Last year, when Liz called to tell me she was engaged to this smart, athletic, wonderful guy named Jack and she wanted us to photograph her wedding, I was overjoyed! Liz and I have been friends since we went to Bowdoin College together, and I knew that she appreciated the rugged coast of Maine as much as I did. I knew that Liz had skied, climbed, sailed and hiked most of Maine… so she and Jack would undoubtedly have found some hidden gem of a location that I had never photographed before.
The Apple Orchards of Clark’s Cove Farm.
Elizabeth’s wedding and engagement rings.
Jack and Elizabeth did not disappoint! Near her family’s home on The Pemaquid Penninsula, she had found Clark’s Cove Farm and Inn… a truly incredible spot that was both large enough to accommodate all their guests, and intimate enough for a tented celebration that was elegant and beautiful. Though I’ve photographed around the world and all over New England, Clark’s Cove Farm was a welcomed discovery.
A trail of lanterns led guests from the cocktail reception to the tent.
Back in March, Liz and Jack met me for dinner down in Washington, DC to discuss their plans. Their objectives were simple: they wanted a great celebration with all their friends and family… but they didn’t want something that was overly formal or uncomfortable. Jack was a fellow Bowdoin grad as well, and between the two of them they were bringing over 200 guests to their celebration!
As inspiration, they showed me their save the date card (above) which was a photo of the two of them on top of Maine’s highest peak with the sign Photoshopped to read their wedding date. Very creative! They told me that night that they wanted their wedding to be natural, beautiful and fun.
What a great reaction by her bridesmaids!
Liz is a no fuss kind of girl. Beautiful, smart and organized? YES. High maintenance, no… not at all. As such, I wasn’t surprised at all when she went from “hanging out with friends in jeans” to “gorgeous bride” in about 15 minutes. I don’t think I’ve seen someone get ready that quickly in my life.
When we arrived at Liz’s family home, we found taped to the door a note to the deliverer of some lost luggage who “saved a wedding” by delivering the ties for the groom and groomsman. Rest assured, the ties arrived in time…
“You saved a wedding.”
Elizabeth’s engagement ring.
Liz’s sister Heather doing the heavy lifting.
At St. Patrick’s Church, Jack sees Elizabeth for the very first time.
The fir planked ceiling of St. Patrick’s church. Beautiful detail.
The embrace.
Elizabeth and Jack exited the church to the sound of a bagpiper… a family tradition.
They drove away in their parent’s antique MG. Beautiful car… but the emergency brake was stuck!!
Off to the farm!
Liz runs right out of her shoes…
Beautiful. Timeless.
Arm in arm, they jump a soggy spot to return to the reception.
Our old friend and guest Thomas… teaching his new son what it’s like to catch air. Must be in the genes.
Bouquet on the seat of the MG.
The sisters rocking out.
The Worm: You knew someone would have to drop it into their routine. Nice work.
It was just wonderful to be able to witness such happiness and obvious love between Jack and Liz. It was an honor to be there to document the story of their day, and to share in the celebration. Thanks for having us!!!
Want to see the complete wedding photos? They’re all right here: www.brianwedge.com
Details:
Ceremony Site: St. Patrick’s Church, Newcastle, ME
Reception: Clark’s Cove Farm, Walpole, ME
Caterer: Red Plate Catering
Band: Soho (This is the second group we have LOVED who is being represented by Nightshift… keep it up!)
Florist: Alda Stich
Stationer: William Arthur
Dress: Paloma Blanca
Pies: Chase Farms
Emma - I love the apple orchards and I loved how you captured the note on the door to the “bag deliverer”. Classic and personal.
Newt - B E A U T I F U L ! ! !
Kate Denmead - Brian, I always love seeing your photos….but so fun to see Elizabeth, someone I know! If you are reading this, Elizabeth, CONGRATULATIONS! I am so happy for you, you looked amazing and happy. Keep taking those great pictures, Brian! Kate
Uncle Duck - Simple, beautiful and so real!
Jen - Gorgeous! Beautiful details, and a classic, vintage look…
brianwedge - Thanks for all the kind words everyone! (Especially from so far away Kate!). Beautiful people who genuinely love one another in a beautiful setting… it all makes my job that much easier!
elisa - my fiance and I are getting married at Clark’s Cove in May! I found your site when I googled clarks cove farm. the photos are beautiful. we haven’t been there yet, it’s a destination wedding, so i’m so glad you loved it. thanks for sharing! and congratulations elizabeth & jack!
Simone - Hi do you have any contact info for Clarks Cove Farm, I’m having a really tough time getting in touch with them! Thanks! -Simone
brianwedge - Hi Simone, I believe their phone # is: (207) 563.8704
Let us know if you get more information from them.
Good luck with your search!
Brian