Valentina & Caleb’s Classic Lightner Museum Wedding | St. Augustine, FL
Filed in weddings — February 9, 2026
Last fall, against the timeless elegance of the historic Lightner Museum wedding venue in St. Augustine, FL: timeless Spanish Renaissance backdrop & curated event spaces, Valentina and Caleb celebrated their love story in a day that felt both classic and deeply personal. The weather was pure perfection — sunshine, blue skies, and that warm glow that only Florida in fall can bring — a dream for portraits and celebrations alike.
Their Love Story: From High School Sweethearts to Soulmates
Valentina and Caleb’s story began like something out of a movie — way back in high school. They first met as sophomores, and Caleb bravely asked for Valentina’s phone number despite her barely speaking English at the time (she had just moved from Venezuela that same year). They gave dating a try, but the timing just wasn’t right.
Fast forward to 2020 — after a few twists and turns, including a move out of state — Valentina returned home to Tampa, and Caleb learned she was back in town and single. He asked her on a date to Fresh Kitchen, and the rest was history. From that moment, they’ve been inseparable. 💛
The Engagement That Brought Them to St. Augustine
Their engagement story unfolded right here in St. Augustine — a city that would eventually hold their wedding day too.
They took a mini getaway with a plan to explore Castillo de San Marcos National Monument early in the morning. Caleb thought getting there before the crowds would be romantic… only to find the place filled with a whole middle school field trip at 8 am! 😂
Still (despite the chaos), the moment was perfect and he popped the question anyway. Classic Caleb — thoughtful, nervous, and absolutely in love.
Why They Work So Well Together
Caleb says he loves how caring Valentina is — “even though I can’t only name one thing,” he jokes. Valentina adores Caleb’s discipline, his deep love, and the way he cares for family. Their connection is rooted in unwavering support, laughter over shared meals, and a partnership that feels effortless.
Their shared love? Food. Lots of it. These two are unapologetic foodies — brunch adventures, exploring new restaurants, and selfies with dessert always on deck.
A Classic, Elegant Wedding at the Lightner Museum
Choosing the Lightner Museum Weddings & Events as their venue was a perfect match for Valentina & Caleb’s vision of classic, timeless romance.
Originally built in 1888 as the grand Hotel Alcazar by railroad magnate Henry Flagler, the venue shines with Spanish Renaissance Revival architecture and rich history that makes every corner a photo opportunity from light-filled atriums to grand ballrooms that once housed the world’s largest indoor swimming pool.
The museum’s versatile spaces allowed their day to unfold seamlessly:
- Ceremony in a stunning historic space with heartfelt vows
- Live violinist providing an elegant soundtrack
- Outdoor portraits around classic architectural details and lush gardens
- Cocktail hour and reception in spaces that felt like walking into a storybook
Whether sharing a quiet smile in front of a sunlit stained-glass window or dancing beneath market lights in the grand spaces, the venue elevated every moment.
What They Love To Do Together
Outside of wedding planning bliss and lively dinners, Valentina and Caleb treasure simple life moments together: traveling on spontaneous trips, discovering new food spots, and making any ordinary night feel like an adventure.
Vendors & Dream Team Love
Weddings like this don’t happen without the perfect team. If you loved the elegance of their Lightner Museum celebration and are curious about planning your own, start with a visit to the Lightner Museum Weddings site above to explore packages, event spaces, and options for ceremonies and receptions that suit both intimate gatherings and larger celebrations.
Thanks for Reading 💛
If Valentina & Caleb’s Lightner Museum celebration made you smile, you’re in the right place and there’s so much more where this came from.
Ready to plan your own timeless wedding story?
Let’s chat about how to bring your vision to life in your dream location — whether it’s historic St. Augustine or beyond! ✨
