A Tropical Saint Pete Love Story
Kayla and Josh-just wow. In my entire career as a Tampa Wedding Photographer and Saint Pete Wedding Photographer, I’ve rarely had the pleasure of working with such a laid-back, down-to-earth couple. From their kindness at the Clearwater Aquarium (where they graciously treated my niece and nephew) to their joyful, unforgettable wedding day at Sunken Gardens in St. Petersburg, every moment with them was a reminder of why I love what I do. Arizona is lucky to have them, but their wedding photos will always keep their Florida story alive.
Why Sunken Gardens Is a Dream Wedding Venue in Saint Pete
If you’re searching for the perfect Saint Petersburg wedding venue, Sunken Gardens is a true botanical oasis in the heart of the city. With over 100 years of history, this lush, tropical paradise is the city’s oldest living museum and a Local Historic Landmark.
- Address: 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL 33704
- Website: sunkengardens.org/weddings
- Instagram: @sunkengardensstpete
What Makes Sunken Gardens Unique for Weddings?
- Lush Tropical Backdrops: Towering palms, vibrant flowering plants, and cascading waterfalls create a magical setting for both ceremonies and portraits.
- Multiple Ceremony & Reception Spaces: Choose from the Oak Pavilion (intimate, under a 250-year-old oak), the North Lawn, or the Wedding Lawn for your ceremony. The historic Garden Room offers a loft-style indoor reception space with hardwood floors and high ceilings.
- Capacity: Accommodates up to 200 guests, with both indoor and outdoor options for flexible planning.
- All-Inclusive Packages: Sunken Gardens offers wedding packages that include event rentals, lighting, dance floor, and more. You can bring in your own caterers and vendors, making it easy to personalize your day.
- Onsite Amenities: Bridal suite, get-ready rooms, attended parking, and a dedicated events team to make your day seamless.
- Convenient Location: Minutes from downtown hotels, museums, and entertainment for your guests’ comfort and convenience.
Kayla & Josh’s Wedding Day: Joy, Nature, and Genuine Connection
Their wedding at Sunken Gardens was a celebration of everything that makes this venue-and this couple-so special. Surrounded by lush gardens, Kayla and Josh exchanged vows beneath the shade of ancient trees, their ceremony filled with laughter, happy tears, and the genuine warmth of friends and family.
As a Sunken Gardens Wedding Photographer, I focused on capturing:
- Candid Moments: From the couple’s emotional first look to their laughter during the ceremony and the way they danced together under the string lights.
- Editorial Portraits: Using the gardens’ dramatic light and vibrant greenery, I created timeless images that reflect the couple’s easygoing, romantic style.
- Details: The tropical florals, the historic Garden Room reception, and the little in-between moments that made their day unique.
For more inspiration, explore my Tampa Bay Garden Wedding Venues Guide and see how I blend editorial elegance with candid storytelling.
Planning Your Sunken Gardens Wedding: Tips & FAQs
What’s Included in a Sunken Gardens Wedding Package?
- Exclusive use of ceremony & reception spaces (Oak Pavilion, Wedding Lawn, North Lawn, Garden Room)
- Tables, chairs, and event furnishings
- Dressing rooms for the wedding party
- Attended parking and maintenance staff
- Flexible vendor policy for catering, florals, and entertainment
How Much Does a Sunken Gardens Wedding Cost?
- Venue rentals start at $4,500 and can go up to $25,500 depending on guest count, event spaces, and options.
- For a personalized quote, contact the Sunken Gardens events team.
What’s the Best Time of Year for a Sunken Gardens Wedding?
- October through April offers cooler temperatures and lush gardens in full bloom.
- Consider golden hour for portraits-about 60-90 minutes before sunset-for the most flattering, romantic light.
Can We Bring Our Own Vendors?
- Yes! Sunken Gardens welcomes outside caterers and vendors, allowing you to customize your wedding experience.
Is Sunken Gardens Pet-Friendly?
- Absolutely. Many couples include their furry friends in their ceremony and portraits-just let your photographer know in advance!
Why Choose Stills by Hernan as Your Sunken Gardens Wedding Photographer?
With over a decade of experience as a Tampa Wedding Photographer, Saint Pete Wedding Photographer, and Sunken Gardens Wedding Photographer, I blend editorial artistry with candid, documentary storytelling. My approach is relaxed and unobtrusive, allowing you to be fully present while I capture every laugh, tear, and magical detail.
- Luxury Wedding Photography: My collections are custom-tailored, starting at $6,000, and include options for videography, albums, and engagement sessions.
- Full-Service Experience: From timeline planning to vendor recommendations, I help make your Sunken Gardens wedding seamless and stress-free.
- Portfolio: See more Sunken Gardens Wedding Photography and Saint Pete Wedding Photography in my portfolio.
- Videography: Add cinematic storytelling to your day with Tampa Wedding Videographer and Saint Pete Wedding Videographer services.
Sunken Gardens Wedding Photography Tips
- Scout the Venue: Tour Sunken Gardens with your photographer to find the best light and hidden photo spots.
- Embrace the Elements: Rain or shine, the gardens are stunning. Clear umbrellas and a flexible timeline make for beautiful, unique images.
- Golden Hour Portraits: Schedule your couple’s portraits for late afternoon to capture the gardens’ magical glow.
- Personalize Your Day: Incorporate tropical florals, signature cocktails, or meaningful rituals to make your wedding uniquely yours.
Ready to Plan Your Sunken Gardens Wedding?
If you’re searching for the Best Wedding Photographer in Tampa Bay, a Saint Pete Wedding Photographer with Videography Services, or want to see more Sunken Gardens Wedding Photographer Reviews, I’d love to help you create heirloom images that capture your love and the beauty of Sunken Gardens.
Contact me today for a custom quote and let’s make your Sunken Gardens wedding unforgettable.
Inquire about Sunken Gardens Wedding Photography Packages