Where do guests park?
There is ample free parking directly across the street in a well-lit lot located beside and behind our other day-use facility, the Coastal Community Center. All parking is included in the venue rental package.
How many guests will the Grand ballroom hold?
We can accommodate 220 guests seated or 300 cocktail style reception.
May I bring my own food?
All food and beverage service (except for cake or desserts) must be provided by one of the approved caterers on our list, with the exception of the bridal party bringing pre-event snacks.
How long is the rental time?
Rental time varies between 7-9 hours from the start of setup to the end of breakdown, based on the package selected. Up to two hours of early access time may be arranged at the cost of $500/hour. One additional hour of extra event time may be arranged in advance only for $1,000.
How do I reserve a date?
A 25% non-refundable retainer and signed contract reserves your date. All deposits can be made by check made payable to “COA”, or any major credit card.
When is the remaining balance due?
An additional 25% of the rental fee will be due six months prior to your event, payable by check, or any major credit card. The remaining balance is due 30 days prior to your event, payable by check only made out to “St. Johns County Council on Aging”.
How and when should I apply for the host liquor liability insurance coverage?
No later than 2 weeks out. You will need to get a 1-day $1M host liquor liability insurance policy with St. Johns County Council on Aging as the added insured. Please have a copy of the certificate emailed to us.
Information on obtaining coverage will be provided, along with a direct link to obtain the policy.
How is the lighting outside at night?
Out front – the fountain area is spot lit, the covered entryway is illuminated, and there are lanterns on the either side of the front doors.
In the back – the building, terrace and stairs are lit. The observation deck has Edison string lights along the railing, and the edge of the terrace bulkhead also has inlayed rope lights.
When do I have my “walk through” appointment?
Your final walk-through is scheduled to take place 30-45 days prior to the event. Your planner or coordinator is required to attend the walk-through.
The appointment itself will take about an hour.
Will someone from River House be present during my event?
Yes, two River House staff members are present for the duration of each event. They are responsible for handling any venue-related issues, but do not assist with any vendor or personal décor setup.
Where are ceremonies held?
We have two spaces available for your ceremony. Outside on our stone-paved terrace is the most popular choice, however you may also plan your ceremony inside our Grand Ballroom on our 32ft round hardwood dance floor. Both spaces include our breathtaking view overlooking the Intracoastal Waterway and the St. Augustine Lighthouse.
How many ceremony chairs are included?
River House can provide 200 white garden chairs. The set-up and breakdown is provided by River House staff. For indoor ceremonies, we use Gold Chiavari chairs with ivory cushions.
When are the ceremony chairs set up and broken down?
As general rule, they are set up 2 hours prior to the ceremony start and taken down at the end of the evening. This is also when a decision is made whether or not a ceremony will be moved inside due to inclement weather.
How many chairs can the ceremony space accommodate?
We have had up to 220 chairs set up for ceremonies on the patio. We also have chairs and tables on our Library terrace which guests can use to watch the ceremony.
For indoor ceremonies, 130 seats can be accommodated on the dance floor. Additional guests would be seated at the reception tables to view the ceremony.
How many people are in each row for the outside ceremony?
Depending on the final guest count! Usually 10-12 guests per row on each side, with the 1st row on each side having the exact number of seats needed for the immediate family.
May I use an arch or other décor outdoors?
Yes, you may use any décor as long as it is set up and removed the same day and does not leave any permanent marks or damage to the pavers or building. Please be sure all décor is secured sufficiently to withstand any gusts of wind.
Are there any restrictions regarding ceremony music?
There are no music restrictions. Many weddings have live music for the ceremony and cocktail hour or have their DJ bring a separate smaller sound system to use outdoors. There are plenty of outlets available to accommodate any electrical equipment.
Will the officiant need a microphone?
That is your choice. Depending on the breeze on your wedding day, it may be more of a hindrance than a help. Most opt to not use a microphone.
May I have a rehearsal the day prior?
You are entitled to a one-hour rehearsal the day prior to your wedding. The timing, however, is subject to other events scheduled at River House that day. We recommend planning for a morning rehearsal the day before your event.
