If you’re dreaming of a rustic-chic wedding surrounded by warm wood, twinkling lights, and Michigan countryside charm, you’re in luck. West Michigan is home to gorgeous barn wedding venues — perfect for romantic ceremonies and timeless photos.

As a West Michigan wedding photographer, I’ve explored many of these spaces and can confidently say they’re some of the most photogenic spots in the region. Below are 10 beautiful barn venues near 49456 that deliver character, charm, and unforgettable backdrops for 2026 weddings.

1. The Little Red Barn of Nunica

Location: Nunica, MI

This venue offers authentic rustic charm with historic wooden floors, soaring ceilings, and weathered walls. It accommodates around 200 guests and allows flexible vendor options.

Photographer’s tip: Golden hour photos by the silo and in the surrounding fields are breathtaking.

2. Old Stonegate Farms

Location: 9720 Cleveland St., Nunica, MI 49448

Set on a historic 1860s farm, this barn features a chandelier-lit interior and multiple outdoor ceremony spaces, including wooded clearings and a waterfall. Capacity is around 200–270 guests.

Photographer’s tip: The deck transition from inside to outdoors offers stunning golden-hour portraits, and the loft provides unique elevated group shots.

3. Bell Tower Falls — Rockford, MI

Location: 2405 12 Mile Rd NE, Rockford, MI 49341.
Why it stands out:

• Features a historic barn with exposed beams and a bell tower that can be rung during the ceremony — great photo moment.

• Indoor and outdoor ceremony options: the barn, pavilion, and terrace give versatile backdrops.

• Pricing (as of their listings): the Saturday “Sweethearts” package is around $5,500 for the venue alone in some cases.

4. Blissful Barn

Location: 4706 Watson Rd., Three Oaks, MI 49128

Nestled in Michigan’s scenic southwest corner, this barn is perfect for couples seeking a wedding that feels like an escape.

Photographer’s tip: Wide fields and barn interiors with string lights make for amazing golden-hour shots.

5. Heritage Wedding Barns

Location: Shelby, MI

Just minutes from Lake Michigan, this 1892 timber-frame barn offers large indoor and outdoor options. 27 acres of surrounding land create varied portrait opportunities.

Photographer’s tip: Capture golden-hour portraits where the barn faces west toward the fields and lake.

6. Inisfree Estate — Pullman, MI

Location: 1073 62nd Street, Pullman, MI 49450.
Why it stands out:

• Situated on 30 private acres between South Haven & Saugatuck, blending countryside charm with luxury estate amenities. Inisfree Estate+1

• Historic 1893 barn venue alongside a pond‑view pavilion, multiple garden ceremony sites, and elegant indoor/outdoor options. Inisfree Estate+1

• Accommodations on‑site (luxury suites) make it ideal for wedding parties looking for a weekend experience.

7. Heritage Oaks Wedding Barn — Coral, MI

Location: 15857 W Cannonsville Rd., Coral, MI 49322.

Capacity & Pricing: Up to ~200 guests. Saturday wedding rental listed at ~$4,000; full weekend rental around ~$5,000.

Why it stands out:

• Renovated Amish barn set in the countryside with multiple indoor & outdoor ceremony options.

• Bridal & groom suites, ample parking, and a very vendor‑friendly layout.
  Photographer’s highlights:

• The rustic wood interior and barn architecture provide wonderful textured backgrounds for portraits and detail shots

• Outdoor landscapes — pond with windmill, willow trees, boardwalk — give variety beyond the barn walls.

• Good size for mid‑sized weddings, which means plenty of space for creative shots without being overwhelmingly large.

8. Blue Dress Barn

Location: 3893 Territorial Rd., Benton Harbor / Millburg, MI 49022

Historic 1930s dairy barn with white-washed wood, large gambrel roof, and timber structure. Accommodates up to ~250 guests. Gardens, fields, and silos provide multiple outdoor photography options.

Photographer’s tip: Use the silos for dramatic portraits and explore garden pathways for natural texture. The interior barn space is excellent for reception and dance floor shots.

Considerations: Popular venue — book early for 2026 dates. Scout smaller breakout spaces for detail shots or smaller groups.

9. The MillCreek Wilde

Location: Near Benton Harbor, MI

Former tree and plant nursery with a barn aesthetic and natural surroundings: orchard blossoms, rolling fields, and woodlots. Capacity up to ~280 guests.

Photographer’s tip: Use orchard rows and tree lines as leading lines for portraits, and capture twilight silhouettes in the fields.

Considerations: Check indoor light availability and factor extra travel/setup time for remote sites.

10. New Era Wedding Barn

Location: 123 Main St., New Era, MI 49446

One of the most affordable barn venues in West Michigan, with rental rates starting around $1,650. Classic timber barn interior with wide open space and an outdoor lawn for portraits and cocktail hour.

Photographer’s tip: Natural wood tones and large windows provide excellent indoor lighting, and surrounding trees create versatile outdoor photo options. Perfect for budget-conscious couples seeking rustic charm.

Photographer’s Planning Checklist

• Time of day lighting: Barn interiors often have natural light; outdoor decks and lawns provide golden-hour opportunities.

• Cascading spaces: Loft, decks, or dual levels allow for elevated shots and guest-interaction moments.

