When it comes to hosting a wedding that combines timeless elegance with modern sophistication, The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club in downtown Saint Petersburg stands out as one of the top venues in the area. As a Tampa wedding photographer, I have had the privilege of capturing countless weddings at The Vinoy, and it never ceases to amaze me with its versatile spaces and stunning photo opportunities. Whether you envision a grand ballroom affair or a lush garden ceremony, this venue offers an array of options to fit every couple’s vision.
Why Choose The Vinoy?
With its historic charm and modern luxury, The Vinoy offers a unique blend that appeals to couples seeking both elegance and convenience. Located right on the waterfront of downtown Saint Pete, the resort provides stunning views of Tampa Bay and the skyline, perfect for those magical golden-hour photos. The venue has over 60,000 square feet of event space, offering multiple indoor and outdoor areas to host your ceremony and reception.
The venue’s versatility is unmatched, featuring options like the Palm Court Ballroom for grand affairs and the intimate Tea Garden for outdoor lovers. The attention to detail from The Vinoy’s wedding specialists ensures that every aspect of your day flows seamlessly, allowing you to focus on celebrating with your guests.
Wedding Ceremony and Reception Spaces
- Tea Garden: Imagine saying your vows in the Tea Garden, surrounded by lush greenery and a historic fountain with the Vinoy bell tower standing tall in the background. This intimate space offers a secluded, romantic atmosphere, ideal for couples looking for a garden ceremony.
- Vinoy Grand Ballroom: For those who want an indoor ceremony or reception with a grandiose feel, the Vinoy Grand Ballroom offers soaring ceilings and a luxurious ambiance with stunning chandeliers. This ballroom can host up to 350 guests, making it perfect for larger weddings.
- Bayview Terrace: If you’ve dreamed of a waterfront ceremony, the Bayview Terrace provides breathtaking views of Tampa Bay and the downtown skyline. This outdoor space pairs well with the Florida sunshine, creating a magical atmosphere for couples who love the outdoors.
- Esplanade: This is another exceptional outdoor space, offering a spacious lawn perfect for dining and dancing under the stars.
Each of these spaces offers endless opportunities for beautiful photographs, allowing us to capture every moment—from the first look to the final send-off.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Wedding Photography at The Vinoy
- Timing Is Everything: One of the best times for portraits is during golden hour, the time just before sunset when the light is soft and dreamy. For outdoor weddings at The Vinoy, this time of day creates breathtaking photos, especially around the Bayview Terrace and Tea Garden.
- First Look Moments: Consider doing a first look in one of the many beautiful courtyards or garden areas. This private moment can ease nerves and create a more relaxed timeline for post-ceremony photos.
- Utilize the Historic Backdrops: The Vinoy’s pink exterior and Spanish-inspired architecture offer a unique backdrop for your photos. Whether it’s the historic tower or intricate details in the Grand Ballroom, there are endless ways to incorporate the venue’s charm into your images.
- Maximize Your Photo Opportunities: With multiple venue options, don’t limit your photo session to just one spot. Incorporate a variety of spaces like the Tea Garden, the grand architecture of the Vinoy tower, and the waterfront at Bayview Terrace for a well-rounded album.
- Stay Flexible with Your Timeline: Allow some cushion time between your ceremony and reception to take advantage of the many photo spots without feeling rushed. Discuss with your photographer to prioritize the locations that matter most to you and build in time for spontaneous moments that often make the best memories.
Planning Your Timeline at The Vinoy
Creating a photography-friendly timeline is crucial for ensuring you capture every important moment without feeling rushed. Here’s a suggested timeline that I’ve found works perfectly for weddings at The Vinoy:
- First Look & Couple Portraits: 1 hour (ideally at Bayview Terrace or one of the secluded garden spaces)
- Wedding Party Photos: 30-45 minutes (depending on the size of your party)
- Family Formals: 30 minutes (immediately following the ceremony, in the Tea Garden or nearby)
- Sunset Couple Photos: 30 minutes during cocktail hour (capture that golden light!)
Wedding Packages and Pricing
Depending on the season and your specific needs, The Vinoy offers a range of packages to suit every couple. The starting ceremony fee is around $1,500 for off-peak season and can go up to $2,800 during peak season. For receptions, expect a starting cost of $5,000 in the off-peak season and $10,000 during peak times. Each package includes key elements like an on-site coordinator, tables, chairs, linens, and catering options.
The Vinoy Experience
One of the most important aspects of The Vinoy is its all-inclusive luxury experience. With spa services, on-site dining, and room blocks available for guests, you and your loved ones can enjoy a full weekend of celebrations without ever leaving the property.
Conclusion
Choosing The Vinoy as your wedding venue guarantees an unforgettable day filled with elegance, history, and luxury. As a Tampa wedding photographer, I can confidently say that this venue provides everything you need for a perfect wedding day and stunning photography. If you’re planning your wedding at The Vinoy or exploring other Saint Pete wedding venues, reach out to discuss how we can capture your day in a way that reflects your unique love story.
For more tips and to schedule a consultation, visit Stills by Hernan, where we specialize in luxury wedding photography in Tampa, Saint Petersburg, and beyond.