Do I need a wedding coordinator?
Yes, we require that you have a licensed and insured professional day-of coordinator to ensure proper care and use of our building, as well as to facilitate a smooth execution of the event. This person will represent the client to oversee setup and vendor arrivals, sign for deliveries, place any personal décor, etc.
* Please note that your coordinator may not be someone who is a guest at the event.
Where is the cocktail hour held?
Weather permitting the cocktail hour takes place outside on our stone paved terrace. In case of inclement weather, a bar may be set up in our Library or our Conservatory depending upon the package you have selected.
Where is the buffet set up?
Caterers typically set up the buffet/stations in the Conservatory which is directly off our Ballroom with easy access for both the guests and catering staff.
May I have a longer reception?
You may arrange in advanced only for one additional hour of event time for $1,000. Please keep in mind that in doing so there will likely be additional fees with all your other vendors as well.
What types of tables are available?
Guest tables are 72″ rounds with ten guests per table.
Four highboy cocktail tables for cocktail hour.
We also have 6′ and 8′ banquet tables banquet tables to create feasting tables, buffets, bars, etc.
Are candles permitted?
No open flames are allowed, but candles with the flames enclosed in votives or hurricanes are allowed.
What décor is allowed? Do I need to take it all that night?
You may use any décor as long as it is set up and removed the same day and does not leave any permanent marks or damage. In order to preserve our hardwood floor, we do not allow any dance floor decals. Please bear in mind that it must be put up and taken down within the allotted time. All décor must be removed the same day unless a previous arrangement has been made with the River House Events Management.
May I move the Baby Grand piano?
We request that the piano stay in place due to tuning. However, the piano may be played, or you may use it to feature your cake.
Are linens included in the rental fee?
Solid, polyester floor length linens are included in your venue rental.
What is allowed for the couple's “send off” at the end of the evening?
You may use bubbles, ribbon wands, bells, LED lights and glow sticks.
Sparklers, confetti, streamers, tinsel, rice and birdseed, in addition to fireworks or Chinese “wish” lanterns are prohibited.
May I use a caterer not on the approved list?
You must choose a caterer from our approved list, as they are familiar with our facility and have had successful events here.
How is the bar (alcohol) handled?
All River House approved caterers will allow you to do a “host” bar. This means you can supply the alcohol and they will provide the professional bartenders.
Self service or cash bars are not allowed. In addition, alcoholic shots are not permitted.
Does River House have snacks/drinks available prior to the ceremony?
We do not provide any snacks or drinks so we recommend that you bring your own refreshments to enjoy while getting ready.
Reviews of River House
Daniela
My husband and I knew that we wanted to get married at a place on the water, but had a large ballroom to accommodate our large families (150+ wedding guests). We toured a few places that met either one or the other condition, but not both, until we toured River House! The property is absolutely beautiful and the view of the Matanzas River and the lighthouse do NOT disappoint! I knew that this was THE venue for us after we left- I just could not stop thinking about it! Pre-booking, touring, and wedding prep: My experience with River House staff was seamless and easy.
Ashley
Best venue in town! My husband and I got married at San Sebastian Catholic Church and then had our reception at the River House. I was born and raised in Saint Augustine, Florida and have seen a lot of wedding venues in town. I knew once I saw the River House that I would someday have my wedding reception there. There is something different about it than all the other popular venues in downtown St. Augustine! This venue was the most impressionable to us for many reasons. The classic and timeless architecture and decor, the beautiful views of the water, and the secluded, yet near downtown location made this venue a must for us. We knew right when we walked to the door that we would get married there. What makes it even better is that this venue gives back to the community through Council on aging for the elderly.
Christa M.
River House in St. Augustine, FL is an amazing venue! From the beginning, Constance and her staff were very professional, responsive and accommodating. You can't beat the view of the river and the lighthouse which made for excellent pictures! They also have plenty of free parking which is a huge plus when it comes to venues in St. Augustine. Highly recommend!