• Weather fallback: Ensure indoor/exterior flexibility for unpredictable West Michigan weather.

• Vendor freedom: Flexibility with catering/decor helps photographers plan shot lists efficiently.

• Scenic surroundings: Orchards, hills, and lake proximity create variety in portraits.

• Booking logistics: Barns fill up quickly — couples should book 12–18 months in advance for prime 2026 dates.

Jamie May Photography would love to capture your wedding!  Call or message me today!  Thanks for reading.

The post 10 Stunning Barn Wedding Venues appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

If your dream day includes gentle waves, glowing sunsets, and Michigan’s lakeside charm, you’ll love exploring these West Michigan lakeshore wedding venues. Choose between rustic parks and cozy lodges to elegant country clubs and stunning waterfront ballrooms. The lakeshore from Muskegon to Ludington offers some of the most romantic wedding backdrops in the Midwest.

Choosing the right wedding venue is one of the most important parts of planning your big day. Each of these Michigan lakeshore locations brings its own blend of beauty, personality, and unforgettable memories — all surrounded by the magic of Lake Michigan.

Here’s a look at seven beautiful venues along the lakeshore — each offering its own unique blend of style, setting, and unforgettable Michigan charm.

🌿 Connor Bayou – Grand Haven

miottawa.org/parks/connor-bayou

Tucked along the Grand River in Robinson Township, Connor Bayou is a hidden gem within the Ottawa County Parks system. The park’s rustic Woodland Cabin Lodge offers a cozy indoor space surrounded by towering trees and natural wetlands. Couples love this venue for its laid-back, woodsy atmosphere and incredible photo ops among the pines and along the water.

It’s perfect for nature-loving couples who dream of saying “I do” surrounded by the sights and sounds of the outdoors. Bonus: it’s one of the more budget-friendly options along the lakeshore.

Tip: You may need to rent a tent or dance floor if you’re hosting a larger reception — but that’s part of the charm of crafting your own forest-style celebration!

🌅 Muskegon Country Club – Muskegon

muskegoncc.com/event-venues

For couples who want classic elegance with a view, Muskegon Country Club delivers. Perched high on the dunes overlooking Muskegon Lake, the club’s event spaces pair timeless sophistication with a spectacular natural backdrop.

From cocktail hour on the lake-view deck to a candlelit dinner in the ballroom, this venue blends the beauty of the lakeshore with the convenience of an all-inclusive experience. In-house catering, professional staff, and room for about 175 guests make it ideal for a polished, memorable celebration.

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💐 Spring Lake Country Club – Spring Lake

springlakecc.com

Nestled in the heart of Spring Lake, this private club offers a quiet and refined setting surrounded by rolling greens and water views. Spring Lake Country Club is known for its peaceful atmosphere and impeccable service — the kind of place where your guests will feel relaxed and cared for from ceremony to send-off.

If you’re looking for a venue that combines country club sophistication with lakeshore tranquility, this is a strong contender.

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🌊 Boatwerks Waterfront Restaurant – Holland

boatwerksrestaurant.com/private-dining

Few places capture the essence of lakeside dining quite like Boatwerks in Holland. Located directly on Lake Macatawa, this venue offers panoramic water views, string lights over the patio, and spacious indoor event rooms perfect for receptions up to 400 guests.

Couples love Boatwerks for its breezy, coastal vibe — elegant but relaxed, with sunsets that reflect beautifully across the water. Add in the convenience of on-site catering and a close walk to downtown Holland, and you’ve got one of West Michigan’s most versatile waterfront wedding spots.

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✨ Tanglefoot Park – Spring Lake

springlakevillage.org/community/parks-recreation/tanglefoot

Looking for something modern, open-air, and right on the water? The brand-new Tanglefoot Park Pavilion is a showstopper. With glass garage doors that open to the river, a fireplace patio, and space for up to 299 guests, this Spring Lake venue combines contemporary architecture with natural beauty.

It’s especially popular for couples wanting a modern lakeshore feel without the traditional ballroom. Plus, the adjacent marina and park grounds give endless options for portraits at sunset.

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🏨 Holiday Inn Grand Haven–Spring Lake

holidayinngrandhaven.com/weddingvenue

For a full-service venue that blends comfort and convenience, Holiday Inn Grand Haven–Spring Lake is a great choice. Located on the Grand River, the hotel’s Waterfront Ballroom and outdoor deck offer sweeping views — and the added perk of on-site lodging for your guests.

Whether you’re planning a cozy winter wedding or a lively summer celebration, this venue offers flexible packages, in-house catering, and the peace of mind that comes with a seasoned event staff.

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🌅 The Lake House Venue – Ludington

lakehousevenue.com

If your dream wedding includes watching the sun sink over Lake Michigan with a champagne toast in hand, The Lake House in Ludington delivers that cinematic moment. Opened in 2019, this purpose-built wedding venue offers both indoor and outdoor spaces with unbeatable views of the harbor and the iconic SS Badger ferry.

Elegant, airy, and designed with weddings in mind, The Lake House includes bridal and groom suites, modern amenities, and a light-filled interior that can accommodate around 200 guests. It’s a true destination-style venue for couples seeking luxury by the lake.

