This post aims to:

1. help those with planning a dog friendly elopement in Portland, Maine
2. inspire couples considering an intimate wedding or elopement in Maine with their pup. You will see an elopement gallery at the end 🙂

Portland, Maine

Portland, Maine is one of my favorite places to enjoy the coast of Maine without driving too far from New Hampshire or compromising accessibility. The amount of delicious restaurants, outdoor experiences, parks, city life, all combined together, plus a feeling of inclusivity and vibrant community life, makes Portland one of my favorite locations in Maine.

Where to Elope in Portland, Maine

As a Maine Elopement Photographer, I take seriously the honor of helping clients find locations that feel true to them and align with their marriage celebration vision. Portland has multiple options for elopement locations:

• light houses
• downtown city vibes
• quieter coastal feel
• rocky coastline
• funky lodging experiences
• a vibrant arts and cultural identity
• high end restaurant experiences
• AND it is also a short drive to some quieter coastal experiences just outside of Portland (like Freeport, Maine- check out this Coastal elopement in Freeport, Maine).

#1 Lighthouses

Houses in the Portland area are great choice for those who want that coastal feel, beauty, and the ability for families (and dogs!) to join if that’s your vibe. Some common lighthouses to consider near Portland, Maine are:

• Bug Light Park (where these two eloped!)
• Portland Head Light
• Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse
• Cape Elizabeth Light (just outside of Portland)

#2 Downtown Portland

As you will see from this precious couple in the gallery below, downtown Portland has a rich historical, cultural, and electric feel. I cannot recommend walking down and experiencing this for yourself. Whether you stroll down the cobblestone neighborhoods, or just walk along the streets of the main restaurants/shops, or stroll along the paved way of Eastern Promenade, downtown Portland is a whole feel in and of itself.

#3 Reserve a Restaurant Space

As you’ll see with this couple below, there are so many delicious culinary experiences to experience in Portland. I highly recommend checking out this particular restaurant, Leeward.

#3 Cozy Portland Inns

You have manyyy choices in cozy inns to consider for your Portland elopement. Many are near the water and accessible to that stereotypical coastal + city line Portland view we all see online.

Dog Friendly Lodging in Portland, Maine

If you’re reading this blog post, you’re likely considering eloping in Portland, Maine, want a dog friendly experience, nature, accessible coastal views, all with ease in accessibility. I love it! Take a page out of these two’s book, and consider a downtown hotel that is dog friendly. Here are my dog friendly lodging recommendations for eloping in Portland, Maine.

Dog Friendly Hotels

A and B chose to stay at the Residence Inn for their dog friendly elopement in Portland, Maine. This place is GORGEOUS, has plenty of room for family and loved ones to book, and is in the heart of downtown Portland.

Rent a House

In 2024, nontraditional wedding experiences are no longer just the exception. Renting houses for a weekend or weeklong getaway for an elopement are becoming more and more popular… And for good reason. Renting a dog friendly house for your Portland Maine elopement is a great option for those who want to have aspects of their downtime in one cozy spot for themselves, their dog, and their loved ones. If you rent one along the coast, that could even be a great spot for your celebration, your ceremony, and some really unique photographic moments together just taking in the present (making breakfast together, having a bonfire, playing board games, and just being together – these can all be really sweet moments that can be documented as part of your story).

Friendly elopement considerations in Portland, Maine

Another reason why I love Portland Maine for a dog friendly elopement experiences is that walking is quite scenic and easy. Most of the downtown streets have sidewalks, adorable neighborhoods that are quite photogenic, and nearby access to water.

Here are some of my tips for having your dog with your in the city:

Do your Research

Do your research on your locations before hand. Some Portland Maine locations do not allow dogs, so this is important to research before hand. You can find this information online or by calling directly.

Designate a Dog Care Buddy

Consider designating a dog buddy for your day (as you’ll see in A and B’s gallery below). This could be someone who brings your dog back to the lodging after the ceremony so that you can explore some other locations that might not be dog friendly, or just someone to help delegate duties so that you can be free from managing logistics of dog care.

Know Your Dog’s Limits

If you are traveling from out of town, you can absolutely still have an enjoyable experience with your dog on your elopement day. However, events like weddings or elopements can be a bit busy for everyone involved, including your dog. Consider your dog’s natural affect (are they more anxious, hyperactive, or very routine dependent?) Building in some supportive measures for your dog will greatly help with a smooth elopement day. For instance, Mr. Nutmeg here was an absolute champion during this Portland, Maine elopement! However, he needed to tuck in at the end of the day! So the couple had one of their relatives drive him to his hotel for an early nap. Like a prince. Very well deserved, Mr. Nutmeg.

Dog Friendly Elopement ideas in Portland, Maine

There is so much to do in Portland, and so many creative ways to celebrate your marriage here. Take it from these two! Here are some dog friendly elopement ideas in Portland, Maine.

1. Hiking

Portland Maine is not home to Maine 4000 footer mountain peaks, there are absolutely some beautiful trails, and minor hikes that would be a great fit for you and your dog on your day.

2. Boating

Yes, dogs are allowed on certain boat companies! Consider an adventure boat in Portland, Maine.

3. Parks

Just like this elopement! A park is likely the easiest and most logistically simple way to incorporate your dog and family into an elopement day. Always check with parks before hand about dog rules and any other considerations needed for hosting your elopement at the given park.

Dog Friendly Elopement in Portland, Maine: Sample Timeline

1. They spent a few days exploring Maine together with Mr. nutmeg and their families.
2. They got ready together and hit the downtown to explore, walk, and talk some dreamy photos
3. They had their ceremony overlooking gorgeous, foggy, rainy Portland views.
4. After the ceremony, Mr. Nutmeg headed home for the day.
5. Family portraits took place at Bug Light Park
6. This sweet couple and family ended their day with a catered lunch experience at the one and only Leeward. The best part about starting early for them is that they got to end the day together, in their PJs, just being together.

Considering a Dog Friendly Elopement in Portland, Maine?

Hi, my name is Kayla and I am a Maine and New England elopement photographer who literally named her business (Babel Photos) after her husky, Babel. I am passionate about providing couples a dream elopement experience where their beloved dogs can be a central part of the day. More than just a photographer, I am your adventure buddy and partner and identify exactly what vision feels most authentic to you. I am a support in making that vision come to life. And it’s my honor to have you on this page. I hope I can be of help to you and I hope the gallery below is an inspiration for your future development day. New, interested in connecting? Let’s chat!

Happy adventuring,

Kayla, owner of Babel Photos

Dog Friendly Elopement in Portland, Maine Gallery

VENDORS

Photography: me, Kayla 🙂 Maine Elopement Photographer. Owner of Babel Photos

Elopement Location: Portland, Maine: downtown, Bug Light Park, Leeward Restaurant

Catering: Leeward

Maine Elopement Photographer | Portland, Maine Elopement Ideas