Top 5 Wedding Planners in Maine
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Reviewed by Annie Muscat
Editor & Publisher
- February 19, 2026
- 18 min read
- Events
Source: Peerspace
Maine is affectionately known as “Vacationland,” attracting millions of visitors every year to its rocky coastlines, pristine lakes, and dense pine forests. For couples planning a wedding here, the state offers a backdrop that is both rugged and romantic—characterized by a deep connection to nature and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.
The competitive landscape of wedding planning in Maine is defined by professionals who are part logistician, part designer, and part meteorologist. Navigating ferry schedules for vendor load-ins, managing tent infrastructure in open fields, and predicting coastal fog requires a specific set of skills that goes beyond standard coordination. These experts handle the unglamorous realities—like sourcing generators for a outdoor reception or securing noise permits in quiet towns—allowing you to focus entirely on the joy of the occasion.
We curated this list of the top 5 wedding planners in Maine to connect you with the local experts who know how to bring your vision to life in the Pine Tree State.
How we curate our list
We know that trusting someone with your big day is a major decision. Our selection process is rigorous and focuses on the factors that actually impact your experience. We look for:
- Client reviews across multiple platforms: We analyze feedback to ensure consistent satisfaction across wedding directories, Google, and social media.
- Industry recognition and awards: We look for planners who have received accolades from respected publications and professional organizations.
- Professional credentials and associations: We value membership in industry organizations and ongoing professional development.
Every planner on this list meets high standards for professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail. This list is regularly updated to reflect the current leaders in the Maine event industry.
Best wedding planners in Maine
1. Purple Orchid Weddings + Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Purple Orchid Weddings + Events / Kristina Slocum
Kristina Slocum founded Purple Orchid Weddings + Events with a clear mission: to master the logistics of Maine’s most challenging and beautiful venues. With years of experience in the event industry, Kristina has built a reputation as a logistical powerhouse who thrives where others might struggle. She leads a team dedicated to “building” venues from scratch, ensuring that every technical requirement—from electricity to sanitation—is handled with the same level of care as the floral arrangements.
Specialty/niche: Purple Orchid specializes in tented, private property, and outdoor weddings across Maine and New England. They’re the go-to experts for couples who want to host a celebration in a sprawling field, a family backyard, or a historic site that requires extensive logistical support. Their primary focus is on “day-of” coordination and partial planning—perfect for couples who have a strong vision but need a professional to pull all the complex pieces together.
Notable projects or signature style: Kristina and her team are known for mastering the quintessential “Maine wedding” aesthetic—a blend of rustic charm and effortless elegance. Their portfolio features sailcloth tents glowing against twilight skies, farm tables adorned with local greenery, and ceremonies set against the Atlantic Ocean. They excel at the “invisible” work that makes an outdoor event comfortable, managing everything from generator power and luxury restroom trailers to lighting design.
Pricing: Day-of coordination starts at $4,400. Partial planning’s starting point ranges from $8,400-10,800 depending on location and add-on services (e.g., Rehearsal Dinner/Welcome Party). For full-service planning prices and a custom quote based on your needs, contact them directly.
Why we love them: We love Purple Orchid because they embrace the challenges of the Maine landscape with confidence and expertise. Kristina understands that a tented wedding is essentially building a small city for a day, and she handles those logistics with a calm, organized demeanor that puts clients at ease.
Connect with them: Follow Purple Orchid Weddings + Events (@purpleorchidevent) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
2. A Family Affair of Maine
Company name and founder/lead planner: A Family Affair of Maine / Paula Cano
Paula Cano established A Family Affair of Maine with a vision to create events that feel as personal and welcoming as a gathering in one’s own home, but with an elevated, editorial aesthetic. Her background combines a sharp eye for design with the organizational skills necessary to manage complex, multi-day celebrations. Paula and her team pride themselves on building strong relationships with their clients, often becoming a trusted confidant throughout the planning journey. This relational approach allows them to design events that are deeply meaningful and tailored to each couple’s personalities.
Specialty/niche: A Family Affair of Maine is a premier event planning and design company that focuses on creating style-forward weddings and celebrations. They specialize in full-service planning and design, catering to couples who want a cohesive visual story told through their event. They’re particularly skilled at navigating the nuances of coastal and destination weddings, serving clients who may be planning from afar and need a trusted local partner to manage every aspect.