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📸 From My Lens: Photographing Lakeshore Weddings

After photographing weddings along the lakeshore for over 16 years, I’ve learned that no two weddings — or sunsets — are ever the same. I’ve had the joy of capturing more than 400 weddings, and living here year-round has given me a deep appreciation for how the light changes on the water and how to work with the elements Michigan throws our way.

Beach and waterfront weddings can be tricky to photograph — bright light, strong reflections, and unpredictable weather all come into play. But that’s also what makes them so beautiful. With experience and the right approach, those natural challenges become part of the magic.

Every wedding I photograph is unique, and I feel honored each time a couple trusts me to document their story. If you’re planning a lakeshore wedding, I’d love to help capture your day in a way that feels authentic, joyful, and timeless.

Visit jamiemay.com to view her portfolio or inquire about wedding availability.

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💍 Final Thoughts

From rustic park settings to glamorous waterfront halls, the lakeshore between Holland and Ludington offers a venue for every couple and every style. Keep it simple under the trees at Connor Bayou or host an elegant waterfront celebration at The Lake House, West Michigan’s lakeside venues bring that perfect mix of natural beauty and heartfelt charm.

So grab your partner, take a weekend drive along the coast, and tour these stunning spots in person — because sometimes, the moment you step into the right venue, you just know it’s the one.

The post Dreamy Lakeshore Wedding Venues in West Michigan appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

At Jamie May Photography, we’ve always believed that beautiful wedding photography should be accessible to everyone. That’s why I’m thrilled to share a new vision for our business—one that offers more budget-friendly wedding photography options while also mentoring dependable photographers who are passionate, talented, and eager to grow.

Our Vision for a Wedding Photography Team

We’re building a team of trustworthy, personable photographers who can deliver a more affordable wedding photography experience, all while maintaining the high standards Jamie May Photography is known for. Clients will have the option to choose a budget-friendly package led by newer photographers who have been carefully trained and mentored under our guidance.

This model allows us to provide high-quality photography at a lower price point, while ensuring every couple still receives the care and professionalism they deserve.

Now Hiring: Two Passionate Photographers to be in training. 

To bring this vision to life, I’m looking for two photographers to join our team. Here’s what we’re looking for:

    •    Dependability – Weddings are once-in-a-lifetime events, and it’s absolutely essential that you’re prepared, punctual, and professional. You may have to make a year an advance commitment and it is most important to follow through.

    •    Some Experience and Gear – You should have a basic level of photography experience, preferably in events or weddings, along with your own gear. I do have some extra if you use a Canon. 

    •    Willingness to Train – Be ready to train and second shoot at 5–6 weddings this year as part of our onboarding process without pay.  This is your education and investment.  

    •    Comfort with Lighting – A working knowledge of natural light is great, and you must be open to learning how to use flash effectively.

    •    Friendly and Personable – You’ll be interacting with couples and guests on a very special day. A calm, friendly, upbeat demeanor goes a long way.

The goal is for the two photographers to eventually run weddings as a team, covering 10 or more weddings per year, depending on demand and performance. As your skills grow and you gain experience, we will reassess package pricing and compensation accordingly.

Please Note: This is a contracted role under Jamie May Photography. All images captured during weddings will remain the property of Jamie May Photography.

Interested?

If you’re dependable, passionate about weddings, and ready to grow under a trusted brand, we’d love to hear from you!

Let’s bring beautiful, affordable wedding photography to more couples—together.

Check out this form to get started: Information

Jamie

Owner, Jamie May Photography

www.jamiemay.com

read more about wedding photography on any of the blogs: Blog

The post Now Hiring: Launching a Budget-Friendly Wedding Photography Team! appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

When I reflect on one of my favorite weddings to photograph, the role flowers played stands out—not just in their beauty, but in the connections they helped create. As both the mother of the bride and the photographer, capturing the day’s essence felt deeply personal. Flowers became more than decorations; they told a story of collaboration, creativity, and love. The journey of selecting the perfect blooms taught me so much about how relationships can elevate both my photography business and the art of storytelling.

Exploring Floral Options

Flowers are magical—not just decorative but capable of setting the tone and telling a story of their own. Our search began at Horrocks, a well-known flower shop with an impressive selection. I first learned about their wedding services while photographing another event and was impressed by their offerings. They only take on two weddings per month, so it’s crucial to book early with a $50 deposit. They also offer loose-cut flowers for a DIY approach, an option we initially considered. However, as we weighed the logistics, we realized another direction would suit us better. This experience underscored how important early planning is, whether you’re booking flowers or photography.

Next, we visited Grand Haven Garden House, a delightful option with a creative twist: a DIY floral experience. They allow you to rent their space mid-week to host a floral party, where they guide you in creating your own arrangements. They even offer storage, delivery, and setup services for an added fee. It’s perfect for families who want to add a personal touch to their wedding day. While we loved this idea, my daughter was finishing nursing school and needed something less hands-on. Grand Haven Garden House also provides full floral design services, offering flexibility for every type of couple.

