We heard you’re planning a wedding! Buckle up, because you’re about to make a lot of decisions, including WHERE SHOULD YOU GET MARRIED? For countless couples in Michigan, particularly in the Metro Detroit area, the quest for a venue that mirrors their unique personalities and style is so important. While the charm of traditional and popular wedding venues is undeniable, there’s a growing desire among modern couples to step off the beaten path and celebrate their love in spaces that break the mold. Let’s explore some unconventional locations that promise to transform your special day into an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
Below is a brief rundown of unique wedding options throughout southeast Michigan. And a huge THANK YOU to Michigan for being so picturesque and having so many lovely options to choose from!
Farm or Barn
Farms and barns have become increasingly popular to hold dream weddings the last few years. What a fun way to create the perfect wedding day with your loved one in a unique, rustic setting. There are many barns/farms already serving wedding couples throughout the state, but a few amazing options in the Metro Detroit area are Zingerman’s Cornman Farms, Frutig Farms, and Cobblestone Farms.
Beach
Because our great state of Michigan is lined by great lakes and has thousands of small lakes scattered throughout, you have plenty of beach locations to choose from. We are so lucky to have so many metroparks in our state and most have a large lake and beachfront areas, such as Stony Creek, Kensington, and Indian Springs. Did you know these metroparks host weddings? Whether you imagine your nuptials on one of the stretching east or west coast beaches on the Great Lakes, at a local Metropark, or on a small beach at a lake house, your wedding and photos will be unique and gorgeous.
Lakefront
Speaking of lakes, maybe you love the idea of a waterfront wedding but WITHOUT the sand. Of course there are so many options for that as well! Some of our favorite waterfront venues in the Southeast Michigan area are Bay Pointe, Waldenwoods, St Clair Inn, and the War Memorial.
Backyard
Backyard weddings became ALL the rage in 2020 when we weren’t allowed to hold celebrations in indoor spaces. That started a trend and backyard weddings are still going strong. We love the personal touch and it allows you to choose decor and a vibe that is COMPLETELY complimentary to your personalities.
Vineyard
If we weren’t already in awe of Michigan’s scenery, there are also several beautiful vineyards scattered throughout the state. Love wine? Love feeling like you are in a European setting? A vineyard might be the perfect site for you. Need a few places to start looking? Metro Detroit has Youngblood Vineyard, Sandhill Crane Vineyards and Black Barn Vineyards. If you’re looking a “Michigan destination wedding,” there are several vineyards just a few hours away. Hidden Vineyard in Berrien, Tabor Hill Winery in Buchanan, and Verterra Winery in Leland are just a few options.
Restaurant
Calling all foodies! For a simple, quiet wedding you may want to consider your favorite restaurant. Not only does this give you a chance to be surrounded by your closest family and friends, but you’ll be also enjoying your favorite food while doing it! Detroit is well known for its food and there are so many unique restaurants to choose from, such as the Seldan Standard or Grey Ghost in downtown Detroit.
Boutique Hotel
A boutique hotel is a smaller hotel (unique and sometimes quirky from all other hotel chains) that typically has between 10 and 100 rooms in settings with upscale accommodations and individualized, unique selling points. This venue is best for couples who are more into a modern, simple (yet elegant) wedding vibe. It’s also incredible for us photographers as we have a unique and private setting for your photos! There are so many to choose from, but a few of our favorites are are Detroit Foundation Hotel and Shinola Hotel in downtown Detroit and Daxton Hotel in Birmingham.
Lake house
If you are planning a wedding in the summer or fall, you may want to consider celebrating at a lake house. If you don’t own a lake house, you could ask a friend, a family member, or rent one on Airbnb. A cute house and the lake itself are incredible backdrops to capture your love, friends, and family (especially during those sunset hours).
Unique downtown
If you’re a city loving couple and are planning a summer or fall wedding (best weather possibilities), you might want to consider outdoor downtown Detroit city locations such as Campus Martius or the roof of the The Madison or Detroit Opera House. Sports fans can even have a ceremony at locations like Comerica Park or University of Michigan football field. All locations require permission and fees, but all would make for such a different and fun wedding experience!
Orchard
Orchards and cider mills are one of Michigan’s greatest summer and fall traditions! These are full of color, fields, lined apple trees, and grass, and make a beautiful backdrop for a wedding and photos! Blossoming trees in the spring are a bonus, as well as the cider and donuts that will most likely be available to your guests! Michigan is gifted with an abundance of orchards, and some options currently booking weddings are Country Mill Farms, Price’s Orchard, and Blake Farms.
Museum
This year it’s all about experimenting with rare and creative options. So in that spirit, why not hold a wedding in one of the area’s museums. Several already accommodate small and large gatherings and celebrations. Some options we love that are currently hosting weddings are the Henry Ford Museum in Dearborn, the Detroit Institute of Arts, MOCAD, or the Detroit Historical Museum. Make history with your loved ones in a venue filled with actual art and history!
Historic property
We are lucky to have so much history and charm in the great state of MIchigan. We are even more lucky that so many of these beautiful historic homes and properties have opened their doors to couples to hold their dream wedding. Here are a few unique off-the-beaten-path gems that top our list: Weller’s Carriage House in Salem, Packard Proving Grounds in Shelby Township, McIntyre Home in Monroe, Meadow Brook Hall in Rochester, and Whiskey Factory in Detroit.
Be exceptionally unique!
In the past, many couples do what’s been done before because it’s expected, it’s tradition, or that’s just what’s been done in the past. If there is anything the last few years have taught us, it’s that we are forging our way in a new world and have to come up with ideas and solutions to make life happen (including your wedding)!
We would love to answer any and all questions you have about locations or photography around Michigan! Hit us up at www.smithandco.photo or hello@smithandco.photo!
