We caught up with Teresa recently to learn more about event rentals at the museum. Teresa recently returned after pursuing other opportunities, and we couldn’t be happier to have her back at the helm!
Q: What makes people interested in Maine Maritime Museum as a venue?
First, the location is a big draw. We’re central to Portland, Rockland, and even Augusta and Lewiston. Then Bath also has shuttle services and hotels, which is really convenient. As a museum, we draw people that are interested in Maine history and culture. As a facility, we have a lot of different spaces. For example, we had a bride who worked as a landscape architect. And that one really stands out in my mind because she ended up getting married in front of the boulders under the Mould Loft, heading down towards the Blacksmith Shop. In my experience, no one had ever done that, and I was honestly a bit skeptical. But it was actually fantastic and super unique! I really enjoy seeing the property through the eyes of others.
In addition to all the different spaces we offer, stopping by schooner Mary E for a photo is a must, and chartering the Merrymeeting for a river cruise is really
special to the museum.
Pictured here, Mary E makes a great backdrop. Photo credit: Jessica Wisser at Fidelio Photography
Q: How has Maine Maritime Museum changed since you first started?
To come back here after being away for a year and just seeing how great the landscape looks with all the plants, it’s such a huge change. And you know, the Emery Great Lawn is so nice for events. Before First Impressions, [a complete redevelopment of the front entrance and south side of the museum’s campus completed in 2021,] there were no lights in the parking lots, if you can believe it!
That’s a huge improvement.
Q: We hear you’re a little bit of a plant nerd?
Yes. So, the native plants here are amazing. Some of my favorites are obviously the sweet fern, which I talk about all the time. We have a ton of it. It loves the sunshine, and when it rains or when it’s misty, its scent really comes out. Most couples are hoping for sunshine on their big day, but during the last rainy wedding, the smell was just amazing.
I also noticed we have cardinal flower, which is endangered. And the little medicinal garden in the shipyard that our volunteer Garden Crew takes care of is coming along.
Q: So, how did you get into special events?
At the Institute of Art in Chicago, I got a degree in fine art. I did ceramics, fiber, and painting. Then I went to Tufts University, where I received a certificate in museum studies and did a year-long curatorial fellowship. But it turns out that was the most boring job I ever had in my life, right? I quickly learned that I needed to be working with the public. I had managed the volunteer program and visitor services at the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library, and I also worked in visitor services for the National Park Service. So, I think once I figured out that I was a front-facing person, that led me to knowing this is where I belonged.
Maine Maritime Museum an incredible place to celebrate all of life’s many milestones, whether it’s a wedding, celebration of life, baby shower, bar or bat mitzvah, fundraiser, or something in between. To read more about renting our space, contact Teresa.