Choosing Wasserman’s Floral with Skeeter

Ultimately, we chose Skeeter from Wasserman’s Floral, a decision that proved perfect. Skeeter and I share a long-standing relationship, and his unmatched talent made him the obvious choice. Initially, I was concerned about budget, but his quote turned out to be surprisingly affordable. His professionalism, combined with the trust we’d built over the years, made the process seamless. As a photographer, I’ve learned that strong vendor relationships lead to better outcomes, and Skeeter reinforced the importance of collaboration.

Adding Personal Touches

While Skeeter handled the main arrangements, we wanted to add personal touches and extra flowers without exceeding our budget. Early Thursday morning, we stopped by Trader Joe’s to pick up fresh eucalyptus and filler flowers for vases scattered throughout the venue. Despite being purchased days before, these flowers stayed vibrant through Saturday’s wedding, adding a natural, elegant touch.

My mistress of ceremony, who also has a green thumb, and I also harvested colorful zinnias from our garden, adding cheerful pops of color that reflected the joy of the day. Collecting vases became an exciting adventure. We discovered unique pieces at Goodwill, ordered mini vases from Amazon, and borrowed others from generous friends. These thoughtful, budget-friendly details not only brought charm to the event but also created cherished memories. It reminded me that creativity and resourcefulness often result in the most meaningful moments—and stunning photographs.e

Building Relationships Through Shared Creativity

What struck me most during this process was how flowers brought people together. From collaborating with Skeeter to laughing with the Grand Haven team to arranging blooms with loved ones, every step added meaning to the celebration. As a photographer, I treasure these behind-the-scenes connections, as they bring depth to my work. Weddings, after all, are about relationships—not just between the couple, but among everyone who helps make the day extraordinary.

Final Thoughts

This experience with flowers reminded me that photography is about more than capturing moments—it’s about understanding the love and care behind every detail. From the delicate petals of a bouquet to the laughter of those who arranged them, every element contributes to something truly unforgettable.

For couples, I encourage you to savor the process and the memories you create along the way. For photographers, dive into the stories behind the scenes. Together, we can create not only beautiful events but lasting relationships that bloom far beyond the wedding day.

Click on Part 1 and Part 2 of the Wedding Planning process to view my other blog post.

The post The Process of Planning a Michigan Wedding Part 3: The Flowers appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

Wedding Planning

I have helped people coordinate the day of their wedding for about 15 years now.  When my daughter proposed to get married, I thought it would be very interesting to see what my customers have to accomplish from start to finish.   Word of mouth and advice was a great way to start. I started by reading some of my other blog posts that brides so willingly helped share some of their advice from their planning. You can find a few of the blog posts here: 2023 or  2022

I knew the venue was usually the hardest place to book as they filled up fast.  Luckily, we had plenty of time to plan this wedding with a two-year engagement!   Shelby and Jameson began to tour local venues such as The Trillium, Post Family Farm, Windmill Island, The Little Red Barn of Nunica

THE VENUE

They were interested in staying local to where we live so we didn’t check out any Grand Rapids venues and toured the lakeshore.   After touring several spots they chose The Little Red Barn of Nunica.

THE LITTLE RED BARN OF NUNICA

They chose this spot because the owners seemed to care about them and their wedding.  We felt welcomed and important.   They also allow you to be on the property for the weekend.   This is extremely helpful because it takes away the need to have a wedding planner/coordinator.  We could set up on Friday and clean up on Sunday.   There are many reasons to hire a planner, but with the knowledge I have from attending so many weddings,  the coordinating of set up and clean up were my main concerns. Those concerns were eliminated by the ability to have the weekend.

Benefits to The Little Red Barn

Some other benefits to the TLRB are they do provide you with a selection of decorations, if interested.  We used some of them: such as wood logs centerpieces, little stringed lights, signs, she has much, much more.

I am thankful the barn had tables and chairs, but you do need your own linens.  We bought them on Amazon and borrowed them. The owners provide you with all the sizes needed.  I was able to resell the ones that I bought for a little bit less than I bought.  It was cheaper than renting them. Linens can be a handful.  I also recommend having a big steam iron. We just borrowed one, but I provided an example.   One of the bridesmaids steamed Friday while we laid them out and decorated them.  It was a good process.

They have rooms for the bride and groom to get ready in the morning with plenty of space and outlets.  The boys have yard games to play and video games in the room.

Provided at the barn are a freezer and a refrigerator.   The freezer can hold 8-10 bags of ice or so.  Another thing to keep in mind when you have a barn wedding is you have to bring in your owndrinking water.  The bartenders can do this as well, but it is cheaper to bring it yourself. We bought big jugs like this BPA plastic jug. 

You can bring your own drinks into the barn. This also is a big money saver.  We shopped at Sam’s Club, Walmart, and Aldi.  The bartender you hire will help you with this as you decide on a menu.

With outdoor weddings in Michigan, you always have to worry about the weather. This was not my favorite part.  The weather was windy that day, but we were really fortunate, with no rain and overall a comfortable temperature.   She does have a large tent for the deck, and the sides can go up for weather conditions.   In over 400 weddings I have photographed,  the weather never stopped the event from happening. It always works out.

If you choose The Little Red Barn for your wedding, I learned a little tip from being there a few times. Rooms are divided. Some of the people in the tent cannot see the speeches. To solve this, we asked the videographer to run a 100ft HDMI cord to a TV in the tent. We were able to stream the speeches live on the screen so the people in the tent could see as well.

