Planning a wedding in Ottawa County, Michigan, doesn’t mean you have to choose between outdoor scenery and indoor comfort. Ottawa County Parks offer a variety of indoor venues that combine rustic charm, modern amenities, and picturesque surroundings. Whether you’re seeking a cozy lodge, a historic house, or a charming cabin, these venues make hosting your dream wedding easy and memorable.

Top Indoor Wedding Venues in Ottawa County Parks

Located along the Grand River, Grand Ravines Lodge provides a stunning backdrop for weddings. With seating for up to 90 guests (chairs only) or 70 with tables, this lodge features a fully equipped kitchen, heated and air-conditioned interiors, and a cozy fireplace. Couples can host a beer-and-wine wedding with a special permit and licensed bartender, making it both scenic and celebratory.

1. Grand Ravines Lodge

This lodge overlooks the Grand River and features:

• A full kitchen with refrigerator, stove, and microwave

• Seating for up to 70 people with tables (or 90 with chairs only)

• Heating, air conditioning, and a cozy gas fireplace

• Accessibility throughout the building

• Alcohol (beer and wine) allowed with a special permit and licensed bartender

• Free 30-minute facility tours available Monday–Thursday

Connor Bayou Cabin offers a rustic, log cabin charm perfect for intimate weddings. It accommodates up to 50 guests indoors and provides outdoor patio options for larger gatherings. This venue includes a kitchen, accessible spaces, and heating/air conditioning. Beer and wine are allowed with prior approval, making it an ideal spot for couples seeking warmth, character, and a riverside setting.

2. Connor Bayou Woodland Cabin

A charming log cabin perched on the Grand River, offering:

• Indoor capacity for approximately 50 guests

• Heated/air-conditioned rooms, full kitchen, and a gas fireplace

• Lower-level patio and deck for additional space

• Free 30-minute tour upon appointment

• Alcohol (beer and wine) permitted with the right permit and bartender

The Weaver House, built in 1901, blends historic elegance with natural beauty. This indoor venue seats up to 50 guests, with outdoor ceremonial spaces for up to 150. It features modern kitchen amenities, fireplaces, and full accessibility. Beer and wine service is permitted with a special permit, ensuring your wedding is both classy and enjoyable.

3. Weaver House at Pine Bend Park

This historic 1901 house combines elegance and nature:

• Indoor seating for up to 50 people; outdoor trellis space accommodates up to approximately 150

• Two gas fireplaces, full kitchen, and modern amenities

• Heated and air‑conditioned, with accessible restrooms

• Beer and wine allowed with a permit and approved vendor

Tours available by appointment

4. Hager Park Picnic Building

Perfect for casual, family-style weddings:

• Rustic indoor space with partition walls to rent half or whole building

• Electrical outlets, patio, and accessible restrooms

• Alcohol not permitted

• Affordable option for smaller gatherings

5. Hager Park VanderLaan Room

A bright, indoor event room:

• Kitchen included (fridge, stove, sink)

• Heated and air-conditioned with tables and chairs

• Patio outside for additional space

• Alcohol not permitted

6. Nature Center at Hemlock Crossing

• Blend of indoor comfort and natural surroundings:

• Great Room with stone fireplace, seating ~80–90 guests

• Classroom option for ~30 guests

• Heated/air-conditioned and fully accessible

• Alcohol allowed with permit and approved vendor

7. Pigeon Creek Lodge

Rustic lodge perfect for small receptions:

• • Full kitchen, heat, and air conditioning

  • Seating for ~80 with tables and chairs

  • Fireplace adds cozy charm

  • Alcohol not permitted

Why Choose Ottawa County Indoor Venues

• Nature & Comfort: Enjoy the beauty of Michigan’s parks without worrying about weather disruptions.

• Historic & Rustic Charm: From cozy log cabins to elegant historic homes, each venue offers unique character.

• Amenities Included: Kitchens, restrooms, heating/AC, and electricity make planning easier.

• Flexible Event Sizes: Accommodates both intimate weddings and larger celebrations with outdoor extensions.

• Affordable Options: County parks provide excellent value compared to private venues.

Tips for Booking Your Ottawa County Indoor Wedding

1. Reserve Early: These venues are popular, especially during spring and summer.

2. Schedule a Tour: Free 30-minute tours help you visualize your wedding layout.

3. Understand Alcohol Rules: Beer and wine are allowed with special permits and approved bartenders.

4. Know Rental Policies: Familiarize yourself with decoration, clean-up, and usage rules.

5. Plan Logistics: Consider parking, accessibility, and indoor/outdoor flow.

6. Hire Licensed Vendors: Caterers, planners, and bartenders must comply with county regulations.

Conclusion

Ottawa County Parks’ indoor venues offer the perfect combination of natural beauty, indoor comfort, and rustic elegance. From Grand Ravines Lodge to Connor Bayou Cabin and the Weaver House, these venues provide memorable spaces for intimate or medium-sized weddings in Michigan. Plan ahead, follow the park rules, and enjoy a wedding that captures the charm of Ottawa County, rain or shine.

