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Romantic sails, seaside dinners, and intentional moments from start to finish (*photos coming soon!)

There’s something magical about coastal weddings—the salty breeze, the rhythm of the tides, the way the light lingers over the water. As a Bar Harbor, Maine wedding photographer, I had the joy of documenting what started as a single day celebration that turned into an experience their guests would talk about for years.

From the moment their family and friends arrived in town, this couple created space for connection, intention, and joy—stretching their celebration into a full weekend of love, laughter, and a little bit of lobster.

Pre-Wedding Moments That Matter

One part of the weekend that couples sometimes choose to have photographed is the rehearsal dinner. These evenings are often full of heartfelt toasts, live music, and intimate family-style meals—sometimes even a classic Maine lobster bake. It’s the perfect setting for capturing casual candids with your favorite people, full of warmth, connection, and laughter.

For me as a photographer, it’s more than just coverage—it’s a chance to meet your closest people, observe the dynamics, and start tuning in to the moments that matter. That understanding often helps me capture those unexpected, quiet in-between moments on the wedding day with even more care.

A Welcome Party on the Water

To kick off the weekend, they chartered a sailboat for a sunset cruise around Frenchman Bay. Guests enjoyed bubbling beverages, cozy blankets draped over shoulders, and the glow of anticipation in the air. The laughs, memories made, and the experience alone was just the start of a weekend that felt deeply personal and beautifully Bar Harbor.

Pre-Ceremony, Getting Ready, First Look & Portraits

A low-key morning of detail photos, hair & makeup, matching pjs and champagne pops on the balcony was the perfect way to kick off the wedding day! Rather than slipping away during cocktail hour for portraits, this couple chose to do a first look earlier in the day It gave them a quiet, emotional moment together before the festivities began—and allowed for all of their portraits to be taken before the ceremony, freeing them up for what came next.

Pre-Ceremony Getting Ready, First Look & Portraits

Rather than slipping away during cocktail hour for portraits, this couple chose to do a first look earlier in the day after a low-key morning of detail photos, hair & makeup, matching pjs and champagne on the balcony. It gave them a quiet, emotional moment together before the festivities began—and allowed for all of their portraits to be taken before the ceremony, freeing them up for what came next.

Cocktail Hour Connection & Coastal Flavor

Since this couple chose to do a first look and all of their portraits prior to the ceremony—it made all the difference. It allowed them to be fully present with their guests during cocktail hour, something that mattered deeply to them. No disappearing for photos, no rushed moments—just oysters, champagne, and quality time with the people who showed up to celebrate.

The coastal setting came to life with a raw bar featuring fresh Maine seafood, local bites, and signature cocktails. The newlyweds shot oysters, floated effortlessly through the space, laughed with friends while live instrumentals played in the background. It was the perfect blend of elegance and ease—an intentional pause that felt just as memorable as the ceremony itself. The candid photos and relaxed portraits reflect that perfectly.

Coastal-Inspired Design & Personal Touches

Their wedding day unfolded with effortless elegance—colorful florals that popped against the coastal palette, thoughtful design details that reflected their personalities, and a ceremony filled with emotion. The ocean served as the backdrop for nearly every moment, grounding the day in place and presence. From the handwritten vows to the subtle nods to Maine’s natural textures, everything felt curated, yet entirely relaxed.

Al Fresco Dining at the Bar Harbor Club

Dinner took place outdoors at the iconic Bar Harbor Club, where twinkle lights swayed gently in the sea breeze. Guests dined under the stars on locally inspired dishes and signature cocktails, surrounded by the sounds of the sea and live instrumentals. It felt like the kind of night you never want to end—and they made sure it didn’t, with a full dance party under the open sky.

After-Parties & Late-Night Moments

For couples who don’t want the night to end, after-parties can be such a fun extension of the celebration. Whether it’s a quick outfit change, a round of espresso martinis, or late-night bites with your people, these moments bring a totally different energy—one that’s candid, carefree, and full of joy.

In Bar Harbor, places like Project Social, Paddy’s Irish Pub, and The Barn at The Bluenose Inn often host these cozy, lively after-hours gatherings. If you’d like those memories captured too, I’m always happy to stay and document the final stretch of your story—messy dance floors, salty snacks, and all.

