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24 min ago

With events off the table, owners of Kennebunk's Wedding Cake House turn to summer rentals

Photo / Tina Fischer Kennebunk's Wedding Cake House dates to 1825.
By Tina Fischer

Kennebunk’s iconic Wedding Cake House, which has been called the most photographed house in the state, is now available for vacation rentals.

Its nickname refers to the elaborate Gothic-style gingerbread trim, which is reminiscent of an ornate cake. The home is a popular photo stop, particularly for tour buses. It commands a prominent spot on picturesque Summer Street, which is lined with historic private mansions.

Shipbuilder George W. Bourne had the house constructed in 1825, and it passed on through generations of the Bourne family.

Current owners Hunt and Katie Edwards spent several years updating the property, with plans to open it as an event venue. When neighbors objected to the commercial re-use of the home, the necessary variance was denied. 

The owners had listed it for sale last spring for $2.65 million, but then decided to take it off the market. It’s become available for the first time this year for vacation rentals.

According to leasing agent Samantha Pagano at KPort Concierge, prices start at $800 per night, $1,400 during peak season. The 4,900-square-foot home can accommodate 10 guests in five bedrooms. There are four full baths, two half baths, a formal parlor with an antique Chickering piano, large dining room, library with a bar, and a modern kitchen. 

The spiral staircase is a central feature of the two-story home. Several walls are adorned with hand-painted murals. All of the rooms are furnished with period antiques and an abundant and eclectic collection of paintings and decorative arts.

An attached carriage house has been converted into a ballroom, complete with grand piano. There’s also a barn, large deck and terrace. The property spans 2.8 acres, with 300 feet of frontage, and a fire pit, on the Kennebunk River.

Rental season for 2025 will run May through mid-December, to accommodate visitors for the area’s annual Prelude events. Online booking is available through KPort Concierge.

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