This elegant coastal wedding at Abanakee Club was a heartfelt celebration filled with meaningful traditions, local touches, and unforgettable surprises. Shannon and Peter’s love story came full circle as they exchanged vows in a place that had been special to them since the very beginning. With a personalized ceremony, a flash mob reception surprise, and a focus on local food and florals, their wedding was as thoughtful as it was breathtaking.
A Proposal Five Years in the Making
Shannon and Peter first met on a hike to the Hollywood sign in LA on April 8, 2018. Exactly five years later, they set out on another hike—this time in Shenandoah National Park, where Peter got down on one knee and proposed.
Their wedding venue was an easy choice. Shannon had spent summers in Biddeford Pool, Maine, and had always dreamed of getting married there. On Peter’s first visit, she pointed to Abanakee Club and said, “That’s where I’m getting married.”
By the time they got engaged, Peter didn’t need to weigh in on a venue decision—because Shannon’s mom had already reserved two dates!
A Heartfelt & Personal Ceremony
Despite the rain, Shannon and Peter were able to have the outdoor ceremony they had envisioned. The couple’s favorite moment of the day was exchanging vows in a ceremony officiated by Shannon’s cousin.
- They incorporated a Celtic handfasting tradition, symbolizing their unity.
- Peter’s favorite part? Seeing Shannon walk down the aisle.
- The rain created an intimate, cozy atmosphere, allowing them to soak in the moment together.
The rain also worked in their favor when it came to dinner. Instead of stepping away for photos, they got to sit and enjoy every bite of their incredible meal, catered by Vinwood—the same company that catered Shannon’s parents’ wedding over 30 years ago.
An Elegant Coastal Wedding with Thoughtful Details
Shannon and Peter’s elegant coastal wedding was designed to feel relaxed, intimate, and deeply personal.
- Color Palette: Inspired by Shannon’s love for the Fourth of July, they originally considered red, white, and blue, but opted for a toned-down version of blush, cream, and pale blue.
- Local Touches: They prioritized seasonal food and florals, ensuring their wedding truly reflected the essence of a Maine summer.
- Unique Decor:
- A bookshelf escort card display doubled as wedding favors.
- A giant crossword puzzle entertained guests.
- Peter, a woodworking enthusiast, created DIY wooden runners for the reception tables.
Their goal was to create a convivial, welcoming atmosphere where their guests felt as special as they did.
A Reception to Remember – Including a Surprise Flash Mob!
Just when Shannon and Peter thought their wedding surprises were over, Shannon’s mom orchestrated a secret flash mob dance to “Mamma Mia” during the reception!
- Guests were in on the surprise, learning the choreography ahead of time.
- It got everyone on the dance floor instantly, kicking off the party with high energy.
- “We were so touched by the effort our friends and family put into it,” Shannon shares.
With DJ Danny from Northeast Event Design, the dance floor stayed packed all night.
Advice for Couples Planning Their Own Elegant Coastal Wedding
- Protect your space on the wedding morning. “We skipped the ‘don’t see the bride before the wedding’ tradition and meditated together in the morning. It was the perfect way to start the day.”
- Record a voice memo. “Later that night, we recorded nearly an hour of audio talking about our favorite moments. It’s so fun to go back and listen!”
- Stay true to yourselves. “There were a lot of opinions and decisions to balance, but in the end, we were happiest when we followed our instincts.”
A Wedding Day Full of Emotion
Shannon and Peter’s coastal wedding was the result of months of planning and years of dreaming.
“The day flew by,” Shannon shares. “We felt everything—nervous, excited, stressed, joyful. But we let ourselves experience it all instead of trying to feel a certain way.”
Most importantly, they got to celebrate with their family and friends in the place that had always felt like home.
Ceremony: Private Residence in Biddeford Pool | Reception Venue: Abanakee Club, Biddeford Pool | Planning & Design: Coastline Wedding | Photography: James Hardman Photography | Videography: Tailwind Media | DJ & Entertainment: DJ Danny, Northeast Event Design | Catering: Vinwood Caterers | Dessert: Nothing Bundt Cakes + Vinwood | Hair & Makeup: Wylde & Lowe Salon | Bridal Gown: Boston Bridal Atelier, Paloma Blanca | Rentals & Lighting: Maine Event Design + Decor, BBJ, One Stop, Marshall Tent | Transportation: Ogunquit Trolley Company | Signage & Stationery: Posted Fete
If Shannon & Peter’s elegant coastal wedding at Abanakee Club inspired you, explore the latest issue of Evergreen Weddings Magazine! From real weddings to expert tips and dreamy venue features, it’s everything you need to plan a wedding as unique as your love story. Click here to purchase our latest issue.
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