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In the heart of York, Maine, where the rugged coastline meets the rolling waves of the Atlantic, love found its perfect playground. Last summer, I had the pleasure of capturing the romance and playfulness of one of my future wedding couples! We had the iconic backdrop of Nubble Lighthouse and the pristine shores of Sands Beach. With their tasteful outfits, infectious personalities, and upcoming wedding day in the enchanting Bar Harbor, Maine, this engagement session was a celebration of love in its purest form that my photographer heart so happy!

Dressing For The Occassion

From the moment Kristina and Andrew stepped in front of my camera, their love story unfolded like a fairytale. Their complementary outfits perfectly mirrored their personalities—Kristina in a flowing, white sundress that caught the ocean breeze just right, and Andrew in a crisp button-down shirt paired with slacks and Gucci loafers. Later slipping into a more casual, yet tasteful look for their second location. They radiated a sense of effortless elegance and charm all around.

Nubble Lighthouse: A Beacon of Love

Our first stop was the iconic Nubble Lighthouse, its white-washed facade standing tall against the azure sky. As Kristina and Andrew twirled and giggled in each other’s arms, the lighthouse served as a timeless symbol of their enduring love and commitment. We captured moments of pure joy and affection that illuminated the landscape like the lighthouse beacon itself.

Sand Beach: Where Love Meets the Sea

Next, we ventured to the tranquil shores of Short Sands Beach. The soft golden sands met the reflecting sky on the waterline. They embraced the playful spirit of their love here by kicking off their shoes and running hand in hand along the water’s edge.

Looking Ahead to Bar Harbor

As the sun dipped low on the horizon, we couldn’t help but feel excited for what the future held. We chatted about their plans for their upcoming wedding day in the charming town of Bar Harbor, Maine—a picturesque seaside destination known for its quaint shops, stunning vistas, and timeless beauty. With its breathtaking landscapes and romantic ambiance, Bar Harbor will be the perfect setting for their wedding day!

Pro Tip –

Be yourself. Show off your goofy personalities to truly capture the essence of your relationship. We laughed so much during this session, and knowing their personalities more will help me tell their story on a deeper level.

I am so excited to celebrate more at the Atlantic Oceanside Hotel and Event Center in Bar Harbor this summer!

If you’re looking for a Bar Harbor or York, Maine photographer who specializes in fun, romantic, coastal weddings – you’re in the right place! Inquire here to work together!

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.

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, such as spa treatments, outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, or arranging for a champagne toast or dessert celebration.

Starting the day with a massage and ending with dinner, champagne, and cake made for the most relaxing day for this Maine couple soaking up the quaint Vermont mountain elopement experience.

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!

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.

This Brewery Hopping Engagement Session was one for the books! Let me tell you how this all came to life. Their wedding day was right around the corner, and we still hadn’t done their engagement session yet. This may not sound like a big deal, but I always find engagement photos with your photographer important. Why? Well, it gives us the chance to meet and get to know each other before the big day. More importantly, it allows you to get a feel for my approach to shooting, posing, and how I handle lighting. 

Between our busy schedules, and us living a few states away, they weren’t sure if it could work. Totally understandable, wedding planning can be a lot! I started brainstorming some ideas to find a way for this work. After reviewing their notes from our phone consult, I remembered that they love trying out different breweries. Coincidentally, I had just discovered some breweries and fell in love with their fun aesthetic. Instantly, my creative juices started flowing and piecing together a vision that I low-key dreamt up a few months ago. I messaged them right away proposing that we meet halfway (in Portland) and do their session at these awesome breweries. They immediately loved that idea for a little weekend away in the midst of the wedding planning busyness. To top it off – Jess was able to schedule her wedding hair and makeup trail nearby, on the same day.

Portland, Maine Engagement Photos

We spent the first half of the session at Bissell Brothers in Portland. They had a couple drinks to take the edge off (liquid courage is always encouraged). That made for some cute candids with the brewery as a backdrop. A warm Saturday in November had everyone out and about. So once they finished their drinks we hopped over a few streets to Apres (currently my fav place + drink). We started outside on the artsy streets of downtown Portland. We luckily snagged one of the awesome spots to sit inside so they could set up their game of cribbage. Between little bursts of photos, the three of us just hung out and got to know each other. So many laughs were had! 