A Thoughtful Farewell (and More Moments Worth Capturing)

While this couple chose not to have their farewell brunch photographed, it was still a meaningful and relaxed way to close out the weekend. From a cozy morning brunch to a scenic hike in Acadia National Park or even a tee time at Kebo Valley Golf Club, these send-off moments offer space to slow down and truly enjoy your last day in Maine.

Including these moments helps create a complete and connected story of your entire wedding experience. Whether it’s final hugs, post-wedding reflections, or one last round of coffee (or cocktails!) with your favorite people, these quieter chapters can be just as special as the main event.

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Why It Worked

What made this weekend so special wasn’t just the setting or the stunning details—it was the way they invited their guests into the heart of their story. By slowing down and making space for each chapter of their celebration, they created a weekend full of meaning, connection, and joy.

As a Bar Harbor, Maine wedding photographer, these are the kinds of celebrations I love capturing most—the ones where every moment, big or small, feels like part of something bigger.

Whether it’s Bar Harbor or beyond, I’d love to document your wedding weekend in a way that feels true to you. I’d love to hear more about what you’re planning—reach out here.

Your love story is one-of-a-kind, and your engagement session should be too.

As a Bar Harbor, Maine destination wedding and engagement photographer, I specialize in helping couples create engagement sessions that truly reflect their story. Whether it’s an adventurous outing, a sentimental location, or a fun activity, your engagement session should feel uniquely you.

Explore the unique engagement session ideas below and get inspired to curate one that feels best for you!

⛰ Hiking & Adventure – For outdoorsy and active couples, tell me your favorite activity! Do you play pickleball together every weekend? Great, let’s do it. Met in a running club? Show me who’s faster. And of course, Acadia National Park has many adventures — big or small, formal or casual, you name it and we’ll find perfect Maine scenery to match your vision.

🌊 Set Sail Together – If you’re drawn to the ocean, why not capture your love on the water? A sailing session through Frenchman’s Bay or riding the surf in Maui? I’m so there.

🥂 Cocktails & Good Vibes – Love a craft cocktail or locally brewed beer? Let’s take the edge off and sip on something tasty before we head to our next location. Cheers to love!

🧺 A Sweet Picnic by the Shore – Pack your favorite treats or connect with Luxury Picnics Acadia for a relaxed picnic with the best views Romantic and picturesque!

🍕 Foodie Fun in Bar Harbor – Whether it’s sharing a fresh Maine lobster roll, indulging in ice cream from a local shop, or enjoying a wood-fired pizza by the harbor, incorporating your favorite foods makes for playful and personal photos.

📍 Destination Maine — Planning a Bar Harbor engagement session from out of state? I love working with couples who want to document their love in Maine’s most breathtaking locations. Whether you have a favorite vacation spot or are planning a Bar Harbor destination wedding, you’ll get the inside scoop from a local Bar Harbor wedding & engagement photographer!

✈️ Engagement Sessions Beyond Maine – Dreaming of an epic engagement session somewhere outside of New England? Whether it’s the vast deserts of Arizona or Utah, the misty forests and rugged coastline of the Pacific Northwest, or a tropical getaway in Hawaii or the Caribbean, I am always passport ready and would love to meet you there. Your love story deserves to be captured in a location that feels special to you—no matter where that may be. *Special rates available for select destinations + national parks!*

Now booking 2025 destination engagement sessions and weddings in coastal Maine and beyond!

Your love story is one-of-a-kind, and your engagement session should be too. If you’re looking for an experienced Bar Harbor engagement photographer who loves to travel, let’s chat and create something unforgettable!

REACH OUT HERE!

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.

Embrace the Extraordinary: Unique Wedding Ideas for Unforgettable Celebrations

Are you dreaming of a wedding day that breaks away from tradition and embraces the extraordinary? In a world where couples are increasingly seeking unique and personalized experiences, there has never been a better time to think outside the box when it comes to saying “I do.” From breathtaking natural settings to unconventional dining experiences, the possibilities for creating a wedding that truly reflects your love story are endless. Today, we’re exploring one particularly enchanting idea: a micro-wedding in Acadia National Park followed by a family-style pizza dinner at Sweet Pea’s Cafe in Bar Harbor, Maine.

