Non-Traditional Wedding Day Tips from a Maine Wedding Photographer

 
 

Planning a non-traditional wedding day and looking for ways to make it feel special for you and your guests in Maine? I’ve photographed many weddings that don’t include the usual events, typical timelines, or expectations of a traditional wedding day and I’d love to share a few things I’ve learned along the way!

For many of the couples I work with, the excitement comes from creating an unconventional celebration that still feels deeply meaningful. With a focus on connection, they’re looking to incorporate traditions and details that are meaningful to them and their loved ones — creating a wedding that feels more like an intimate gathering than a performance.

 
 

WHEN “TRADITIONAL” DOESN’T FEEL RIGHT — IDEAS AND LOCATIONS FOR A NON-TRADITIONAL WEDDING IN MAINE

If booking a big wedding venue, or hosting a single day event doesn’t feel right, there are other ways to shape a wedding day that feels special.

Maybe it’s a weekend getaway with your closest people, or an adventure or intimate ceremony one day with just you and your partner, and a bigger celebration the next with your people. If you’re looking for ideas for a location, I’ve gathered a list of some of the best intimate venues and experiences in Maine for non-traditional wedding days below!

I’ve photographed couples who chose a family property, a rental somewhere they wanted to explore together with their families, and outdoor spaces like state parks and nature centers they already enjoy going together. Each one has a special connection to the couple and their every day making their wedding day feel that much more rooted.

 
 

REFRAMING TRADITIONAL TIMELINE EXPECTATIONS ON A WEDDING DAY

Who says you have to do a ‘First Look’ or walk down an aisle for a traditional ceremony?

It might feel better to be getting ready together or gather everyone without it being a formal ceremony. I’ve photographed couples who created a less traditional, and still impactful gathering for everyone — it brings a different level of closeness to the day for couples.

Instead of a X minute slot labeled ‘Couples Portraits’, what if there was space during the day to be present with your partner? Forget expectations, vendors, and timelines — what if you just had time to connect during your day?

One couple, Becca and Gabe, enjoyed exploring new places together, so they built in time for an adventure before joining their family for the rest of the evening. No poses, no expectations, just being.

 
 

WHY DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY IS PERFECT FOR A NON-TRADITIONAL WEDDING DAY

 

If you’re planning a wedding that breaks from tradition — something more intimate or more of a getaway — a documentary approach to photography can be a perfect fit. Rather than directing or interrupting the flow, I focus on observing and capturing the day as it happens.

It’s about documenting emotion, connection, and atmosphere so you can be completely present in your day, and look back at the images for the purpose of bringing you back to how it felt to be there.

For couples who want to be fully present with each other and their people, without the pressure of being “on” for the camera, this approach allows you to relax, let go of expectations, and enjoy the time with your loved ones.

 
 
 

INCLUDING DETAILS THAT MEAN MOST TO YOU

What are the bits of life that bring you the most joy — both together and individually?

One of the brides I photographed is a photographer herself, and she brought such a thoughtful touch to their wedding day. At the reception, she set out photo albums filled with memories of grandparents and family for guests to browse through — an intimate look into the roots of family. Her and her husband also shared handmade cards they'd exchanged over the years. It was a walk down memory lane that wove together their history in the most beautiful way.

One of my couples enjoyed cooking together as a family so they decided to cook the wedding day meal together at their rental. Another bride made pottery, so she made mugs for every guest!

 
 

YOUR WEDDING DAY, YOUR WAY

A smaller guest list or a location that is not a typical wedding venue doesn’t make a wedding any less special. You don’t need big decor or packed dance floors to have a meaningful celebration.

If you're creating a celebration that reflects the life you're building together, and you're looking for someone to help you document it gently, I’d be honored to be part of it! Reach out — I’d love to hear your story.

 

Thank you for being here!

I’m Sienna, the owner and photographer behind Sienna Renee Photography. Based out of Maine, I approach wedding days and families with a documentary eye. I value genuine connection and getting to know you and your people to capture you as you are.

 
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