10 Local Tips to Level-Up Your Destination Wedding in Maine

10 Local Tips to Level-Up Your Destination Wedding in Maine

Ten Ideas for an Unforgettable Wedding Experience in Maine

With breathtaking landscapes, quaint coastal towns, and inviting hospitality – Maine offers the perfect canvas for your dream wedding. Take your dream destination wedding to the next level with these ten essential tips to guide you. And if you’re still weighing the ideal location for your destination wedding, keep reading to find see how bringing in the magic of Maine can set your big day apart. Not sure where to start? Reach out today.

Genesis + Tyler. Photo Credit: Novae Film + Photo

Photo Credit: Novae Film + Photo, The Vermont Flannel Co.Double H Photography, Sunday River

Cityscape of wharfs, Photo Credits: Peter Morneau Photography
Cityscape of wharfs, Photo Credits: Peter Morneau Photography

1. Choose the Perfect Location: Selecting the venue that fits the vibe is the cornerstone of your Maine wedding. Whether you envision exchanging vows on a sandy beach, within the rustic embrace of a barn, or amidst the historic charm of an inn, Maine boasts a diverse range of wedding settings. Explore our handpicked wedding venues, each offering a unique backdrop for your love story. Learn more about featured venues.

Fort Williams Park, Photo Credits: Serena Folding
Fort Williams Park, Photo Credits: Serena Folding

2. Consider the Season: Maine’s charm knows no bounds, with each season bringing its own enchantment. Keep an open mind while you decide what backdrop fits for the moments you plan to capture. Does that mean you desire the vibrant hues of a fall celebration? With harvest fests and the autumnal feast at the forefront of your menu. Or how about the cozy intimacy of a winter affair. Get married in a snow globe under the vibrant decorations and lights of our winter wonderland. Use the surroundings to craft the ideal ambiance and mood for your Maine wedding. Learn More about the seasons of Maine.

Ballast interior dinning, Photo Credit: PGM Photography
Ballast interior dinning, Photo Credit: PGM Photography

3. Local Wedding Planner: Engaging a local wedding planner can be a game-changer. These experts are intimately acquainted with Maine’s nuances, ensuring seamless coordination, vendor recommendations, and flawless execution. They may just be the secret weapon you need to turn all your ideas into cherished memories. Learn more about vendors + services.

Ferry Beach, Photo Credit: Serena Folding Photography
Ferry Beach, Photo Credit: Serena Folding Photography

4. Permits + Regulations: Navigating Maine’s wedding regulations, including marriage licenses and permits for outdoor ceremonies, is crucial to ensure your union is legally binding. Especially is you’re looking to hold the ceremony in a public beach or park. Familiarize yourself with these requirements to avoid any last-minute surprises. Our wedding FAQs can help point you in the right direction.

The Lincoln Hotel Pool, Photo Credit: PGM Photography
The Lincoln Hotel Pool, Photo Credit: PGM Photography

5. Guest Accommodations: Extend a warm Maine welcome to your guests by providing them with a list of recommended accommodations. From charming bed and breakfasts to luxurious hotels, Maine offers a range of options. Consider securing room blocks at charming historic inns with spa or dining services to simplify the logistics for your loved ones. Find more Maine wedding accommodations for guests.

Burrata salad from Gather in Maine, Photo credit to Capshore Photography
Burrata salad from Gather in Maine, Photo credit to Capshore Photography

6. Catering World-Class Cuisine: Embrace Maine fare for your wedding. Greater Portland is celebrated for its delectable seafood and farm-to-table dining experiences. Explore local catering options to craft a menu that reflects Maine’s culinary heritage and leaves a lasting impression on your guests. Find local catering for your Maine wedding.

Chart Metalworks, Photo Credit: PGM Photography
Chart Metalworks, Photo Credit: PGM Photography

7. Local Maine Makers: Embrace the expertise of local vendors for photography, floral arrangements, music, and more. These artisans bring a unique Maine touch to your wedding, elevating the entire experience. Enlist a local artist to craft favors, welcome bags, or unique gifts for your bridal party or parents. It not only adds a personal touch, but will remind them of all the new memories as well. Local gifts, florists, and décor.

Couple Kissing Holding Lobster, Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.
Couple Kissing Holding Lobster, Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.

8. Embrace the Outdoors: Match the Maine landmark to your wedding theme. History, architecture, and maritime excellence is around every corner. For those envisioning an outdoor wedding, it’s essential to have a contingency plan for inclement weather. Tents or indoor venues can be a lifesaver, ensuring your celebration goes ahead as planned, rain or shine. Find more stories from couples who spend their big day on coastal islands, lighthouses, and at ski resorts on our blog.

Boomerang Yacht Charters on the water, Photo Credit: PGM Photography
Boomerang Yacht Charters on the water, Photo Credit: PGM Photography

9. Transportation: Whether you’re getting married in the city or in a barn, arranging transportation for your guests is a thoughtful touch. Shuttle services guarantee everyone arrives safely and can enjoy the festivities without concerns about logistics. Get creative with the couple’s mode of transport as well and plan arrive by boat, by classic car, or by limo.

Drinks at Thompson's Point. Photo Credit: Capshore Photography
Drinks at Thompson’s Point. Photo Credit: Capshore Photography

10. Pre-Wedding Celebrations: Why not kickstart your Maine wedding journey by inviting your loved ones for a pre-wedding celebration? Consider hosting a bridal shower or bachelor/bachelorette party in this charming state. It’s the perfect way to introduce your guests to the beauty and allure of Maine, allowing them to craft their own memories and ideas for your big day. This prelude will not only strengthen your bond but also create anticipation and excitement for the wedding ahead. Maine welcomes you and your loved ones to embark on this unforgettable journey together.


With these 10 essential tips in hand and the breathtaking beauty of Maine as your backdrop, your destination wedding promises to be a journey of love and unforgettable memories. Explore the wonders of Maine, create cherished moments, and craft the dream wedding you and your guests will treasure forever. Start planning today.