Elopements

Asticou Hotel Wedding Celebration for an Acadia National Park Elopement

Some wedding days arrive with a kind of quiet magic. Jen and Pat’s Asticou Hotel wedding felt that way from the moment the sun rose over Mount Desert Island. Their celebration blended the rugged beauty of Acadia National Park with the classic charm of The Asticou Hotel in Northeast Harbor, creating a day that was warm, elegant, and deeply personal.

Getting Ready for an Acadia National Park Elopement

Jen spent her slow morning tucked into the peaceful grounds of the AirBnb the couple rented for their whole family to spend together over the entire weekend. Wrapped in the soft fall air and surrounded by Maine’s colorful foliage, Jen’s strapless gown moved beautifully as she stepped across the lawn. The fabric caught every bit of soft morning light.

Stepping inside the boutique hotel, the Asticou‘s interiors set the tone for the day with their patterned wallpaper, vintage details, and warm, welcoming spaces. The Asticou’s blend of coastal tradition and curated charm is one of the many reasons couples love it for intimate weddings. Every room feels personal. Every corner photographs beautifully.

Outside, autumn draped the property in rich color. The trees framed the luxury cabins, the tranquil pool, and the lush gardens that open toward Northeast Harbor—where private boat charters glide out toward Acadia. With all of this as their backdrop, the groom waited for his bride for their first look, surrounded by the kind of natural beauty that makes moments feel even more meaningful.

Experience Matters When Hiring a Photographer for Acadia National Park Elopements

We originally planned to go to a few locations in Acadia National Park for their portraits before the ceremony. But after seeing all of the beautiful portrait opportunities at The Asticou, and knowing how busy Acadia was since it was peak October foliage time, I helped Jen & Pat pivot slightly and we decided to skip that idea. Instead of cramming so many things into their timeline and bopping around, they stayed in the Asticou bar lounge to spend some quiet, quality time together and sip on espresso martinis. To be honest, I’m so glad everything worked out this way because it was so much more aligned with them and their laid-back style. Plus, the pictures did not disappoint!

One of my favorite moments was Jen and Pat stepping outside to greet their vintage cream-colored convertible. It sat just in front of the inn, its curved frame and polished chrome shining against the soft gray exterior of the hotel. The car felt like a natural extension of their style — timeless, a little playful, and completely fitting for the historic feel of Northeast Harbor. Jen’s white faux-fur coat only added to the vintage sophistication of the moment.

Inside, the Asticou Hotel bar and dining areas glowed with soft light. Jen and Pat slipped into the bar for a toast — one of my favorite images from their day. Jen sat at the counter in her gown, glowing and relaxed. Pat stood beside her, espresso martini in hand, with the kind of playful confidence that comes from years of comfort together. The bar’s lantern-style lighting and patterned ceiling added rich texture to the moment.

A Ceremony on the Ocean Cliffs of Acadia

Acadia National Park gave them a ceremony that felt as dramatic as it was intimate. The rocky coastline stretched out beneath the foggy sky. Waves broke against the cliffs in steady rhythm. The air held the kind of crispness that only coastal Maine gives in autumn.

Jen’s white coat moved softly in the wind as she walked toward their small group of guests. The ocean surf crashed into the rocks in the distance to add a dramatic effect. Pat waited for her in a deep blue suit that echoed the tones of the water behind him. His colors paired beautifully with Jen’s bouquet — a lush arrangement of red, burgundy, citrus-toned blooms, and coastal greenery. The florals brought warmth to the cool landscape and tied the day together with an earthy elegance.

Their vows were simple and heartfelt. With only their closest people standing around them, the moment felt grounded. You could hear the water. You could feel the wind. It was the kind of ceremony that stays with you long after the day ends.

Weddings at The Asticou Hotel in Northeast Harbor

The Asticou Inn is truly a gem for micro weddings. Its warm interiors, ocean views, and walkable grounds make it one of the most picturesque wedding venues in Northeast Harbor. The inn offers couples the rare blend of coastal beauty, historic charm, and intimate gathering spaces. It’s no surprise more couples choose it for elopements and small wedding weekends near Acadia.

Asticou Hotel Wedding Day Filled With Intention

What made Jen and Pat’s wedding feel so special was the calm woven through every part of it. They stayed present and chose places that felt meaningful. They let the landscape, the inn, and the people they love shape the rhythm of their day.

