There are some days that stay with you long after you’ve packed up your cameras, boarded the ferry, and headed back to the mainland. Maggie and Seth’s Monhegan Island wedding became one of those days for me—deeply meaningful and packed with the kind of moments that remind me why I love photographing intimate celebrations.
When I traveled ten miles off the coast of Maine to meet them on this wild little island, I immediately felt the magic of the place. Their families welcomed me with open arms, and from the moment I stepped off the ferry, Monhegan felt like its own vibrant, close-knit world.
Getting Ready at The Trailing Yew
Maggie and Seth chose The Trailing Yew, a historic inn tucked into the heart of the island, as their home base. This place radiates old-school Maine charm—creaky floors, sea air drifting through open windows, and that nostalgic summer-cottage warmth.
The staff went above and beyond from the second I arrived. Their thoughtfulness, paired with the inn’s relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views, created the perfect setting for a Maine island wedding.
While Maggie and Seth got ready, their families meandered around the inn. Maggie’s grandmother helped her into her dress, and Seth youtubed how to tie a bowtie (you’ll notice he ended up in a regular tie, not for lack of trying).
A Walk to Burnt Head for the Ceremony
Once everyone was ready, we set off down the trail toward Burnt Head. On Monhegan, wedding days unfold at a slower, more intentional rhythm. With very few cars, the island is a kind of quiet you don’t find on the mainland. Spruce trees lined the footpaths, waves crashed against the cliffs, and every so often a pheasant darted across our path.
(And yes—the pheasants! They’re one of my favorite quirks of the island. They likely arrived from the mainland after being stocked for sport hunting and ended up here because Monhegan sits on a migratory flyover route. Watching them strut around like locals always makes me smile.)
At Burnt Head, Maggie and Seth exchanged vows as their families stood close behind them. The wind carried monarch butterflies over them, and happy tears showed up in almost every direction. After the ceremony, I photographed family portraits before everyone headed back to The Trailing Yew to relax.
Exploring Monhegan’s Trails for Portraits
With their families settled back at the inn, the three of us slipped into the woods for a hike around the island. Monhegan’s trail system is unbelievable—winding through cliffs, forests, and beaches. Maggie and her mom had even redlined the entire island on a previous trip, which made every step feel connected to their story.
We wandered for miles without seeing another person. Rain came down through the trees, waves echoed off the rocks, and Maggie and Seth settled naturally into the quiet together. Even though they described themselves in their inquiry as “your stereotypical introverted outdoorsy people” who don’t love being in front of a camera, their photos turned out beautiful.
(And yes—our nearly 4-mile hike made it to Strava. Maggie earned those kudos.)
Dinner & Celebrating at The Trailing Yew
We returned to The Trailing Yew and reunited with their families, who relaxed and chatted until dinner. The staff served the most comforting Maine island meal: warm soup, hearty shepherd’s pie, and sour cream apple pie for dessert.
Around the dinner table their families shared stories, toasted the newlyweds, and filled the table with laughter and tears. In true Monhegan fashion, Maggie and Seth invited their full vendor team—myself, their officiant, and their musician—to join them for dinner. Their kindness made the night feel even more intimate and meaningful.
Why I’ll Never Forget This Monhegan Island Wedding
Photographing a Maine island wedding always brings something special—simplicity, stillness, and room to truly breathe. But Maggie and Seth’s day on Monhegan offered something even deeper. Their people, their connection, the island’s beauty, and the gentle slowness of the day created a celebration I’ll never forget.
I’m endlessly grateful that they chose me to document it.
If you’re thinking a Maine Island wedding or elopement could be right for you… I’d love to chat!
And while you’re here… check out my blog on how to elope in Maine!
