How to Plan a Wedding in Maine: Your Guide to a Beautiful Celebration
JUNE 22ND, 2025
Tucked away in the northeastern corner of the U.S., Maine is a hidden gem for couples dreaming of a wedding surrounded by natural beauty. With its rocky coastlines, historic lighthouses, charming small towns, and pine-covered mountains, Maine offers an unforgettable backdrop for every kind of celebration—from intimate elopements to full weekend weddings.
If you're considering tying the knot in this iconic New England state, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about planning a wedding in Maine—from picking the best time of year to saying “I do” in one of its stunning venues.
What You'll Find in This Maine Wedding Planning Guide:
Choosing a Wedding Date in Maine
Finding a Maine Wedding Photographer
Best Wedding Venues in Maine
How to Get Legally Married in Maine
Planning Your Wedding Day in Maine
Maine Wedding Packages
Choosing the Best Time of Year for a Maine Wedding
Before you start looking at venues or sending out save-the-dates, take some time to think about the season you want for your wedding. Each one in Maine brings a completely different vibe—and knowing what to expect with weather, tourism, and foliage will help shape your plans.
Spring (April – early June):
Spring in Maine is quiet, fresh, and full of charm. You’ll find blooming wildflowers, rushing waterfalls, and fewer tourists compared to summer. Late spring is especially nice if you want outdoor photos without the summer heat.
Summer (late June – August):
This is peak wedding season in Maine, especially along the coast. Think sailboats, seaside ceremonies, and warm weather. Summer is perfect for couples who want to celebrate near the ocean, but keep in mind: venues and accommodations book quickly, so plan well in advance.
Fall (September – October):
Arguably the most romantic time to get married in Maine. The air is crisp, the leaves are bursting with color, and the scenery is absolutely magical. If you want a cozy, picturesque day with all the fall vibes—this is it.
Winter (November – March):
Winter weddings in Maine offer a peaceful and moody feel, especially inland or in the mountains. Imagine candlelit ceremonies in historic inns, snowy portraits, and the quiet charm of a New England winter. Just be prepared for cold weather and the occasional storm.
Finding a Maine Wedding Photographer / VIDEOGRAPHER
Your photographer is one of the most important vendors you'll book—not just for the photos, but for the experience. Maine is full of hidden gems, so working with someone who knows the area can help you discover beautiful spots you might not find on Google.
When choosing a photographer, look for someone whose work resonates with you, but also someone who can guide you through the planning process, help with your timeline, and keep your day running smoothly.
Maine Wedding Venues - Where to Get Married in Maine
One of the best things about getting married in Maine is the variety of venue options. Whether you want a rustic barn, a coastal estate, or a mountaintop ceremony, Maine has something for every couple.
The Barn at Flanagan Farm (Buxton)
Set on 66 acres of forest and open fields, this restored 19th-century barn offers both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces. It’s ideal for a cozy, elegant countryside wedding.
French’s Point (Stockton Springs)
Overlooking Penobscot Bay, this private estate feels like a destination wedding without leaving New England. You can book the whole property for a full weekend of celebration with friends and family.
Hardy Farm (Fryeburg)
Located near the White Mountains, Hardy Farm blends rustic and modern in the best way. With a woodland chapel and a stylish whitewashed barn, it’s a perfect mix of nature and charm.
Inn by the Sea (Cape Elizabeth)
For couples dreaming of a seaside wedding, this boutique hotel just outside of Portland offers ocean views, elegant accommodations, and a truly relaxing atmosphere.
Acadia National Park
If you're planning a smaller, more adventurous ceremony, consider a wedding or elopement inside Acadia. With its dramatic cliffs, forest trails, and coastal views, it’s one of the most breathtaking places in the state to say your vows.
How to Get Legally Married in Maine
The legal process of getting married in Maine is fairly simple, especially if you’re coming in from out of state.
Here’s what you’ll need:
A valid photo ID for both parties
$40 for the marriage license
No blood tests or waiting period required
If you're a Maine resident:
Apply at the town office in the municipality where at least one of you lives.
If you’re from out of state:
You can apply at any town office in Maine.
Once your license is issued, it's valid for 90 days. You'll need an officiant (religious or secular) and two witnesses present at your ceremony. After the wedding, your officiant will file the paperwork with the state to make it official.
Planning Your Maine Wedding Day
The beauty of getting married in Maine is that you can create a day that feels totally unique to you. Whether you're keeping things low-key or planning a full weekend celebration, the state offers endless options for adventure and connection.
Here are some ways to make your wedding day in Maine extra special:
Take a lobster boat cruise before your ceremony
Catch the sunrise at Cadillac Mountain
Go for a brewery tour in Portland post-wedding
Have a cozy fire pit night at your venue
This is your day—so don’t be afraid to make it personal and meaningful.
Maine Wedding Packages
If the planning feels like a lot, you don’t have to go it alone. Many photographers and planners (myself included!) offer wedding packages specifically for Maine celebrations—whether you're planning a small coastal ceremony or a full weekend event.
Packages can include:
Full wedding day photo coverage
Planning and timeline guidance
Venue recommendations
Location scouting for portraits
Local vendor referrals
The goal is to take the stress off your shoulders so you can focus on what really matters—getting married to your favorite person.
Ready to Start Planning Your Maine Wedding?
If Maine is calling your name for your big day, it’s time to start dreaming and designing a wedding that feels just right for you. Whether you’re picturing waves crashing on the shore, leaves crunching under your boots, or the soft glow of candlelight in a historic barn, your perfect wedding is possible here.
Let’s plan a celebration that feels like home—and capture every second of it.
If you're ready to talk dates, locations, photography, and videography, I’d love to hear more about your plans.
