Planning a Maine Wedding: 10 Things You Need to Prepare for Before Having Your Dream New England Wedding Weekend

Picture this: you’ve spent the last year planning and dreaming of a picturesque seaside ceremony or maybe a rustic barn affair in the heart of Maine. You’ve spent hours picking out stationery, linens and even paid extra for those golden garden chairs. Maine is always sunny is June, so you didn’t think a tent or umbrellas would be necessary for cocktail hour. An hour before the ceremony starts, you get a weather notification alerting you of a severe thunderstorm coming up the coast, this is not what you pictured your big day to be like…

It’s almost inevitable that you’ll have to jump over some sort of hurdle during your big day; whether it’s unpredictable weather, over-emotional family members, vendors that ghost you…regardless, the above story sounds like a nightmare, right? It just would not feel right not to warn you about New England’s uncertain weather and any other hurdles you may encounter when planning a wedding in the North East. As I was a Maine Bride in September of 2023 – on the day hurricane Lee hit!

Photo by Liv Merenberg Photography

Planning a wedding can be as thrilling as it is overwhelming, but fear not, because For Every Joccasion is here to guide you through the process with ease and a sprinkle of laid-back charm. From choosing the perfect venue that captures the essence of Maine’s natural beauty to navigating the unpredictable weather patterns that come with this charming coastal state, we’ve got insider tips and tricks to ensure your special day goes off without a hitch. So grab a cup of your favorite brew, sit back, and let us take you through all the must-know details that will make your Maine wedding an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.

Weather Warnings: Maine’s weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes. Have a backup plan for outdoor ceremonies in case of rain or extreme heat. Umbrellas are always nice to have on hand for both rain and sunshine.

Permit Requirements: Some locations in Maine may require permits for events. Not only might it require a permit, it almost always will require you to have some sort of event insurance as well. Make sure you check with the venue and local authorities to avoid any last-minute surprises.

Vendor Vexations: Maine does not require you to register to do business. Therefor, anyone can be disguised as a “vendor”. Be sure to research thoroughly and read reviews to avoid any last-minute disappointments.

Vendor Availability: Maine is a popular wedding destination, so be sure to book your vendors well in advance to secure your preferred choices.

Budget Blunders: Some people view Maine as an affordable place to live. Don’t underestimate the costs – prices can add up quickly, especially in popular wedding destinations like Portland, Acadia and along the Coast.

Transportation Planning: Maine’s scenic beauty can mean remote locations. Arrange transportation for guests, especially if they are unfamiliar with the area. A location that is in the same town might still be 25-30 minutes away.

Seasonal Considerations: Depending on the season, you may encounter different challenges. Winter weddings in Maine can be magical but require extra attention to heating arrangements.

Timing Troubles: Check for any local events or holidays that might impact traffic or accommodation availability on your chosen date. You’d be surprised with all of the little things we like to celebrate as Mainers such as Maine Maple Sunday and Westbrook’sTogether Days.

Alcohol Access: If you plan to serve alcohol at your wedding, there are several routes to go through. The most common route is to hire a licensed bartender to serve alcohol that you provide. With that being said, remember to check the laws surrounding serving alcohol in the area of your event.

Relaxation and Enjoyment: Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the process. Planning a wedding in Maine is a unique experience, so savor every moment leading up to your special day.

Consider hiring For Every Joccasion so you can truly soak up everything Vacationland has to offer and you can have a stress free day to remember.

Let us help you create unforgettable moments that become core memories!

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