Sara & Lucas traveled all the way to Camden Maine from the West Coast so that they could marry in a place that held deep meaning for Sara. Their intimate wedding took place on the lawn of the cottage she visited on vacation throughout her childhood. Sara just knew that this special place was the perfect location for their Maine Intimate Wedding and a meaningful location to start her life with Lucas.
Their day started off at the Lord Camden Inn where Sara got ready alongside her mother, friends & family.
She had some rockin' Kate Spade shoes that were perfect for walking around Mount Battie and kicking it up on the dance floor. She also wore these beautiful vintage earrings.
Her beautiful hair and make by Salty Waves Salon.
Once dressed, we headed out for a first look by the harbor...just a short walk from the Inn.
Even though it was a bit overcast the Harbor was as beautiful as ever.
Next we jumped in our cars and rode up to the top of Mount Battie in Camden Hills State Park to capture some beautiful portraits together. Camden Hills features 5,700 acres with wooded hills and an 800 foot summit with sweeping views of Penobscot Bay so it's the ideal place for epic photos.
My approach to wedding photography during this part of the day is a simple one. I encouraged Sara & Lucas to take a few quiet minutes together when we first arrived to Mount Battie. I told them to reflect on everything that led them to this point- both joyful times and challenging times. I reminded them that their love inspired them to take this big step and to enjoy everything that that means to them for just a few minutes. Take some deep breaths, hold each other and think about your relationship.
I find that these few minutes spent slowing down and thinking about their relationship can really help them to relax and be a bit more present. It also helps to bring out those tender feelings and natural moments for my camera.
Like magic the fog cleared when we arrived at Mount Battie and rolled back in when it was time for us to depart.
Okay...side note... I kinda geeked out at the opportunity to shoot portraits with a longer lens which I don't always get to do but this setting, with its spectacular views, was PERFECT for this! I enjoy this lens because it allows me get further away from my couple. This matters because when I say "snuggle up, and enjoy this quiet time together" its so much easier for my couple to relax if I'm not right up next to them with a shorter lens.
Once our Mount Battie portraits were done we made our way to the family cottage where their ceremony was held. We were ahead of schedule so Sara took a little time to touch up her makeup and Lucas greeted guests.
I love how the flower girl is giving Sara a reassuring thumbs up as she heads down the aisle!
"Today we stand among a lifetime of memories. Sara grew up coming to this very spot, every summer for 35 years visiting her Grandie Sally, so all around us, rooted in the earth, floating through the lake, growing through the trees is a lifetime of love, which today provides the perfect setting for Sara and Lucas to officially start their life together."
Stunning florals by Flowers by Hoboken
Oh that first kiss gets me every time!
Following the ceremony we took family portraits and a few more couples shots because the lake views from this location was so lovely.
Cute shot with the "best dog".
Not sure if you noticed but this bride is also a momma-to-be! Later in the post you'll see how they shared a bit of baby news with their guests at the reception.
A beautiful reception followed under a tent at the Merry Spring Nature Center. The grounds were covered in stunning garden beds and it felt so quiet and secluded here- a bit like a secret garden.
A classic Maine lobster dinner provided by Sea Coast Catering.
After dinner came the first dance and parent dances.
Remember I said there was a baby surprise? The wedding cake was a gender reveal! Sara & Lucas had their own mini cake while guests enjoy cupcakes and other goodies.
Baby boy! Cue me tearing up again.... haha!
With speeches and cake cutting behind them it was time to hit the dance floor ! Wedding band, The Waiters, were amazing and brought so much energy to the party.
Thanks for taking a look at this heartfelt Intimate Wedding in Camden, Maine. If you're interested in learning more about my approach to Maine wedding photography or my Maine Wedding Photography Packages take a look through my website! I'd love to talk with you, learn more about the event you're planning and see if I might be a good fit as your Maine wedding photographer!