Maine: “The Way Life Should Be” — and Maybe the Way Weddings Should Be, Too

Let’s be honest — there’s something magical about getting married in Maine. From fog-kissed coastlines and pine-filled forests to cozy barns and lakeside lodges, this state is basically a wedding daydream come to life. But here’s the thing: there’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to celebrating love here.

If the last few years have taught us anything (looking at you, 2020), it’s that couples are ditching the pressure of big, traditional weddings in favor of something more intentional, more intimate, and way more them. Whether it’s exchanging vows barefoot on a beach with just your partner, or gathering a small group of your favorite humans at a charming inn in Freeport — small weddings in Maine are not just a trend, they’re a movement.

As a Maine wedding photographer, I’ve had the absolute joy of capturing everything from windswept elopements in Acadia to candlelit dinners in rustic barns — and trust me: just because a wedding is small doesn’t mean it’s any less extraordinary. In fact, it’s often even more meaningful.

So what’s the difference between an elopement, microwedding, and intimate wedding — and which is right for you?

What Is an Elopement?

If you’ve ever dreamed of saying “I do” on a rocky Maine cliffside, deep in an Acadia forest, or beside a remote lake at sunrise — elopement might be your path.

An elopement is typically just the couple, an officiant, and a photographer (maybe a few close guests). Luckily, we can offer both photography and officiant services all wrapped together! The experience is stripped down, focused entirely on your connection, and perfect for couples craving something quiet, sacred, and adventurous.

Popular Maine Elopement Locations:

Acadia National Park
Popham Beach
Baxter State Park
Mount Battie in Camden

As your elopement photographer in Maine, I can also help you scout locations and build a timeline that makes the most of golden light and the landscape.

What Is a Microwedding?

Microweddings are small weddings with 10–40 guests — just enough to gather your nearest and dearest without the stress (or cost) of a huge guest list.

Many Maine couples are hosting microweddings in cozy inns, private homes, or small barns, often with an outdoor ceremony and intimate dinner reception. You still get the full wedding feel — ceremony, photos, cake, maybe even a dance — but in a more relaxed and personal way.

Perfect Microwedding Venues in Maine:

Harraseeket Inn in Freeport
The Barn on Walnut Hill
The Greenhouse at Highland Farm
A family cabin on a lake or woodsy ceremony with a backyard tent to follow

Microweddings allow for deeper storytelling, capturing laughter, toasts, stolen glances — all with space to breathe.

What Is an Intimate Wedding?

Think of an intimate wedding as a classic wedding with a guest list of 20–60 people. It’s still small by most standards, but it allows for a fuller experience — full bridal party, longer reception, and more room to personalize.

Many couples love intimate weddings because they allow for quality time with guests, custom details, and a stress-free atmosphere. Maine is full of intimate wedding venues — from seaside resorts to working farms to historic inns.

Intimate Wedding Venues in Maine:

Hardy Farm in Fryeburg
The Inn on Peaks Island
Marianmade Farm in Wiscasset
Pineland Farms in New Gloucester

As a Maine intimate wedding photographer, I focus on the little moments that make your day unique: a parent’s happy tears, a private vow exchange, your best friend’s epic speech.

So... Which One Feels Right to You?

Whether you're dreaming of a mountaintop elopement or an elegant microwedding with your closest people, there’s no wrong way to get married in Maine.

No matter the size, your story deserves to be beautifully told. I’d be honored to help you document it.

Let’s Plan Something Beautiful Together

Ready to plan your small Maine wedding or elopement? I’d love to help you create and capture something meaningful. Let’s talk about what you’re dreaming up — and make some magic in the Maine woods, coast, or wherever your heart leads.

Contact me today to start planning your intimate Maine wedding.