Your All-In-One Guide To Weddings + Elopements In The Great Lakes State
From a local Michigan Wedding & Elopement Photographer
Where the heck do we even start with planning a Michigan wedding?
Start right here.
Because whether you’re dreaming of saying your vows barefoot on a quiet beach, hiking into the Porcupine Mountains for a waterfall first look, or having your dog sign the marriage license at your family cabin, there’s no one right way to do this.
And definitely no “shoulds” here.
Want to elope on a Tuesday morning at Sleeping Bear Dunes with just your partner and the sound of Lake Michigan in the background? Let’s do it.
Planning a cozy October ceremony under the turning trees in Marquette, with campfires and flannel and cider donuts? I’m already packing my Jeep.
Thinking of a backyard bash near Charlevoix where the stars come out and your people stay late? I’ll bring the flash and the flip flops.
Start here, take what you need, and let’s make this feel simple (and honestly? fun).
This guide has everything you need to know:
best places to elope
seasonal tips
legal to-dos
favorite venues
and real insight from someone who’s photographed love all over this beautiful state.
01. Best time of year to get married in Michigan
02. Top 3 Places to Elope in the Upper Peninsula
03. Top 3 Places to Elope in the Lower Peninsula
04. Favorite Wedding Venues in Michigan
05. Best Beaches to Elope in the Upper/lower Peninsula
06. A Peek at My Wedding & Elopement Packages
08. Local Favs
07. Where to Stay
09. How to Legally Get Married in Michigan
10. Book Your Michigan Wedding Photographer
Go ahead and explore this guide, or use the menu below to jump to what you’re looking for!
If Michigan were a person, it’d be the overachiever who’s somehow also effortlessly cool.
We’ve got cliffs, dunes, wild sunsets, northern lights, and more hidden gems than your Maps app can handle. This place just doesn’t miss.
THE BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO SAY “I DO” IN MICHIGAN
Everything is starting to wake up. The trees start showing off, the air’s still a little crisp, and the rain? Yeah… she’s gonna make an appearance.
But if you’re into beautiful green, full forests, wildflowers, and that just-thawed magic—spring hits different here in Michigan. Just don’t forget the backup shoes and a few extra layers (just in case mother nature does her thing).
Golden hour? Truly a sight to see. Long days, warm nights, and sunsets that go on forever. It’s beach wedding prime time, but also peak tourist season—so plan ahead if you want spots like Sleeping Bear or Traverse City all to yourself (or close enough).
P.s. The Northern Lights are known to make an appearance during the early months of summer in the UP!
This is Michigan’s main character moment. The UP turns into a literal painting, the temps are perfect, and the light is straight-up dreamy. Think cozy layers, cider donuts, and elopements wrapped in golden leaves. (10/10 recommend.)
October months in the Upper Peninsula are popular for Northern Lights sightings!
Underrated and kinda-sorta magical. Snowy forests, quiet lakeshores, and that “Hallmark but cooler” vibe.
This season is best for couples who don’t mind layering up, want a slower pace, and aren’t afraid of a little snow in their hair during the ceremony. Totally worth it imo.
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
kind words
“My engagement and elopement sessions were executed flawlessly by Nichole.
My experiences with NHP were customized to fit my vision, while maintaining Nichole’s warm and airy photography style. My husband and I enjoyed taking photos with NHP and felt very comfortable around the camera. The experience from initial vision conversations to final gallery delivery was effective and simple. "
- Natalie & Carson
Top 3 Places to Elope in the UPPER Peninsula Michigan
1. Pictured Rocks – Vows with a view—towering cliffs, turquoise water, and maybe even a post-ceremony paddle. If you catch a boat tour at sunset? Game over.
2. Porcupine Mountains – The UP at its most majestic. Towering trees, rushing waterfalls, and trails that feel like your own private escape. The view from Lake of the Clouds? Unreal. Hike it. Love it. Get married there.
3. Mackinac Island – No cars. Just bikes, horse-drawn carriages, and a whole lot of charm. Ferry over with your people (or just your person), grab some fudge, and elope somewhere between the wildflower fields and the shoreline views. It’s like stepping into a storybook—with bonus lilacs in June.
Top 3 Places to Elope in the Lower Peninsula Michigan
1. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – A Michigan must. Take your pick of epic dune overlooks, tucked-away beaches, and secret spots off M-22 that locals guard like treasure.
2. Frankfort + Empire – My personal favorites for quiet beauty, hidden trailheads and stunning lakeshore views. These towns are on that magical stretch of M-22 that makes you want to pull over every five minutes.
