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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.