Truthfully, I am so glad this session was able to happen. Not only was it refreshing for my creative soul, but I also really got to know Derek and Jess on more of a personal level. They told me their story and let me in on some inside jokes. She shared the sentimental story of her grandfather teaching her how to play cribbage as she casually pulled the whole board out of her purse, and we all laughed about how our dads are so similar when it comes to getting them to cooperate for family photos. When their small, intimate wedding day rolled around a month later, I truly felt like I was there hanging out with friends that I’d known for so long.  

So, if you’re thinking that you don’t really need an engagement session – let this be your sign to just do it! At the very least, it will be worth it to feel relaxed and comfortable with your wedding photographer on your wedding day. 

And also, don’t be afraid to make your session unique and fun!

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

Truth bomb, barn weddings aren’t usually my number one choice… Because well, coastal chic is more my style. BUT, let me tell you, this was one of my favorites and the venue doesn’t always matter. Let’s be real, I love being a southern Maine wedding photographer at any venue!

First things first, this entire day was the perfect combination of trendy, yet timeless – and that is what I love so much! Second, all of the attire was absolute fireeee – varying shades and textures of burnt orange bridesmaid dresses, a custom green suit for the groom with his groomsmen matching in floral ties, and best of all… the sparkly jumpsuit that Abby changed into and absolutely rocked at the end of the night (we all know I love me a good jumpsuit)! 

Then we have all of the perfectly organized details that include touches from TSwift and their pup, colorfully muted florals complimented with ferns, lovely September lighting, a whole charcuterie table, and my absolute favorite thing ever *drum roll please* … food trucks! Yeah, you heard that right, food trucks. Mainely Burgers catered their wedding, and it was hands down the best wedding dinner experience I’ve ever had. Instead of waiting to be served at your table, you literally walked up to the window and made your selections. And just when you think it can’t get better than burgers and fries..they rolled in their ice cream truck after dinner. Literally heaven. 

Southern Maine Wedding Photographer

Okay, but on top of all of those personal and thoughtful touches throughout the day, what got me the most was the love that could truly be felt. The tears that filled in everyone’s eyes as Abby’s dad led her to her choked up groom, the most heartfelt vows where they both shared the ways they make each other better and their love of adventure that has built their relationship stronger than ever, the way their siblings shared about them in their speeches and the strong bond that was so evident with her and her nephew. So not only did all of these aspects of the day solidify that Abby + Ben are cool AF, but that these are my type of people. The clients who share similar values as me, and can easily be lifelong friends even after that wedding day has passed. 

All that to say, it’s not necessarily about the venue or look of the day that matters the most. It’s about the relationships and love being celebrated that I get to photograph, the sentimental personal touches, and couples that share similar values as me. 

After a double-header wedding weekend with their fun, trendy day, and the coastal elegance at the Cliff House, I felt a shift in my brand. My creative fire was relit and my core values were shining stronger ever. I felt a push to revamp my brand to incorporate these things that mean the most to me and attract clients who share similar values of family + quality, fun + adventure, and investing in experiences more than things. 

“I could not recommend Emily more! Emily shot our wedding and engagement photos and we could not be happier! She is the perfect combination of professional and fun to be around. She makes each session feel comfortable and easy! She is so great at prompting you and posing you to get natural and comfortable looking photographs. We are so glad we booked Emily for our big day and will certainly use her again for any photography needs!”