3. Warren Dunes State Park – Massive sandy dunes meet sprawling shoreline—perfect for barefoot vows and running into the lake after. Skip the weekend chaos and go early on a Tuesday. Feels like your own private beach.
Favorite Wedding Venues in Michigan You Must Consider
Upper Peninsula
Lower Peninsula
The Inn at Stonecliffe (Mackinac Island)
An elegant, tucked-away estate on the quieter side of Mackinac Island. It feels like a private escape, with views of the bridge and the best lilac blooms in June.
The Big Barn at Stone Chalet (Marquette)
Modern-rustic meets historic charm just outside downtown Marquette. With big open space, wood-beam details, and local lodging nearby, it’s a great blend of convenience and style. Grab brunch the next morning at Donckers and explore Presque Isle Park for dreamy post-wedding portraits.
Chalet on the Lake (St. Ignace)
Overlooking Lake Huron, this venue brings cozy coastal energy with space to celebrate and relax. It’s great for intimate weddings with a laid-back feel. Time your ceremony with sunset—you’ll get that golden lake glow behind you, and maybe even a ferry gliding by.
Pinewood Lodge + Conference Center (Munising)
Just minutes from Pictured Rocks, this cozy lodge gives you woodsy vibes and full weekend rental options. Ideal for couples who want a nature-centric wedding without going totally off-grid. Schedule in time to explore the nearby waterfalls or take a post-wedding paddle on Lake Superior.
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge (Copper Harbor)
A rustic lodge tucked way up in Michigan’s northernmost tip—think log cabins, forest trails, and starry skies for literally days. Plan a wedding weekend and encourage guests to stay nearby. The fall colors here? Unreal.
Castle Farms (Charlevoix)
Straight-up royal vibes in Northern Michigan. There’s a reason people drive hours just to see this place—it’s got turrets, gardens, and major “is this real?” energy.
Planterra Conservatory (West Bloomfield)
A modern greenhouse tucked in the suburbs that feels like you stepped into a dreamy terrarium. It’s warm, it’s romantic, and it’s a solid rain plan that still looks amazing.
Zingerman’s Cornman Farms (Dexter)
Come for the charming farmhouse and ceremony under the trees, stay for the legendary food (seriously, the snacks slap). It's a local favorite for a reason.
BlueBridge Events Center (Traverse City)
If wine country elegance is your thing, this one hits the mark. Minutes from the best Northern Michigan eats, sips, and scenic drives.
Lake Bluff Preserve (Frankfort)
This venue feels peaceful, private, and connected to the outdoors in the best way. Just five minutes from Main Street, it offers on-site cabins for getting ready, easy beach access, and open views that feel completely removed from town. You probably wouldn’t know it was there unless you searched for it—which makes it perfect if you want something quiet, natural, and a little off the radar.
The Best Beaches to Elope at in Michigan
Upper Peninsula
Lower Peninsula
Presque Isle Park (Marquette)
Rocky shoreline, huge pine trees, and that wild northern beauty you can’t fake. (Seriously, you’ll be questioning if you’re in Michigan). Say your vows on the edge of Black Rocks, then stroll the loop for golden light portraits that hit just right at Sunset Point.
Agate Beach (Toivola)
An off-the-map favorite for locals who love a quiet, stone-covered shoreline. Bring water shoes, collect a few agates, and stick around for stargazing & maybe even the Northern Lights—the sky here is next-level.
Sand Point Beach (Munising)
Close to Pictured Rocks, this soft-sand beach is open, breezy, and super photo-friendly. I love using it as a warm-up or wind-down before heading to nearby cliffs like Miners Castle for those epic landscape shots.
Elberta Beach
Just south of Frankfort, this spot feels like your own private slice of shoreline. I’ve photographed here more times than I can count, and golden hour? It glows.
Make sure you grab a maple bacon donut at Crescent Bakery before you head down to the water!
Esch Beach (Empire)
Soft sand, and super close to the Sleeping Bear Dunes! This spot has so many cool spots for a diverse gallery!
Hoffmaster State Park
A forest trail winds through the trees and drops you right onto the sand. It’s a quieter spot even in summer, and there’s a bluff overlook behind the visitor center that’s absolutely stunning for a first look or private vows.
“Nichole took our engagement photos, and she was incredibly sweet and attentive to everything we asked for. She captured the exact timeless and romantic look we had envisioned. <3”
- Candis S.
