How to Pull Off an Outdoor Wedding in Maine Without a Hitch
Marrying in Maine? It’s obviously an ideal spot given the proximity to the water, farmland, and mountains. You get the best of all worlds, really.
So if you’re considering an outdoor affair—whether on the coast, at a charming inn or camp, or on a spacious estate, you’re in luck. Today, we’re sharing how you can pull off an outdoor wedding in Maine without a hitch.
Photo: Courtney Elizabeth Media
1. Have a plan A & plan B—for rain or shine.
Here in Maine, we all know the weather can change in an instant. That said, when you’re planning on hosting an outdoor wedding, the most important piece of advice is to have a plan A and plan B. You need a strategy in place to move your ceremony and reception to an indoor space at your venue. Or, if that’s not possible, you have a tent reservation (we recommend One Stop Event Rentals, Coastal Maine Canopies, Sperry Tents, Marshall Rental, Wallace Events, or PEAK Event Services). Essentially planning for two scenarios can be overwhelming, but you’ll be thankful you did when and if the time comes for you to actually put your backup plan into play!
2. Anticipate additional costs.
Often, when it comes to a 100% outdoor wedding, you’re mainly working with a “blank space.” Consider the fact that you’re going to be building out a venue space that includes lighting and sound, a dance floor, tables and chairs, portable bathrooms if the structure or house on-site can’t handle your crowd, generator for power, running potable water to address the caterer’s needs, and temperature control (e.g., fans or patio heaters). These are things you generally wouldn’t need to think twice about. But with an outdoor wedding, you do because it comes with additional costs to factor into your budget.
3. Create a wedding day look that’ll endure the elements.
A ceremony outside on the coast may sound romantic, but when the wind picks up (and it will), the idea of constantly pushing your hair out of your face is more of an annoyance than anything. So, when it comes time for your trial with your hairstylist, try out a style featuring loose waves pinned up into a low-swept updo. Although, if your heart is set on wearing your hair down, ask your hairstylist for recommendations that’ll endure the elements!
Lastly, keep in mind the train of your dress and the heels of your shoes. You don’t want to be sinking into the soil (wedges or chunky heels will be your best friend!) and ruining your beautiful gown on your big day.
4. Keep your guests in mind.
It can get chilly at night during Maine summers—especially on the coast. So you might consider adding a note on your wedding website, reminding guests to pack a shawl or blazer to keep warm. Also, will they need to take a ferry to get to and from your ceremony and reception spot? Share the ferry schedule with your people, too! You don’t want your guests to miss the boat. Lastly, favors are a unique way to tie in the flavors and favorites of the area and give your family and friends something fun to stay comfortable (e.g., shawls).
Photo: Courtney Elizabeth Media
5. Let nature set the tone.
The bonus of getting married in an outdoor setting is that you don’t have to go over the top with decor. Instead, allow your venue’s natural environment to speak for itself—only dressing things up to complement the setting (think café string lights in the trees, alternative seating, candles, and garland).
6. Incorporate a seasonal menu.
Does your special day happen to be within the peak of warm summer months? Steer clear of rich, heavy foods and, instead, aim for more refreshing produce (think summer caprese salad and prosciutto-wrapped melons for hors d'oeuvres; lobster rolls and street tacos for the main meal).
As for dessert, don’t hesitate to get unique! Go for options such as gelato with a toppings bar, local strawberry shortcakes, or blueberry tartlets. The possibilities are endless. Think outside the box for cocktails, too. Hand-crafted cocktails like a cucumber vodka or a whiskey smash are sure to please!
7. Hire a dream vendor team to help you bring your outdoor wedding vision to life.
As you can probably tell by now, there’s so much to think about and plan for when it comes to an outdoor wedding. But the good news is that you don’t have to go at it alone. Your team of dedicated vendors—from your photographer to your caterer and your wedding planner—can get a serious handle on all of the moving parts and logistics.
“...But where you really shined, was when it started to rain. My whole life I've wanted to get married outside with the ocean as my backdrop. We chose the Cliff House for our wedding because of the amazing setting & view. When it started to rain, the vision I had of my dream wedding began to fall apart [...] I felt panicked & anxious. But you didn't pressure me to make a decision. You stayed calm and let me wait it out. When, by some small miracle, the rain stopped, you swooped in and made sure the chairs for guests were dried, the wedding procession was lined up, and you even found a way to make the music happen. It stopped raining just long enough for us to have the ceremony I had been dreaming of before it started pouring again.”
- Lauren, Pinch Me Planning Bride
Looking for outdoor wedding venue inspiration?
While there are plenty of beautiful locations here in Maine, we’re sharing a few of our favorites with you to hopefully help you narrow down your list:
Photo: Courtney Elizabeth Media
READY TO PLAN AN OUTDOOR WEDDING OF YOUR OWN?
The Pinch Me Planning team is here to help you bring your outdoor wedding dreams to life. Contact us to get more information on our packages and to start planning your very own pinch me moment!