From Rainwater to Sparkler Exits: Favorite Moments at Our Maine Wedding Barn

Every wedding brings its own personality. Each week during our wedding season, we get to witness the hard work couples pour into their planning. We see creativity, attention to detail, fresh ideas, cherished traditions, and so much love woven into every choice.

Every time I walk into the barn after a couple has finished decorating, I can’t help but smile. This old barn—where I stacked hay as a teenager—has a beauty all its own, and when a couple adds their vision and personality, it truly fills me with joy!

All this reminiscing got me thinking… what are some of the little moments and clever ideas that have made my heart smile over the years? Here are just a few that pop into my mind.

• A couple baked & decorated their own wedding cake the night before—just the two of them. Such a sweet and intimate way to begin their celebration.

• One couple organized all their table décor by packing each table’s items into a labeled box. It made decorating quick, smooth, and beautifully stress-free.

• Traditional, yes—but we love a lively sparkler exit. It always feels magical.

• At the end of one evening, everyone stepped outside the barn so the couple could share a private dance under our twinkling lights. Truly romantic.

• We adore when couples take a planned 15-minute break together during the day. It’s the perfect chance to breathe, regroup, and soak in the moment—because getting married is a big deal.

• One couple used a photo of our barn and had their invitation company turn it into a stunning watercolor for their wedding invitations. Such a creative touch.

• On a rainy wedding day, the mother of the bride collected rainwater as a symbol of fresh beginnings. I’ve now continued the tradition—whenever it rains, I save a beautiful jar of rainwater for our couples as a keepsake.

• A surprise donut truck rolling in at the end of the night—because who wouldn’t want fresh donuts and hot coffee to wrap up a perfect evening?

• A couple who stood in the center of the dance floor while each table gathered around them for a quick photo op. It was fun, organized, and surprisingly fast!

As you plan your own wedding, remember—it’s perfectly wonderful to embrace tradition, but it’s also exciting to think outside the box or draw inspiration from other couples. After all, this is your wedding, and your ideas should reflect your personality and love story. No matter what, your guests are there to celebrate the union of two people they love, and all the special touches you bring to your day make it even more magical.

Wedding Planning Guide for a Rustic Barn Venue in Maine - Keeping It Simple & Elegant

Jen Stevens Photography

1. Build Your Vendor Team

Once you’ve selected a barn venue you love, it’s time to choose your vendors. A great team of vendors paired with a an experienced venue can make all the difference. Secure vendors as soon as possible.

• Caterer

• Florist

• Bar Service

• Photographer

• DJ/Band

• Officiant

• Videographer

• Hair & Make Up Artists

• Bakery

• Rentals

• Transportation

2. Make Your Guest List

• Know your venue’s guest capacity

• Keep in mind…your guest count drives your costs—food, drinks, rentals, tables, chairs, linens, favors, etc. Know your per person cost

• Have you spoken to them in the last 12–18 months?
  If not, they may not need to be on the list—unless they’re close family you see less frequently

• What size wedding are you looking for?

  • Intimate (under 50) → prioritize closest family and friends

  • Medium (50–120) → close circle + extended family + important friends

  • Large (150+) → wide guest list, social friends, coworkers, plus-ones

3. What Vibe Are You Looking For?

Rustic barns naturally offer warmth, charm, and authenticity. Decide whether your vibe is:

• Rustic elegance (soft lighting, neutral florals, simple décor)

• Modern farmhouse (clean lines, greenery, candles)

• Whimsical country (wildflowers, fairy lights, vintage touches)

Once the vibe is clear, every choice becomes easier.

4. Keep the Décor Minimal but Meaningful

A rustic barn already provides a stunning backdrop—wood beams, open space & touches of history. Lean into that.

less clutter = more atmosphere

Simple, rustic, & elegant décor ideas:

• Loose greenery runners on long farm tables

• Neutral florals (whites, creams, soft blush, eucalyptus)

• Candles or LED pillars to create glow

• Use Wooden boxes or barrels

• String lights or bistro lighting to elevate the ambience

• Soft Draping

• Chalkboard Signs

5. Consider a Day of Coordinator

If your venue doesn’t provide a Day-of Coordinator, hiring one is highly recommended. Having a dedicated point person to greet vendors, handle last-minute details, and keep the timeline on track is invaluable—allowing you and your new spouse to relax and enjoy every moment.

6. Keep the Timeline Relaxed

Barn weddings feel best when the day flows naturally.

