Where to Look
Maine is the largest state in New England, but don't be intimidated. The majority of Maine's population is centered in several basic areas. Depending upon where you live (or how far you're willing to travel), there's a Maine wedding counselor ready and waiting for you.Your best bet in seeking a wedding counselor in Maine is to center your search in a well-populated town. Try one of the following:
The greater Portland area: Portland is the most densely populated town in Maine, containing about 20% of the state's citizens. Look in the Yellow Pages or online for wedding counselors in this bustling locale (we've given a few tips below to help get you started). Portland is on the southwestern tip of the state.
Lewiston: Situated north of Portland, Lewiston has a firm connection with its next closest town, Auburn; search Lewiston-Auburn for the most results.
Bangor: This county seat (Penobscot) has some 31,000 residents and sits near the center of Maine's southern half.
Augusta: Maine's capital is also a cultural hotspot, complete with museums and destinations of historical interest. Augusta is located in the center of the state.
Biddeford: Biddeford is a commercial center in York County. It is Maine's sixth largest city.
How to Look
Now that you know where to seek your Maine wedding counselor, how can you find the best one for you? Ideally, a personal testimonial from a friend or relative can get you started. Even if your sister or cousin received counseling in another area (including another state), her wedding counselor may be able to give you a referral to a Maine-based professional who can help you. Other medical professionals are wonderful resources. Ask your general practitioner or a counselor who covers a different area than weddings whether he or she can refer you to someone in Maine.You can also do your own research by looking in the Yellow Pages or through your favorite search engine. Search under Wedding Counselors + your area. You will find lists as well as individual counselors, ministers and therapists.
Whom to Trust
Once you've found a list of wedding counselors, set up a consultation appointment with each. (Be aware that there is sometimes a charge for this.) See how you and your fiancé feel about the wedding counselor. Are you comfortable with him or her? Can you open up easily in his or her presence? You will also want to make sure the counselor has appointment openings that work with your schedule. Counseling is a commitment and highly personal, so your and your groom's feelings about the counselor are paramount.Don't be afraid to ask for the wedding counselor's credentials and experience. Like any other service, wedding counselors work for you. For your safety and comfort level, it's best to know in advance that you are committing to a Maine wedding counselor you can trust.
This is just the beginning of your journey together. Your wedding counselor will help get you off to the best start possible -- and your own fairytale ending.