The outdoor ceremony needs an efficient sound system as well. You want to be sure that the mics can hear the bride and groom speak.  It is also beneficial for the officiant to share the plans after the wedding even the details if there are bubbles that you would like used for the recessional.

Owners are always onsite if you need them. We were constantly changing the sides due to the wind. When the wind died down we were able to have them up for the rest of the night, and they were always there to help.  Another tip that I had to learn later is they will not eat unless invited. I wish I would have invited them to eat!   They are wonderful people.

The Little Red Barn was a wonderful setting for a wedding and the owners are a big help to The Process of Planning a Michigan Wedding. Everything was fantastic and went so well.  Please look back for Part 2 The Dress on The Process of Planning a Wedding in Michigan.

Michigan offers so many beautiful venues. I have been to so many over the years.   We have such a beautiful area in all seasons.

Here are just a few of the images from the wedding. I hope to share many more as I share more about the planning process.

The post The Process of Planning a Michigan Wedding: Part 1 The Venue by Jamie May Photography appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

By Jamie May Photography:   Another wedding season is approaching soon, I thought another blog post about Wedding Advice from West Michigan Brides would be beneficial.   I, myself, will be planning a wedding for my daughter.  Therefore, I find that I can not gather enough helpful information.   I hope the blog helps Brides planning a wedding in West Michigan.  These brides are anonymous and not necessarily people I worked with.  I numbered them so it stays consistent with who said what.   Pictures attached to this blog are random samples of wedding I photographed this year. For more practical advice make sure you check out some other blog post on my site : www.jamiemay.com/blog

Wedding Advice for REAL West Michigan Brides – part 2:

Budget

1. $10,000-$15,000
2. $15,000-$20,000
3. $5,000-$8000
4. $10,000-$15,000
5. $10,000-$15,000
6. $30,000-$35,000
7. $30,000-$35,000
8. $15,000-$20,000

Venues you choose:

1. Hitching Post
2. Blue Dress Barn!!!
3. The Heritage Museum (St. Joseph, MI)
4. Double JJ– Back 40 for BIG groups! 300 people, many camped and stayed right there
5. Grand Valley State University Alumni House
6. Frauenthal Center
7. Spring lake country club! We looked at Mackatawa Golf course which was also very nice.
8. Trillium Events in SL

1. Yes, we loved it
2. Yes, we loved it
3. No
4. No, glad we didn’t
5. We did not and are happy we didn’t
6. Yes, we loved it
7. Nope! So glad we didn’t!
8. No, we didn’t and I’m glad we didn’t. I had a first look with my dad and it was very sweet.

Did you hire your flowers or do them yourself? Any tips or websites to share?

1. Hire-we did purchase flowers from a greenhouse to decorate the outdoor ceremony. This was great because then the flowers were used all summer long.
2. I bought bouquets for my flower girls and I, the boy’s boutonniere, center vases with wildflowers, and some strands of eucalyptus for the head table from a florist. I picked a venue that I loved as is and didn’t spend any extra money on flowers! I also did all wildflowers/natural so it was a little less expensive and matched the venue. Having the florist bring it was also amazing, they set it up and left and I didn’t have to worry about doing anything. I really don’t think I would have saved much doing it myself when adding in time/stress/money to buy all the flowers.
3. I did them myself. I wung (winged) it after watching some overly complicated videos on Facebook.
4. Local Fremont gardener
5. Hired – be sure to meet with multiple florists and go with your gut based on how the meeting went.
6. We hired. We got them from Chalet.
7. Wassermans -skeeter! Send Pinterest images so that know exactly what your wanting! Ask them what could be cut to make it cheaper.
8. Spring Lake Floral

Anything you would change?

1.

2. I wouldn’t do favors – no one took them. Luckily it was just plant seeds, but unnecessary. Otherwise was the best day of my life and I wouldn’t change a thing.

3.

4. Buy the pictures right away…or at least make a book!

5. I would have found a spot for twinkle lights

6. I think I would have liked it to be darker when people were dancing. It was a little too bright and a lot of people didn’t want to get out there.

7. Nope!

8. There’s some pictures I wish I would have gotten.

Best advice?

1.

2. Relax! Everything will happen the way it’s supposed to happen. Also – always remember what the day is about, you and your partner getting married. Nothing else matters, so don’t let anyone let you think otherwise (including family!) it is your day so do what you want! Lastly – don’t feel like you have to plan your day to be just like everyone else’s, make it feel like you!

3.

4.  Make sure you have a specific time set to bring out the cake. It hardly got served at our wedding even though we cut it before dinner. And although cheesy, think about getting thank you notes with a generic thank you message printed on them and written by you. Know yourself and if you’re bad at that sort of thing, don’t think it’ll get easier when you’re sending out 200 of them. I still have half of mine on the shelf…

5. Have fun and remember to savor every moment

6. Assume that you’ll get off schedule a bit. Assume some things will go wrong. Focus on the fact that you’re getting married and just enjoy everything else.

7. No matter what happens on the day, looking back everything will be perfect and such a wonderful day full of memories! We had a ice cream cart which wasn’t too expensive, was a hit with the guests and we got a lot of left over ice cream!

