Are you dreaming of a rustic and charming wedding in the beautiful state of Maine? Look no further than a barn wedding! With its stunning countryside landscapes, rustic architecture, and cozy atmosphere, Maine is the perfect place to say "I do" in a barn. Here's everything you need to know about having a barn wedding in Maine.
Choosing the Right Barn
The first step in planning your barn wedding is to choose the right barn. Maine is home to many beautiful and historic barns that have been converted into wedding venues, each with its own unique charm and character. When choosing a barn, consider the size, property amenities, and style that best fits your vision and budget.
Don't forget about location, especially if you're planning on having guests travel! It's best to have a location that's easily accessible to area hotels and possibly an airport (psst: view our travel + hotels page for more information about lodging near our own farm!).
The most popular barn wedding venues in Maine offer stunning scenery, beautiful rustic interiors, and a range of amenities such as on-site lodging, catering flexibility, and event coordination services.
Decorating Your Barn
Once you've chosen your barn venue, it's time to start thinking about decorating it for your big day. Barns offer a blank canvas for you to create your dream wedding décor, whether you're going for a rustic, vintage, or modern look.
Popular barn wedding décor elements include string lights, lanterns, burlap table runners, wooden signage, and floral arrangements. Don't forget to incorporate the natural beauty of the barn's surroundings, such as wildflowers, foliage, and rustic wooden elements.
Planning Your Catering
When it comes to catering for your barn wedding in Maine, you have plenty of options. Maine is known for its delicious and fresh cuisine, with a focus on seafood, lobster, and farm-to-table ingredients.
Many barn wedding venues in Maine allow their clients to choose their own caterer, and the best caterers have menus that feature local and seasonal ingredients. Food trucks are also great at providing a unique and memorable dining experience for your guests! Some of our favorite caterers include Bar Harbor Catering Company, CRAVE Maine, Salty Dog BBQ, and Trillium.
Hosting Your Ceremony and Reception
Barns offer a versatile space for both your ceremony and reception. Whether you're exchanging vows in the barn's rustic interior or saying "I do" under a beautiful outdoor arbor, your barn wedding in Maine is sure to be a memorable and romantic occasion.
After your ceremony, your guests can enjoy a cocktail hour and dinner reception inside the barn or on the lawn outside. Don't forget to plan for entertainment, such as a live band, DJ, or photo booth, to keep your guests dancing and having fun all night long. Many barn venues provide yard games like corn hole and bocci ball, which are great ways to keep your guests entertained while you're finishing up your family portraits after the ceremony.
Preparing for the Weather
Maine's weather can be unpredictable, so it's important to prepare for all possibilities when planning your barn wedding. Be sure to have a backup plan in case of rain or inclement weather, such as a tent rental or space inside the barn where your ceremony can continue.
You should also consider the temperature and weather conditions when choosing your wedding attire. For a barn wedding in Maine, brides may want to opt for a light and airy wedding dress for summer months, while grooms can wear a more casual suit or even a vest and suspenders. Pay attention to suit fabrics, too... linen is much more breathable than a wool blend. Fall is the most popular time of year for a wedding in Maine, but the temperatures can vary dramatically. Ask your venue if they have an option to heat the space if it's a particularly chilly day.
In Conclusion
A barn wedding in Maine is the perfect way to celebrate your love in a rustic and charming setting. From choosing the right barn venue to decorating it with your dream wedding décor and planning your catering and entertainment, there are many factors to consider when planning your barn wedding in Maine. With careful preparation and attention to detail, your barn wedding is sure to be a memorable and romantic occasion that you and your guests will never forget.
Share this story
