There’s no better time to create lifelong, cherished memories than during a couple’s wedding ceremony and reception. While a wealth of elements contribute to the success of that most celebratory of events, the venue is critical. It sets the mood. It has the power to bestow a lasting awe upon the wedding party and guests alike. And, when well run, it can ensure that all goes smoothly and everyone departs with a deep sense of satisfaction.
For those seeking such exquisite venues, Amelia Island offers some of the best. Saltmarsh Hospitality Group has restored and overseen some of the grandest properties and estates there, each with a different vibe but each with something transcendent to offer.
Here’s a look.
THE FLORIDA HOUSE INN
Built between 1857 and 1859, this grand example of an antebellum South house, centrally located in downtown Fernandina on South 3rd Street, is the oldest, continuously operated hotel in the State of Florida. Ernie Saltmarsh purchased the property in 2009 and restored it to its former glory, reopening it as an inn with 17 guest rooms.
“A lot of times, our couples or different events will book out the majority of our guest rooms, and then it kind of becomes their home away from home for the weekend,” explained Emily Saltmarsh, event manager.
It’s located within walking distance to night life, dining, shopping and the marina. And it’s fewer than two miles to the beach.
It’s a very nice event space with many worthy attributes, perfect for couples seeking to tailor their event to their tastes. There’s a courtyard with iconic mermaid fountain, a grand oak tree offering its shady canopy and a covered back porch with bar. With gathering spaces both inside and out, as well as a main dining room and a smaller one, there is plenty of flexibility.
The perfect after-party place, the Green Turtle Tavern, is right next door. In fact, the side courtyard between the properties can easily host wedding ceremonies themselves, if desired.
“The Florida House just has that Old Florida charm, you know, Southern hospitality,” said Emily Saltmarsh. “We do all the food and beverage in-house, as well as the set-up, break-down, tables, chairs, linens, staffing … We take care of a lot of the big items when it comes to weddings and events, and so we work really closely with our couples and clients just to make sure they have everything they need.”
THE LESESNE HOUSE
Many will remember the Lesesne House from its hosting the Dickens After Dark costumed Victorian soiree concurrent with the annual Dickens on Centre Christmas market and holiday festival.
Located at 415 Centre St., it is known as “the Crown Jewel on Centre Street.” This antebellum, Greek Revival-style residence dates from around 1856-1860. It is the oldest home in Fernandina.
Many wedding celebrations have been held here. It has a back courtyard garden, a bridal suite and groom’s quarters inside the house and can be rented day-of as a get-ready space for a wedding.
THE OCEAN CLUB OF AMELIA
The Ocean Club of Amelia, located at 2080 S. Fletcher Ave., is one of the few oceanfront venues on Amelia Island. It’s a great place for those wanting the Atlantic as the backdrop for their wedding ceremony. Chairs and whatever else is needed can be set up right on the beach, and the reception can then be held at the Ocean Club itself. The venue has both upstairs and downstairs spaces to help customize the experience.
“You can have, for instance, a cocktail hour downstairs followed by dinner upstairs overlooking the ocean,” said Emily Saltmarsh.
Creative couples can make use of multiple venues, booking stays at The Florida House for friends and family and holding the wedding festivities at the Ocean Club, for instance. For those services not provided by Saltmarsh Hospitality Group — such as photography, music and more — the business maintains a curated list of preferred vendors.
And the food served at these venues is highly regarded.
“Our chef, Matt Kennedy, he’s amazing,” said Emily Saltmarsh. “He’s been with Saltmarsh Hospitality and our different restaurants for over 10 years now. We get a lot of compliments on the quality of the food that we serve. We also have a full liquor license, so we’re able to offer a full bar or beer and wine.”
Saltmarsh is also a floral designer and operates Hand Picked Floral Design. Learn more at handpickedfloraldesign.com.
These venues also host a lot of more intimate events, such as baby showers, bridal showers, birthday parties and engagement parties. For those planning a large-scale event, however, it’s probably advisable to make reservations a year out.
“I’ve seen a lot of growth here on Amelia Island,” said Emily Saltmarsh. “It’s become a very sought-after destination spot for weddings. We do get a lot of local couples. We also do get a good amount of destination events. They want to come to our little island and really take advantage of everything it has to offer.”
Learn more about Saltmarsh Hospitality Group and its venues at shgcollection.com.