A simple elegant timeline:

• 4:00 – Ceremony

• 4:30 – Photos + Cocktail hour

• 5:30 – Dinner

• 6:00 – Toasts

• 6:30 – First dances

• 7:00 – Open dance floor

• 8:30 – Dessert

• 10:30 – Sendoff

7. Use Nature as Your Statement Piece

What makes a barn venue magical is the land around it.

Incorporate:

• Sunset photos in fields

• Trail walk-through photos

• Fire pit for gathering

• Outdoor games (cornhole, giant Jenga, ring toss)

These add personality without adding expense.

8. Add Personalized, Simple Touches

Some meaningful but effortless ideas:

• A welcome sign with the date

• A memory table for family photos

• Simple favors like local honey, maple syrup, or wildflower seeds

• A handwritten note at each seat

• Give a welcome/thank you speech

These make guests feel connected—and they photograph beautifully.

9. Relax and Enjoy the Charm

A simple and elegant barn wedding works because it’s genuine. Guests feel comfortable, the setting is beautiful, and the day unfolds naturally. A wedding at a barn venue creates an atmosphere that’s romantic, warm & unforgettable!

The Heart of the Day: Crafting a Meaningful Wedding Timeline

A thoughtful wedding timeline is important, but it should highlight the moments that matter most to you. Choose the activities that feel meaningful, keep things simple, and avoid packing the schedule so tightly that you lose time with the people you love. You don’t need to follow trends—focus on what feels right for the two of you.

Here are some of my favorite meaningful moments couples have included in their timeline:

• Share a quiet, private moment after the ceremony. Stepping away together gives you a chance to breathe, take everything in, and savor the start of your marriage.

• Enjoy your meal in a private space before joining the reception.

• Include a short welcome speech during the reception—it’s a heartfelt way to make your guests feel appreciated and excited to celebrate with you.

• Cut the cake! It doesn’t have to be extravagant; even a simple cake is a beautiful symbol of new beginnings.

• Exchange private vows, and consider adding personal love letters to make the moment even more meaningful.

• Share a sunset gift exchange—a sweet, intimate gesture at golden hour.

• Incorporate a ring warming. Passing your rings hand-to-hand in a small circle before the ceremony infuses them with love and intention.

• Take a pre-ceremony walk around the property to ground yourselves and calm any nerves.

• Share a private dance at the end of the reception, once the space has cleared. It’s a beautiful way for you and your love to savor one final moment together as just the two of you.

Haven Photography

Let’s give them something to talk about!

(Why do guests love rustic barn wedding venues?)

My grandfather’s hay barn…equipped with conveyor belt above the lights.

When Mark and I decided to transform our family farm into a wedding venue, we knew our barn and property were beautiful—but we had no idea just how much guests would fall in love with it. It wasn’t until we became seasoned barn venue owners that we truly understood the magic.

Over the years, we’ve hosted around 175 weddings, and during each one, we take the time to watch and listen. We notice the moments when guests first enter the barn for the reception—their eyes widening in awe, the soft murmurs of “Wow,” or the curiosity about our chandeliers, which hang from an original conveyor belt that once carried hay to my uncles in the sweltering hayloft.

We see them gazing out at the sweeping landscape as they wait for the wedding party to make an entrance. Their smiles are full of joy—and sometimes nostalgia—as they remember the carefree days of childhood, running through fields and forests. Many guests stop us to ask about the history of the farm, and we always answer with pride and delight.

Now I understand why barn venues are so beloved. They don’t just provide a beautiful backdrop—they offer experiences, memories, and stories that guests carry with them long after the celebration ends.

• Picturesque Backdrops: From weathered beams to rolling farmland, barns offer stunning photography opportunities both inside and out. Every corner becomes a frame-worthy moment for your wedding album.

• Flexible Space: Barns provide versatile layouts for ceremonies, receptions, and dancing—all under one roof. The open design allows for creative seating, décor, and entertainment arrangements.

• Cozy and Inviting: The intimate feel of a barn encourages guests to mingle, relax, and feel part of your special day. Rustic elements like fire pits, twinkle lights, and farm tables enhance a welcoming vibe.

• Connection to Nature: Often set on expansive properties, barn venues give couples the chance to celebrate surrounded by fields and gardens—perfect for outdoor ceremonies or sunset photos.

• Unique Experience: Unlike traditional banquet halls, barn weddings feel personal and one-of-a-kind. Each venue has its own history and character, giving your day a memorable, authentic touch.

• Customization Opportunities: Barns are a blank canvas—you can infuse your personalities through décor, flowers, lighting, and seating, making the celebration uniquely yours..