We love this small adventure wedding, proving that all you really do need is love (and a legal document signed by both parties and two witnesses of course!) Kristen and Daniel decided to ‘trim the fat’ as they said, and just focus on the two of them and their beautiful day!
from the photographer: “Acadia National Park in Maine is unlike any place I’ve ever been to before. I truly have never been more in awe of a location before.
Kristen and Daniel were surrounded by loved ones as they said, “I do” on a private beach in Acadia. Overlooking the beautiful ocean with the Acadia mountains outlined behind them. No chairs were needed as everyone sat scattered around to witness them joining as one. Can’t forget about the puppers! Miss Zoey had a front row seat to the whole celebration!”
How did you two meet? What were your first impressions of one another?
We met through mutual friends but actually grew up around the corner from one another. Since we grew up in the same city we have vague memories of each other throughout our youths. Daniels first impression of Kristen was that she was cute, and was quickly displeased when he found out she had a boyfriend. Kristen’s first impression of Daniel was that he handsome and super sweet.
Tell us a funny story relating to your wedding day or relationship!
Whenever people look at our photos they are so confused by everyone’s footwear! We had to hike to the ceremony location and then it was pretty rocky when we got there. So everyone was in hiking boots. But the photos are so well done it doesn’t capture how difficult it was to walk around. If you look closely in the photos you can see Kristen squeezing Daniel’s hand to prevent her from falling most of the time.
Describe a hurdle you had to overcome in your relationship or during your wedding planning.
Our original plan was to get married April 25, 2020 in Baltimore (where we were living at the time). But we all know how that story goes. So we rescheduled April 25, 2021 to have an intimate ceremony with our immediate families. Three days before the wedding we had to reschedule to April 24th due to weather. Luckily, our rescheduled date was unseasonably warm for spring in Maine! Next year we’re having our reception with extended family and friends. Now we have no idea what date we should consider our “wedding anniversary!”
Any special ways you incorporated your family or family history into your wedding day?
Kristen’s father was the officiant on our wedding day. We made sure all of the family dogs could come (everyone’s favorite family members). In the ceremony itself we incorporate an “Irish ring warming” and an Irish blessing. The ring warming gave a chance for all of our family members to hold and bless our rings before we exchanged them with each other.
What part of your wedding day was/is most important to you?
After feeling married for so long, we just wanted it to be official! With the first wedding having to be canceled and rescheduling for the same day we were starting to get worried the day itself was cursed! I remember calming each other down whenever we thought we’d have to cancel again by saying “all we need is that marriage certificate!” Getting to call each other husband and wife was all that mattered, followed closely by the food.
What is the best thing you’ve learned from one another?
The best thing I’ve learned from Daniel is that you have to enjoy life while it’s happening. I’ve never had so much fun with another person. He’s taught me to camp, hike, and bike. His favorite thing is that he’s introduced me to countless new foods. Kristen has taught me how to love, how to be an attentive partner. She’s encouraged me to be honest and open and to be grateful for our love and time together.
What is your favorite thing about each other?
My favorite thing about Daniel is his sense of humor. He makes me laugh daily. My favorite thing about Kristen is her sweetness. She is so compassionate and caring and always makes me feel loved
What was your favorite part about planning your wedding?
Our favorite part of wedding planning was planning the food! We planned a Maine meal. We had local oysters for appetizers, Maine lobster, and blueberry pie for dessert. I have never had so many oysters, and I couldn’t have been happier. It wasn’t super traditional but it was the perfect meal for us.
If you had one piece of advice for other couples, what would it be?
Life is never going to happen as you plan it, the universe is going to throw you curve balls. Remember to take a step back from the anxiety of planning and focus on what’s important. For us we just wanted to get married and at least have our immediate family. So we trimmed the fat and figured out a way to make it work.
What is the most honest thing you can say about love?
Love requires work but is so beautiful and so worth it. “Happily ever after” is a process, not a place, and not tending to the work of love is a sure way to jeopardize it. The same as each partner needs to keep their personal affairs in order, the relationship is a living entity and needs to be cared for too.
Photographer: Felisha Lees Photography
Venue: Acadia National Park
Stylist / Planner / Designer: Sweetest Thing Weddings
Floral Designer: Abby Garden Floral
Dress Boutique: Opal and June Shop
Cake Designer: Hannafords
Makeup Artist: Sarah & Co Designs
Hair Stylist: Sarah & Co Designs
Publisher at The White Wren and Bajan Wed, Award Winning Photography + Videographer at Live View Studios, Dad, 80s music lover, crunchy health advocate
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