8. Have fun! I just wanted to enjoy my day and I did.

The post Wedding Advice from West Michigan Brides appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

By Jamie May Photography:   Since people are often planning weddings,  I thought it would be beneficial to ask for wedding advice and tips to planning a wedding in West Michigan.  I gathered information from random people by posting on Facebook.  I collected nine responses. Each number represents that person throughout the questions.   I hope you find this information as beneficial as I did! And if you would like to contribute, here is the link to the google forms: Questionnaire

Wedding Tip 1: Did you do a first look and are you happy you did or didn’t?

1. I did a first look with my dad, and my immediate family got to watch. It was so special. I was glad I didn’t do a first look with the groom because it made walking down the aisle that much more special.
2. We skipped the first look and kept it traditional – I thought this was sweet, but I can definitely see the benefits of a first look.
3. Yes, we loved it
4. Yes, we loved it
5. I wish I would have
6. Yes, we loved it
7. Yes, we loved it
8. Yes, we loved it
9. Yes, we loved it

Related article: Benefits of a first look by Muskegon Wedding Photographer

Wedding Tip 2 : Did you hire your flowers or do them yourself? Any tips or websites to share?

1. We hired Chalet Floral- They were super friendly and easy to work with-
2. We ordered bulk flowers from Sam’s Club and I put together center pieces, bouquets, and boutonnieres myself. This saved us a lot of money, and I actually enjoyed working with the flowers.
3. I hired: Nikki from Simplicity Floral and Event Design
4. Chalet Floral in Muskegon, MI – They were wonderful, and fairly priced. They made sure we got what we wanted, and didn’t try to oversell us anything. They showed up before the wedding to set up, and came at the end to pickup anything that we rented, so we didn’t have to bring it back to them ourselves.
5. I loved my florist she was amazing she was more than a florist she tied it all together
6. Both, greenery was fake and we brought white real flowers
7. Did them myself. So much cheaper. I had a friend who did her flowers for her own wedding help me.
8. Hire-we did purchase flowers from a greenhouse to decorate the outdoor ceremony. This was great because then the flowers were used all summer long.
9. I bought bouquets for my flower girls and I, the boy’s boutonniere, center vases with wildflowers, and some strands of eucalyptus for the head table from a florist. I picked a venue that I loved as is and didn’t spend any extra money on flowers! I also did all wildflowers/natural so it was a little less expensive and matched the venue. Having the florist bring it was also amazing, they set it up and left and I didn’t have to worry about doing anything. I really don’t think I would have saved much doing it myself when adding in time/stress/money to buy all the flowers.

Wedding Tip 3: Where did you buy your dress?

1. Beckers Bridal
2. I bought my dress at Becker’s Bridal and they had a lot of style options with varying price ranges. I had my alterations done at Miller Bridal and Sewing in Fremont, MI and loved them!
3. Becker’s Bridal
4. Renee Austin in Grand Rapids, MI
5. Alfred angelo
6. Becker Bridal Outlet
7. Becker’s bridal outlet. They have an anniversary sale where every dress is 650$ and under. When I got mine (In 2018) it was 500$ and under. Still a great deal.
8. Bridal Gallery on 44th St in Grand Rapids
9. Wendy’s Bridal in Fort Wayne

Wedding Tip 4: Where do you buy bridesmaids dresses?

1. Azazie
2. dearcleo.com – Make sure your girls order their dresses with plenty of time. Ours took 8-10 weeks to ship and then alterations were required for some so this is something that you’ll want to do sooner than later.
3. David’s Bridal
4. I gave them a color, and let them buy the dress they wanted from whatever store they chose. 2 girls got them from BHLDN, and 2 got theirs from Lulus.
5. Alfred angelo
6. I had all my girls find their own black dresses
7. Lulu’s.com. I picked a dress that was cute but casual so they could wear it again!
8. Bridal Gallery as well
9. Azazie

Wedding Tip 5: Decorations do or don’ts

1. There’s no need to go overboard. For us, we remember the people, delicious food, laughs, and beautiful sunset since we were in an outside tent. The decorations add to the fun, but there was no need to break the bank over it.
2. Our wedding was outdoors and we had a lot of natural beauty working for us so I was able to keep decorations to a minimum. Simple and elegant was my goal and I don’t think it was lacking. Plus, I didn’t want to pour a bunch of money into decor that would later just sit in a box after one evening. On that note, check with friends and on Facebook for anything that can be purchased for less and reused.
3. Can’t really answer; my wonderful mother in law did our decor
4. Use fake flowers/greens if you can. You can buy them at Hobby Lobby or Costco, it’s a lot cheaper and you can sell it on Facebook marketplace after. Don’t fixate too much on little decoration details, even only a year later I don’t remember specifics on that, and no one else will notice either. It’s not worth having a meltdown over and making the process negative.
5. Make them simple
7. Keep it simple. I was at a wedding and they had the biggest decorations in the middle of the table and you couldn’t see around them. It was annoying.
8. Look on Offer Up and Facebook Marketplace before buying new things.
9. Don’t do more than necessary! People are not there to look at the decorations, they are there for you and to watch you marry the love of your life. Don’t waste time/energy/money on little things, save yourself some stress.

