10 Reasons to Get Married in Maine
Tie the Knot in Vacationland and Make Memories You’ll Treasure Forever
Breathtaking coastlines. Four unforgettable seasons. Expert local support.
Maine offers something increasingly rare for couples looking to get married in this day in age: space to breathe, unforgettable scenery, and weddings that feel deeply personal. From rocky coastlines and historic lighthouses to candlelit barns and island escapes, getting married in Maine isn’t just about the ceremony — it’s about creating an experience you and your guests will remember for years to come. Whether you’re planning a full destination wedding or an intimate elopement, Maine makes it easy to create a wedding that’s memorable, authentic, and effortlessly beautiful.
1 | Wedding Venues for Every Couple’s Style
Maine’s distinct regions that offer a variety of wedding venues is one of its biggest strengths. Couples can choose between everything from coastal inns overlooking the Atlantic, to restored barns nestled among the pines, to mountaintop retreats, to lakeside resorts, to historic buildings in Portland’s Old Port and so much more. Whether you’re envisioning a black-tie affair, a barefoot beach ceremony, or a relaxed weekend celebration in the heart of Portland, Maine offers a venue that fits your vision.
Pictured: Couple at Wedding In Front of Boat, Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.
2 | Maine’s Food Scene Goes Far Beyond Lobster
While Maine lobster is iconic (and delicious), the state’s wedding cuisine extends far beyond a single dish. Portland, Maine was named Bon Appétit’s 2018 “Restaurant City of the Year” and has also been recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the best food cities in the U.S. Maine weddings are known for farm-to-table menus, fresh seafood, and locally sourced ingredients, allowing couples to design seasonal menus at the height of their flavor. These thoughtful meals are often paired with Maine-made craft beer, cider, and spirits— and with Maine ranking second in the nation for craft breweries per capita in 2024, the bar offerings can be just as memorable as the food.
Pictured: Couple Laughing Holding Lobster, Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.
3 | Turn Your Wedding Into a Full Weekend Experience
Your wedding is more than a single day— Maine weddings naturally unfold into a full weekend of shared experiences. Friends and family can explore our vibrant local arts scene, take a scenic boat ride on Casco Bay, enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking or skiing, or relax along miles of pristine coastline. By planning a few group activities, you can turn your wedding weekend into a collection of meaningful Maine memories made with those you love most.
Pictured: Bride Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Photo Credit: Emilie Inc.
4 | Maine is Beautiful in Every Season
Choose the time of year that fits your vision. With four distinct and dramatic seasons, Maine offers a beautiful setting whether you’re dreaming of saying “I do” under the summer sun or celebrating amid a winter wonderland. Summer brings ocean breezes and long daylight, which is perfect for island escapes, while Fall offers vibrant foliage and crisp air, well-suited for cozy barn settings. Winter has the quiet beauty of falling snow and mountains dusted in white, great for a cozy lodge venue with ski trails just steps away, or even a venue along the snow-dusted beaches of the coast. Spring brings vibrant purple lupines, soft sunlight, and a peaceful ambiance with fewer crowds, perfect for both city and outdoor venues. No matter the season, Maine provides venues full of atmosphere and unforgettable natural beauty.
Pictured: Winter Wedding Couple, Photo Credit: Kate McElwee Photography
5 | The Ocean is Never Far Away
Take a charter out on Casco Bay or spend the day out on one of Portland’s Coastal Islands. Get up close and personal with our rocky coastline and sandy beaches—it makes for the perfect photo op!
Pictured: Couple on Dock, Photo Credit: Russel Caron Photography
6 | Photo spots around every corner
Talk about backdrop goals! Get the perfect bridal party selfie at a local lighthouse or just walking around Downtown Portland. Complete your wedding album as you stumble upon murals and sculptures in our small parks and squares.
Pictured: Engagement in Front of Portland Head Lighthouse, Photo Credit: Sravya Khasnavees
7 | You can make it your own
Arrive in style to your big day by golf cart, charter boat, or horse-drawn carriage. Anything is possible in a region as diverse as Greater Portland. You really can go to the middle of nature to the middle of the action in the matter of moments.
Pictured: Walking Down the Aisle on Casablanca Cruises, Photo Credit: Rachel Epperly
8 | Your Squad WIll Love It
What’s not to love? Food trucks and outdoor dining line the streets in Summer. Craft beer flows around every corner. Public art is sprinkled across the region—modern murals mixing effortlessly with historic statues. It’s an atmosphere perfect for bachelor/bachelorette parties, couple’s showers, rehearsal dinners, or post wedding brunches.
Group of Women Holding Beers, Photo Credit: Bethany and Dan Photography
9 | Expert Local vendors + Services
For a small city, we’ve got big connections. You’ll find Maine experts, from boutique caterers to full-service floral companies, around every corner ready to step-and organize your big day.
Pictured: Cunningham Farm Events, Photo Credit: Chris Bennett Photography
10 | Free wedding planning services
Visit Portland has free services to assist you with your wedding. Let us connect you to a variety of wedding services in Maine. One call and we’ll help coordinate it all!
Pictured: Family at Lighthouse for Wedding, Photo Credit: Focus Photography
“Choosing the right Maine venue was really important to us—thank you [Visit Portland] for helping us find a venue with gorgeous waterfront scenery that is actually within our budget—we’re thrilled!”
— CHRISTINE REYNOLDS-LEMIEUX
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