Wedding in Bar Harbor, Maine
The Bride and Groom at Sunset - Bar Harbor, Maine
Wedding Venue in Bar Harbor, Maine
Maine has so many fantastic wedding venues, it would be hard to say any one is better than another. There is quite literally a wedding venue for every taste in this beautiful and diverse State. But if you’re looking for a place in Bar Harbor, Maine, well— there is one that I really enjoyed recently. The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel located at 119 Eden Street in Bar Harbor, Maine has so much to offer. Not only do they have the space to accommodate your entire family and guest list, they have gorgeous grounds, attentive and pleasant staff, and the views MY-OH-MY, the views across Frenchman Bay are just divine.
Event Hall at The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel
A few weeks prior to my Couple’s wedding, I met with Mallory, the Event Coordinator at the Atlantic Oceanside. She was helpful while touring the property with me, and had recommendations to share that would make my day-of easier. This wedding was going to be a unique one with a lot of moving parts, and The Atlantic Oceanside was ready to make that day come to life.
You might be wondering why I traveled to Mount Desert Island to visit the property. I love touring venues in advance. It gives me a great chance to become familiar with the property, grab some venue detail shots I don’t want to spend precious wedding-day time on, and I get to know the staff so the day-of I know exactly who to speak to when I need something. This way I go into the wedding day feeling far more prepared. Photogs; do you tour your client’s venue in advance? I’d love to hear from you in the comments!
Coastal Maine Wedding Venue
My Couple opted to rent an estate on the hotel grounds called The Willows. This beautiful old Estate was a stunner. The decor felt straight out of Old Eden, and only added to the fairytale that was this wedding day. There were stone walls and flower gardens along the coastal side of the home, and an assortment of decks and patios for relaxing with one of those world famous Bar Harbor sunsets. The really cool part about The Willows is that it can sleep your entire family and wedding party. How awesome is that, to have everyone you love so close to you for your whole wedding weekend. That’s special.
The Willows was built in 1913, and has since been restored to feature 13 guest rooms, elegant living spaces that are open for use to the guests of the estate, and a GORGEOUS third floor Bridal Suite overlooking Frenchman Bay. I felt like an Eagle perched atop a coastal pine when I visited the Bride before the Ceremony. My goodness; what a unique spot to get ready for one of the biggest days of your life.
On the topic of Getting Ready; Hair and Makeup was provided by Brittany Spence Hair and Makeup Artist located in Bar Harbor, Maine. Brittany did a lovely job making this Bride look nothing short of a fairytale bride! This Bridal Getting Ready coverage was photographed by my Second Shooter, Stephanie Jacobson of Whimsy and Wilderness Photography. I just knew her energy and style would be perfect for this day and sure enough, she delivered!
Before the Ceremony I took some time to wander around the property and grab the dress shot, give the rings their closeup’s, and got a few Groomsmen and Groom shots down in the gardens. We even got to watch The Cat come into dock from its latest ferry trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
The Atlantic Oceanside grounds also feature a large ballroom space for your Reception, as well as smaller event spaces downstairs that is perfect for the rehearsal dinner. But we’ll cover all of this venue space later with Reception photos!
The Atlantic Oceanside does have an outdoor ceremony space with a gazebo overlooking the harbor and private beach, but this couple opted for something a bit more traditional and true to them.
Wedding at a Historical Bar Harbor Church
The Holy Redeemer Catholic Church - Bar Harbor, Maine
Located on Mount Desert Street in Bar Harbor, Maine; The Holy Redeemer Catholic Church is a beauty of an old church. The more subtle Neo-gothic architecture of this church is beautiful, and it is one of the larger houses of prayer located in Bar Harbor. This church features a rugged stone exterior, high ceilings crossed with Cyprus beams, stained glass windows, and a gorgeous organ on the mezzanine. The interior is sadly in need of some repairs and TLC. Much of the plaster is beginning to degrade and pull away from the lathes. Water stains of roof-leaks gone-by spot the ceilings and walls in some areas. It did appear they were doing masonry repairs on the exterior this summer however, so hopefully a rejuvenation is in the works. But don’t let any of that get you down or steer you away. This was still a majestic space for a heartwarming and elegant ceremony.
Before we talk ceremony, we have to talk about the day-of transportation. If you have ever been to Mount Desert Island in July, you know what parking in Bar Harbor, Maine is like (nightmarish). With so many guests needing to move between The Atlantic Oceanside and The Holy Redeemer, what better way to do it than with Oli’s Trolley’s?! That’s right. This Bride and Groom decided comfort and easy accessibility was a must for their guests. So, they hired a trolley to do all of the driving. Three trolley trips later, and all of the guests attending the ceremony had arrived. Sonia and I beat them there in my truck, but Stephanie road along with the wedding party on the last trolley.
