Fun bridal party photos at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

Weddings

Chandler Oaks Venue Review + Wedding Photo Tips

St. Augustine Florida wedding at Chandler Oaks Barn

If you are looking for a romantic and timeless St. Augustine wedding venue, Chandler Oaks Barn is one of the most beautiful places to say “I do.” Chandler Oaks Venue is known for its gorgeous oak trees, elegant barn reception space, and peaceful Old Florida atmosphere that feels both light and inviting.

As a wedding photographer in St. Augustine, I love how beautifully this venue photographs throughout the entire day. From golden hour portraits beneath the trees to cozy and elegant receptions inside the barn, Chandler Oaks creates such a stunning backdrop for couples who want a wedding day that feels romantic, joyful, and completely unforgettable.

Bride putting on her earrings in front of a big window in Chandler Oaks Barn

Chandler Oaks Barn is located just outside of downtown St. Augustine, Florida, giving couples the perfect mix of peaceful countryside charm and convenient access for guests. One of the things couples love most about Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue is that it feels private and tucked away beneath beautiful oak trees. But is is also close to hotels, restaurants, and all of the charm that St. Augustine is known for. 

The venue is an easy drive for guests coming from Jacksonville, Ponte Vedra, and surrounding North Florida areas. This close proximity to these destinations makes it a really convenient option for both local weddings and destination weddings. Out of town guests can easily stay in downtown St. Augustine and enjoy everything the city has to offer throughout the wedding weekend. They can include on their trip the historic streets, waterfront restaurants, and beautiful beaches. 

Another huge advantage of the location is how relaxed and quiet the property feels. Even though you are close to the city, the venue itself feels secluded and intimate. It creates such a calm atmosphere for your wedding day. Between the towering oak trees, open space, and natural Florida scenery, Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue gives couples a beautiful setting that feels romantic from the moment you arrive. 

Bridal suite at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

If you are getting married at Chandler Oaks Barn and want your guests to have a really beautiful place to stay, there are several amazing hotel options nearby depending on the experience you want. I usually recommend couples either choose something close to the venue for convenience or stay in downtown St. Augustine. That way guests can enjoy the historic area throughout the wedding weekend. 

If most of your guests are traveling in from out of town, I usually recommend booking a room block either near World Golf Village for convenience to Chandler Oaks Venue or downtown St. Augustine. It makes it easy if you want guests to enjoy the full historic St. Augustine experience throughout the wedding weekend.  I highly suggest booking these blocks early!  As soon as you book Chandler Oaks Barn because they go fast!!!  Some really great options are:

Bride getting ready in the bridal suite at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

There are so many beautiful wedding venues in Florida, but Chandler Oaks Barn has a way of feeling both elegant and welcoming at the same time. It has that romantic Old Florida charm that so many couples are looking for, while still feeling elevated and timeless. From the oak trees to the barn reception space, every part of Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue feels intentionally designed for a beautiful wedding experience. 

Groomsmen portraits outside Chandler Oaks barn reception space

One of the first things couples fall in love with at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue is the ceremony space beneath the massive oak trees. The Spanish moss, soft natural light, and open space create such a romantic atmosphere that honestly feels magical in person. It gives couples that classic Southern wedding feel while still feeling clean and elegant in photos.

As a photographer, I especially love how the light filters through the trees later in the day. The ceremony space photographs beautifully during golden hour. It creates such soft and flattering light for wedding portraits. The oak canopy also helps provide shade for guests, which is such a huge bonus for Florida weddings.

The driveway up to the venue is also beautifully covered with Oak Trees and Spanish Moss that provides a perfect spot for Mollie Jane Photography’s signature backlit portraits.

Romantic wedding venue in St. Augustine Florida

The reception barn at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue is one of the prettiest barn venues in the St. Augustine area. It feels refined instead of overly rustic. It has beautiful lighting, high ceilings, and a warm atmosphere that photographs so well for receptions.

