was like their own private playground, complete with quirky obstacles and plenty of space to let loose and have fun.

The two of them went all in, laughing as they high-fived each other’s shots and “helped” each other line up their putts. Rocio swears she has unbeatable mini golf skills when she’s holding a baby, so naturally, we had to test that theory. She mimed holding a baby for a few holes and her streak held strong.

By the 18th hole, the scorecards were in and Rocio came out on top! Watching their playful, competitive energy was so fun, and it felt so true to who they are as a couple.

Exploring the Castillo de San Marcos

Next, we headed to the Castillo de San Marcos, one of the most iconic landmarks in St. Augustine. This historic fort, with its weathered coquina walls and panoramic views of the Mantanzas River, is the kind of place where you can feel the stories it holds.

Rocio and German explored the nooks and crannies of the Castillo, soaking up the history. While we were there, there was even a quinceañera photoshoot happening at the same time, which brought back nostalgic memories for Rocio.

We took our time here, capturing candid shots that blended the historic vibes of the Castillo with their own connection.

A Cake Picnic & Champagne to End the Day

After all the adventuring, it was time for a little relaxation with a cake picnic. We headed to a nearby park for a cozy cake picnic. This wasn’t just about dessert (though the cake was absolutely drool-worthy)—it was about celebrating the day with their kids.

As the sun began to set, their kids joined us for this part of the day. If you’re wondering how you can have a day for yourselves, but also include your kids, this is one of my favorite ways. Watching Rocio and German snuggle with their boys, sharing cake and laughter as the golden hour light poured through the trees, was the perfect ending to their day.

Before officially ending the day, we headed back to their AirBnB for a champagne pop – because it wouldn’t be an Anna Holden Photo elopement without a champagne pop! It might have been more of a champagne shower than a pop, but it made the photos even more epic. 🍾

Why St. Augustine is the Perfect Spot to Elope

From the romance of the St. Augustine Lighthouse to the charm of St. George Street and the historic beauty of the Castillo de San Marcos, St. Augustine is a dream for couples looking to elope. It’s a city that combines history, natural beauty, and just the right amount of adventure. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or someone who just wants to immerse yourself in history, there’s something here for everyone. And the best part? I can help you dream it all up 😉

Elopement Vendors

Ceremony: St. Augustine Lighthouse
Pretzels: Ben’s Soft Pretzels
Coffee: St. Augustine Coffee House
Cake: Moni Cakes

Let’s Create Your Dream St. Augustine Elopement

Rocio and German’s elopement was built entirely around them. From start to finish, it felt like their ideal date night—personal, intimate, and 100% stress-free.

If this sounds like the kind of day you’re dreaming of, let’s make it happen. Whether it’s climbing the St. Augustine Lighthouse, wandering the cobblestone streets, or finding hidden gems for a quiet moment together, I’m here to help you craft an elopement that’s uniquely you.