“She has a gift for capturing the most precious, meaningful moments in the most natural and beautiful way. Every session with her is fun, relaxed, and FULL of joy.
”
Alexis M.
Michigan gives you forests, cliffs, quiet beaches, tulip blooms, moody skies, and golden sunsets—everything you need to create a day that you have dreamed of for years leading up to this exact moment.
And I’ll give you a 12/10 experience with…
→ portraits that take you right back to the moment you wiped your muddy boots off before walking down a dune barefoot.
→ read your vows under a canopy of pines.
→ or shared a just-married shot with your people as the sky turned lavender behind you.
All while making sure you feel fully seen, supported, and taken care of—from the first “we’re thinking of getting married in Michigan…” to the final gallery delivery (and every snack break in between).
Where To Stay For Your Michigan Elopement (or Wedding)
A few favorite stays that past couples have loved—and that I always recommend when planning a cozy, easy, and beautiful wedding weekend.
Frankfort – walkable, town-close, and picture-perfect
Upper level right in town
Cottage in walking distance
Large home 3 min from town
Quaint home in Elberta
A-frame in the trees – Benzonia
Perfect for slowing down and leaning into the outdoorsy vibes
Presque Isle Campground – Porcupine Mountains
Echo Valley Forest Site – Glen Arbor
Yurt with Outdoor Spaces – Interlochen
Betsie River Campground – Frankfort
Favorite Local Food, Drinks and Things To Do
Here’s what I personally recommend when you’re planning a Michigan wedding or elopement weekend. Whether you need breakfast before your ceremony or a cider flight afterward—I’ve got you.
Frankfort Food Favorites
Frankz – Hot dogs + fries, best after a beach day
Birch & Maple – A must for breakfast or lunch
Bella’s Cafe – Your go-to coffee stop
Crescent Bakery – Get the maple bacon donut
Stormcloud Brewing Co. – Great drinks + pickle pizza (!)
Winery Favorites
Two K Farms – Apple wine is a personal favorite
Black Star Farms – Beautiful grounds + great tastings
Suttons Bay Ciders – Cider with a view
M22 Wine Co. – Glen Arbor – Chill outdoor vibes + close to the water
(Haven’t been yet, but on my list: Aurora Cellars, Shady Lane Cellars, Mawby Sparkling)
My favorite hikes
favorite activities
Empire Bluff Trail – Classic Lake Michigan overlook
Presque Isle River Waterfalls Loop (Porkies) – Peaceful, beautiful, and worth it
Baldy Trailhead – Arcadia – Hidden gem with amazing dune views
Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive – Empire – Drive it or hop out and explore
Sunrise at Point Betsie Lighthouse – Quiet + stunning
Picnic on Main Street – Frankfort – Simple + sweet
Cherry Festival – Traverse City – Seasonal must
Elberta Beach Day – Pack snacks and stay all afternoon
What My Michigan Wedding + Elopement Packages Include
WEDDING PACKAGES
ELOPEMENT PACKAGES
Personalized location suggestions
Local travel included
Support planning your timeline + logistics
Custom elopement guide
Gallery of edited images with full rights
Elopement packages for SE MI start
at $1,500
THE LEGAL STUFF
Michigan makes it pretty simple, but here is the TL;DR
I’ll help guide you through this if you're eloping or traveling in from out of state, especially if you're like “wait, what’s a county clerk again?”
Michigan is one of those states that file marriage licenses by COUNTY, so be sure to check the county clerk’s website for the most up-to-date information.
You will need 2 witnesses (& unfortunately your dog does not count) and a registered officiant in Michigan (or their home state).
HOW TO GET YOUR MI MARRIAGE LICENSE
Most fees for the application range from $20-$30 for in state residents and $30-$40 for out of state residents. Check with the clerks office of the county that you will be legally getting married in for the most up-to-date information.
Date of Birth (must be at least 18)
Valid Driver's License or State ID
You can use a Passport to confirm age/identity but will need additional documents to confirm your current address
Birth Certificates
# of times previously married
Parents Maiden Names & Birth States
Nice to meet ya! I’m a Michigan wedding & elopement photographer who never travels without snacks, a camera, a bin for my rocks (if ykyk), and an emergency kit—just in case.
I’ve photographed love stories all across the state–-from sleepy lakeside towns to windy cliff overlooks and I never get tired of seeing people create something that’s fully, unapologetically theirs.
Whether you’re planning a big celebration or something quiet and off-the-grid, I’m here to help you slow down, feel at ease, and walk away with photos that feel like real memories–not just posed moments.
