As micro-weddings become more common, smaller guest lists are presenting unique opportunities for couples and their loved ones. Here are intimate Northern Michigan wedding venues that are perfect for getting married anytime, but especially in the time of COVID-19.
Nautical Nuptials
Tie the knot on the deck of Tall Ship Manitou. Sailing out of Traverse City, the Manitou has a maximum capacity of 59 passengers, with plenty of space for sitting and moving around the decks while on the water. Catering is available aboard the schooner prepared by Chef Lexi, with elegant menu items such as French baguettes along with kale, quinoa and grapefruit salad and chimichurri pork kabobs, making it a fun option for rehearsal dinners, too.
Island “I Do’s”
Exchange vows on a veranda overlooking Mackinac Island’s harbor with up to 20 guests at Harbour View Inn. The historic 19th-century inn, located near downtown, also offers a timeless gazebo with courtyard seating for up to 40 and a front lawn site that can accommodate 80. A Victorian parlor provides a cozy location for an indoor ceremony or cocktail hour. Packages can include catering, venue decor, flowers, cake and more, making it easy to plan an island soiree.
Wine & Wed
The team at Chateau Chantal will tailor a wedding package to fit your needs, from an exquisite elopement to a small ceremony with up to 44 of your closest family members and friends at the Old Mission Peninsula winery and inn. The property has several ceremony locations, including an indoor 2,000-square-foot hospitality room and an outdoor vineyard setting with a Grand Traverse Bay backdrop. All guests and participants must be registered overnight guests at Chateau Chantal’s Bed & Breakfast, giving you time to explore the stunning peninsula.
Lakeside Gathering
Opened in June 2019, The Lake House in Ludington is set between the S.S. Badger dock and Harbor View Marina with views of Lake Michigan. The new venue features more than 5,800 square feet of space to accommodate a variety of guest counts, from 50 to 300. The LaPetit Sunset Wedding Package is perfect for small parties with up to 25 guests. Available Monday–Wednesday, it includes a waterfront ceremony site, appetizers, a plated entree, bar service, use of a bride and groom suite and more.
Find more Northern Michigan venues, lots of ideas and vendors in the 2020 MyNorth Wedding!