Wedding Tip 6: Organization Tips?

1. Utilize spreadsheets, have a vendor list, and hire a day of coordinator. We had a family friend act as our day of coordinator, and she did an amazing job making sure the day ran smoothly.
2. Keep a detailed to-do list, budget, and timeline. Have frequent and clear communication with vendors to ensure that everything will be in order and on time the day of your wedding. Do not be afraid to ask questions even if they seem silly. Communicate constantly with your bridal party and other key people (officiant, masters of ceremony, etc.) the few days before the wedding to make sure they have everything they need and know what time to show up so you don’t have a stray groomsman/bridesmaid.
3. First and foremost, plan your overall budget and then allot how much you will spend for each portion of your wedding. Pinterest has great wedding budget breakdown examples!
4. Spreadsheets!!! I had a master guest list spreadsheet that I tracked sending save the dates, invites, if they RSVPed, and if I sent a thank you yet. For the registry, I made a list of things we needed first, then found them at the places we were registering at. The spreadsheet had the item, price, where it was from, and then as I got presents I could put who sent it and what event it was for (shower vs. wedding gift). Staying as organized as possible will make the process easier for everyone helping you too. I had the spreadsheets shared with my mom and mother-in-law so we were all on the same page.
5. Planner/calendar and designate folder
7. Keep a binder. I recommend theknot.com one. Gives you a timeline to work with.
8. Create spread sheets and a binder to keep track over everything. Give this information to a MC for the big day.
9. I bought a planner that had everything in it that I was going to do and then I just had one massive list that I crossed off until everything was done. I also did not hire a planner – I wrote everything down that needed to be done the day of in a notebook and handed it off to the best man since he didn’t have much in terms of getting ready (and our best man is one of the most organized people I know.) But you can do this with anyone you trust – just not your mom/maid of honor. I let everyone else handle the day of obligations since I had already written it all out and explained it. And then when the day came I told myself all that matters is getting married today, the rest of the stuff does not matter.

Wedding Tip 7: Printers for printing pictures or albums

1. Jamie May got our pictures printed for us and we love them!
3. Shutterfly did a great job!
4. I had photos printed at Meijer and Walgreens.
5. My biggest regret was my photographer who was awful didnt edit my pictures or offer prints or albums
6. Getting prints and a small book with Jamie was a great decision
9. I used Walgreens photo center for everything. Always comes out great!

Wedding Tip 8: Anything you would change?

1. No
2. I did 90% of our wedding DIY and it saved A LOT of money and gave us a lot of control over what everything looked like. However, this involved a lot of running around the morning of the wedding and I wish I had been able to relax more and enjoy the morning getting ready rather than fixing/completing last minute things. So if you choose to DIY I would delegate tasks and accept help from anyone who offers. Otherwise it might be worth it to spend the extra money to have a professional handle it.
3. Nope!
4. Nope! 🙂 I was very happy with our wedding.
5. See above
7. Honestly no
9. I wouldn’t do favors – no one took them. Luckily it was just plant seeds, but unnecessary. Otherwise was the best day of my life and I wouldn’t change a thing.

Wedding Tip 9: Best advice?

1. Have fun with the planning and don’t forget to include your fiance. Don’t stress out about the financial side or go above your means. Remember what is the most important part of the day- starting your life with your best friend!
2. -Prioritize your MARRIAGE. It is fun to get dressed up and feel glamorous and have all the pretty things, but the most important part of your wedding is that you are marrying your lifelong partner. Don’t let this get overshadowed by the “show” of a wedding.
   -Enjoy the day. I wish the morning of our wedding I was able to soak things up a little more and feel less rushed and frantic about every little detail.
   -Your guests won’t remember or care if little things are out of place, so don’t sweat the small stuff.
   -Plan your attire and hair/makeup accordingly if possible. I was originally supposed to get married indoors in April and due to COVID ended up getting married outdoors in July. My dress was heavy and HOT in July. I loved it but had I known it’d be 80 degrees and humid I would have chosen a lighter material.
   -This day is about you and your partner. Do not let anyone try to highjack your plans or take control because they think it should be done a certain way. If they are not paying for it they do not get a say. Similarly, don’t be guilted in to inviting guests you don’t know. Food and drinks are not cheap and you shouldn’t have to pay extra so someone’s “significant other” of 3 days can attend. Draw a firm line and don’t budge.
3. Remember; it’s your wedding! Hold firm with your spouse what you both want from the day.
4. I said it somewhat above, but don’t fixate on the small things. It’s very easy to get in your head about the napkin colors, or number of candles on each table, but no one will notice that part. They will however notice if the bride (and/or groom and/or family) is visibly stressed and not enjoying their day.
   Make sure whatever venue you’re at has a back-up plan if the weather is poor. We were fortunate that we could be inside (as it poured on our wedding day), but not all venues have that flexibility.
   Before creating a guest list, have a conversation with your parents to see how many people they each want to invite, and how much they’re willing to contribute monetarily. I’ve heard bad stories from friends about their parents wanting to invite 100 people, but aren’t willing to put any money towards the wedding. If the guest is important to the bride and groom that’s great, but friends that they’ve never met shouldn’t be on their dime. To sum it up, set boundaries with family before the planning starts.
   Book things early. Even if you think you’re jumping the gun, or if people are telling you you don’t need to have items done yet, just book them. Vendors book up years in advance now, and you don’t want to lose out on your favorite photographer or DJ because you waited too long.
   Make an itinerary for your bridal party/family so you don’t need to chase everyone around and they know what’s expected of them. Lean on your MOH and Best Man to be in charge of the rest of the bridal party if needed. You shouldn’t have to answer questions while getting your makeup done.
   Don’t let other people tell you what your wedding should look like. It’s easy to just go with your mom thinks, or a vendor, but at the end of the day it’s your wedding and you don’t want to look back with regrets. Enjoy the celebration!!!
5. Decide what areas you want to be your focal points or that are very important to you and spend the most money and time on those and rhen delegate other areas to others to help when possible
7. Have fun and do what YOU want. I personally wanted to have very few interruptions after dinner so we did the first dance and the father/daughter, mother/son dance and that was it. Not bouquet or garder toss. I wanted to just dance and have fun.
9. Relax! Everything will happen the way it’s supposed to happen. Also – always remember what the day is about, you and your partner getting married. Nothing else matters, so don’t let anyone let you think otherwise (including family!) it is your day so do what you want! Lastly – don’t feel like you have to plan your day to be just like everyone else’s, make it feel like you!

