Maine Elopement | Ally & Dan - daniellewilliamsphotography.com

When I first spoke to Ally about their vision for a Maine elopement I knew right away this would be an unforgettable experience.

They chose Rangeley, Maine, a place that held a lot of sentimental value to them. You could instantly understand how much care and attention to detail went into planning this celebration.

Being the outdoorsy people they are, when we had our first consult call Ally told me that her goal for the day was to just be themselves, hike, and have fun. They wanted a documentary style approach to their photos to compliment the type of activities they wanted to incorporate into the day. I absolutely loved because authentic candid photos are a personal favorite of mine.

After a few conversations about their vision and travel plans, their day arrived and It was the best experience ever. I can’t wait to share this with you!

Maine Elopement | Preparation

Obviously a lot of planning goes into an elopement. Things you have to consider like: locations, guest lists, time of day, lodging accommodations, weather, and more. (For more helpful tips on “How to Plan a Destination Wedding” click here).

The beginning of the journey for myself started with a trip out to the East Coast a week prior. It was a wonderful opportunity to visit some states I had yet traveled. After seeing several states, I drove from Acadia National Park to Rangeley the day before the elopement.

With the location being outdoors we ran into the unfortunate news that hurricane Lee was on its way to Maine. Although weather is always unpredictable for any elopement, we certainly didn’t expect it to be as intense as a hurricane. This caused some additional planning to decide on backup indoor options in case we got rained out.

During the few days leading up to the celebration we were in constant communication about the approaching hurricane. With a plan B in our pockets we knew either way we were going to get them married.

The morning of the elopement the weather channel addressed hurricane Lee hitting Portland, Maine and said “with all the weddings happening this weekend, they say it’s good luck to have rain on your wedding day, I wonder how much luck a hurricane will bring”.

And we indeed got all the luck in the world.

The Big Day: A Ceremony at Small Falls

On Saturday, September 16th, of 2024 we awoke bright eyed and ready to celebrate two wonderful people get married.

With a clear sky in town and people gathered at the Inn fueling up for an epic adventure, we packed up and went to Small Falls, Rangeley for the ceremony.

I had the privilege of seeing some of my own friends/clients from my hometown as guests at this incredible event miles, and miles away. Who knew when I met them in their home last year we would be on the East Coast together!

It’s true when I say my clients become lifelong friends!

The ceremony took place in the most beautiful remote area in Small Falls. Ally and Dan planned for only their closest family and friends to take part as witness for this ceremony.

Love is in the air and tears are shed as they have the most genuine and loving ceremony together, followed by champagne pops, cheers, and hugs all around.

Once we completed all of the family portraits, guests who were not going to participate in the hike went back to their hotel/airbnb to relax until later.

Next, we ventured to the falls for some epic portraits and group shots.

From climbing up some rocks, running through the river, and basking in the falls and surrounding nature. I could instantly see why they chose this location.

Once we wrapped up their portraits at the falls we set out to do the group hike they planned.

The Big Day: Appalachian Trail Hike

We arrived at the Appalachian trail entrance.

This was a mid-day activity that Ally and Dan wanted to do with their friends (and dogs) to honor their love for hiking and adventure.

The experience was full of love, laughter, some sweat, and lots of documentary photo moments.

You could tell that their group all shared these passions for the outdoors and wanted nothing but to celebrate these two and their love.

Once we wrapped up the hike we set off for a break before the evening festivities.

The Big Day: Evening Party

The final experience for my time with Ally and Dan in their Maine elopement was to join them at the cabin they rented for them and their friends. They also brought their two cats to the cabin!

This was a beautiful secluded large cabin by the water with a private dock.

The party began around sunset so we took advantage of the dock and went out to do some additional portraits and photos with friends by the water.

On the inside, guests and family had help set up a beautiful intimate dinner setting with candles, champagne, and lots of delicious food.

Once dinner was over they let their hair down, ties off, and the onesies came on! You heard me, a onesie party!

From giraffes, TMNT, Star Wars, Winnie the Poo, and more, everyone changed into a comical onesie and partied the night away.

Last but not least, they even went into the local town for karaoke in their onesies! Definitely a night to never forget.

Maine Elopement | Summary

If you’ve been debating on a Maine elopement this is your sign.

From Rangeley, Acadia, Bar Harbor, Bangor, and more, Maine offers a wide range of endless opportunities to elope.

Whether you have a larger elopement or an intimate one, there are plenty of ways to include guests. From having them attend the ceremony, planning activities to do in between, or hosting a dinner in the evening.

For more helpful tips on “Including Guests in Your Elopement” click here.

Lastly, I can’t say enough amazing things about Ally and Dan’s epic Maine elopement. It was truly one to never forget and I wish them so much love and happiness together.