Call Jamie May Photography for your wedding photography needs!

The post Indoor Wedding Venues in Ottawa County Parks: Elegant Options for Your Michigan Wedding appeared first on Jamie May Photography.

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.

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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.

By Jamie May Photography

This wedding at the Muskegon Country Club was absolutely beautiful! The venue sits on top of the bluff overlooking Lake Michigan, offering some of the prettiest views in the area. With its recently remodeled facility and large deck, it makes the perfect setting for both your wedding ceremony and reception. I’ve always heard great things about the food here, and this time it definitely lived up to the raves. It was fun to be back there to see the transitions they made with the new restaurant.

Takeaways from the Muskegon Country Club.

While the golf course itself has a few picturesque spots for photos, it can be somewhat limited if you’re looking for a wider variety. The Country Club no longer lets you move away much from the main building.  Luckily, Pere Marquette Beach and downtown Muskegon are just minutes away, offering stunning lakefront views, gardens, and unique architecture that make for amazing wedding photos. If you’re planning your wedding at Muskegon Country Club, setting aside a little time to go offsite for portraits is a great idea. If you decide to do a first look, that can help with time limitations.  Check out my blog post about first looks here.

Here is a list of potential stops in Muskegon:

The Union Depot

Pere Marquette

The Frauenthal Center

This couple was such a joy to work with! I originally met them through another wedding I photographed, and it has been so fun watching these circles of friends grow. A few members of the wedding party were past clients of mine—I even took some of their senior pictures years ago—which makes documenting these milestones even more special.

I couldn’t be happier for this amazing couple and was honored to capture their day at such a timeless Muskegon wedding venue.

The post A Beautiful Wedding at Muskegon Country Club 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

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I would first like to say that Brett and Dannielle are totally awesome people, that I have had a blast getting to know. We started our relationship at a engagement session. Danielle was referred to me by her friend, who was a bride I photographed prior.  During the engagement session, they decided to choose a couple locations that were meaningful to them: we made a stop at a park  that they spend a lot of time at and the fire-station.

Here is a bit about their day :

We started the day in Muskegon, at private homes, for the girls and guys getting ready pictures.  We greeted the guys first and walked into the unique sock display. I love socks! Of course, we had to take a picture.  The guys were great about taking pictures and posing for some.  We could tell by this crew, it was going to be a fun day!  We then headed over to the girls.  They had on these adorable robes. I am not sure where they got these, but I have heard in the past people mention Etsy before.  Well this home was a beautiful spot to take pictures at, with breathtaking views.  I was very excited!  Not to mention all the lovely ladies are so fun and photogenic.  After we finished up these photos, we headed to the ceremony site in Muskegon. St. Mary’s Catholic Church, so historical. I love the architecture. Not to mention it is pretty light and bright in the church, which can be unusual in such an older congregation.

1.  How to chose your wedding venue?

There are situations to look for in buildings, churches, etc, that I know personally, I would have NO idea about if I haven’t been doing this so long!

1. What are the rules of the venue?  ASK!  You want to know what kind of photos they are going to allow you to get.  Maybe it isn’t important to you and maybe it is.  You want to know the limitations if there are any.
2. Look for unique architecture that may interest you
3. Walk around the building and look at the time of day you are having your ceremony and what time you plan on having pictures?  Are there pretty areas for outside pictures?  Look for shade.
4. Does the building have lots of natural light?
5. White walls?  natural light and white walls, really help pictures to look more natural
6. Is there somewhere to go if it rains? Maybe you are planning a outdoor venue, what is the back up plan?

After the ceremony, we took advantage of all the beauty this church has to offer!  We then headed to the Train Depot in Muskegon.  Here the bride and groom were so thoughtful and had food and drinks for everyone to snack and refresh.  This is something that can often get overlooked when planning a wedding, feeding your crew!  …and remember the waters, sometimes there is only alcohol and people need water. Haha.

I love Muskegon Downtown. It really is an awesome place that I have grown to love. There are so many unique spots within walking distance, yes, that is right in walking distance! It is always such a quiet place, which is also unique because it is a downtown area!!!

2. Look for an outdoor location that has a lot to offer in walking distance.

You can get so much done and quickly when you don’t have to drive everywhere.  This is great for a tight timeline or if you just don’t want to spend the whole time on pictures

3. What makes you unique? As a person, as a couple?

We all look at Pinterest and become in awe. There are so many amazing ideas and how do they come up with them, right?!  I love when a couple want to add props or locations that are unique to them.  Brett happens to be a firefighter, so he has connections 🙂 !   We were able to have so much fun with the expired fire extinguishers.  These pictures become unique because it is about them.  I know everyone doesn’t have such a cool job, with these kind of props. But maybe it is biking, or cars, or physical fitness??- there is a way to make these pictures extra special and sometimes it just requires a very little effort.

So even if you don’t have any thing amazing – there is alway THE COUPLE, who look amazing on this day and glowing with love, bouncing all over them! So no fear if you are the simple type, that makes you unique, too.