Wedding Tip 10: Gifts for bridesmaids / Groomsman Ideas

1. I got fun floral robes for my bridesmaids to get ready in. We got the groomsmen hydroflasks. I also got my flower girls, ring bearer, and parents some fun small gifts. For the flower girls, we got them little makeup and hair kits along with necklaces for the wedding. We got the ring bearer ring security sunglasses. We got our moms special wine glasses, and dads large beer mugs.
2. I would keep these practical and useful. Don’t spend a lot on “bridesmaid” robes or “groomsmen” flasks simply for aesthetics. They’ll likely never wear/use those again. Dress socks, golf balls, and beer for the boys. Lipgloss, moisturizer, and drinks/breakfast the morning of for the girls.
3. Bridesmaids: I paid for their hair updos Groomsmen: coolers
4. Bridesmaids: Monogrammed travel jewelry cases, robes, earrings and bracelets for the day, candles. Groomsman: Engraved pocket knives, cigars and cigar cutters, socks and pocket squares for the day, hangover kits
7. Jewelry for the girls to wear on your wedding day is easy and then everyone will match.
9. I think personalized gifts are much more thoughtful then generic gifts for everyone that all bridal parties get. Also doesn’t need to be fancy!

Wedding Tip 11: Favorite Food

1. All of the food at Bella Maria is to die for! We did the chicken with mango salsa and then steak bites. Everything was so good!
3. The cupcakes from Rykes!
4. Appetizers are honestly more important than dinner. If the cocktail hour is longer than an hour, people get antsy and drunk. Having enough food during this time keeps the crowd more sober and happy.
7. I did late night pizzas and that was amazing. Definitely would do again
9. We had a ramen bar and dumplings!!! Ask your caterer about what else they can do, I told ours my favorite food and they made it happen!

Wedding Tip 12: Would you use your Bakery again? What company did you use?

1. Bella Maria made us our own cheesecake and it was delicious! I would definitely use them again!
2. We used Harris Hospitality for our dinner and it was delicious, I would definitely use them again. For our cake(s) I ordered cakes from Sam’s Club with plain white frosting and decorated them with flowers myself – again it saved us a lot of money and tasted just as good as a fancy, 3-tiered cake. Plus they were easier to cut and serve.
3. Ryke’s Bakery in Muskegon: they were wonderful to work with!
4. My cousin made our cake, but the desserts were by our venue and they were delicious. Bella Maria does catering for off-site events as well.
5. 2nd flood bakery, absolutely loved their cakes but they went out of business
6. Yes! 4th avenue Sweets in Lake Odessa
7. I baked my own cake.
9. We didn’t use a bakery! Had our caterer bring in an ice cream bar. We didn’t want to spend money on cake that we don’t even like.

Related Articles: Wedding Tips: Salon coverage, Live Bands and Love

The post Wedding Advice and Tips. Planning a wedding in West Michigan appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

I love this spot for a wedding, this little county park is tucked away in Robinson Township, Connor Park. This is a very pretty place to get married if the weather is on your side. Furthermore, there are some downfalls to the shelter.  It isn’t very big.  Of course, you would have to set up a white tent and perhaps a dance floor if you wanted dancing.  It is very scenic here and there are lots of beautiful Michigan qualities of this park.

Kathi and Jeff had a beautiful day with a little rain to make an amazing sky and sunset.  I became quiet teary, watching these two say their vows and share their first dance. They are super, adorable. The wedding and dinner was just perfect with their closest family and friends by their side. I am thankful to have been a part of this beautiful, heartfelt wedding!

Congratulations Kathi and Jeff!

Connor Bayou Park

• Affordable
• Pretty
• One spot for Ceremony and Reception
• Kitchen and bathrooms indoor
• Sunsets over the river

To view more pricing information, click here

The post Connor Bayou Weddings | Jamie May Photography | Grand Haven Weddings appeared first on Jamie May Photography.