Matt and Michelle are High School sweethearts. When I met them at a coffee shop this past winter, they had such a friendly and gentle spirit about them, and I was excited to hear that they were planning a romantic Scottish/Irish/Medieval backyard wedding at the home of Michelle’s parents in Sidney, Maine, which is only a few minutes away from me.

Both Michelle’s and Matt’s parents had Scottish and Irish blood, so they were excited to incorporate their heritages into the details of their wedding.  When I arrived on this warm August day, my heart sang as I noticed all the special touches that Michelle and Matt had worked so hard planning – everything from kilts to gorgeous crowns that the bride and her sisters donned. Matt and Michelle chose to do a first look, where they saw each other before the ceremony in the shade of the trees.  This enabled them to have some time to be excited together and prepare emotionally for the big step ahead of them.  The ceremony had many unique, meaningful traditions. They danced in the tent, under a beautiful cotton-candy sunset, and enjoyed fresh gelato!  Thank you Michelle and Matt for inviting me to capture your royal day!

Michelle wore her one of her grandmother’s rings that day <3

Below, Michelle walks up behind Matt with the help of her bridesmaids, and they see each other for the first time!

Matt and Michelle opted to have both their parents walk them down the aisle – I loved this!

Above, Michelle, Michelle’s mom, and Matt’s mom are doing a tradition where they walk around Matt several times holding hands.

Matt and Michelle displayed their engagement album at the reception – which we photographed at the beach a few months beforehand.

I love how their place cards had wildflower seeds in them – guests were encouraged to take them home and plant them!