Abby & Ben

Vendors

• Photographer: Emily Brianne Photography
• Hair: Hair By Amy Mitch
• Makeup Artist: Jordan Thronell
• Venue: Hitching Post Of Maine
• Dress: Brides Across America
• Bridal Jumpsuit: La Femme
• Veil: Etsy
• Shoes: Forever Soles
• Florals: Flower Moxie
• DJ: The Music Man DJ Service
• Videographer: Christopher Silk Films
• Food Trucks: Mainely Burgers 
• Grazing Table: Charcutemarie
• Groom Suit: Indochino
• Stationery: Zazzle
• Vow Books: Etsy – Printsmitten
• Sketch of Their Dog on Details: Etsy – SimplyMarieDesign

The coastal wedding of my dreams. This luxury venue nestled atop the cliffs of Southern Maine offers panoramic ocean views for a jaw dropping ceremony and reception. The Cliff House resort is a luxury venue like no other. 

With Hannah’s background in event planning and Jason’s goofiness in their relationship, I just knew this wedding day was going to be the perfect balance of elegant and fun. The details of this day were classic and tasteful. They weren’t lacking, but they weren’t over the top. The impeccable scenery that the coast of Maine offers truly doesn’t need much to compliment it. Hannah did the perfect job dreaming this up and Salty & Sweet Events brought the vision to life so flawlessly. 

Wedding at the Cliff House Resort

While Hannah and her besties got ready in the Cliff House bridal suite, I created flatlays of her details on the balcony overlooking the water. As she eagerly awaited her first look, she began putting all of those details on – the jewelry, the shoes, the unique scent she chose for this day. Her tight red curls fell so perfectly against the lace details of her minimally elegant gown and then it was time for the big reveal with her soon-to-be husband. 

I positioned Jason facing the water while he anxiously awaited his soon-to–be bride coming down the steep steps onto the rigid cliffs. This was where they’d see each other for the first time – privately, in their attire, all done up and ready for the big day. The excitement of seeing each other quickly relieved their anxiousness. After they shared a few moments alone, checking out each other’s outfits and saying hello, we dove right into portraits. We began with a few of the soon-to-be newlyweds against the Bald Head Cliff as the waves crashed in front of them. 

Wedding First Looks

Pro tip: Doing a “first look” with your significant other allows you to see each other and take the edge off before your ceremony. Not only do you get to share some quality time together, it’s also the perfect way to begin some portraits with you, your families, and wedding party – which then allows more time after the ceremony for portraits or joining your guests at cocktail hour like Hannah and Jason did!

As Hannah’s dad walked her down the aisle, she had the view of her future husband and his son, her family members eyes filled with tears, and the beautiful blue ocean directly behind them. Her brother married them and they exchanged vows filled with sentiment and laughter. Once they were pronounced husband and wife, the lighting was perfect to finish up the remaining family portraits and the just married portraits of the two of them before they joined their guests at cocktail hour! 

As they entered The Atlantic Ballroom, they saw their reception space dreams come to life. All of the details meticulously arranged, the one of a kind lights hanging above the dance floor, and the glass-sided wall overlooking the resort offered picturesque views of the cotton candy colored skies as the sun crept further and further down. 

Ditch the Traditions

I’m a big supporter of cutting out any wedding day traditions that don’t feel like you. Hannah and Jason weren’t afraid to do that. They did have excellent welcome speeches and toasts before dinner, and then they danced the night away with a live band and their closest people. 

In between all of these moments, I truly felt like I was hanging out with friends that I’d known forever, yet we’d only met one other time at their engagement session. Hannah treated me like one of the besties and Jason wasn’t afraid to hold back on witty jokes. We shared lots of laughs and some of our inside jokes, while creating lasting memories and photographs. 

This trendy, yet timeless day was truly one for the books. I found my dream clients, my dream venue, and lifelong friends. This just goes to show that you can have a classic, elegant day and still have so much fun! You just have to see for yourself.

Vendors

• Photographer: Emily Brianne Photography
• Planner: Salty & Sweet Events
• Venue: Cliff House Maine
• Flowers: Flower Kiosk
• Dress: Hinterland Bride
• Ring: Brilliant Earth
• Band: Dan Walker Band
• Desserts: The Sandpiper Cake Shop
• Groom’s Custom Suit: Indochino
• Stationery: Minted
• Hair and Makeup: LE Glam Team
• Rentals: Peak Event Services