It’s the kind of celebration that reflects what micro weddings do best. They give space for connection. They prioritize experience over expectation. And they allow couples to focus on what truly matters — each other.

Pro Tip: The best way to achieve this on your wedding day is letting your photographer or planner curate a wedding-day timeline that allows for ample time between the moments and events.

Planning Your Own Acadia Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a micro wedding in Acadia National Park or an Asticou Hotel Wedding celebration, I would love to photograph your day and help you create something warm, intentional, and deeply personal. Reach out here to inquire about your Acadia elopement.

As a coastal Maine wedding photographer, I can assure you this is one of Maine’s most unique wedding venues! Prepare to blown away as you dive in further and view the timeless photos!

Nestled along the picturesque coast of Maine, the Viewpoint Hotel in York stands as an epitome of luxury and romance. Coupled with its stunning ocean views overlooking the infamous Nubble Lighthouse, elegant architecture, and impeccable service it makes a dream location for couples seeking a fairytale wedding by the sea.

A Coastal Affair: The Viewpoint Hotel

Unquestionably beautiful, as its perched atop the cliffs overlooking York Harbor, the Viewpoint Hotel offers a breathtaking backdrop for couples exchanging vows. The salty breeze, the rhythmic sound of crashing waves, and the golden hues of the setting sun create a magical ambiance that sets the stage for a truly romantic celebration.

Luxury Redefined: The Wedding Experience

It all begins from the moment guests step foot into the Viewpoint Hotel, they are greeted with unparalleled luxury and sophistication. The meticulously manicured grounds, the grandeur of the event spaces, and the attention to detail in every aspect of the wedding experience leave a lasting impression. Presently, the venue can be utilized for large groups or small elopements. With their many options, you can certainly curate a vision that aligns for you and yours.

Seaside Elegance: The Ceremony

The pictured ceremony took place on the hotel’s oceanfront lawn. Panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Nubble Light, served as a breathtaking backdrop illustrated in these photos. Additionally, a pristine aisle lined with delicate flowers led to a beautifully adorned arch crafted by Elegant Bloom Rentals, where the couple exchanged heartfelt vows amidst the gentle ocean breeze and the warm glow of the sun. On the other hand, some couples elect to share their vows on the rocks below, just the two of them.

Golden Hour Romance: The Reception

Furthermore, additional options arise as the sun dips below the horizon and casts a golden hue over the ocean… Your celebration can continue as a private oceanside dinner for two, or invite guests to celebrate under a sailcloth tent with exquisite decor, gourmet Maine cuisine, and lively entertainment to dance the night away.

The Perfect Pair

As a coastal Maine wedding photographer, I feel privileged to be part of such a magical days and to capture memories at the exquisite venues that truly showcase the essence of Maine.

This luxury venue, coupled with my timeless photographs, are the perfect way to have the coastal wedding of your dreams preserved for a lifetime.

Ready to plan your own luxury coastal wedding or elopement? Connect with me here!

Vendors –

Photography – Emily Brianne Photography

MUA – Makeup by Sarah Lord

Design – Radiant Events

Stationery/Signage – Brit Barry Design

Floral Arch + Ceremony – Elegant Blooms Rentals

Table + Bouquet – Flowers by Jennifer

Dessert – Love and Flour

Hair – @melnesius_stylist

Jewelry – Virtue Jewelers

Dress @shopbellasera

Rentals – Sperry Tents Seacoast

Venue – Viewpoint Hotel

Couple – Kara Hunt

Hiring a local wedding photographer can help enhance your micro-wedding or elopement experience! I have the inside scoop on discovering Acadia National Park’s hidden gem, the Winter Harbor branch, for a quiet micro-wedding followed by a family-style dinner at the Crocker House Inn on Hancock Point. Dive in further to be swept away!

In the bustling world of wedding planning, couples often seek the perfect blend of intimacy, natural beauty, and gastronomic delights for their special day. For those yearning for that, Acadia National Park’s, Winter Harbor branch offers a hidden gem waiting to be discovered with an idyllic escape amidst the serene landscapes ofPaired with a cozy family-style dinner featuring quintessential Maine cuisine at the historic Crocker House Inn on Hancock Point, Maine, it promises an unforgettable experience like no other.

