Love and Lobster Coastal New England Weddings

10.9.11 Chris and Meg
Stage Neck Inn ~ York Harbor, Maine

Planning our destination wedding had its challenges, but in the end it was absolutely perfect! The decision to have a destination wedding was pretty simple, we live in Chicago and our families and friends are spread across six states and two countries so they would all be traveling anyway. After a weekend in Maine enjoying the local attractions and visiting possible wedding venues, we fell in love with the area and knew it would be perfect for our wedding. York Harbor is breathtaking, and has the comforting small town feel where everyone knows each other. The main drag up the coast is lined with multiple bed and breakfasts, each one more charming than the next… and there is so much history in the area. October paints a canvas of vivid fall colors as the leaves begin to change, and just makes you relax.

Both of us are big foodies, so we decided that food had to be one of our two planning priorities for the wedding (tied for first was photography). We would have the photos as memories for years to come and recognized that item as a long term investment. Lobster is so prevalent in New England, specifically Maine, so instantly that became a mini food related theme. We had a small guest list (40 total) and thought a lobster bake rehearsal dinner would be a perfect kick-off for the weekend festivities! Since we had a small group it would be intimate and everyone could socialize and get to know one another before the reception.

We had a strict budget, coupled with my love of crafts and planning from 800 miles away a stage was set for our “dressed-up-casual” evening escorted by UPS next day delivery! It was important to me that every detail be personalized and all the pieces fall into place for the big day. With the help of my wonderful groom, bridesmaids, and the staff at the Stage Neck Inn all the pieces came together for an amazing, unforgettable evening.

photographer: Whitney, emilie inc. photography
venue: Stage Neck Inn, York, Maine
florist: Flowers by the Sea
dj: Fred Pappalardo
cake: Confection Art
gown: Victoria Sdoukos at Boutique Victoria