Portland Maine City Hall Wedding
Emi & Sam’s Intimate City Celebration
As a Portland, Maine wedding photographer, I’m constantly inspired by the couples I meet and the stories they let me document. Emi & Sam’s wedding at Portland, Maine City Hall was one of those days that reminded me exactly why I do what I do. Their day consisted of ease & flow from start to finish. Here are the photographs that were taken on their special day.
Getting Ready in Downtown Portland
We started the morning in two beautifully unique downtown spaces. Emi got ready in a cozy, light-filled spot in the heart of Portland alongside her mom and best friend. The energy was calm and meaningful—moments filled with quiet anticipation, gentle laughter, and the little in-between glances that speak volumes.
Just a few blocks away, Sam was getting ready in a brownstone with their immediate family—mom, dad, brother—and a few close friends. The warm hum of conversation, the nostalgic backdrop of a family home, and the morning light streaming through old windows made for a documentary-style dream. I captured these moments on both digital and 35mm film, adding that soft, timeless texture I love so much.
First Look Outside Portland City Hall
Before the ceremony, Emi and Sam chose to do a first look outside Portland City Hall, and I honestly can’t get over how good that gray cement exterior looked as a backdrop. The arched windows, stately columns, and wide staircases gave us a perfect mix of historic charm and urban minimalism. Which is ideal for candid, editorial-style portraits.
Ceremony in the State of Maine Room
The ceremony took place in the State of Maine Room inside Portland, Maine City Hall. This space is so beautifully complex. It has grand ceilings, intricate molding, and still remains intimate in size. It is perfect for small city hall elopements in Portland.
Surrounded by their closest friends and family, Emi & Sam exchanged vows in a heartfelt ceremony that felt deeply personal. I stayed mostly in the background. My focus is on capturing the stolen glances, the subtle hand squeezes, the emotions that flicker in and out in real time.
A Stroll Through the Old Port
After the ceremony, we walked through downtown Portland, stopping for coffee at Bard Coffee. These post-ceremony moments are some of my favorites to photograph. The photos from this part of the day, especially the 35mm film shots, feel soft, cinematic, and real.
We wandered through cobblestone streets. Found patches of golden light between buildings. Fully leaning into the magic of the city. As a Portland, Maine elopement photographer, I’m all about letting the environment shape the narrative, and Portland delivered in every way.
Laid-Back Reception at Batson River Brewing
The evening wrapped at Batson River Brewing, where guests played arcade games, darts, cards, and soaked in the laid-back vibes. The bar area was buzzing, with large windows letting in that perfect late-day light. The reception felt like a celebration for everyone. Casual, joyful, and genuine.
There wasn’t a rigid schedule or stuffy formalities—just great people, good drinks, and a couple who truly wanted their day to reflect who they are. I leaned into the candid moments: laughter over a card game, a shared drink by the window, friends embracing in celebration.
Final Thoughts
Emi & Sam’s Portland Maine City Hall wedding was a beautiful reminder that your day doesn’t have to follow any rules. Whether you’re planning a full wedding, a courthouse elopement, or something in between, it should feel like you.
As a Portland, Maine City Hall photographer, I’m here to document the day as it unfolds. Artfully, honestly, and with intention. From soft 35mm film portraits to raw, unscripted candids. I approach every wedding with the eye of an artist and the heart of a storyteller.
If you’re looking for a Portland Maine elopement photographer or dreaming up your own City Hall wedding inspo, I’d love to hear your story.
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Vendors
Photographer: Emily Leonard Photography
Ceremony: Portland City Hall
Sweet Treat: Bard Coffee
Reception: Batson River Brewing and Distilling
Hair & Makeup: Big Day Beauty
