The Journal by Rae of Flowers

Castle Dreams & Hydrangea Blooms

A Timeless Castlegate Wedding | Vilano Beach, FL

Some wedding days feel like they’ve been pulled straight from the pages of a storybook, and Mariah and Zack’s wedding was exactly that.

Nestled in Vilano Beach, just minutes from historic downtown St. Augustine, the couple exchanged vows surrounded by the natural beauty and coastal charm of Castlegate Beach House. With the iconic Castle Otttis standing proudly in the background, guests were welcomed into a setting that felt both enchanting and unforgettable.

Through the partnership between Sun and Sea Beach Weddings and Rae of Flowers‘ Lead Florist, Shawn Dudney, Mariah and Zack’s wedding vision came to life seamlessly. From planning and coordination to floral design and installation, every detail was thoughtfully curated to create a celebration that felt both elegant and personal.

The ceremony space featured timeless white florals accented with soft blue hydrangeas, creating a romantic color palette that perfectly complemented the venue’s coastal surroundings and historic backdrop. A stunning floral arch framed the couple as they exchanged vows, set against the iconic backdrop of historic Castle Otttis, creating an unforgettable ceremony scene that felt both timeless and enchanting.

As the bride made her way down the aisle, carrying a bouquet filled with lush blue hydrangeas, crisp white blooms, and delicate floral accents, the beauty of the day came together effortlessly. The soft blue and white palette carried throughout the celebration, creating an atmosphere that was both classic and sophisticated.

One of the most memorable elements of the day was the ceremony itself. Surrounded by family, friends, and breathtaking scenery, Mariah and Zack began their next chapter together in one of St. Augustine’s most unique wedding venues, Castlegate Beach house. The combination of coastal elegance, historic architecture, and thoughtfully designed florals created an unforgettable experience for everyone in attendance.

The thoughtful floral design carried seamlessly from the ceremony into the reception, creating a cohesive experience for guests throughout the evening. One of the most impactful design elements was the ceremony arch, overflowing with white blooms, soft blue hydrangeas, and lush greenery. Following the ceremony, the arch was repurposed behind the sweetheart table, transforming into a stunning floral backdrop for the bride and groom while maximizing both beauty and functionality.

Inside the reception space, elevated centerpieces featuring hydrangeas, roses, chrysanthemums, and delicate blue accents added height and elegance to each table. The sweetheart table was adorned with lush floral meadows spilling gracefully onto the floor, accented by candlelight and tropical greenery that brought warmth and romance to the room. The combination of soft blue and white florals, glowing candles, and thoughtfully curated details created an atmosphere that felt timeless, intimate, and effortlessly elegant—perfectly reflecting the bride and groom’s vision for their wedding day.

At Rae of Flowers, we believe every bloom tells a story, and it was an honor to help bring the bride and groom’s vision to life alongside our partners at Sun and Sea Beach Weddings. From the breathtaking ceremony beneath Castle Otttis to the candlelit reception celebration, every floral element was intentionally designed to celebrate the moments that matter most.

We wish the bride and groom a lifetime filled with happiness, adventure, and countless reasons to celebrate. Thank you for allowing us to be part of such a beautiful beginning.