The Bride arrives at The Holy Redeemer for the wedding ceremony.
With the guests seated, and the wedding party gathered by the door, we waited with anticipation for the Bride and her parents to arrive. Their transportation was provided by At Your Service Private Tours. I knew we were in for a treat just doing the dress shot, but I had no idea what kind of fairytale was actually showing up. I have to use the term ‘fairytale’ because I don’t really have a better, more descriptive way to explain this Bride’s look and presence on this day. Having already worked with this couple for two other sessions, I couldn’t help but tear up at the sight of her. I could hardly wait for the Groom to see too! But not yet, he would need to keep his anticipation a bit longer.
First Touch on Your Wedding Day
First Touch with the Wedding Party at The Holy Redeemer - Bar Harbor, Maine
To quell their anxiousness and excitement before the ceremony, this couple opted to do a First Touch. I couldn’t help but notice the energy and love that came across both their faces when their fingers first touched each other. If a First Look isn’t in your plans, a First Touch is a great alternative! They really allow you to get creative with the shots, and the moment itself. We chose to pull in the wedding party for a fun shot together with the Bride and Groom to keep it short and sweet. There was a wedding to do, after all!
With the deep, rich notes of the organ echoing through this house of the lord, and golden light pouring through the old stained glass, the ceremony began. Everyone looked wonderful and excited to be there for such a special moment. The ceremony itself was lovely and very traditional in nature. Having never personally participated in any Orthodox services, I found it fascinating to watch as this couple and their minister gracefully made their way through the service. Mind you, it was about 90ºF outside, and no air conditioning inside. How this couple stayed on their feet for the entire hour of the service was a miracle in itself!
At one point during the ceremony, the Groom’s candle extinguished. Without hesitation the two of them worked together to reignite his candle using her flame. If you look carefully you can see the proud emotions on the Mother and Father of the Brides faces in the background. This moment stands out to me as a key highlight of the whole ceremony. It was one little action that summed up the entire teachings shared during the service. Beautiful.
With many a happy tear throughout the crowd, these two became Husband and Wife.
After the ceremony, we met outside the church for some family portraits before the rest of the day’s fun began.
Should You Hire a Day-of Coordinator?
On the fence whether you should hire a day-of coordinator or wedding planner? The difference is in the details, and this couple chose a great one to keep this day on schedule, and stress-free. The job of a day-of coordinator is to lessen the burden felt by the wedding couple on their big day. Especially weddings with large guest lists, or in this case, a lot of moving and shuffling locations and activities. Typically they will run the timeline, coordinate vendors before your day, make sure all of the details are attended to, and put a smile on your face when you’re feeling a little overwhelmed. Marie from All The Little Details was all of this and more.
Before the day even came, Marie was in touch and had a prepared timeline. We talked details about the day and what the Bride and Groom needed from each of us vendors. When their wedding day came, Marie was there, bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready for the fun and adventure ahead of us. Immediately she won my heart over when she excused herself to go steam the linens (I think you all know by now how I feel about wrinkles or fold lines on the linens!) Marie was there when we needed water and a towel for the Groom who was nearly melting at the altar from the heat, she was there when they needed a refreshing sip of water after their sunset portraits, and she was there when anybody had a question or request. She treated everyone like she had always been part of the family. Marie is a classy lady, and she brings with that talent, creativity, kindness, and precision. I can’t say enough good things about her! So if you are torn on whether you need a day-of coordinator, the answer from me is yes. This day could not have run as smoothly as it did if not for Marie and having a day-of coordinator on hand.
How to Entertain Your Wedding Guests
The Acadian with Acadian Nature Cruises - Bar Harbor, Maine
After the ceremony and family portraits wrapped up, it was time for the wedding day adventures to begin. Yes, I said adventures with an ’s’. I’m not kidding when I say this day was incredible. Oli’s Trolley gave all of the guests a ride back to The Atlantic Oceanside so they could freshen up and hop aboard The Acadian from Acadian Boat Tours for a Frenchman Bay cruise with hors d’oeuvres and light refreshments. What better way to keep your guests entertained while out for an extended Newlywed Portrait session?
With all of the guests aboard, and Stephanie behind the camera, The Acadian left dock for a scenic and relaxing ride through Frenchman Bay and down the Acadia coastline.
[Hey reader, were you a Guest aboard the boat? Reach out to the Bride or Groom to receive a link to the full gallery from this portion of the day. There you can view and purchase digital downloads of your favorite shots, or order some prints. I offer the same custom one-on-one print assistance to wedding guests that I do to my clients; so if you need any help, you know where to find me!]
