Madison and Jalen’s Acadia National Park elopement was one of those evenings that stays with you. They flew in from Indiana, where they had already legally gotten married. After their home nuptials, they decided to turn their East Coast vacation into something more meaningful. A celebration of their love through an elopement session in the heart of coastal Maine. We spent the day exploring some of my favorite parts of the region. Close to Ellsworth, Bar Harbor, and Winter Harbor, surrounded by pine trees and steep cliffs that truly capture the spirit of Maine.

Cliffside Moments in Acadia with

We began our session on the cliffs, a tucked-away spot I love that offers sweeping views of the Atlantic without the bustle of the more well-known trails. It’s one of those places where the quiet is part of the experience. The wind was picking up just enough to move Maddy’s hair around for a beautiful, lightly windblown look that paired perfectly with the informal feel that Maine offers. This dramatic cliffside is the kind of location I always keep in my back pocket for my Acadia couples.

As an Acadia elopement photographer, I’ve spent years seeking out these hidden corners of the coast, and it’s always a privilege to share them with couples who value nature and intentionality.

Aesthetic Choices That Complimented the Maine Coast

Madison wore a long, flowing white gown with delicate lace sleeves and a train that moved beautifully with the coastal breeze. No veil, no fuss! Just elegant, timeless simplicity. Jalen paired a navy suit with a white bow tie, that felt perfectly at home against the evergreen forest.

Their wardrobe choices weren’t just beautiful, they were thoughtful. They let the landscape shine without blending in completely. Naturally, these choices allowed for Madison & Jalen to stand out from the scenery while complementing the aesthetic of the Maine woods.

Sunset Along the Rocky Acadia Shore

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, we made our way to one of the rocky beaches below the cliffs. The light turned soft and golden, casting long shadows and warming the scene in the most beautiful way. The waves kept rolling in steadily behind them as the tide inched its way towards us. The last light of day gave us just enough glow to capture the kind of images that tell a full story. Quiet, intimate, and deeply personal.

This is what elopements in Maine can offer: not just scenery, but presence. A sense of grounding. A way to celebrate love in a place that reflects it back in full.

Planning a Coastal Acadia Maine Elopement

If you’re dreaming of a Maine elopement that feels intentional and connected to the landscape, there are a few things you’ll want to consider, especially if you’re thinking of planning something inside Acadia National Park. As someone who’s familiar with the area and has guided many couples through the process, I can help you figure out what’s needed.

For example:

• You’ll need a permit from the National Park Service for any ceremony within Acadia.
• Certain spots within the park require a bit of hiking or planning around tides and lighting.
• The best light is usually early morning or late afternoon, especially near the water.
• Weather can shift quickly—layers are a must, even in summer.
• Not only will you need your park pass, but some areas require additional parking permits.
• This place is sacred on many levels. It is important to keep our parks clean and to remember to leave no trace when exploring.

When you work with someone who knows the region well, you get more than just photographs—you get support, location insight, and a plan that allows for flexibility while staying grounded in the moments that matter most. I am always happy to help my elopement couples curate an itinerary (on the photo day as well as just a local’s perspective on the best spots around), set up a timeline for your day, and help organize locations and brainstorm ideas for a cohesive and memorable experience alongside some epic photos!

If you’re ready to reach out, say hello here: Contact Emily 🙂

More Than Just an Elopement

What made Madison and Jalen’s Acadia elopement so special wasn’t just the setting. It was how present they were with each other. They didn’t need a big audience or elaborate details. Just the two of them, a beautiful stretch of coastline, and a willingness to be fully in it. Their elopement session was a celebration of what matters: love, connection, and the courage to do things your own way.

If you’re considering a similar experience, whether it’s a quiet ceremony in the forest, a windswept moment on the cliffs, or something entirely your own, I’d love to help guide you through the possibilities. As a Maine elopement photographer and Acadia photographer, I offer both imagery and insight, so you can focus on being present while I take care of the details.

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I’m ready for more Acadia Elopement Content!

• Emily & Vanessa’s ANP Bubble Rock Elopement
• How to Elope in Acadia National Park – A cohesive guide
• Double Surprise Proposal in Acadia National Park – Featured in Dancing With Her
• Meaghanne & Tatiana’s Acadia Engagement Session

Check out Maddy & Jalen’s Instagram Highlight Post Here:
Madison & Jalen’s Acadia Elopement IG Post

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Credits

Photographer: Emily Leonard Photography – Portland Maine Wedding Photographer