The Magic of Acadia National Park

Nestled along the rugged coast of Maine, Acadia National Park offers a stunning backdrop for couples seeking a wedding that’s both intimate and awe-inspiring. Imagine exchanging vows surrounded by towering granite cliffs, pristine forests, and the soothing sounds of crashing waves. Whether you choose to say “I do” atop Cadillac Mountain at sunrise or beneath the lush canopy of a secluded forest glade, Acadia provides a natural canvas for creating unforgettable memories.

Intimacy in Every Detail

One of the defining characteristics of a micro-wedding is its emphasis on intimacy and meaningful connections. With a smaller guest list, couples have the opportunity to focus on the details that matter most to them, whether it’s handwritten vows exchanged in a secluded grove or personalized keepsakes for each attendee. Acadia National Park offers countless picturesque locations for your ceremony, ensuring that every moment is imbued with a sense of wonder and intimacy.

A Deliciously Unconventional Dinner

After exchanging vows in the midst of nature’s splendor, why not continue the celebration with a dining experience that’s as unique as your love story? Picture this: long wooden tables adorned with twinkling lights, surrounded by your closest friends and family members. Instead of a formal sit-down dinner, opt for a family-style feast featuring everyone’s favorite comfort food: pizza!

A family-style pizza dinner is not only delicious and budget-friendly but also encourages conversation and camaraderie among guests. Choose a local pizzeria or catering service (like Sweet Pea’s Cafe) to provide an array of gourmet pizzas, from classic margheritas to inventive toppings inspired by local flavors. Pair it with crisp salads, savory appetizers, and refreshing beverages for a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul.

Making Memories to Last a Lifetime

In the end, what truly makes a wedding unforgettable are the moments shared with loved ones and the memories created along the way. By embracing unique ideas like a micro-wedding in Acadia National Park followed by a family-style pizza dinner, couples can craft a celebration that reflects their personalities, values, and love for each other.

So, if you’re ready to embark on an adventure unlike any other, consider stepping off the beaten path and into the extraordinary. Whether you’re exchanging vows atop a mountain peak or savoring slices of pizza beneath the stars, your wedding day is an opportunity to create a story that’s uniquely yours. After all, love is anything but ordinary—why should your wedding be?

Vendors –

Photographer: Emily Brianne Photography

Reception: Sweet Pea’s Cafe

Ceremony: Acadia National Park

First Look Location: Moseley’s Cottage

Hair: Brittany Spence

Flowers: Little Red Flower Truck

Are you considering a unique wedding idea like this? Share your thoughts and let me know what other extraordinary wedding ideas you’re dreaming of here!

Check out this couple’s romantic & adventurous engagement session here!

If your dog couldn’t attend your wedding, bring them along on your honeymoon (or mini-moon) to include them in some photos!

Why?! Because if your pup feels like your best friend / first born child, you’re likely going to be bumming that they couldn’t be in any of your wedding photos. Bringing your dog on your honeymoon and including them in a photo session can be a wonderful way to create lasting memories. Many couples consider their pets to be part of the family, so involving them in such special moments will add an extra layer of joy and significance to kicking off this new chapter together

Your honeymoon is a unique and cherished moment in your life, marking the beginning of your journey as a married couple. Including your beloved dog in a photo session during this time allows you to capture memories that you can cherish forever. These photos will serve as a beautiful reminder of the joy and love you shared with your pet during this special time.

Just make sure to plan accordingly, ensuring that your chosen destination is pet-friendly and that your furry friend will be comfortable and safe throughout the trip. Acadia National Park allows dogs in their slower months. You can info about visiting Acadia with a pet on their website.

I travel all over the country for honeymoon sessions (with or without dogs), and offer them in the Bar Harbor, Maine area as well. Get inspired with these photos of Jax and his humans in Acadia National Park!

Let’s chat about your destination and ideas!

How Your Engagement Session Can Be Both Adventurous and Romantic:

Your engagement marks the beginning of a thrilling journey—a journey filled with love, excitement, and endless possibilities. As you prepare to embark on this new chapter together, why not kick off the celebration with an engagement session that’s as adventurous as it is romantic? From scaling majestic mountains to strolling along sun-kissed beaches, there are countless ways to infuse your photo session with a sense of adventure while capturing the deep connection and intimacy you share as a couple. Here’s how your engagement session can be both adventurous and romantic:

Embrace the Great Outdoors

One of the best ways to add an adventurous flair to your engagement session is by taking it outdoors. Whether you’re avid hikers, nature enthusiasts, or simply love spending time in the great outdoors, there’s something undeniably romantic about exploring the beauty of nature together. Consider venturing into the wilderness for a hike to a stunning overlook, or the cliffs of Acadia National Park. Or, if you prefer a more relaxed setting, opt for a leisurely stroll through a scenic park or along a picturesque shoreline, hand in hand with your partner.

Incorporate Your Shared Hobbies and Interests

Another way to infuse your engagement session with adventure and romance is by incorporating your shared hobbies and interests. Whether you’re passionate about hiking, kayaking, or nature picnics, let your favorite activities inspire the theme and setting of your photo session. Imagine sipping champagne and sharing charcuterie on a picnic, or sharing a tender moment atop a rugged cliff overlooking the ocean. By incorporating elements of your shared passions into your engagement session, you’ll not only create unforgettable memories but also showcase the unique bond and connection you share as a couple.

It’s these candid moments of love and tenderness that truly capture the essence of your relationship. Be present in the moment, embrace the beauty of your surroundings, and let your love for each other shine in the photos.

Make It Your Own

Ultimately, your engagement session is an opportunity to celebrate your love story in a way that feels authentic and meaningful to you as a couple. Whether you’re scaling mountaintops, exploring hidden treasures, or simply enjoying each other’s company in a familiar setting, infuse your photo session with elements that reflect your unique journey together. Embrace adventure, cherish romance, and above all, savor the joy of beginning this new chapter of your lives hand in hand.

This session was the perfection depiction on their love, and translated more so in their wedding photos (view those here)! Ready for a romantic adventure? Let’s connect to find the perfect place to make it happen!

If I’m being honest, I haven’t met too many children that enjoy sitting still and smiling at the camera for 60 minutes. Who can blame them?! It’s perfectly normal for kiddos to be distracted or wanting to move around. Plus, they’re probably a bit skeptical of someone new trying to take their photo. This summer vacation family session in Acadia National Park was filled with lots of giggles and a little bribery. Maybe even some gross noises and silly jokes!

When the little ones aren’t loving the session, don’t sweat it too much. I don’t want you feeling or looking stressed because, I promise you, it happens!! Upon booking your session with me, I include a PDF to help you style and prepare for your portrait session. It includes tips and tricks that help our session go a little more smoothly. Here’s a few of my favorite things to keep in mind when it comes to little kids at family sessions:

1. If little ones are in tow, bring snacks! It helps to have a few treats like goldfish or fruit snacks on hand to keep them occupied or for bribery purposes!
2. Don’t sweat the small stuff! I work quickly to ensure the best possible results. Don’t worry about getting little ones to look at the camera. You just keep smiling at me, and I will handle the rest!
3. Expect to take breaks. With little ones, it’s common to need to stop and play. We will plan to let them stop and explore as the session goes on.

Honestly, just looking through these photos, you can see their silly personalities and all the fun that we had during our short time together! Enjoy this family session in Acadia on the blog today.

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

Ellie + Trevor came dressed to impress and the result left me swooning! Their trendy, yet timeless outfits paired so nicely together – they chose solid colors to pop against the rigid coastal backdrop in Acadia National Park. Her pale blue dress, with minimally textured sleeves, complimented his neutral colored outfit of a long sleeve button up tucked into fitted dress pants. This outfit combination gave an elegant, sophisticated feel for this newly engaged couple. I love being a Bar Harbor Maine Engagement Photographer!

Prior to their session, Ellie informed that they’re usually super awkward in front of the camera and don’t know how to pose. I quickly reminded her that it’s totally normal to feel that way and that’s what I’m there for – to walk you through the entire process, make you feel comfortable, and have lots of fun while we’re doing it!

By the end of their session, they were so relaxed, giggling and their love and excitement was really shining through. Although, even at the start of their session, you would never know they were nervous, these two are natural beauties.

Scroll through to see for yourself!

Looking for a Bar Harbor Maine Engagement Photographer? Contact me today!