A Nautical Themed Wedding on Long Island
Native Mainers know the beauty of our state’s coast. With a sprawling rocky coastline and thousands of islands big and small to explore, it’s one of the greatest features of our state. In case you’re “from away,” did you know Maine has nearly 3,500 miles of coastline? That’s even more than California! Our state also has over 3,000 off-shore islands. While these islands line the coast from Kittery all the way down east to Lubec, a few hundred all sit right in Casco Bay off the coast of Portland. With their small towns, villages, beaches and bike paths, the Casco Bay islands are fun to visit, a great spot for vacations, and even the perfect venue for an island wedding in Maine.
Hosting a Backyard Island Wedding
Chelsey and Ryan grew up in Maine and knew an island wedding would be the wedding of their dreams. So it was a no brainer for them to host their nautical themed wedding at Chesley’s dad’s house on Long Island. I should probably mention that Chelsey and Ryan are two of the sweetest people I have ever met. And it became evident that their kindness was inherited from their amazing family. WIth over 250 guests attending an island wedding, it was nothing short of a party! And we were in no shortage of helping hands! Every corner I turned, someone was there willing to help. Serious family and friend goals.
The design for this backyard Island wedding was just as fun as their family vibe. The bridesmaids wore pink sneakers shoes designed by local Maine (and wedding guest!) Alaina Marie. Each bridesmaid also sported one of the designer’s now famous bait bag clutches. These were the perfect accessories for bridesmaids in a “backyard” nautical wedding. Early in the wedding design process, our bride Chelsey mentioned that her favorite flowers were sunflowers. Unfortunately, her wedding color palette didn’t include yellow! But our incredible team of Maine wedding vendors wasn’t going to let that get in the way. The amazing Lindsay of Yellow Twist worked her magic, and grew a special variety of WHITE sunflowers. This was such a special (and seriously appreciated) touch.
Keep reading to see even more of the beautiful photos from Chelsey and Ryan’s Long Island, Maine wedding, and hear directly from Chelsey about her favorite wedding day memories.
Chelsey Talks About her Long Island Wedding
How did you two meet?
My husband and I met back in High School when he was a freshmen and I was a sophomore. We met in the library for study hall and I would drive him home everyday so he wouldn't have to take the bus!
What is your favorite memory from your wedding day?
My favorite memory from my wedding day was my brother grabbing the microphone after all of the speeches were done and giving his own speech. He thought of it while he was sitting there, and he started bawling his eyes out! There was not a dry eye in the room when he gave that speech and he did an amazing job as he is not one to step up and speak in front of a ton of people. After the speeches and the dancing began, he danced so hard he ripped his pants!
What was your favorite part about having a wedding planner?
My favorite part about having a wedding planner was the peace of mind that you have on your wedding day that things are going to get done, and they are going to get done right. Christina was so professional yet we made a great connection and I am so thankful for that. She connected with everyone in my family and that made the day go even more smoothly. We weren't sure at first whether to have a planner or not but when it comes to enjoying your wedding day, you need someone else in charge or there is no way it will get done. Christina helped with set up and everything looked so beautiful. We thank you again Christina and can't wait to recommend you to all of our friends that are getting married in the coming years!
Our Team of Maine Wedding Vendors
Photography: A.Fogarty Photography
Rentals / Decor: Party Time Rentals
Flowers: Yellow Twist
Beauty: Maine Hair and Makeup
Shoes and Handbags: Alaina Marie
Catering: Pat Mulligan
Cinema: Jason Farley
Entertainment: Music Man
Let’s Work Together
Do the details of this island wedding in Maine get you excited for your big day, or overwhelmed? If you need help planning, designing, or coordinating your Maine wedding, get in touch with us today. Our approach to wedding planning and design is collaborative. You’ll share your own vision of your event concept, and together we’ll make your vision a reality. And since no two events are the same, all packages are customizable to your needs. We can work together to make sure the planning process and timeline suits your needs. Review our wedding planning packages and contact us to start the conversation today.
More Coastal Maine Weddings You’ll Love
Chelsey and Ryan hosted an incredible backyard wedding on a beautiful island in Maine. If you love this coastal Maine wedding, you’re going to love these other waterfront weddings we’ve featured on the blog.