One of my favorite things about the barn is how versatile it is. Couples can completely transform the space depending on the style of wedding they are planning. Whether you want something romantic and garden inspired, classic and elegant, or more modern and minimal, the barn works beautifully with so many different design styles.  I wrote a blog post on how to take a barn reception from rustic to chic, check that out:

The indoor reception space is also amazing for Florida weather because guests can stay comfortable while still feeling connected to the outdoor beauty of the venue.

Wedding detail photos at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

One thing that makes Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue so practical is the flexibility it offers throughout the wedding day. Florida weather can honestly be unpredictable, especially during summer months. Having both beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces gives couples so much peace of mind.

Couples can plan for an outdoor ceremony beneath the oak trees while still knowing there is a gorgeous indoor backup option if needed. This flexibility helps the day feel less stressful and allows couples to fully enjoy the experience without constantly worrying about the weather forecast.

I also love that guests can move naturally throughout the property during cocktail hour and the reception. The venue flows really well and never feels cramped or overwhelming.

Bridal portraits under the oaks and spanish moss at Chandler Oaks Venue
Bridals portraits with beautiful spring bouquet at Chandler Oaks Barn

There are so many pretty options for your wedding pictures at Chandler Oaks Venue! You, honestly cannot go wrong!

Flower girls with the bridesmaids at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

There are THREE different options for your ceremony on Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue!  And all of them are so beautiful and can give your wedding a different look and vibe.

Ceremony space under the oak trees at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in St. Augustine

At Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue, it comes by its name honestly. It is covered in a canopy of perfect oaks and Spanish Moss.  And this is right where they have placed one of the ceremony locations at the venue.  From a photography perspective, it is placed perfectly for afternoon light!  The oaks also offer shade for your guests from that intense Florida sun that shines most of the year.

Florida bridesmaids photos at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

Behind the reception barn is a perfect white gazebo with a backdrop of gorgeous green trees, just waiting to host your wedding ceremony.  It is a little more open to the sun, but that also means that beautiful Florida light shining for your wedding pictures.

A WEDDING CEREMONY INSIDE THE BARN

This is an amazing Plan B, if it rains.  But, even if it doesn’t, this chic barn area would be such a great spot to keep you and your guest cool during the summer heat and warm during those “cold” Florida days (don’t laugh, we do have some!).  The light fills the space so beautifully because it is all white.  As a light and bright photographer, this is high on my priority list if I were to choose an indoor ceremony space!

Mom and Son first look before the ceremony at Chandler Oaks Barn in St. Augustine

Portrait locations abound at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue!  Golden Hour is considered the hour before the sun sets that has that most beautiful creamy light.  And, while this is true!  At Chandler Oaks, because of the trees, it’s super important to plan most of your “golden hour” photos BEFORE golden hour or it might be too dark!

Romantic wedding venue in St. Augustine Florida

There are so many nooks and crannies of perfect-ness for portraits, whether they be for wedding party, family, couple’s portraits, or some bridals. You will be able to find perfect light at any time of the day!  Some of my favorites: 

  • oak tree path, 
  • the bridge and gazebo, 
  • the swing, 
  • the area behind the barn (afternoon sunshine falls perfectly there!), 
  • the garden

For a photographer, having options on your wedding day for all of the portraits, it is so important!!  Light, timing, weather, and a million other tiny aspects of the day are different every single wedding day!  This is why choosing your photographer, planner AND venue is so important.  All should have the ability to pivot under every circumstance flawlessly.

Sunset wedding portraits at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

One of the reasons so many couples love Chandler Oaks Barn is because the venue offers such a well rounded wedding experience. When you are planning a wedding, having a venue that is both beautiful and functional makes such a huge difference. Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue does a great job of creating a day that feels seamless from start to finish. 

Bride walking down the aisle beneath oak trees at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

If you are considering Chandler Oaks Barn for your wedding day, one of the biggest questions is usually pricing. Compared to many other St. Augustine wedding venues, Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue offers a really beautiful balance of value, scenery, and overall experience.

Outdoor ceremony setup at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in St. Augustine Florida

Friday and Saturday weddings are currently priced around $10,000. Weekday weddings Monday through Thursday are around $8,000. Couples planning an off season wedding during June through August can also typically book the venue for around $8,000.

