How to Elope at Castle Otttis

If you’re dreaming of an intimate, one-of-a-kind elopement location in St. Augustine, Castle Otttis needs to be on your radar. As a Florida elopement photographer who’s a little obsessed with epic locations, I can confidently say: there’s nothing else like Castle Otttis. It’s part medieval stonework, part work of art, part spiritual retreat and completely perfect for couples who want something wildly unique and private.

After working with so many couples eloping around St. Augustine, I’m so excited to share all my best tips, insider info, and what you need to know to plan your very own Castle Otttis elopement. Let’s jump in.

Why Elope at Castle Otttis?

The moment you pull up to Castle Otttis, it feels like you’ve been transported to an Irish countryside without ever leaving Florida. This open-air castle sculpture was inspired by ancient Irish abbeys from 1,000 years ago. With towering stone walls, hand-built staircases, an altar, pulpit, choir loft, and 88 window openings that let in soft natural light, it’s honestly breathtaking.

This spot is perfect for couples who want:

• An intimate, private setting full of character and history.
• Moody, romantic, medieval vibes with a coastal Florida breeze.
• A peaceful, spiritual atmosphere that feels deeply meaningful.
• Incredible photo backdrops for both your ceremony and portraits.
• A ceremony space that doesn’t feel like a traditional “wedding venue” (or even Florida for that matter)

Because Castle Otttis is privately owned, it’s simple, personal, and all about your experience.

Its central location means you can pair your ceremony with nearby activities, such as exploring the historic streets of St. Augustine, having a picnic at Anastasia State Park, or celebrating with a distillery tour and fancy cocktails at Ice Plant.

Castle Otttis Elopement Inspiration

How to Elope at Castle Otttis: A Step-By-Step Guide

1. Contact the Owner to Reserve Your Date

Castle Otttis is a private residence, not a commercial wedding venue. This means you’ll need to get permission directly from the owner to use the property for your ceremony. To reserve your ceremony date, visit their website or email castleotttis@outlook.com.

The owner requests at least 72 hours notice for bookings, but because availability can be limited, I recommend reaching out well in advance to secure your date!

2. Discuss Your Ceremony Details

When you contact Castle Otttis, you’ll want to have a few details ready:

• Requested elopement or intimate wedding date
• Estimated guest count (the castle can comfortably fit 20-25 guests indoors).
• Any special requests or questions you have about the space

It’s important to note that Castle Otttis is not handicap accessible due to its historic architecture and multiple staircases.

3. Personalize Your Ceremony

Here’s where it gets fun – make it YOURS! When you book Castle Otttis, you have the space for up to two hours. For elopements and intimate weddings, this is plenty of time to have your vows and explore the castle. Since food and drinks are not permitted inside the castle, you can use this time for epic portraits, unity ceremonies, first dances, etc.

4. Plan Activities Around Your Day

One of the best parts about eloping in St. Augustine is the endless opportunities for adventure. After your ceremony at Castle Otttis, we can spend the rest of the day exploring this historic city. Want to explore St. George Street or the Castillo De San Marcos? Grab cocktails at my favorite local spot (Ice Plant is my favorite)? Hit up St. Augustine Distillery for a tour and a chance to bottle your own bourbon? The possibilities are endless! No matter what type of adventure you love, you can make your elopement more than just a ceremony. It’s an entire day to celebrate your marriage.

Need some help putting it all together? I’m here to guide you every step of the way, from permits to activity brainstorming. Let’s connect and bring your elopement vision to life!

St. Augustine Activity Inspiration

Things You Should Know About Eloping at Castle Otttis

Before you fall fully in love (which you probably already are), here are a few important notes:

• The interior of Castle Otttis has no air conditioning or heating, but the open-air windows allow the breeze to flow through.
• Because it’s a private residence, you’ll have full privacy during your booked time.
• Minimal décor is encouraged; large setups or rentals are not needed.
• No amplified music, alcohol, or food is permitted on-site. So no champagne toast or cake cutting.
• There is no reception space, but many nearby restaurants and vacation rentals can host your post-ceremony celebration.

Castle Otttis Elopement Timelines

I’ve put together three different options based on what my couples have love most. But remember – these are totally customizable to what feels right for you. Any of these activity ideas can be swapped for the type of adventure you and your partner love to do together!

4-Hour Castle Otttis Elopement Timeline

Perfect for couples who want an intimate ceremony and beautiful portraits in and around the museum.

• 8:00 AM: Meet at Castle Otttis for a peaceful morning ceremony
• 8:30 AM: Exchange vows by the alter
• 9:00 AM: Explore the castle for portraits
• 10:00 AM: Have brunch and mimosas at a local fave
• 11:00 AM: Explore St. George Street with iced coffee

6-Hour Castle Otttis Elopement Timeline

Ideal for couples who want to add more variety to their elopement day with breathing room to explore and take in the day.

• 3:00 PM: Begin with a first look in the Castle Otttis courtyard, followed by a ceremony
• 3:30 PM: Take your time capturing portraits around the castle grounds
• 4:30 PM: Explore St. George Street and grab a pretzel at Ben’s Secret Garden
• 5:30 PM: Explore the Castillo de San Marcos
• 6:30 PM: Grab some celebratory cocktails then have dinner at a romantic restaurant

8-Hour Castle Otttis Elopement Timeline

This option is perfect for couples who want a full-day experience, with time to explore, relax, and celebrate in style.

• 10:00 AM: Start with a first look and private vows in the courtyard
• 10:30 AM: Capture portraits around the castle
• 11:30 AM: Break for lunch
• 1:00 PM: Play mini golf
• 3:00 PM: Head back to downtown St. Augustine to explore St. George Street
• 5:00 PM: Explore the Castillo de San Marcos
• 6:00 PM: End with dinner or drinks at a local favorite spot in town

Why Work With a St. Augustine Elopement Photographer?

Let’s be real: planning an elopement like this can feel a little intimidating. You’re juggling bookings, permits, vendors, timelines, lighting, locations, weather, and a million tiny decisions…

That’s where I come in. As your St. Augustine elopement photographer and local expert, I do so much more than take photos. I help you:

• Find the perfect ceremony location (ahem, Castle Otttis)
• Create a relaxed, no-stress timeline
• Find perfect photo locations and activities for you to do
• Plan backup options for weather
• Build your dream day so it feels 100% like YOU