Wedding Ceremony and Reception Venue Alternatives in Maine
Maine is a quirky place filled with beautiful architecture, historic lighthouses, stunning nature, and a breathtaking coastline - making the entire state an incredible destination for weddings all year around. During the spring and summer months, Maine's rocky coastline, blueberry fields and blooming meadows become the ultimate places to tie the knot. In the fall, you can have the autumn wedding you have always dreamed of as the leaves change to vibrant shades of red, yellow and orange. Over 80% of Maine is covered in pine trees and in the winter you'll feel like you are in an actual snow globe when they are all covered in snow, creating the most epic backdrop behind the altar space. Since Maine is sprawling with wild landscapes and historic roots - it makes sense to find a wedding venue that celebrates that. If you are planning a wedding in Maine, consider these unique and unexpectedly beautiful places to say, "I do"!
Host the intimate backyard wedding of your dreams at this authentic cottage in the woods, just a stone's throw away from the beach and Acadia National Park. There are two cabins on the property available for rent. One is a larger cabin that can sleep up to ten people and the other is a romantic A-frame just for two called the Poet's Cabin. Rent out both of them and turn your special day into a relaxing weekend for the whole family. There is 11 ½ acres of woodland surrounding the cabins that you are free to hike around and explore. With the ocean, lake, National Park, Bass Harbour Lighthouse and abundance of tasty restaurants nearby - you will never run out of things to do. This is not only a great location for those wanting a small backyard wedding, but it is also a great place to stay if you plan on adventuring into Acadia National Park to have your ceremony. This can also be an ideal location for those who love the idea of a winter wedding in the woods!
What is more romantic than having your own private island for your wedding night? You do not have to go all the way to Hawaii for an intimate island wedding celebration. This quaint Airbnb, with a stunning view around every corner, sits on Oak Island, a 23 acre private island off the coast of Camden, Maine. Also a wildlife preserve, it is rich with nature and remote enough that you can see the Milky Way at night. During the spring and early fall, bald eagles become frequent visitors, and all of the northeastern wildflowers, cherry trees and juniper trees bloom. Come in August and you'll be treated with sunny weather and 70 degree swimmable water. The main cabin sleeps six people and has two bedrooms. The charming cabin has plenty of natural light, a large deck and a charming coastal feel. For the love birds, there is a newly built "Love Shack" that sleeps two and is so close to the ocean that it sings you to sleep. There is also plenty of space to camp on the island and plenty of hotels back in Camden, Maine for your guests that prefer mainland. This off-grid island retreat is perfect for any adventurous couple wanting to escape reality with their friends and family and celebrate their love while connecting with nature. There are plenty of hiking trails on the island and a few kayaks that you can use to explore other islands. It is also common for lobster fishing boats pass by the island after a long day of fishing - and if you flag them down, you can score some fresh lobster!
This secret gem in southern Maine is a magical wedding venue, romantic eco- lodge, organic farm, beachfront spa, and sustainable restaurant. With its' natural enchanted garden feel, Hidden Pond will certainly surpass the expectations every earth goddess has for her ideal wedding day. Hidden Pond can host up to 80 guests and can provide everything from lodging to spa services to delicious local flavors from their restaurant. All of their luxurious amenities make for a wedding celebration everyone enjoy to the fullest. For larger parties, you can say your vows and celebrate in their rustic barn that overlooks the dense pine forest or in their beautiful wedding garden. Hidden Pond offers cozy bungalows for couples that come with an outdoor shower, fireplace, TV, and bathroom. There are also bigger bungalows available for families and groups. The property is only one mile away from the ocean and is covered in beautiful birch groves and balsam fir. Hidden Ponds will take you and your guests' breath away with its beautiful architecture, abundant gardens, calming atmosphere, and delicious food. This is the perfect way to have a wedding in the wild without having to sacrifice modern comforts and a time to give yourself the chance to visit the spa and relax by the pool.
Make your special day an experience everyone will remember with a unique day at sea. Celebrate your love with 40+ of your closest friends and family on board Maine's finest wooden schooner. Portland Schooner Co's classic windjammers are treasured historic gems that they happily share with the public. Book a wedding onboard, and the Portland Schooner Co team can provide a classic lobster dinner and plenty of drinks for the evening (or you can bring your own food, beer and wine). Say your vows as you sail around Casco Bay, watching for seals and passing lighthouse after lighthouse. Whether at sunset or beneath a starlit sky - this northeastern storybook setting couldn't be more romantic. From day cruises to overnight excursions - Portland Schooner Co. offers every level of adventure and proper amenities to keep everyone on board comfortable and care-free. Even though these charming vessels were built in the early 1900s, they still sail as smoothly as ever and have easily become the most beautiful sanctuaries at sea!
This historic bridge in Newry, Maine is an amazing place for an small, authentic wedding. This handcrafted covered bridge puts a unique twist on the traditional barn style wedding, and is much more budget-friendly. Have a causal picnic style wedding in the park and your first slow dance on the bridge. If you get married in the summer, you can even go for a swim in the Sunday River! Wait until fall to have your ceremony, and the entire bridge will be surrounded with autumn leaves. This beautiful location adds a historic touch and the right amount of northeastern charm to your special day. This has been declared the Artist's Bridge because so many people come to photograph it, paint it and just admire its beauty. Keep in mind that this bridge is open to the public and a popular tourist stop - so you may be sharing your wedding day with a few strangers but the picturesque location and fairytale scenery are worth it!
6. Sunset At The Top of Mount Agamenticus
You won’t need to hike to the top of this mountain in your wedding dress unless you want to. A quick drive to the top is all it takes to enjoy sweeping views of york county. Say your vows as the sun sets then enjoy a glass of champagne and a picnic under the stars to celebrate or head to your favorite special occasion restaurant for a gourmet meal and nightcap.
7. Oquossoc Log Church
The Oquossoc Log Church on Maine State Route 4 in the Oquossoc village of Rangeley, was built in 1916. It's a unique structure, whose walls and major interior fixtures are all built out of spruce logs. Its rustic charm is nestled near beautiful forest and fields and is a sweet spot to say your vows before exploring the nearby trails and lake for beautiful portraits. Rent a cabin at Bald Mountain Camps and return for a privately prepared meal. Then snuggle up on your porch with a cocktail and enjoy the peaceful calm and the cry of the loons.
Maine is an outstanding place to celebrate the beginning of the rest of your life. Whether you are on the dramatic coastline or deep in the woods - the beauty of your special day will feel effortless, as you're constantly surrounded by Maine's breathtaking landscapes. These alternative wedding venue locations couldn't be more perfect for those looking for a beautiful place to have an intimate, minimalistic style wedding. Maine has so many unique wedding venue options for every type of budget and every type of season. Put all expectations aside and get married at a place that feels right to you and your partner, even if it seems out of the box!