The Winter Harbor Branch: Nature’s Serene Haven

Acadia National Park’s Winter Harbor branch offers a tranquil sanctuary away from the crowds of Mount Desert Island. Here, amidst the whispering pines and rugged coastline, you can exchange vows in the embrace of untamed beauty, similarly to this couple who opted to do their first look and portraits here. The quiet charm of this lesser-known area provides the perfect backdrop for an intimate ceremony or portraits.

A Quiet Elopement

If you’re seeking an intimate affair surrounded by the splendor of nature, the Winter Harbor branch beckons with secluded coves, rocky cliffs, and sweeping ocean views. With fewer visitors than the main branch of Acadia, you get a sense of exclusivity, allowing you to focus on each other and the natural beauty surrounding. From sunrise to sunset, the changing hues of the sky paint a breathtaking backdrop.

Family-Style Dinner at the Crocker House Inn

Afterwards, you and your guests can retreat to the nearby Crocker House Inn in Hancock for a memorable family-style dinner. Dating back to the 19th century, this newly remodeled historic inn exudes old-world charm and hospitality, making it the perfect setting for a celebratory feast.

You can indulge in a culinary journey through Maine’s rich heritage, with dishes showcasing locally sourced seafood, farm-fresh produce, and artisanal cheeses. Succulent lobster dishes coupled with buttery blueberry pie, crafts a celebration of the region’s culinary bounty.

In Conclusion

After all, in a world filled with noise and distractions, finding a hidden gem like these, offers you the opportunity to escape, connect, and create memories that will last a lifetime. With its natural beauty, intimate charm, and culinary delights, this tucked-away corner of Maine invites couples to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Scroll through to see the beautiful Acadia micro-wedding!

Let’s Create A Unique Day For You –

Hire a local wedding photographer to help you curate the Acadia micro-wedding or elopement of your dreams! Get in touch here for a custom quote on your elopement, wedding, or anything in between!

Wedding Vendors –

Photographer – Emily Brianne Photography

Ceremony – Hancock Point Chapel

Reception – Crocker House Inn

Florals – Salt Farm Flowers

Dress – Lily’s Bridal

Veil/wings – Noon On The Moon

Hair and Makeup – The Alchemist Salon

Jewelers – Nelson Coleman Jewelers

Cake – The Carmel Cake Barn

Cake Topper – Woodword Design Studio

Vow Books – TheWildDesignCo

8 Hour Coverage –

This couple opted out of getting ready coverage to spend more time on their first look, portraits, and travel time. Having over an hour of shooting time allowed us to move around and take our time for a variety of portraits on the rocks, and include their dogs! Although the fog was present on the ocean, it still made for some epic photos! Their ceremony took place at the Hancock Point Chapel and we did small groups of family portraits nearby at the town dock before they had a small gathering at The Crocker House for their reception.

An intimate mountain elopement is always a YES in my book, and the Mountain Top Resort in Chittenden, Vermont is the icing on the cake! If you want the most relaxing elopement, take your two closest on a road-trip, stay at a resort that covers all of your vendor needs, and spend the morning of your wedding day relaxing in the spa.

Mountain Top Resort is just a short drive from the one and only, Woodstock Vermont. It’s nestled in the most serene mountains, surrounded by acres of fields and 360 views. This venue is the perfect to place to host your large weddings in their event barn, or your intimate celebration in their on-site restaurant.

More so, the helpful staff will assist with all of your coordination needs for the special day. Including shuttling you around the property – from the horse fields for your first look, to the hilltop ceremony site, and to your lower reception space.

Pro Elopement Tip:

Consider adding special touches to enhance your intimate elopement experience.

For example:

• Spa treatments
• Outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, boating
• Champagne toast

Starting the day with a massage and ending with dinner, champagne, and cake made for the most relaxing day. This Maine couple surely indulged in the quaint Vermont mountain elopement experience.

I am so excited to be back at this luxury wedding venue in 2025!

If you’re looking for a wedding or elopement photographer to help make sure your day is laid-back and fun, you’re in the right place! I will travel all over to make this happen! Click here to connect and chat about your dream destination and intimate mountain elopement!

Brianne and Mark thought they could escape September hurricane weather in Florida. Believe it or not, our scheduled elopement day was a complete wash. Even in Maine we still get effects from the hurricanes down south. But we still managed to get their Acadia National Park adventure elopement in the following day!

Since it was just the two of them, they had the flexibility to reschedule to a new day. Fortunately, I had availability in my schedule to make that happen before another elopement later that afternoon. That is a big perk of elopements! You have flexibility for your timing, activities that you want, and a day tailored to your wants. 

