Maine is one of my favorite places in the world, so when Dan and Kyle described their vision for a summer wedding in midcoast Maine, I immediately began to fantasize about the kinds of images we can create. In Maine, it’s not just about the panoramic water views and sailboats that dot every harbor, or the lobster rolls and blueberry ice cream (though that’s a big part of it). It’s about a feeling, and if you’ve ever been to Maine, you know what I mean.

The day started full of sunshine and good energy. I’d already met Kyle and Dan prior to their wedding day for a similarly wonderful Maine evening in Brunswick, for an engagement session with their bikes and some beers, so I knew that this day was going to be easy-going and classic. Kyle got ready in the light-drenched bridal suite of the 1774 Inn, where she had an unplanned but emotion-filled first look with her man of honor, Jason. Dan was just next door with some great friends and good whiskey.

For their first look, Kyle and Dan wanted to capture the coastal mood of Maine alongside the the barns and cottages on the property. After spending some time strolling around the grounds for a few portraits, New England did what New England does and threw a second season at us, creating a misty coastal vibe for the seaside ceremony, which turned into the most perfect golden hour light for cocktail hour, which led right into tented dinner and toasts. Anyone that knows me knows I fall apart at the sight of a dog (or most animals, really) so the fact that Dan and Kyle’s sweet Australian Shepherd, Ruby, was involved in all the wedding festivities made me insanely happy.

After feasting on oysters and other New England delicacies, toasts, and dinner, guests were invited into the barn for an evening of local craft brews, live music, and dancing as the sun dipped on another perfect summer midcoast Maine day.