Grade school best friends finally tie the knot at a family member’s property on the coast of Maine!

Pam and Jesse have been best friends since the 4th Grade – that’s 18 years! They played sports together growing up, and stayed friends as adults, but drifted apart a little. One day, Pam saw a picture on social media of Jesse playing the guitar. She sent him a message, commenting that she didn’t know he knew how to play guitar. The rest was history! They’ve been together for over a year, and knew that they didn’t want to wait any longer to start their life together!

I first met Pam at a photographer’s meetup several years ago. I was surprised when she knew who I was, and I’m pretty sure she mentioned that day that her dream was to hire me to photograph her wedding one day. I was SO flattered! Pam is a photographer herself and takes beautiful photographs. The best thing about photographing other photographers is that they really put so much thought into their wedding details! They chose to get married at a family member’s house in Prospect Harbor. The backyard overlooks Prospect Harbor Lighthouse, and has a gorgeous view! When I arrived on this beautiful October morning, Pam was getting her hair and makeup done, and Jesse was hanging out with the guys. Their oldest daughter was busy eating lots of cantaloupe, while their youngest was taking a nap. Family members were bustling about getting ready and helping to set things up. Pam and Jesse chose to do a first look, and it was so sweet! During the wedding ceremony, a bald eagle flew over us just as they were exchanging rings. They danced afterwards together as their friends and family looked on. It was such a simple and sweet day! They had less than 20 guests at the wedding, and the whole day was truly laid back. At the same time, everything was so beautifully thought out, and Pam looked like a Disney princess!

Thank you so much, Pam and Jesse, for trusting me to photograph your special day! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Tate!

Florals and Boutonnieres: Kochetova Floral Accessories, Etsy

Hair and Makeup Artist: Whitney Beal Beauty, Beals, Maine

Bride’s Dress: Dream Dress Bridal, Bangor, Maine

Flowergirl’s Dresses: Nicolette’s Couture

Suits: Henry’s Bridal Boutique, Bangor, Maine

Brides shoes: Bella Belle Brides

Photographer: Andrea Simmons Photography LLC, Gardiner, Maine