Avalon Yacht Club Wedding Photographer | Avalon, NJ

As a Cape May-based wedding photographer, Avalon Yacht Club is one of my favorite venues to shoot – here’s everything you need to know about getting married there, plus what it’s like to work with me on your day.

Nestled along the bay in Avalon, New Jersey, Avalon Yacht Club is one of the most sought-after wedding venues on the Jersey Shore. With its breathtaking waterfront views, a seamless blend of modern elegance and historic charm, and a warm, attentive staff, it offers couples an intimate yet sophisticated setting for their wedding day. If you’re looking for a venue that embodies a coastal-chic aesthetic while delivering a seamless, elevated experience, Avalon Yacht Club is an incredible choice.

Why I Love Photographing Weddings at Avalon Yacht Club

There’s something truly magical about Avalon Yacht Club. Its bayfront location means panoramic water views at every turn, with golden hour portraits that are nothing short of stunning. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the main ballroom ensure that couples and their guests can soak in the beauty of the bay throughout the entire celebration.

Beyond the stunning setting, I love the warm and welcoming staff who go above and beyond to make sure every wedding runs smoothly. The outdoor cocktail hour on the deck is an absolute dream to photograph—guests enjoying the sunset, drinks in hand, laughter filling the air. There’s a relaxed yet elegant energy here that makes every moment feel natural and unforced, which is exactly the kind of atmosphere that allows for the most beautiful, candid photographs.

Megan & Steve’s Wedding Day at Avalon Yacht Club

When Megan and Steve reached out about photographing their Avalon Yacht Club wedding, I knew their November date was going to be something special. Megan got ready surrounded by family at her parents’ home in Avalon – the kind of unhurried, love-filled morning that sets the tone for everything that follows. Their ceremony took place at a local church before the celebration moved to the water’s edge at Avalon Yacht Club, where the November sky delivered one of the most breathtaking sunsets I’ve ever captured as an Avalon Yacht Club wedding photographer – warm amber light spilling across the bay as Megan and Steve soaked in their first moments as husband and wife. If you’re looking for a venue that pairs effortless coastal beauty with genuinely magical light, this is it.

What Makes Avalon Yacht Club Weddings Special?

One of the most unique aspects of Avalon Yacht Club is the intimate and immersive feel it provides. Unlike sprawling venues with multiple disconnected spaces, AYC keeps everything close and connected. The cocktail hour flows effortlessly into the reception, allowing guests to remain engaged with every special moment, and making it easy to capture genuine, joyful interactions.

The sunset views over the bay are truly unparalleled, offering the perfect backdrop for golden hour portraits. And with a capacity of up to 225 guests, it’s a fantastic option for couples who want to celebrate with their closest family and friends while still feeling like the day is personal and intimate.

Ceremony & Reception Spaces

Avalon Yacht Club offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony options on the North Deck, overlooking the water. This picturesque setting provides a dreamy backdrop for couples exchanging vows, whether under a clear blue sky or during the warm glow of sunset.

The reception takes place in the main ballroom, an elegant space with floor-to-ceiling windows that provide stunning panoramic views of the bay. Cocktail hour begins in the indoor round bar area and North Deck, where guests can sip drinks while taking in the scenery before the festivities truly begin.

Is Avalon Yacht Club Right for You?

This venue is perfect for couples who:

• Want to be fully present on their wedding day, soaking in every moment with family and friends.
• Love a coastal, nature-inspired setting and feel most at home by the water.
• Are drawn to a timeless and elevated aesthetic that still feels warm and inviting.
• Want an indoor-outdoor flow to their day, with an unforgettable golden hour backdrop.
• Value working with a friendly, professional team who will help bring their wedding vision to life.

Insider Tips for a Flawless AYC Wedding

• Be mindful of the wind. Since AYC sits right on the bay, it can get breezy! Have a backup portrait plan in case of high winds, and consider a secure yet elegant hairstyle.
• Ensure your photographer is skilled in full-sun photography. There’s no natural shade on the back deck, so capturing those stunning water views without overexposure requires experience.
• Schedule golden hour portraits. Set aside at least 20 minutes before sunset to capture that perfect, glowy light on the bay.
• Use the upstairs landing for a unique perspective. This spot offers an amazing vantage point to capture the dance floor in action or a romantic moment overlooking your reception.

Avalon Yacht Club Wedding Costs

According to the venue, weddings at Avalon Yacht Club start at $10,219 for 50 guests. Additional costs depend on guest count, menu selections, and added services. My wedding photography collections begin at $8,000 for full-day coverage (8-10 hours), ensuring that every special moment is captured with an intentional and artful approach.

What’s Included in an AYC Wedding Package? (Updated 2026)

A five-hour wedding reception at Avalon Yacht Club includes:

• On-site wedding coordinator
• Cocktail hour + four-hour reception
• Five-hour deluxe open bar & champagne toast
• Butlered hors d’oeuvres and cocktail hour displays
• Plated dinner & dessert station
• Cake cutting service
• Food tasting for the couple
• House linens and napkins
• Private suite for the wedding party
• Preferred vendor list for seamless planning

A site fee is required to reserve the venue, covering the use of the clubhouse and grounds:

• Member Site Fee: $1,500
• Non-Member Site Fee: $3,000
  A non-refundable deposit of $3,000 is required to secure your wedding date.

Additional Details:

• Ceremony Fee: $13 per guest for a North Deck ceremony
• Private Onsite Parking: Guests may leave cars overnight (must be removed by noon the next day).
• Liquor Policy: As a licensed venue, AYC follows NJ liquor laws and does not serve shots.
• Payment Schedule: 50% of the estimated balance is due 8 months before the wedding; the final guest count and balance are due 10 days prior.

My Favorite Photo Locations at Avalon Yacht Club

There are so many stunning spots for wedding portraits at Avalon Yacht Club, but a few of my favorites include:

• The bayfront deck – Nothing beats the romantic, golden light reflecting off the water.
• The back stairs leading to the dock – A quiet, tucked-away spot perfect for couple’s portraits.
• The landing overlooking the reception space – A unique angle for capturing the energy of the dance floor or an intimate moment between the couple.

Plan Your Avalon Yacht Club Wedding

Avalon Yacht Club is the perfect venue for couples who want a refined yet relaxed celebration, stunning waterfront views, and a seamless, joyful wedding experience. If you’re dreaming of a wedding that feels effortless yet elegant, filled with laughter, golden light, and unforgettable moments by the bay, this venue is for you.

Venue Details

Address: 704 7th Street, Avalon, NJ 08202
Phone: 609-967-4444
Website: https://avalonyachtclub.com/weddings-and-events
Capacity: Up to 225 guests

If you’re planning your Avalon Yacht Club wedding and looking for a photographer who will capture every meaningful moment with an artistic and timeless approach, I’d love to chat! Inquire here to get started.