Welcome to this month’s installment of the “I Do” Interviews! This month our wedding series features a wonderful couple, Maria and Andrew, who said their vows on a beautiful June day this year. They chose to celebrate both their ceremony and reception with us in the stunning Harborview Ballroom with their 260 family members and friends who all shared in their joy.
This interview series is meant to give future couples a chance to hear the wonderful details of wedding experiences from those who have recently been there. Our lovely couples have agreed to share their stories so others can learn everything about their one-of-a-kind wedding and the planning process.
Responses have been edited for length and clarity.
Maria & Andrew
Wedding Date – June 23, 2023
Event Space – Our ceremony was on the grounds of the beautiful Danversport and our reception was in the Harborview Ballroom.
Where are you originally from?
We are from neighboring towns in Southern Maine. Andrew grew up in Wells, and I grew up in Kennebunk.
What do you do for work?
I am an elementary school teacher and Andrew is a very talented barber.
How did you meet your bride or groom?
We met 10 years ago while working at Mable’s Lobster Claw in Kennebunkport.
What made you choose Danversport, and this venue/room specifically?
A few years ago we were talking about what we would want for a wedding. Knowing that family and family traditions are important to me, Andrew suggested Danversport where my parents celebrated their wedding. Once he said it, I knew he was right.
We toured Danversport in January 2022, 9 days after we got engaged. The look on my husband’s face, when he saw the ballroom, made it clear we were at the venue we wanted to celebrate our wedding.
We knew we wanted a big wedding to celebrate with all of our friends and family and the Harborview Ballroom was the perfect space to use. We also used the patio and Light House Point for our night before dinner which was gorgeous for a June evening.
How many guests did you have in attendance roughly?
We had about 260ish guests in attendance.
What did you offer for food/drink catering?
When guests arrived we had water, still and sparkling, and lemonade available. For the cocktail hour, we hosted a spritz bar along with an open bar that ran for most of the wedding. We selected the classic hors d’oeuvres, vegetable crudites and artisanal cheese, short ribs, and the brioche lobster rolls.
For dinner, we began with fresh fruit and strawberry salad. For meals, guests decided between the Tuscan chicken and the filet mignon.
During dessert, in addition to our wedding cake, we featured their Viennese Display which was an absolute show-stopper in presentation and taste. That included a cordial bar. We also offered the espresso and cappuccino bar and a bourbon bar which was out on the deck.
Our guests have not stopped raving about the food, from the passed apps, displays, and plated meals.
What was the most magical, moving, or special part of the wedding for you?
The entire day was magical. Everything from how we arrived (although it was separate), to closing the night out by singing with our band, Brick Park. Our day was filled with small magical moments. Although it is hard to pick, the most anticipated was walking down the aisle and seeing each other for the first time. We both had butterflies, cried, laughed, and smiled as my father walked me down the aisle.
What was the song you danced to for your first dance?
We danced to a live version of “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain.
Did you have a wedding theme?
We did not have a specific theme, but we encouraged everyone to get dressed up in their summer formal and dance the night away with us.
What style was your dress?
My dress was a mermaid-style gown by Martina Liana. It was simple and elegant with a train and bow on the back.
Who walked you down the aisle?
The moment we both had waited so long for, my father walked me down the aisle and we had my mother join us once we reached the end.
What are/were your plans for your honeymoon?
We left two days later for Cabo where we relaxed and golfed for a week!
Happily Ever After
Congratulations to Maria and Andrew! We are so happy that we could be a part of continuing the tradition of weddings for their family at Danversport. We are so pleased that we could be the venue of choice for Maria’s parents and now Maria and her partner. We wish them much happiness as they begin their life together!