Notable projects or signature style: Paula’s work is characterized by a sophisticated quality that never feels stiff. Her events often feature lush, romantic floral installations, custom signage, and carefully curated tabletop details that spark conversation. A Family Affair is known for creating “moments” within an event—vignettes of furniture for lounging, interactive food stations, or breathtaking ceremony backdrops that frame Maine’s natural beauty. They approach event design holistically, ensuring that stationery, linens, lighting, and florals all speak the same language.
Pricing: Full-service weddings typically begin with overall budgets of at least $100,000. Microweddings (celebrations under 50 guests) typically begin with overall budgets of $50,000 and above. Get in touch with them for custom pricing.
Why we love them: The name says it all—Paula and her team treat their clients like family. We love the warmth and genuine care they bring to the planning process, which balances perfectly with their high-level design capabilities.
Connect with them: Follow A Family Affair of Maine (@afamilyaffairmaine) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
3. Nicole Mower Event Planning + Design
Company name and founder/lead planner: Nicole Mower Event Planning + Design / Nicole Mower
Nicole Mower founded her planning and design firm with a commitment to creating events that are as kind to the earth as they are beautiful. She has established herself as a leader in sustainable event practices within the New England market, proving that luxury and eco-consciousness can coexist seamlessly. Nicole’s background is rooted in a deep appreciation for the seacoast region, and she brings a “calm but commanding” presence to every event she manages. Her team operates with a philosophy that traditions are optional, empowering clients to build a celebration that feels authentically theirs.
Specialty/niche: Nicole Mower Event Planning + Design specializes in seacoast weddings with a strong emphasis on sustainability. While they operate throughout New England, they have deep expertise in the unique geography and vendors of the Maine and New Hampshire seacoast. They’re the perfect match for couples who value ethical planning, inclusivity, and environmental responsibility but don’t want to compromise on luxury or guest experience.
Notable projects or signature style: Nicole’s events are often described as “effortlessly chic,” showcasing a mastery of coastal elegance that avoids clichés. Instead of literal nautical themes, you might see a color palette inspired by sea glass, driftwood textures, and organic, flowing floral arrangements. A key element of her signature style is the seamless integration of the event into the environment. Her commitment to “green” planning means you’ll often see creative solutions for waste reduction and locally sourced elements.
Pricing: Wedding day coordination starts at $5,500, and event management starts at $12,500. For custom pricing and information about partial- and full-service planning packages, reach out via their website.
Why we love them: We’re huge fans of Nicole’s commitment to sustainability and inclusivity in the wedding industry. It’s refreshing to see a planner who prioritizes ethical practices while still delivering high-end, visually stunning events.
Connect with them: Follow Nicole Mower Event Planning + Design (@nicolemowerevents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
4. Maine Seasons Events
Company name and founder/lead planner: Maine Seasons Events / Meagan Gilpatrick
Meagan Gilpatrick is a true veteran of the Maine event industry, bringing over two decades of experience to her role as founder of Maine Seasons Events. Her background in art and design informs her unique approach, where the visual atmosphere is treated with as much importance as the logistical flow. Meagan has seen the industry evolve and has consistently stayed ahead of the curve by blending vintage finds with modern elements. Her deep roots in the community mean she has solved virtually every problem a Maine wedding can present.
Specialty/niche: Maine Seasons Events specializes in design-led planning, creating highly customized, texture-rich environments that reflect the changing seasons of Maine. Meagan’s niche is crafting events that feel intimate and cozy, regardless of the guest count, fostering a genuine sense of connection among attendees. She’s an expert at creating nostalgic, whimsical, or artfully curated aesthetics, making her a top choice for couples who want their wedding to feel like a bespoke experience.
Notable projects or signature style: Meagan’s signature style often involves layers of texture—think velvet ribbons, antique brass candlesticks, rough-hewn wood tables, and soft, romantic blooms. She has a particular talent for sourcing unique props and decor pieces that you won’t see at every other wedding. A notable aspect of her work is the use of lighting to create mood; she expertly uses candlelight, bistro lights, and custom installations to change the atmosphere as the sun goes down.
Pricing: According to their website, clients typically invest between $22,500 and $60,000 in planning, design and event management. Contact them directly for a personalized quote.
Why we love them: We love Maine Seasons Events for Meagan’s artistic eye and her longevity in the business. Having planned events in Maine for over 20 years, she’s seen it all and solved it all. This depth of experience is invaluable when dealing with New England weather or last-minute changes.