Why You Should Hire a Private Driver for your Wedding Day
Meanwhile, with the guests at sea, The Bride and Groom, as well as myself and Sonia loaded into our ride from At Your Service Private Tours. We would have been crazy to take more than one vehicle on a weekend day to go into Acadia. Could you imagine the parking? The navigating? No thank you. All of that was handled by our driver. Us four got to sit back, take a deep breath, sip some water, and reflect on the happenings of the day so far. Our van was immaculate, and well stocked to keep us comfortable for our 2 hour Acadia National Park Newlywed Portraits. Our driver was lovely. TRULY! He chatted with us about the area, while providing a comfortable and safe ride through a busy and bustling Bar Harbor and Acadia. I have to admit that I am ashamed that I do not remember his name. I’ll have to do better with that for the next one. If I find out what his name was, I will update the post to contain his name for recognition of his commitment to make this tour special.
Best Places for Wedding Photos in Acadia National Park
You can always choose the go-to’s like Sand Beach, Otter Cliff, Thunder Hole, and Jordon Pond; all wonderful in their own respects. But this wedding couple had said it was important that they have photos in a garden. So we took a look at options, and settled on The Wild Gardens of Acadia. Situated at the base of Dorr Mountain, these gardens contain native Acadia plantings and is home to Sieur de Monts Spring. I just love the little trails, well cared for plantings, and the twists and turns these garden trails have. This spot really allowed us to play with the late afternoon sunlight through the leaves, and create some very dramatic moments on one of the bridges. I brought along an off-camera flash (ocf) unit, and found that it really helped me control the sunlight that was pretty playful on its own, and harsh at times.
After we finished the gardens we were surprised by our driver with a Cadillac Mountain summit pass! The guests may have been at sea, but we were going to the mountain top! Cadillac Mountain is the tallest mountain on Mount Desert Island, with views looking all across the Maine coast area. It really is worth the effort to make a trip up there. If you’re the hiking type, the trails are pretty reasonable and enjoyable. You can also avoid the summit parking pass dilemma this way!
We took our time wandering the summit all while the Bride and Groom received continuous congratulations and compliments from each passer-by. We even had a few curious on-lookers who found us to be as much a scenic attraction as the view from the summit itself.
The two newlyweds shared some very sweet and romantic moments while we were on Cadillac Mountain, and I am so glad we received this extraordinary surprise!
Reception at The Atlantic Oceanside Hotel
When the portraits were finished, we made our way back to The Atlantic Oceanside so the Bride and Groom could freshen up, and so the Bride could change into her Reception Dress before their Grand Entrance at the Reception. This dress was just as amazing as her wedding dress. She honestly could have worn either and still held a royal and regal styling in any setting.
The ballroom at this venue is simple but well maintained in nature, and spacious enough to accommodate larger gatherings with plenty of room for mingling. It was easy and comfortable to move among the guests. There was bar service provided by the venue, as well as a delicious meal. Personally I had a plate of the chicken and my goodness! They must have a good chef in that kitchen! In addition, the staff they had working the Reception and the Rehearsal Dinner were amazing. They were all very friendly, helpful, and attentive. I particularly enjoyed chatting with the bartenders. They were a fun lot!
Florals provided by Queen Anne’s Flower Shop - Bar Harbor, Maine
Florals were provided by Queen Anne’s Flower Shop in Bar Harbor. This local florist has been featured in Maine Weddings magazine multiple times, and for good reason! The arrangements were stunning, and very fresh and fragrant.
The Bride and Groom entered the Reception to cheers and applause from their friends and loved ones, and immediately took to the dance floor for what is easily the best First Dance I captured this Summer. Don’t get me wrong; all of the First Dance’s I captured this wedding season were wonderful. But this one had that extra sparkle.
Should You Take Dance Lessons For Your Wedding?
I love the First Dance. It’s a moment for the couple to express themselves without words. It gives the two of them time to physically connect and share their love, and show off their ability to work as a team to create something beautiful. The First Dance is as much a show requiring showmanship as it is a sentimental wedding day memory. How each couple chooses to create this moment is what makes it so special and unique to them every single time.
Now I’m not saying every wedding calls for dance lessons. They are an added expense both in time and money during a time when both are already on a budget for the big day. But if a solid First Dance with some flair is your preference, then dance lessons are a necessity. Not only do they give you an opportunity to slow down and enjoy some added time with your significant other, they give you two an activity to bond over. Dance can be a deeply personal practice, and brings a beautiful intimacy to a relationship. It requires you to activate your communication skills with each other, and work together based on each other’s abilities.