For couples wanting a more simplified planning experience, Chandler Oaks Venue also offers an all inclusive option starting around $24,500.

Wedding party portraits at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in Florida

To officially reserve your wedding date, the venue requires a signed contract and a $2,000 non refundable deposit that goes toward your total balance. Chandler Oaks also requires event coordination through Southern Grace Events, which helps keep wedding days running smoothly and organized.

Couples should also plan for day of event insurance, and weddings serving alcohol or hosting more than 100 guests will require an off duty deputy on site.

Private wedding property at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in Florida

Honestly, for couples looking for a romantic St. Augustine wedding venue with gorgeous oak trees, an elegant barn reception space, and a private property feel, Chandler Oaks Venue offers a lot of value. The venue feels elevated and timeless while still being flexible enough for a variety of wedding styles and guest counts.

Outdoor cocktail hour at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

We have talked so much about how beautiful Chandler Oaks venue is, but let’s talk about how functional it is.  They really try to make your day easy.  These are all included!

  • Onsite Catering and Prep Kitchen
  • Indoor Lounge Seating with faux fireplace mantle, picture frame display and sofa and chairs.
  • An indoor barn
  • Paved cocktail garden area with a fire pit
  • Indoor guest restrooms
  • Lots of parking with a parking attendant to guide and greet guests
Elegant reception lighting inside Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue barn

There are some decor items that are included, which is important for you to know what is included and especially what is NOT included.

  • 200 Cross-back Wooden chairs ARE included, but only for inside use.  Chairs for the outdoor  ceremony locations must be rented. But, I love this!  You can be creative and really set the vibe for your wedding.  Just do it! Splurge on your ceremony chairs!
  • 12 Magnolia Farmhouse tables ARE included.
  • 10 round folding tables ARE included, but not the linens.  Y’all!  Be creative with your linen rentals.  Seriously!  It makes so much of a difference!
  • 4 Highboy/Cocktail Tables ARE included, but, again, not the linens.
Romantic wedding portraits at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in St. Augustine

One of the things that makes Chandler Oaks Barn so appealing for couples is how much the venue offers all in one place. The property sits on 20 private acres filled with beautiful oak trees, open space, and peaceful Florida scenery that creates such a romantic setting for a wedding day.

The white barn at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue that sits under the oak trees

The centerpiece of the venue is the stunning 6,000 square foot post and beam barn that is both air conditioned and heated, which is such a huge benefit for Florida weddings year round. The barn feels elegant and welcoming while still keeping that timeless Southern charm that couples love about Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue.

Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue comfortably seats up to 150 guests and can accommodate weddings with up to 200 guests. This makes it a great option for both intimate celebrations and larger wedding days. Combined with the outdoor event lighting throughout the property, the entire venue feels warm, inviting, and incredibly romantic once the sun goes down.

The venue also includes a private bridal suite with its own restroom, creating a comfortable and relaxing space for getting ready photos and quiet moments before the ceremony. The groom’s parlor is also thoughtfully designed with a restroom, refrigerator, and television so both sides of the wedding party have dedicated spaces to enjoy throughout the day.

Rustic elegant wedding venue in St. Augustine Florida

Booking any wedding venue in St. Augustine comes with lots of questions!  It is definitely best to be as educated  as possible before you choose your wedding venue.  Everyone’s dream venue is different for a variety of reasons.  It’s best to consider your needs and desires and doing your research before going to each venue.

Here are some of the most popular questions about Chandler Oaks Venue.

Chandler Oaks Barn does offer an all inclusive wedding option for couples who want a more simplified and stress free planning experience. Their all inclusive package starts around $24,500 and includes the venue along with additional wedding services and coordination support to help everything flow smoothly throughout the day.

This can be a good option for couples planning a wedding from out of town or anyone wanting a more streamlined process. The all inclusive option at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue can be a really helpful way to make wedding planning feel easier and more organized.

