A Living History Museum
Just a short walk from 9 Aviles Wedding Venue lies the Colonial Quarter—a two-acre living history museum that recreates Spanish Colonial St. Augustine from the 1740s. For couples seeking authentic, timeless wedding photos, this hidden gem offers an unparalleled backdrop that transports you centuries into the past.
While many wedding venues struggle to find photogenic locations nearby, 9 Aviles couples have the Colonial Quarter practically at their doorstep. The authentically reconstructed buildings, period-accurate details, and cobblestone pathways create images that look like they could have been taken 300 years ago—except for your modern love story unfolding within them.
Why the Colonial Quarter Works for Wedding Photography
Authentic Architecture
These aren't Hollywood set pieces—these are carefully researched and authentically constructed buildings based on archaeological evidence and historical records. The coquina walls, wooden balconies, and period details provide genuine 18th-century Spanish colonial ambiance.
Variety Within Steps
Within the compact two-acre site, you'll find multiple distinct photo locations—a blacksmith's workshop, a Spanish soldier's house, a tavern, a watchtower, cobblestone streets, and more. This variety means many different looks without traveling around the city.
Controlled Environment
Unlike public streets where you're competing with tourists and traffic, the Colonial Quarter offers a more controlled setting. Your photographer can work with fewer interruptions and better positioning opportunities.
Timeless Quality
Photos taken here won't look dated in 20 years. The timeless historical setting ensures your wedding photos will always look classic and elegant, never tied to any particular era's trends.
Best Photo Spots Within the Colonial Quarter
The De Mesa-Sanchez House
This meticulously reconstructed Spanish colonial home features beautiful wooden balconies and authentic period details. The exterior staircase and second-floor balcony provide elevated perspectives that create dramatic wedding portraits.
Pro tip: Shoot from below looking up for a regal, cinematic quality, or capture intimate moments on the balcony itself.
The Blacksmith's Workshop
The dark wood structure with its anvil, tools, and rustic charm provides wonderful contrast for bright wedding attire. The weathered textures and authentic details add depth and character to photos.
Pro tip: Use the doorway as a natural frame for portraits, or capture candid moments exploring the space.
Cobblestone Pathways
The authentic colonial-era pathways with their irregular stones and aged appearance create perfect walking shots. These paths wind between buildings, offering numerous angles and perspectives.
Pro tip: Capture movement—the bride's dress flowing as you walk, hand-in-hand strolls, or looking back over your shoulder shots.
The Watchtower
This reconstructed wooden watchtower offers height and architectural interest. Its weathered wood and colonial-era construction details provide a unique backdrop rarely seen in wedding photography.
Pro tip: Use it as a background element to add vertical interest to compositions, or photograph from its base looking up.
Taberna del Gallo (The Tavern)
The colonial tavern's rustic wooden exterior and period-appropriate signage create an authentic old-world atmosphere. The structure's weathered charm tells a story in every photograph.
Pro tip: Play with the contrast between formal wedding attire and the rustic tavern setting for interesting juxtapositions.
Practical Considerations for Your Photo Session
Timing Your Visit
The Colonial Quarter is typically open during business hours. For wedding photos, early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting and fewer visitors. Work with your photographer to coordinate the ideal time.
Admission and Access
There's typically an admission fee for the Colonial Quarter. Your photographer should contact them in advance about conducting a wedding photo session to ensure smooth access and any necessary permissions.
Walking Distance from 9 Aviles
The Colonial Quarter is approximately a 5-minute walk from 9 Aviles Wedding Venue—close enough to easily include in your wedding day timeline without requiring transportation.
Weather Considerations
Since this is an outdoor location, have a backup plan for inclement weather. However, the buildings do provide some covered areas that can work even on drizzly days.
Making the Most of Your Colonial Quarter Photos
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Work with Your Photographer: Share this location with your photographer in advance so they can scout it and plan specific shots.
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Consider Your Attire: Formal wedding attire creates beautiful contrast against the rustic historical setting.
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Budget Time: Allow 30-45 minutes to properly explore and photograph the various locations within the Quarter.
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Embrace the Setting: Don't be afraid to interact with the environment—lean against walls, walk the pathways, explore doorways.
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Golden Hour Magic: If possible, schedule your Colonial Quarter photos during golden hour for that warm, romantic glow.
The 9 Aviles Advantage
One of the greatest advantages of choosing 9 Aviles as your wedding venue is its proximity to incredible photo locations like the Colonial Quarter. Many wedding venues require extensive travel to reach interesting backdrops, eating into your wedding day timeline and requiring additional transportation logistics.
At 9 Aviles, you can have your ceremony and reception in our historic venue, then simply walk to the Colonial Quarter for stunning photos—all within the same historic district. This efficiency means more time celebrating and less time in transit, while still achieving diverse, professional-quality images.
The Colonial Quarter is just one of many exceptional photo locations within walking distance of our venue. From the Castillo de San Marcos to Flagler College to the waterfront, St. Augustine's historic district offers endless possibilities for creating your perfect wedding album—and 9 Aviles puts you right in the heart of it all.
Create Timeless Wedding Photos
Ready to explore how 9 Aviles and St. Augustine's historic locations can make your wedding photography truly unforgettable?