This couple decided a choreographed First Dance to Norah Jones “Come Fly With Me” was right for them. Listen, it was right for all of us there. My goodness. I was in awe as the Bride and Groom swooped across the entire dance floor twirling, dipping, lifting and we were even treated to a carry from the Groom with a stately wave from the Bride. Everything about this dance had been practiced and perfected. What a show after an already amazing day! It brought flutters to my chest to see these two so connected and on-step with each other during the dance. This First Dance was a dream.
The family dance’s were just as enchanting. If I had to guess, I’d say the Father of the Bride has a knack for dancing all on his own. That man was both a gentleman on the dance floor and knew how to captivate! The beautiful Mother of the Groom took to the floor with her son next. This lady has all of the style and flare by the way. I was in love with her fashion throughout the weekend; it was just so flawlessly curated. Mom looked like she was all in her feels as her and her son danced their way across the floor.
We enjoyed toasts and speeches from family and friends. I particularly loved the Bride’s parents. Her mom is the sweetest lady. She took to the mic with Dad by her side. She offered expert marriage advice, encouragement, and words of love. The Bride’s parents are just adorable. Her Father had forgotten his glasses, so in true marriage-inspiration style, he borrowed his wife’s glasses to read his speech. Something about seeing that companionship and connectedness just makes me feel good. This is why I love weddings!
False wedding cake created by the Bride
The cake at this Bar Harbor wedding was unique, and had a fun backstory that I only learned after the wedding day! The Bride created this false cake herself and never told me she was this crafty! She left a spot in the back to insert a slice of actual cake to be removed during the cutting. I absolutely loved this idea. Also, her craftsmanship was A+, that was one beautiful cake. The actual cake served was from Frank’s Bake Shop located in Bangor, Maine. I talk about one of their cakes in more detail on my blog post from a wedding at The Tarratine. Frank’s is definitely a local staple for baked goods.
With the cake cut, it was time to toss the bouquet and play a couple rounds of The Shoe Game. Of course, what is a wedding without open dance floor time? What a fun crowd too. Scroll through for some of my favorites from the night. As with the boat tour photos, Guests may reach out to the Bride or Groom to receive a link to the full gallery from this portion of the day. There you can view and purchase digital downloads of your favorite shots, or order some prints. I offer the same custom one-on-one print assistance to wedding guests that I do to my clients; so if you need any help, you know where to find me!
Sunset in Bar Harbor, Maine
We couldn’t let a Bar Harbor sunset go by and not take at least a couple shots with it. We had a spectacular view of the harbor after all. Now, these were not going to be those sunset shots with the fiery oranges and reds, since that was blocked by the Cat ferry terminal. However, we did have views of the gorgeous lavender skies that are just as mighty in their own right. You know what I’m talking about. That soft pink, purple, blue and lavender horizon. It’s a stunner. These shots can only happen if you’re using off-camera flash and know how to remove the gear from the shots during the editing process. How GORGEOUS is that dock shot at the top of this post?! Even I was a bit in awe when I saw what we had created together. Thanks to Sonia for playing flash ninja behind the Bride and Groom. She had to squat behind them, and dangle that flash unit on a pole over the water. Did I put some pressure on her with this one? Probably, but it’s Sonia, and she’s a rockstar assistant with the same passion for the shot that I have.
Bride and Groom at Sunset overlooking Bar Harbor, Maine
Why do a Sparkler Exit?
With a night of celebration over, it was time for everyone to say their congratulations and goodnights. But first, we needed a grand exit for a spectacular couple. That’s where the sparklers come in. Guests were brought out on the side yard and handed long handled sparklers. You really want to be certain you buy good, safe, reliable and long-handled sparklers for this type of thing. The person handing them out should announce how to safely handle these, especially if there are young kiddos around. You’ll want to make sure you have a bucket full of sand nearby to stick spent sparklers in. No one likes a litterbug after all!
With sparklers lit, and my ofc’s set up and ready, the Bride and Groom descended the staircase and made their way into the crowd. Though tired from a long day of celebration, these two still charged forward and gave us energetic dips, twirls, and expressions of love and appreciation.
This couple was really special to me after working together so much prior to their wedding. What a chance meeting we originally had too! Never would I have guessed that our snowy winter session together with their pup would have lead to photographing a fairytale wedding unique to Bar Harbor, Maine. Everyone present for the day was absolutely wonderful, and a joy to spend the day with. I am so excited to see where this new leg of their journey together takes them. I think they’re going to accomplish some pretty great things together, if the teamwork they exhibited on their wedding day was any example. It certainly was an inspiration.
Congratulations to these Newly Weds!
Your Photographer,
Shaun Crockett - The Bearded Mainer
Penobscot Bay Estate hosted some of Maine’s most talented and creative wedding vendors to create a stunning luxury wedding experience for a segment to be featured on World’s Greatest TV airing on the Bloomberg Channel.