I know that planning a wedding can be both exhilarating and daunting. You want every little detail to be perfect AND within budget. As a wedding photographer I totally understand. You want to find photographers, DJS, Florists and a venue that are both budget friendly AND have value.
As much as I agree with keeping on budget, it truly makes me sad to see people planning their wedding and they only budget $800 for their photographer. I understand that budget is important, but I CANNOT stress enough how much you are rooking yourself here. That photographer, that one that only charges you $800 for the entire day is not a reputable photographer. They probably fall in to several of these categories: Lack of experience, Not licensed (meaning they are not paying taxes), or this is merely a side job for them as opposed to a career. (they would have to book over 60 weddings at this price a year to make $40K)
That being said, if this is there side job that is fine as long as they area a quality photographer. When you look back in 10 years at your wedding photos, will you smile because the images are beautiful and timeless or will you frown a little because the photos are in fact NOT what you imagined? You can book a fantastic photographer at a decent price. $1800 for a photographer is not a whole lot to spend. Honestly, if that gives you a better photographer with more experience and the classic look you want, then splurge a little. Heck splurge a lot if that what it takes. Anyways, enough about the photography aspect.
Booking your venue is important as well. You need to remember to ask all of the important questions.
1. What is included
2. How much can I customize? Or is decor already set in stone?
3. Open bar? Or pay per bottle? Can we bring our own alcohol?
4. How late can we stay?
5. Can we pay in installments? When is deposit due?
6. How many people can your venue host?
7. Are table and chairs included?
8. Is food provided and if so can we sample?
9. Does it cost extra if we decide to have someone else cater our wedding?
10. Can I hold my ceremony here as well?
11. What time can my venders start setting up?
12. How is parking? Do you provide valet?
13. Do you have liability insurance?
14. Can I hire my own venders (photographer, dj, etc) Or must I use ones on your preferred list?
These are all VERY important questions to ask your Wedding venue.
There are plenty of beautiful Wedding Venues in Michigan to fit your specific budget, style, and needs.
CASTLE FARMS
Romantic courtyard chapels, magnificent gardens, soaring towers, and stone archways all combine to create unique and elegant castle weddings and receptions. This French Renaissance Castle will make your wedding day memorable for years to come. From intimate weddings and receptions to large parties, this premiere wedding destination is surprisingly affordable.
5052 North M-66
Charlevoix, MI 49720
231-237-0884
231-237-0994
ssayre@castlefarms.com
www.castlefarms.com
THE DEARBORN INN, A MARRIOTT HOTEL
Set on 23 tranquil acres, The Dearborn Inn provides a unique historic site for weddings up to 500 guests. Tie the knot in front of our outdoor gazebo, with beautiful gardens and colonial architecture as the backdrop, then choose one of our newly renovated classic ballrooms to celebrate.
20301 Oakwood Boulevard
Dearborn, MI 48124
313-271-3899
www.dearborninnweddings.com
FRANKENMUTH BAVARIAN INN LODGE
Time honored tradition and contemporary convenience intertwine at the Bavarian Inn Lodge, where weddings are an imaginative, historic experience of romance and fun in world-famous Frankenmuth. Our beautiful banquet facilities offer buffet style Bavarian Inn dinners for up to 425 people. The Lodge offers breath-taking indoor and outdoor ceremony sites.
11 Covered Bridge Lane
Frankenmuth, MI 48734
989-652-7200
888-775-6343
www.frankenmuthweddings.com
LIGHTHOUSE POINT
Incredible and unforgettable weddings and receptions like the movie stars have only at a fraction of the cost!
W1409 Pointe Labarbe Rd.
St. Ignace, MI 48781
906-643-8621
www.lighthousepte.com
MEADOW BROOK HALL
Meadow Brook Hall is renowned for its architectural detailing and grand scale of 88,000 square-feet. The unique spaces of The Hall and its expansive grounds and gardens make it the perfect location to celebrate your wedding. Our nationally renowned catering operation is rated four stars for both quality of the food and service.
Rochester, Michigan
Wedding & Social Events
248-364-6222
www.meadowbrookhall.org
GOODELLS COUNTY PARK
Goodells County Park is a beautiful venue know for vast property. Ceremonies can be help in the newly built chapel or outside. Barns are fully customizable so if you love the idea of planning every detail, then this is the place for you. You can fully design every aspect of your wedding here.
Goodells, Michigan
Wedding & Social Events810-989-6960
BELLE ISLE
Belle Isle is a wonderful location for a wedding. Not only does it offer beautiful scenery, but there are several spots on the Isle that you can host your wedding. You can have your ceremony in front of the conservatory and even have your reception at the old casino. There is so much character here. Its a very timeless location.
Detroit, Michigan
Weddings & Social Events
313-396-0217
Here is a full list from Metro Detroit Brides:
