the      Blog

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.

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!

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!

Samantha and Daniel showed up to their session looking like they were straight out of an Eddie Bauer magazine, and I absolutely loved it!! I am all about choosing clothes that feel like YOU. They have a yearly tradition of having anniversary photos taken, and this year they were visiting Bar Harbor to celebrate their anniversary doing lots of hiking, so the outfits fit the occasion…and it’s a good thing too – it was quite windy & chilly for these Texans!

I just love the adventurous vibes of this session, scroll through and check out our fun session.

“We knew we wanted pictures in beautiful Acadia, but weren’t sure exactly where since we weren’t familiar with the area. Emily offered suggestions based on what scenery we were looking for in the photos and even gave some outfit tips (my husband and I actually changed outfits at the last minute due to windy/cold weather that we hadn’t quite anticipated). She did a great job before the shoot of trying to get a feel for our style, which I think really helped us feel comfortable during our shoot.

When we finally got to meet her the day of the shoot, she was friendly and provided great direction (especially to two awkward people who never quite know how to pose in photos). She made sure to ask our input about ideas/suggestions throughout the shoot, but honestly she was confident enough that we trusted her to make many of the calls (and we’re glad we did!).

The final photos were GORGEOUS. Overall we had a great experience with Emily and would highly recommend her to capture your special moments!”

Samantha & Daniel

They had to ditch their big wedding plans due to the pandemic, but that didn’t stop them from celebrating their love! Carlen and Mike didn’t want to deal with the hassle of rescheduling their wedding so they invited their immediate family to join them as they said “I do” in their favorite spot – Boothbay, Maine.

They rented a house on the water in Midcoast Maine that had the perfect spot for setting up a ceremony, watching the sunset on the water, and having a family style dinner on the porch. All of the details and the little touches of Maine, tied together perfectly for this heartfelt summer micro-wedding!

Photography – Emily Brianne Photography

Florals – Electric Flora

Rentals – A Plus Party Rentals

Catering- Trillium

HMU – I Do Spas