Lobster Boat Tour

Wedding Day

Bar Harbor Inn & Spa

Ceremony

Reception

Our Wedding

How We Met

It al started with a like. Julia was Derek's most compatible match on Hinge, the person the app thought was his best fit. Our first date was at Antiques on High in Columbus, and Derek will tell you he was completely stunned by how beautiful Julia was when she walked in. The night didn't stop there. We kept it going at a dive bar down the street, where Derek graciously let Julia win at foosball. It was the night before Thanksgiving, and when they parted ways Derek decided to play it cool and wait a day before texting. Julia was not impressed.

The Proposal

Derek surprised Julia with a trip to Niagara Falls with one thing in mind. We love being outdoors and in nature, and Niagara felt like the perfect backdrop. We stayed at a cozy B&amp;B where we ended up meeting guests from all over, Florida to Ireland. Derek had the ring the whole trip but couldn't wait, so on the morning of September 6th he got down on one knee beside Bridal Veil Falls first thing, before the day even had a chance to get away from him. He'll also admit he wasn't taking any chances on the Maid of the Mist. Julia said yes just off to the side of the falls, away from the crowds. That evening they celebrated with a nice dinner, and Derek toasted with his favorite drink, an old fashioned with a bourbon soaked cherry. A pretty perfect trip from start to finish.

Bar Harbor & Forever

Choosing Bar Harbor was an easy choice. Over the years we've explored many national parks-from Sequoia to the Dry Tortugas. We both just love being outside and in nature, it's one of the things that brought us together. Mammoth Cave was our first weekend getaway trip together. Julia has a handmade map of all the national parks where you fill each one in with a little wooden green tree as you go, so naturally getting married near Acadia meant we could check off a new park and start our marriage in the same trip. We can't wait to share it with you.

Our Story

Photos

Wedding Party

Q: What is the dress code? A: We invite guests to dress in cocktail/semi-formal attire. Think fall colors, suits, midi/maxi dresses, and layers for the evening. The ceremony will take place outdoors on the lawn so please plan for possible cool weather. Q: What is the closest airport? A: Bangor International Airport (BGR) is the closest major airport, about 1 hour from Bar Harbor. The couple will be flying in and renting a car. Q: When should I book my travel? A: As soon as possible! October is peak foliage season in Maine and Bar Harbor fills up fast. Q: When is the RSVP deadline? A: Please RSVP by September 1, 2026 so we can finalize our headcount with the venue.

Q + A

Getting There:

The closest major airport is Bangor International Airport (BGR), about 1 hour from Bar Harbor. There is also a small regional airport in Bar Harbor (BHB) with direct seasonal service-convenient, though fares tend to run higher.

Where to Stay(Room Block): 

We've reserved a block of 10 rooms at Bar Harbor Inn, right at the venue. Rooms are available for the nights of October 13–18, 2026, with a 2-night minimum stay required. Not staying at the Inn? No worries at all, Bar Harbor has plenty of great options nearby and we're just happy you're coming. To book, call 844-814-1668 and ask for the Castle Pierog Wedding block. Group code: 1026CASTLE. Please identify yourself as part of the group when you call so we can keep an accurate guest list. Rooms are held until August 15, 2026. After that, remaining rooms are released and rates are no longer guaranteed. Room options:Room options range from $479/night (Newport Building) to $719/night (Oceanfront Lodge). We also have two rooms in the Main Inn Landing available at $569/night. A complimentary continental breakfast is included each morning. Check-in is at 3:00pm, check-out at 11:00am. Maine state sales tax will be added to all rates.

Travel & Room Block Info

October in Bar Harbor will be absolutely magical. Feel free to arrive early or stay late and explore! Hike the trails at Acadia National Park, catch the peak fall foliage, grab a lobster roll on the waterfront, or join us for a hike on Wednesday before the wedding. We have chartered a private lobster boat tour Thursday sat 1:30pm. We'll cruise the harbor, learn about lobstering, and soak in the views. Space is limited to 21 people so RSVP to the couple if interested. Dinner will follow afterwards (location TBD)!

Julia & Derek

Julia & Derek

J&D

Lobster Boat Tour

Wedding Day

2:30 PM–3:00 PM

Ceremony

4:00 PM–8:00 PM

Reception