Connect with them: Follow Maine Seasons Events (@maineseasonsevents) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
5. Dirigo Event Co.
Company name and founder/lead planner: Dirigo Event Co. / Margie Welch
Margie Welch founded Dirigo Event Co. with a philosophy rooted in the state motto of Maine, “Dirigo,” which means “I Lead.” This reflects her approach to event planning: confident, capable leadership for complex events. Margie specializes in the logistical mastery required for weddings that take place in non-traditional venues, such as private homes, islands, and remote locations. She’s the calm presence in the storm, handling everything from transportation logistics to vendor coordination with a practical, no-nonsense attitude.
Specialty/niche: Dirigo Event Co. specializes in “logistics-first” planning, making them an ideal choice for couples hosting weddings in challenging locations. Margie’s niche is managing the execution of the guest experience, particularly for events that involve moving hundreds of people via trolleys or boats, managing tight timelines, and coordinating large teams of vendors. Her expertise shines in ensuring that the flow of the event is intuitive and seamless.
Notable projects or signature style: Margie’s style is defined by organization and clarity. Visually, Dirigo Event Co. weddings are clean, classic, and timeless, often featuring “coastal classic” designs with crisp whites, navy blues, and natural greenery that complement rather than compete with the view. Her events run like clockwork; you won’t see guests waiting in long lines or wondering where to go next. She creates a stress-free environment by meticulously planning every detail.
Pricing: Pricing varies depending on your vision. Get in touch via their website for a complimentary consultation.
Why we love them: We love the “Dirigo” spirit that Margie brings to her work. In a state where cell service can be spotty and weather can be wild, you need a leader who stays cool under pressure. Margie is known for her practical approach to problem-solving.
Connect with them: Follow Dirigo Event Co. (@dirigoeventco) on Instagram for a peek into their creative process and recent events.
Finding the right Maine planner
Choosing a wedding planner in Maine is different than choosing one in a major city. The rugged landscape and seasonal constraints mean you need someone with specific local expertise. Here’s how to narrow down your options.
1. Test their knowledge of coastal logistics
Maine has over 3,000 islands and miles of rural coastline. Don’t just ask if they work in Maine—test their specific knowledge of the geography. Ask specific questions:
- “How do you handle vendor load-in on [Island Name] given the ferry schedule?”
- “What is the backup plan for guest transportation if the causeway floods at high tide?”
- “Do you have experience bringing in restrooms and generators to [Remote Town]?”
A planner with real local experience will answer immediately with logistical solutions. Vague responses like “we’ll figure it out” are red flags. If you’re planning an island wedding, ask them to walk you through the timeline of getting a catering truck onto a ferry. Their answer reveals whether they’ve actually managed events in Maine’s unique terrain.
2. Assess their crisis management for weather
Maine weather is notoriously unpredictable. It can be sunny and 75 degrees one minute and foggy with a 20-degree drop the next. Ask prospective planners: “Can you walk me through how you handled a weather crisis for a past client?”
Experienced Maine planners have protocols ready. They should talk about sidewalls for tents, heaters for chilly evenings (even in August), and securing flooring so guests don’t sink into mud. Listen for specifics: Did they have umbrellas on standby? Did they move the cocktail hour inside seamlessly? Their answer should include timeline decisions and how they communicated changes to guests.
3. Evaluate their vendor network depth
In Maine, the vendor community is tight-knit, and top vendors book up fast. Ask: “Which caterers and rental companies do you work with regularly, and why?”
Strong planners will name 3-5 vendors per category and explain the relationship. For example, “We love working with [Caterer X] because they source all their oysters locally and have a mobile kitchen that handles remote sites well.” Then ask: “What happens if they’re booked?” The depth of their backup list matters. In a state with a short peak season, having connections who will pick up the phone for your planner is invaluable.
4. Measure budget realism for this market
Maine is often perceived as a rustic, budget-friendly alternative to cities like Boston or New York, but the logistics of remote venues can actually drive costs up. Share your budget range and ask: “What is realistic for a guest count of [Number] in [Town] with this budget?”
Good planners will be honest: “For a tented wedding on private property, you need to factor in $X for infrastructure (power, water, tent) before you even buy a flower.” They should offer realistic cost tiers. Warning sign: Promising a luxury tented affair on a shoestring budget without discussing the cost of generators, lighting, and catering rentals.
5. Confirm communication style fits the pace
Maine’s event season is short and intense (May through October). During these months, planners are often on-site at events every weekend. Ask: “What is your typical response time during peak season versus off-season?”
Test this during your selection process. You need a planner who sets clear expectations. Some may be slower to respond to non-urgent emails on weekends in July because they’re executing events. This is actually a good sign—it means they’ll be just as focused on your event when the time comes.
Planning a wedding in Maine
Planning a wedding in Maine is all about timing and embracing the elements. Here are the factors you need to consider.
Weather patterns and seasons
The most popular time for outdoor wedding is late June through early October. For detailed forecasts and historical weather data, consult the National Weather Service forecast for Maine.
- June: Can be buggy (black flies) and cooler in the evenings. Lush green scenery.
- July & August: Peak summer. Warm days, cool nights. Ocean water is refreshing. High demand for venues.
- September & October: Foliage season. Crisp air, stunning colors, no bugs. Nights get cold fast, so heaters are a must.
- Winter/Spring: “Mud season” is real in April/May. Winter weddings are cozy and beautiful but require indoor venues and snow contingency plans.
Tourism peaks and traffic
Route 1 is the main artery along the coast, and it can become a parking lot on summer weekends.
- Avoid: Traveling north on Friday afternoons and south on Sundays if possible.
- Major events: The Maine Lobster Festival takes place July 29-August 2, 2026 in Rockland, and the Yarmouth Clam Festival is always the third Friday in July. These events draw massive crowds. Accommodation prices skyrocket, and room blocks become impossible to secure. Check the local town calendar before setting your date.
Accommodations and transportation
Maine has fewer large hotels outside of Portland. For trip planning resources, visit Visit Maine, the official tourism website.
- Book early: In towns like Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor, and Camden, hotels fill up a year in advance.
- Transportation: Uber/Lyft is reliable in Portland but virtually non-existent in rural areas. You must provide shuttles for your guests if your venue is remote.
- Ferries: If you’re marrying on Peaks Island or Chebeague, Casco Bay Lines ferry service provides year-round passenger, freight, and vehicle ferry service to the islands of Casco Bay from Portland. The ferry schedule dictates your entire timeline. Make sure guests know exactly which boat to catch.
Marriage license requirements
Your marriage license is valid for 90 days and can only be used within the State of Maine, and there is no longer a waiting period from the time your license is issued until your wedding can take place. Marriage licenses are issued at the town or city level, and the couple must visit the town office in person to apply. For complete requirements, visit Maine’s official marriage license requirements.
FAQs: wedding planning in Maine
When should I hire a Maine wedding planner?
You should hire a planner as soon as you have a general date in mind, ideally 12 to 18 months in advance. Maine has a very short wedding season (roughly May to October), so prime dates and top planners book up incredibly fast.
How much does a wedding planner cost in Maine?
Costs vary widely based on the scope of work. “Day-of” or event management typically starts around $2,500–$4,000, while full-service planning and design can range from $6,000 to over $15,000, or a percentage of your total budget (usually 10-20%). Keep in mind that in Maine, planners often handle complex logistics like generators and tent builds, which justifies the investment.
Do I need a planner if my venue has a coordinator?
Yes, usually. A venue coordinator works for the venue; their job is to ensure the building doesn’t burn down, the lights work, and the food is served on time (if in-house). An independent planner works for you. They manage your timeline, coordinate all your outside vendors (florist, band, photographer), handle family dynamics, and ensure your specific vision is executed.
Why hire a local Maine planner versus bringing someone from out of town?
Local knowledge is power. A Maine planner knows that the tide comes in at 4:00 PM and will flood the photo spot. They know which caterer travels well to islands and which florist sources local dahlias. They have relationships with the town clerks for noise permits. An out-of-town planner, no matter how talented, will not have this crucial “on-the-ground” intelligence.
Great events start with standout spaces—and the people who bring them to life
Maine offers a landscape of endless possibilities, from the rocky shores of Acadia to the quiet woods of the interior. But realizing a vision in this rugged environment takes more than just a Pinterest board; it takes a team of experts who respect the land and understand the logistics. The planners on this list are the best in the business, capable of harnessing Maine’s wild energy to create refined, memorable experiences that reflect who you are.
Whether you’re looking for a rustic barn, a modern art gallery in Portland, or a private stretch of coastline, the right space sets the tone for everything else. Peerspace connects you with gorgeous wedding venues that provide the perfect backdrop for your Maine celebration, giving you the foundation to build something truly extraordinary.
If you have feedback on our list, our team would love to hear from you. Reach us anytime at [email protected] with suggestions, corrections, or additions. It helps us keep our recommendations accurate, balanced, and genuinely useful for every reader.
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