Jordan Pond Elopement

We all met at Jordan Pond in Acadia National Park. They led us to a spot they had picked out for their ceremony. It was tucked off of the walking path to provide a little more privacy and better views of Bubble Rocks. Fortunately the rain had passed, but the extreme winds stuck around. The gale force winds ripping off of Jordan Pond created white caps on the water. It was cold and windy, but it was spectacular. Mother Nature’s forceful surprises truly added to the adventure. 

In true elopement fashion, their officiant Rev. Erika Hewitt, stopped two hikers to ask if they would be witnesses. They graciously agreed, and we got started with their meaning ceremony. 

In lieu of their family being present, they wrote letters for Bri and Mark to read to each other. Their eyes filled with tears hearing the kind words their family had for them. I personally loved this idea so much. I think it’s an incredible way to include loved ones and add even more sentiment to your elopement experience. 

Prior to their trip to Maine, Rev. Erika suggested they fill a jar with mementos from their trip. The jar was filled with stones from the shore, leaves from their walks, and blooms from her bouquet. Best of all, they included a whisker from their beloved kitty who didn’t make the trip from Florida. This one pulled at my cat mama heart strings! Now, in addition to their photographs and heirloom albums, they have this little jar to help remember their elopement. 

What ways will you add sentiment into your special day? Scroll through the photos for some inspiration! 

Did you enjoy this Acadia National Park adventure elopement? If so, you will love this Coastal Wedding in Maine.

Luxury meets adventure here in Bar Harbor, Maine. This glamorous couple chose outfits that were still similar to traditional wedding attire. Nick was in a full suit and tie with a boutonniere, and Amber wore a long sleeve white gown that flowed so perfectly in the wind. Being a professional cosmetologist in Clearwater Florida, Amber did all of her own hair and makeup flawlessly. Her simple jewelry paired so perfectly with the elegant glam and bridal bouquet that complimented the colors of the cold Atlantic ocean. It was the perfect luxury elopement in Acadia National Park!

Amber and Nick traveled to Maine, fully trusted me (even before meeting me), to pick her up from her hotel in Downtown Bar Harbor. I drove her to meet Nick in the National Park so they could see each other for a first look. I prepped them in advance on where he should stand and face at Sand Beach. She walked down the stairs to reveal her gorgeous gown to him. After we spent a little bit of time at Sand Beach for some portraits, they followed me to our next spot. It was a little hidden gem I keep up my sleeve. They hadn’t seen before. I led them down a steep path through the evergreens where we landed at a small, secluded spot on the pink granite cliffs of Acadia. It towered over a pebble cove where you can hear the waves crashing and rolling the rocks against each other. The peaceful sounds of nature paired with the crisp salty air blowing across the water and onto your cheeks made for the most serene spot. Here they shared their beautiful handwritten vows.  

Bar Harbor Elopement

As Amber + Nick read from their custom vow books, I wasn’t able to hear what they were saying. But I could tell by their expressions that it was filled with lots of love, emotion, and happiness. They sealed the deal with the exchange of wedding bands and a first kiss. Then, we spent some more time rock hopping along the rugged coast of Maine. 

While they may live in Florida now, they chose Acadia because its scenery reminded them of Nick’s hometown in Alaska. During our few short hours together, they told me all about their love story, how they met, and the things they love the most. (Hearing about their travels and their trip to Alaska together, has me even more excited for my trip there in August of 2023!)

We finished up our time together back in Downtown Bar Harbor, at the hotel they were staying at. The architecture and grounds of The Bar Harbor Regency created a slight European with classic elegance. 

This is the perfect example of being able to have a luxury wedding experience with fun and adventure as well. From just a couple of phone calls, emails and questionnaires we had already got a sense of each other’s personalities so when we met for the first time on the day of their elopement, there was no feeling of awkwardness. There was an instant connection that made it so easy to talk to each other and learn more and more about them as we spent that time together. We created timeless photographs that are classy and packed with adventure, truly reflecting their love story and our full elopement experience that we created together. 

Who knew climbing through nature in wedding attire and hiking boots could look so fabulous?! 

Vendors

• Photography: Emily Brianne Photography
• Location: Acadia National Park
• Hotel: The Bar Harbor Regency
• Hair + Makeup: Amber Brockway
• Florals: Queen Anne’s
• Dress: Asos Bridal