A destination wedding is a great opportunity for you and your partner to escape for an exciting and memorable wedding. Destination weddings in Maine tend to be somewhat smaller, as only those who are most vested in your relationship will attend, but that also means getting to spend more time with those you love most. Maine destination weddings and receptions are especially popular because Maine – known as “Vacationland” – has everything you’d want all within a short drive: mountains, beaches, nature, and the fun cosmopolitan feel of cities like Lewiston and Portland.
Before you book a Maine wedding venue for your destination wedding, consider these questions:
Does the venue offer help in booking vendors, and do they have a preferred vendor list?
If you’re booking a wedding from afar, it’s not easy to find outstanding photographers, florists, caterers, officiants, DJs, salons, rentals, and other vendors – your venue should provide help and expertise in referring you to the right people.
Does the venue offer all-inclusive wedding packages?
An all-inclusive wedding package can make planning a Maine destination wedding extra easy. All-in-one packages usually include dinner, appetizers, open bar, tables, chairs, linens, dishes, and flatware, but they may also include extras like a wedding toast, uplighting, charger plates, cake cutting, and other options. Not every couple will want an all-inclusive wedding package, but the best Maine wedding venues will at least provide the option. And if you do choose an all inclusive wedding package, here’s how to take advantage of your wedding package. The Agora Grand Event Center offers all-inclusive packages as well as help in finding excellent vendors.
Is the venue located near activities and restaurants?
Don’t strand your guests in the middle of nowhere! Make sure that the venue is located in a city that has plenty of cultural activities, bars, restaurants, and shops. Or, if you prefer a remote venue, make sure your guests have plenty to do on-site!
Are there enough local hotels or – better yet – does the venue offer on-site accommodations?
You’ll need to be sure that all your guests can stay locally, so cities with several large hotels are ideal. Many Maine wedding venues also offer on-site accommodations, allowing the wedding party and elderly guests to stay within walking distance of the venue. For example, the Inn at the Agora, a newly renovated boutique hotel created from a 19th-century building, is just next door to the Agora Grand.
Are there comfortable lounges and places for the wedding party to get ready?
When you’re preparing for the most important day of your life, you’ll want plenty of space, comfort, and luxury – and your partner will need the same thing! Ask if your venue has several places to get ready.
Does the venue offer full weekend availability?
If you’re going to escape for your wedding, you may want the option of the entire weekend, or even several days. If this option appeals to you, make sure the venue can accommodate you and your guests for an extended stay.
A final word of advice: planning your wedding should be FUN! If you’re not having fun with it, ask others for help. Ask friends and family, but also ask the venue and your other vendors. We’re all here to make your special day absolutely amazing!
If you have other questions or would like to know more about a Maine destination wedding at the Agora Grand Event Center, let us know!