At a glance

Lily & Jonathan tied the knot in the coastal town of Harpswell, Maine. Surrounded by their closest people and an abundance of genuine, candid moments. From the very beginning, the love flowing through their community felt unmistakable and deeply rooted. As a Maine wedding photographer and documentary wedding photographer in Maine, I’ve photographed many celebrations over the years. Lily & Jonathan’s day stands out for how fully their people showed up. Their guests were present, joyful, and were all-in for the couple, which made for such a special celebration.

Lily’s family traveled from Germany and seamlessly wove their traditions into the celebration at Live Well Farm. Spirited games, generous pours, and endless dancing filled the day with energy. Their presence shaped the atmosphere and created emotional, hilarious, and unforgettable moments from start to finish.

The Morning Of

Before guests arrived, Lily & Jonathan’s closest friends and family gathered early to begin the day together. Makeup brushes moved quickly, hairspray filled the air, and wedding outfits marked the official start of the celebration. Lily’s best friend, also named Lily, carefully brought the bride’s vision to life. Perfecting her hair and makeup with calm confidence.

Nearby, Jonathan’s mother and sister joined Lily’s mother and sister as they got ready side by side. Summer sunshine poured into the greenhouse-style room, warming everyone as excitement built. Late summer in Maine often brings heat and humidity. Luckily, the coastal breeze rolling through Harpswell kept the space comfortable and set the tone for a relaxed, joyful morning.

On the other side of the farmhouse

While the ladies got ready on one end of the venue, Jonathan gathered with his friends and family on the opposite side of the farmhouse. Vintage wallpaper and soft window light created the perfect backdrop as he and his best man prepped together. The best man focused intently on learning how to fold a pocket square while Jonathan stepped into his navy tuxedo. Adjusting his shoes, bowtie, and watch with quiet anticipation.

This part of the day highlighted why I love Film & Digital Wedding Photography. The mix of analog film and digital photography worked seamlessly. In the soft, natural light of the antique farmhouse, it preserves both the timeless details and the candid moments.

First Look at Live Well Farm

In the early afternoon, we wandered around the Live Well Farm property and found pockets of beautiful, soft light. Lily & Jonathan shared their first look in front of blooming hydrangea bushes. As the sun peeked over the farm, it wrapped them in a warm summer glow.

We explored the front of the property near the gate, lined with white hydrangeas as well. Giving them space to connect before the ceremony. Playful, goofy, and deeply in love, they settled into the moment together. These are the moments that make my work as a film wedding photographer so meaningful. Honest connection, no performance required.

A Ceremony Full of Heart

As guests arrived and the energy at Live Well Farm, Lily & Jonathan tucked themselves away inside the farmhouse with their closest friends and family. Guests enjoyed a cocktail and light bites before making their way to the ceremony space.

Once everyone took their seats, the wedding party and family entered and waited for Lily to join. Each guest stood as Lily walked down the aisle with her parents toward Jonathan, whose joy was impossible to miss. The ceremony unfolded effortlessly, weaving in family history, personal stories, and meaningful contributions from loved ones.

Let the festivities begin!

After the ceremony, guests gathered under the tent decorated in late-summer style. Yellow and white florals filled the tables. Layered over blue-and-white linens that felt classic and coastal. Perfect for a Harpswell, Maine wedding!

Guests signed a guestbook made from a framed photograph from Lily & Jonathan’s engagement session. Nearby, family heirlooms and photographs from both of their parents’ weddings told the story of where they came from. The couple mingled freely, laughing and catching up with loved ones as the afternoon eased into evening.

A Moment Alone on Live Well Farm

As cocktail hour wrapped up, Lily & Jonathan slipped away for a quiet moment together. With the sun sinking low over Live Well Farm, they connected one-on-one before dinner. An unhurried reset before the night continued. These moments are so important for most couples. Designing your timeline for an effortless flow to allow for pockets of reset is important with such a busy day.

Dinner & Dancing the Night Away

As guests found their seats, the celebration shifted into its coziest and most joyful chapter. Dinner unfolded with heartfelt toasts, shared laughter, and clinking glasses beneath the tent. Stories flowed easily, and the sense of community felt palpable. Everyone was fully present and invested in the moment.

Vendors:

• Venue: Live Well Farm, Harpswell Maine
• Photographer: Emily Leonard Photography
• Planner: Catie Fairbanks Cliff 
• Bakery: Wild Oats Bakery
• Decorations & Rentals: Wallace Events

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