Let me introduce you to a curveball wedding venue that you've probably never considered. St Augustine's is a converted Victorian church turned café and arts space in Brighton - and it is, frankly, a bit of a hidden gem for weddings.
From the outside it looks like a church. But step inside and you're hit with soaring original ceilings, exposed brick walls and an atmosphere that sits somewhere between a grand arts space, a church, a cafe and a really excellent brunch spot. It's warm, characterful, a little unexpected, and completely brilliant.
I've shot a wedding here and the photography was genuinely some of my favourite work. The light in the church room is extraordinary - that old church architecture knows what it's doing with windows. Everything feels spacious and interesting. The kind of space where you don't need to work hard for a good photo because the backdrop is already doing so much.
What I also love is that it attracts couples who are a little left-field - creative people, arts lovers, couples who specifically didn't want a barn or a hotel ballroom. That mindset tends to produce really honest, relaxed, joyful wedding days. People arrive curious and leave absolutely buzzing.
What the photography looks like here
The interior itself is such a strong shooting environment that we could stay in all day and I'd be very happy. But there's also a lovely garden area outside, and the surrounding streets of Brighton are excellent for portraits - we're not far from Preston Park either if you want more green space.
Practical stuff
Here's something genuinely useful that doesn't get said enough: the parking near St Augustine's is significantly better than most central Brighton venues. If you've got guests driving in from further afield - family from out of town, anyone who's not on the train - this is actually a really meaningful practical win. One less thing for people to stress about.
Ready to chat?
St Augustine's wedding? Love it. Get in touch: anna@annapumerphotography.com
