There’s never a bad time of year to stand in front of friends and family and pledge your love to your significant other. Every season has its own unique charms (and challenges) that brides have to face head-on during the planning process. As a Maine wedding photographer, I’ve seen weddings take place all year-round and know exactly what to expect. No matter if you are still setting your date or already have it circled on your calendar, here are things you should consider when it comes to making your Maine wedding picture-perfect.

Spring

There’s nothing sweeter than a springtime wedding. It’s a quiet time of year here in Maine. Cool temperatures, billowing clouds, and moody skies make this one of the most picturesque times to get married. With that said, Maine has notoriously temperamental weather this time of year. If you’re thinking of getting married in the Spring, make sure you are ready to embrace the unpredictability of Mother Nature and are plenty prepared.

Tips for Spring Weddings in Maine

Beautiful Rain gear

No matter what the weatherman says, be sure to have some chic rain gear on-hand if you are planning on a springtime ceremony. A cute raincoat or Hunter boots can add a pop of color if you happen to take your photos on an overcast day. At the very least, have an elegant umbrella on-hand if the weather refuses to cooperate.

A Stylish Up-do

For lots of women, rain means one thing – frizzy hair. If you don’t want to have larger-than-life hair on your wedding day, consider a sleek up-do rather than wearing your hair long. A French twist or chignon is always in style and won’t fall apart if there happens to be inclement weather.

A Backup Plan

This might seem obvious, but if rain is a possibility, a back-up plan is a necessity. Usually your ceremony and reception will already have an indoor alternative. But don’t forget to have indoor locations picked out for your bridal portraits as well. That way, your wedding will still look perfect, even if the weather definitely isn’t.

Maine Venues I love for Spring Weddings

These stylish seaside wedding venues have breathtaking event spaces both inside and outdoors.

– Cliff House Maine

– French’s Point

Summer

Summer in Maine is considered wedding season for a reason. Beautiful weather and picturesque scenery in peak form combine to create an atmosphere that is nothing short of magical.

Tips for Summer Weddings in Maine

Plan Your Exit Accordingly

One of the best parts about summer is that the sun practically refuses to set. That also means that events like sparkler send-offs or sunset photos have to be timed accordingly. Be sure to check when the sun is scheduled to set before creating a wedding day itinerary.

Beware of Bugs

Warm weather means bugs are an inevitability. Luckily, if you plan ahead, you’ll be totally fine. For outdoor spaces, incorporate citronella candles into your décor to keep the mosquitos away. Also, consider skipping a wedding dress with a tulle skirt. If bugs abound, it can quickly turn into a mosquito net.

Don’t Forget to Cover Up

While summer usually means beautiful, balmy evenings, an occasional cold snap can always occur. Be sure to have a cute cardigan or shawl on hand in case its colder than expected. Also, always have a covered or tented area for your guests so that they can take shelter should the weather take an unexpected turn.

Maine venues I love for Summer Weddings

These breathtaking costal wedding venues look especially stunning in summer months.

– The Nonantum Resort

– The Breakwater Inn and Spa

– Newagen Seaside Inn

Fall

Cooler temperatures and amazing atmospheres make fall a favorite for brides-to-be.

Tips for Fall Weddings in Maine

Keep Your Eye On Costs

The secret is out – Fall is an excellent time to get married. That means that weddings during this peak time of year cost a premium. If you are planning on tying the knot during this time of year, be sure to consider your budget.

Cooler Temperatures

Brides are usually totally fine with cooler autumn temperatures. Just remember, the later you choose to get married, the colder it will be. No one wants to attend an outdoor ceremony or a tented reception when there is frost on the ground, so be sure to have a back-up plan in place.

Maine Venues I love for Fall Weddings

To me, there’s nothing more beautiful than a lakeside wedding during fall. The crisp air and colorful foliage make the surrounding scenery simply stunning.

– The Stone Barn at Sebago Lake

– Granite Ridge Estate

– The Barn at Autumn Lane

– Migis Lodge

Winter

Is there anything cozier than a winter wedding? I’m a firm believer that New England has some of the most beautiful winters in the entire world. That might be one of the reasons that winter weddings are getting more and more popular with each passing year.

Tips for Winter Weddings in Maine

Adorable Outerwear

One of the best parts about winter weddings are the adorable accessories. A vintage fur stole for you and your bridesmaids is perfectly appropriate and will give your photos a luxe, old-fashioned elegance. Jackets, hats, scarves, boots, and other outerwear can also look incredibly chic when paired with your wedding dress.

Play in the Snow

Don’t be afraid to embrace one of winter’s most wonderful features – freshly fallen snow. The stark contrast between the surroundings and the happy couple make for bridal portraits that are undeniably beautiful.

Embrace Your Bottom Line

Winter is one of the most affordable times of year to get married. Some venues even offer discounts for weddings held during their slow season. This makes it the perfect time of year for couples who want to stick to a strict budget or want money to spare during the wedding planning process.

Maine Wedding Venues I love for Winter Weddings

Mountain resorts create a picturesque backdrop for winter weddings in Maine. Or, pick a downtown Portland location to feel like you stepped back in time and into a vintage Christmas card.

– Brick South

– Ocean Gateway

– The Public Works

– O’Maine Studios