When I tell you that Morgan and Dakota were just the most amazing couple, I am putting that lightly! They have personally gone through so much, so it just made their day much more special. They both have some of the largest hearts of any couple I have met. I remember speaking with Morgan on the phone, discussing their wedding ideas, and I instantly fell in love with her. We connected on so many different things. However, I knew that their day would be very special even if she didn’t choose me to be their photographer.

Therefore, when I walked into the house that morning, I was welcomed with open arms. I felt like I was truly a guest at their wedding, and not just their photographer. The love that surrounds Morgan and Dakota is contagious and was overwhelmingly apparent the entire day. They chose Portside Manor in Searsport, Maine as their ceremony and venue location. The property overlooks the Penobscot Bay. This location is perfect for a micro wedding, and you can even rent the manor house for a week leading up to your wedding day. In other words, this gorgeous wedding venue is the epitome of what an ocean view wedding should be!

I tell my couples not to be surprised if I get emotional during certain moments of the day. Morgan’s dad was only able to be a part of the wedding in spirit, as he passed away a few years ago. So, after Morgan’s mom zipped up Morgan’s wedding dress, they both got a little teary-eyed. I actually did as well. Morgan so much wanted to have those special moments with her dad during the wedding.

Dakota started crying when he saw Morgan walking down the aisle with her brother. A moment of prayer was given for her dad at the start of the ceremony. They even had a framed photo of her dad sitting on the front chair. It was so sweet when Morgan shared a dance with her mother and brother during the reception. I lost my own father at a young age. Therefore, I definitely knew how Morgan was feeling during those moments. Morgan, Dakota and her family moved the framed photo to the reception and left a shot of whiskey next to it for her dad. Even though there were tears shed, there were so many smiles and much laughter shared throughout the day.

I absolutely loved that they included their dogs in the wedding! They even wore little tuxes! The fun continued when Morgan and Dakota played “The Shoe Game” during the reception. The wedding couple exchanges a shoe with each other, they sit in the middle of the dance floor and answer questions. It’s funny to see if they agree or disagree on questions like, “Who spends the most money?” or “Who is the best cook?”.

Morgan and Dakota’s wedding was truly a special celebration of love and life. They were surrounded by so many important and wonderful people! Congratulations to Morgan and Dakota! Thank you allowing me to capture the love you shared with your friends and family! I love shooting weddings in Maine! So, if you have a date picked out, please reach out to me so we can start talking about your plans!

Vendors

Venue: Portside Manor

DJ: Big Time Entertainment – Thomas Bard

Dress: Alexandra’s Bridal Boutique

Flowers: Ellsworth Bud Connection

Rings: Ellsworth Jewelers

Suits: Henry’s Bridal Boutique

Hair & Make-up: Madison Card & Jamie Ivers

Lashes: Shawna Wheeler

Catering: Chippers Restaurant

Spray Tan: Glowgetters

Tent: Wallace Events