Dreaming of a Coastal Wedding? Here’s Why Ponte Vedra Wedding Venues Might Be Exactly What You’re Looking For
So you’re deep in the wedding planning spiral? Pinterest boards everywhere, multiple tabs open, maybe even a spreadsheet or two, and you’ve landed here because you’re wondering if Ponte Vedra might be the place. Let me tell you right now: if you’re dreaming of something coastal but elevated, elegant but relaxed, Ponte Vedra wedding venues are absolutely worth exploring.
As a Jacksonville wedding photographer, and someone who’s photographed weddings all across Northeast Florida, I’ll be honest with you, Ponte Vedra has this vibe. It’s tucked right between Jacksonville and St. Augustine, but it feels like its own little world. Less touristy than St. Augustine, more luxe than Jacksonville Beach, and somehow still low-key. It’s the kind of place where you can have a barefoot ceremony on the beach and follow it up with a champagne-filled ballroom reception…all in the same day.
Let’s talk through it. I’ve rounded up everything you need to know about hosting your wedding at a Ponte Vedra wedding venue, including a few favorite locations, planning tips, and what makes this little stretch of coast so special.
The Oceanfront Options Are Chef’s Kiss
If you’ve been dreaming of a wedding with the ocean as your backdrop, Ponte Vedra delivers in the best way. But here’s the thing, it’s not just any beach town. Ponte Vedra wedding venues are tucked away from the public madness, so you get those soft sea breezes and waves crashing without tons of strangers in the background of your photos.
One of the most iconic spots is Ponte Vedra Inn & Club. It’s that dreamy combo of Southern charm and upscale resort, and it sits right on the sand. They’ve got several ceremony and reception options, including an ocean lawn (picture white chairs lined up in front of the dunes) and a classic ballroom that looks like it was made for a champagne tower.
If you’re going for a more boutique vibe, The Lodge & Club is also right on the water and feels super intimate. The views are stunning, the architecture is elegant, and the service is next level. View it here.
👉 Planning Tip: The lighting out here in the late afternoon is unreal. If golden hour portraits are high on your priority list, plan your ceremony timing around it—you won’t regret it.
Not a Beach Couple? There’s More Than Just Sand and Surf
Let’s say the beach isn’t your thing. Or maybe you want ocean vibes but prefer to stay off the actual sand. Ponte Vedra’s wedding venues still have you covered.
TPC Sawgrass is a golf course wedding venue, but don’t let that fool you into thinking it’s boring. The grounds are massive, the Spanish-style clubhouse is beautiful, and there’s a stone bridge that looks like it belongs in a European fairytale. It’s perfect if you’re going for a garden-party-meets-modern-elegance look. Plus, the indoor spaces give you a solid backup if Florida weather decides to do its thing. View it here.
And then there’s Palm Valley Gardens, which is more of a hidden gem. It’s not oceanfront, but the ceremony space is surrounded by oak trees and florals, and the whole place feels like a romantic greenhouse wedding come to life. This one is perfect for smaller weddings, elopements, or just couples who want something a little different.
👉 Pro Tip: Bring your photographer to your venue walkthrough if you can. I love helping couples find the best light and plan their timeline around the prettiest portrait spots.
Why Ponte Vedra Wedding Venues Make Life Way Easier
Okay, real talk, some wedding venues are gorgeous but a logistical nightmare. Ponte Vedra’s wedding venues are not any of those places. Most of the venues here are either full-service or partner with incredible local vendors who know the drill. That means less stress for you, fewer decisions to make, and more time to actually enjoy your day.
A lot of them also offer on-site accommodations or are just a quick drive from luxury hotels, which makes guest planning easier. And if you’re bringing in friends and family from out of town, the Jacksonville airport is about 40 minutes away, so it’s super convenient.
Plus, Ponte Vedra has this relaxed, polished energy that makes the whole wedding weekend feel like a getaway, without you having to plan a full destination event.
Vendor Dreamland: So Many Good Creatives in One Place
One of the very underrated perks of getting married in Ponte Vedra? The vendor pool. Since it’s right between two major wedding markets (Jacksonville and St. Augustine), you get access to an amazing mix of talent.
I’m a photographer based in Jacksonville and photograph all over the area (including Ponte Vedra), and I’ve worked with so many incredible planners, florists, and rental teams nearby. A few of my favorites are below:
- Lulu Events for coordination and planning that actually keeps you calm
- Posh for dreamy tabletop rentals and place settings that’ll make your reception pop
- Foxhound Floral for florals that make your wedding look like it belongs in a magazine
And if you’re interested in a mix of digital and 35mm film photography, that’s exactly what I offer, so your wedding gallery has that extra bit of nostalgia and texture that brings everything to life.
What Kind of Wedding Feels Like Ponte Vedra?
Here’s where I’m going to speak directly to your gut.
If you want something that feels elegant but not overdone, peaceful but still full of energy, a Ponte Vedra wedding venue might be your place. Ponte Vedra is for the couple who wants a meaningful experience with the people they love most. Who doesn’t want to feel rushed or overwhelmed. Who cares more about connection than perfection.
Your wedding doesn’t have to be huge to be beautiful. It doesn’t need ten thousand details to be unforgettable. And if you’re dreaming of a space that lets you breathe a little, have a moment alone before the ceremony, and watch your guests soak up the day just as much as you, this is it.
Before You Book: A Few Final Planning Tips
Just a few things I’d pass along if we were sitting down over coffee (or wine) right now:
- Visit the venues in person. Ponte Vedra has so much to offer visually, and walking through your venue options will help it click.
- Ask about ceremony timing. The coastal light is stunning, but you’ll want to plan around harsh midday sun or early sunsets in winter.
- Double check the logistics. Some venues have required vendors, noise restrictions, or curfews, just something to keep in mind as you build your dream team.
- Build in buffer time. From prep to portraits, you’ll want some breathing room in your timeline so you don’t feel rushed.
Let’s Make This Wedding Feel Like You
If you’re leaning toward any of the Ponte Vedra wedding venues I mentioned and want photos that feel like you, I’d love to help. My work blends documentary storytelling with editorial flair, aka real moments, dreamy light, and zero awkward posing. And whether you’re getting married on the beach, under the oak trees, or in a candlelit ballroom, I’ll be there to catch it all.
Click here to get in touch and tell me what you’re dreaming up. I’m already excited.
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