Trying to choose an elopement location is overwhelming. If you're reading this blog, chances are you've narrowed down your location search to the Northeast, and possibly Maine. KUDOS TO YOU for being able to make decisions! Now comes the even tougher part: choosing which area of Maine to elope. There are SO many amazing parts of Maine, how can you possibly decide?! Well, hopefully this blog will help you choose (or rule out!) York, Maine as your elopement destination.
Why York, Maine is the perfect Elopement Location
Why should you limit what kind of landscape you get to see on your elopement day? Do you want to relax on the beach, be on a rocky coast line, walk through a forrest, see 360 mountaintop views, and be near city to enjoy good eats and drinks? Well, have I got news for you. YOU CAN DO IT ALL when you elope in York, Maine!! The versatility of York's landscape lets you involve so many different elements in your day!
York is nestled on the coast in southern Maine, about a 15 minute drive from the New Hampshire border. It's a cute historic town with amazing views and even better food. Read on to see what kind of elements you could include in your York, Maine elopement.
Elements you can include in your elopement in York, Maine
Hike/Adventure vibes:
Mount Agamenticus is a relatively quick and easy hike but gives amazing 360 degree views! As well as hiking to the 692 foot summit, the conservation region includes 40+ miles of trails for hiking and biking and a 10,000 acre nature preserve that supports the highest diversity of animal and plant species in all of Maine.
Highland Farm Preserve Loop - easy, lightly trafficked 1.5 mile walk by a lake
Third Hill via Porcupine Trial- ~6 mile, moderate hike featuring bubbling brooks and bridges
Wiggly Bridge and Steedman Woods (currently closed because of COVID)
York Harbor Cliff Walk (Currently closed because of COVID)
On the water:
Relax (or surf!!) on Long Sands Beach, a 1.5 mile stretch of perfect sand.
Get more privacy on Short Sands Beach, a 0.75 mile long beach along Maine's rocky cliffs.
Sail on a private, captained boat with Silverlining Sailing! An intimate trip for 6 people can be reserved morning, noon, and night for up to two hours.
Book a whale watching excursion! Minke, Humpback, Finback and Blue Whales migrate through the Gulf of Maine from April through October
Kayak! Can you imagine braving the cold waters in the Gulf of Maine in your wedding attire? That would make for an awesome experience AND unique photos!
Related blog: Northern Maine Intimate Wedding
Eats and Drinks
Drink: SoMe Brewing Company & York Beach Beer Company. The Granite State Growler Tour brings you on a brewery tour and to the coast.
Stonewall Kitchen - Check out the Company Store, Café, award-winning Cooking School, and production facility!
From wood fired pizza to fresh lobster - you're in for a treat! Here is a list of the top rated restaurants in the York area:
Clay Hill Farm
Dockside
Fox's Lobster House
When Pigs Fly Pizzeria
Sightsee
Cape Neddick Nubble Lighthouse - while you can't visit the lighthouse directly, since it's on it's own island, you can still get an amazing view from the shore!
Learn about York's history and visit one of the museums or historical sites.
Where to Stay
While you can most certainly find lodging accommodation on the water in a hotel or private rental home, why not consider these unique places to sleep:
Charter a Yacht and sleep out at sea!
What your elopement day in York, Maine could look like
Saturday, August 15, 2020 York, Maine Elopement Timeline:
4:30 am - get ready (hair & makeup, put on dress)
5:15 am - arrive at Nubble Lighthouse viewpoint
5:30 am - First look & private vows
5:49 am - sunrise
6:15 am - drive to York Harbor Cliff Walk for couple's photos & exploring
7:00 am - break for midday relaxation: breakfast, relax on beach, take a charter fishing trip, etc
3:00 pm - meet at Mount Agamenticus trail head- hike up for ceremony
4:00 pm - legal ceremony & ring exchange with a few family and friends
4:30 pm - formal photos & exploring the view
6:30 pm - Meet at Silverlining Sailing for sunset boat tour and champagne toasts
7:44 pm - sunset
8:15 pm - head to Clay Hill Farm for dinner & celebrations
What do you think? What would you change? What are your must-have items for your elopement timeline? Reach out and let's plan the most beautiful day!!
xo,
Tam
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