Macy and Matt’s elopement journey was a testament to their dedication and love. Traveling all the way from Florida to Acadia National Park with their beloved dog, Dallas, who has been battling cancer, was an emotional and unforgettable experience. This heartwarming story highlights the significance of including pets in elopements and offers practical advice for other couples planning to bring their furry friends along.

A Long Road Worth the Journey

Macy and Matt, along with their families, embarked on a 30-hour journey from Florida to Acadia National Park. Their motivation? Ensuring that their sweet, lovable dog, Dallas, who has undergone surgery for cancer, could be part of their special day. Knowing the cancer could recur, they wanted to create everlasting memories with her by their side. Dallas, ever the model, brought joy and warmth to every moment of the elopement.

Sunrise: Intimate First Look and Rugged Cliffs

The day began with a private first look close to sunrise. Macy and Matt, along with Dallas, explored the rugged cliffs of Acadia. The morning light and the serene beauty of the park provided the perfect backdrop for capturing their love and the sweet moments with their beloved dog.

Morning Ceremony with Family

Due to rain at sunrise, we pivoted their timeline to slightly later that morning to ensure we optimized the best time of day to avoid the rain. Pivoting is the name of the game when it comes to elopements, and we want our couples to have the best day possible. We always pack umbrellas, just in case. For more about rainy day elopements, check out our blog.

They then met up with their family at another picturesque location for the ceremony, officiated by my husband George, Traveling Officiant. The family, all wearing sneakers for safety, changed into their dress shoes on the rocks. The ceremony was intimate and emotional, followed by family photos that captured the joy and love of the moment. Afterward, we ventured to another stunning spot with just the couple for more photos, while their family headed to Sweet Pea’s Cafe.

Midday Celebration at Sweet Pea’s Cafe

We joined them shortly after for a delicious farm-to-table salad, local beer and wine, and beautiful seasonal flowers by Eastern River Farm in Maine. Macy and Matt, who love pizza and pickles, had Sweet Pea’s create a custom dill pickle pizza that was such a hit it’s now on their menu! The fresh farm-grown salad and Porter Pickle Pizza were Matt and Macy’s idea, paired perfectly with local beer from Maine breweries. Matt, a growler collector from their travels, was thrilled. The midday celebration was filled with laughter, great food, and heartfelt moments.

Sunset Sail and First Dance

Later in the day, we met up for a sunset sail at Sail Acadia on Somes Sound, the only fjord in the northeast. The couple shared their first dance on the boat, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery. Captain Mercedes shared fascinating history about the boats and the nearby islands, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. We spotted seals and enjoyed the serene cruise, creating an unforgettable ending to their perfect day.

Including Pets in Your Elopement

Including pets in elopements adds a layer of emotional significance and joy. For couples planning to travel with pets, here are some tips:

• Pet-Friendly Stays: Look for accommodations that welcome pets like Hanscoms Cottages
• Comfort Items: Bring dog treats, water, and a comfortable bed for them.
• Trail Essentials: Don’t forget their leash and poop bags. Acadia is dog-friendly as long as pets are on a leash.

Read more on my blog about Eloping with your Dog.

Macy and Matt’s elopement was filled with love, emotion, and unforgettable experiences. We are grateful for their trust in us to capture such a significant moment in their lives. Their journey from Florida to Acadia, along with Dallas, serves as a beautiful reminder of the deep bonds we share with our pets.

Dreaming of an elopement that includes your furry friend? Let’s create an unforgettable adventure together. Contact us today to start planning your dream elopement in Acadia or any of our stunning 2025 locations!