Bridesmaids photos beneath oak trees at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

Yes, one of the nice things about Chandler Oaks Barn is that couples do have flexibility when it comes to choosing many of their own wedding vendors. For example, you should definitely choose Mollie Jane Photography (wink, wink). This allows couples to personalize their wedding day and build a vendor team that fits their style, vision, and budget.  

If you are planning your wedding at Chandler Oaks Venue. Hop on over to my website.  I would LOVE to talk to you about photographing your wedding there.  I am FUN! And you will have beautiful light and airy wedding pictures that work perfectly with the style of the venue!

One important thing to know is that Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue does require coordination through Southern Grace Events. Having a dedicated coordination team honestly helps the entire day run much more smoothly and creates a better experience for both couples and guests.

Southern Grace Events is WONDERFUL!!!  They care and will take care of all your needs on your wedding day.  You will NOT be disappointed!

As always, I would recommend couples confirm current vendor policies directly with the venue.The venue requirements and preferred vendor lists can change over time.

Reception decor inside Chandler Oaks barn reception space

Parking at Chandler Oaks Barn is honestly much easier than many St. Augustine wedding venues. This is something guests always appreciate. Since the venue sits on a large private property, there is plenty of onsite parking available. Your guests won’t have to worry about city parking, garages, or long walks to the ceremony space.

This is especially helpful for out of town guests and older family members. Everything feels convenient and easy to access once they arrive. The layout of Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue also helps the wedding day flow smoothly. Guests can park nearby and comfortably move throughout the property during the ceremony and reception.

Many couples want to include their dog in their wedding day. The beautiful outdoor setting at Chandler Oaks Barn definitely makes it feel like the perfect place for it. Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue may allow pets during parts of the wedding day with venue approval. I would always check to confirm updated policies.

I always recommend couples check directly with the venue about their current pet policies, any restrictions, and whether there are specific guidelines for having dogs onsite during the ceremony or portraits.

From a photography perspective, having your dog involved can make your wedding feel even more personal and meaningful. Do you want them to walk down the aisle, join you for portraits beneath the oak trees, or simply make a quick appearance before the ceremony. Those photos always end up being some of the sweetest moments from the day.

Spring wedding ceremony at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue

One of the best things about Chandler Oaks Barn is that it photographs beautifully year round! The most popular and comfortable months for weddings at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue, I would definitely say October through April.

Fall weddings are especially beautiful because the temperatures start cooling while the oak trees and outside still looks lush and green. Spring is also gorgeous at Chandler Oaks because the weather is usually mild, the sunsets are beautiful. During this time guests can comfortably enjoy the outdoor ceremony spaces and cocktail hour areas.

Summer weddings here are beautiful, but couples should prepare for Florida heat and humidity from June through August.Off season summer pricing can also make Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue a more budget friendly option for couples.

I especially love late fall and spring weddings at Chandler Oaks because the lighting tends to be softer and couples can comfortably spend more time outside for portraits beneath the oak trees.

Wedding cake for a spring wedding at Chandler Oaks Barn in St. Augustine

As a St. Augustine wedding photographer, I love Chandler Oaks Barn for its timeless and emotional wedding photo opportunities. From oak trees to sunset light, Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue photographs beautifully throughout every part of the wedding day.

My approach to wedding photography is focused on creating images that feel genuine, joyful, and natural. While also helping couples feel comfortable and fully present during their wedding day. Sunset portraits are especially beautiful at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue. Building the timeline around lighting helps couples get the best possible wedding photos. And I love helping you do that!

I also help couples create timelines. So they can allow enough time for relaxed portraits without making the day feel rushed or overly posed. Knowing Chandler Oaks well helps create a smoother wedding experience and more beautiful, varied wedding photos throughout the day.

More than anything, I want couples to walk away with photographs that truly feel like them. I want them to tell the full story of their wedding day at Chandler Oaks Wedding Venue in a way that feels timeless for years to come.

Click the link below to go to the Mollie Jane Photography website and learn all about weddings in St. Augustine. I would love to talk to you, especially about your wedding at Chandler Oaks wedding venue.

Bride and groom do their grand entrance through the big barn doors at Chandler Oaks wedding venue