Intimate Wedding with Family in Acadia National Park
For couples who want beautiful scenery all year around, and accessible locations, Acadia National Park is the perfect place to bring your family for an intimate wedding! With its stunning ocean views, rocky cliffs, and mountain vistas, this national park offers an unforgettable setting for a wedding that blends adventure with family time.
In this blog post, I’ll share Katlyn and Matt’s incredible wedding day in Acadia and provide helpful tips for planning your own intimate wedding with family in this favorite place of mine!
Katlyn & Matt’s Intimate Wedding in Acadia National Park
Katlyn and Matt envisioned a wedding day that was laid-back, with a little adventure, and filled with quality time with their loved ones. Traveling up to Maine from Maryland, this was a lot of their families first time in Acadia! They started their day in a cozy cabin within the park, where Katlyn got ready upstairs with the women in her family while Matt stayed downstairs with their two Australian Shepherds. We did some photos of them each getting ready, and some of their intentional details that they brought along to be apart of their day. Katlyns grandma put her pearl necklace on Katlyn which was an extra sweet moment!
First Look In Acadia
Once Katlyn was ready, Matt left the cabin so we could meet him at their first look location. We drove into the park and set up their first look on a beautiful forest path with fall foliage framing them. This is always such a fun part of the day, as there is so much antipaction leading up to this moment. They had such a sweet moment, both took a big breath, and we continued on the days adventure!
Bring Along the pups!
After their first look, we headed to Ocean Path, a beautiful stretch of coastline perfect for an afternoon walk. Katlyn and Matt took their Australian Shepherds, Cooper and Paxton, along the trail to soak in some fresh air and enjoy some time together!
Ceremony at Little Hunters Beach
We then made our way to Little Hunters Beach, where their family had gathered for an intimate ceremony. One of Katlyn’s brothers officiated, making the ceremony even more personal. Her other brother, was cheering her with so much excitement, as her dad walked her down the stairs over to her groom! Little Hunters Beach, with its rounded stones and secluded feel, is always such a peaceful and private atmosphere for vows. After the ceremony, we took some family photos and they exchanged all the hugs!
Elopement Day Sunset Hike
Once the ceremony was over, Katlyn, Matt, and I set out on a sunset hike to one of Acadia’s best mountain summits. The fall foliage was at its peak, painting the landscape in red, orange, and yellow. As big Philadelphia Union fans, they even brought some of their team gear up the mountain for a few fun photos. We watched the sun dip below the horizon, took portraits with incredible in golden light, and soaked in the beauty of Acadia in the fall.
Celebrating with Family Under the Stars
After the hike, we drove back to their parents’ Airbnb, where they celebrated with a cozy dinner, a bonfire, and marshmallow roasting with their families. It was the perfect way to wind down an incredible day—sharing stories, laughter, and of course, some smores under the stars!
Tips for Planning an Intimate Wedding with Family in Acadia National Park
If Katlyn and Matt’s wedding day has inspired you, here are some helpful tips to plan your own intimate wedding with family in Acadia National Park!
1. Choose the Right Ceremony Location
Acadia offers many breathtaking spots for a wedding ceremony. Some great options include:
Little Hunters Beach – A secluded cove with smooth stones and ocean views.
Otter Point – Dramatic rocky cliffs overlooking the Atlantic.
Cadillac Mountain – Panoramic mountain views overlooking the whole island.
2. Consider the Best Time of Year
Spring & Summer: Lush greenery, warmer weather, and more accessibility.
Fall: Peak foliage season, crisp fall air and stunning colors.
Winter: Quiet, moody, and perfect for a more private elopement.
3. Obtain the Necessary Permits
A wedding with more than 10 people in Acadia requires a special use permit. Be sure to apply well in advance and check with the National Park Service for regulations regarding guest limits and ceremony locations.
4. Plan for an Adventure-Filled Day
Acadia is perfect for couples who love to explore. Consider incorporating activities like a picnic, boat ride, or hiking into your elopement day!
5. Find a Cozy Accommodation for Family Gatherings
Having a cabin or Airbnb nearby allows for a relaxed getting-ready experience and a place to celebrate after the ceremony. Look for accommodations close to Bar Harbor or secluded in the park for the best experience.
Final Thoughts
An intimate wedding in Acadia National Park is truly an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re exchanging vows with just your partner or surrounded by close family, the park’s stunning landscapes provide the perfect place for a meaningful and adventure-filled day.
Katlyn and Matt’s wedding is a perfect example of how you can blend family, adventure, and breathtaking scenery into one incredible celebration. If you’re ready to plan your own intimate wedding in Acadia, let’s connect! Reach out using the button below and let’s get the party started!
Other Helpful Acadia Elopement + Intimate Wedding Resources:
Best Small Wedding Venues in Bar Harbor