4.  How do you pick a Reception Venue?

1. Be reasonable about how many guest you are having and the space.  It is hard when it is to tight in a space
2. Look at where you would sit and your bridal party
3. Again – look for natural light and avoid black walls or ceilings, if you can
4. Is there a outdoor location to hang out? Always a nice perk
5. A bonus is also when the venue really makes it cute. I have to say some of my favorite spots are when the venue puts in effort to style the venue, too. I know that isn’t always in everyone’s budget. But hey, we are talking about what I like here 😉

The venue they chose was at Fricanos in Muskegon. I like that Fricanos, it is really open and has a very large layout. There is a bar area that is great for the happy hour with plenty of room for dinner tables. They also have beautiful views across the way and a little deck to hang out on if you need some fresh air.  The staff is always friendly and the food is good.  It was a lovely night, with a lively group of people. We had a blast watching all the fun that was being had.

5. Pick a good photographer – Ha! You knew I had to add this one!!

1. Experience matters – I am able to execute so many ideas that are living in my brain because we have done so many weddings
2. Pinterest list – You have a few ideas, a lot of ideas? That is okay by me. I like to see your vision and not just mine.  But if it isn’t for you, we take care of it.
3. I am sure I could go on, but I won’t.

Thank you so much Brett and Dannielle for letting me and Marie share in your day! We had so much fun and everyone showed us such kindness! Many blessings to you both and many happy years!!

Thanks for taking the time to read my blog! Feel free to share it, like it, love it  – you know the drill!  And remember to follow Jamie May Photography – on the million different platforms there are, seriously!! -how can we keep up?! Until the next blog post….which needs to be sooner than later… I am still behind!!!

To see more pictures in the Muskegon Downtown location, click here

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It was a super rainy day, relentlessly raining!!!  We were fortunate to find a great spot to take pictures indoors.  I was happy that the park had an indoor shelter for the ceremony.  I love this family. They are always so warm and welcoming. It is like hanging out with old friends.   Britney looked stunning in her bridal gown!  Kellen was grinning ear to ear, the whole night, as was Britney. I love all of animated expressions! She makes me smile. Hope to see you again! Best Wishes to many happy years!!!

On a side note, we are very experienced with grand rapids weddings.  There are tons of beautiful options.  This day was a really bad, rainy, dark day, and we were still able to take advantage of the architecture downtown and get some wonderful photos.  We have lived around the area our whole lives, so we are very familiar with how to navigate. I have even had brides have us pick where to go for the whole day!

Strategies on handling a rainy day:

1. Don’t panic, it always works out

2. Be OK with getting your dress a little dirty

3. Have umbrellas for a cute back-up prop, you can always take them back.

4.  Maybe have a white sheet to lay down on the ground under your dress.

5. Hire a experienced photographer that knows how to handle any weather or lighting condition.

Do view our pricing ,click here

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I know that Brittany and Kevin have been together for quite some time, but you would never know it, as they looked each other with a very fresh, young love!   I am so happy that Brittany and Kevin finally tied the knot!!! (and did you know you could customize converse? so cool).  Thanks for hiring me to be a part of your day! x0x0x

County Parks are Hidden Gems for Wedding Venues

1. Cheap! If you are on a budget and are ok with the outdoors this is a great option. You will not spend more than a couple hundred dollars to reserve your spot at a county park.
2. Shelter. Most of the locations have a shelter that can provide sitting and dancing.  They are usually cute spaces!
3. Outside. There are usually lots of great locations for pictures with nature. Sometimes there are added elements like water or bridges.

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Taylor is so smiley and bubbly. She and her girls were a blast to be around.  It was wonderful that they did a first look, one of my favorite things to do on the wedding day.  Greg was all smiles when he saw  Taylor for the first time. And how about that lipstick on Taylor, gorgeous!   Everything went smooth all day and it was a beautiful night for a wedding.  They ended the night sending off some lanterns.  Best Wishes to you both! Wishing you many more years together!!! xx0x0x0

Railside Golf Club Wedding Review

• Golf courses are always a good choice.  My experience as a wedding photographer is golf courses are always a wonderful choice to get married. The grounds are kept up immaculately.
• Railside has lots of photo locations and opportunities. They had a lot of great variety in walking distance, fields, bridge, barn, flowers, bridges
• White tents. I love white tents, it provides beautiful lighting even in darker situations
• Wedding coordination support. There was staff on-site to help with the wedding
• Overall, I really liked this venue and hope to visit there again!

To learn more about investing in your wedding photography, click here

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Real Flowers vs Fake

1. Real flowers! If you can do it, do it.  Even make your own if you have, too.
2. Fake only option. If fake is your only option, go lighter.  They look more real the lighter they are.
3. Eucalyptus makes everything smell good. Another simple solution is look online and find a retailer that sells eucalyptus and line your tables with them.  It makes the whole venue smell amazing!
4. On a budget and want the real stuff. Baby’s breath is a very simple solution to real flowers that you could put together yourself and not cost you a lot of money

This wedding reception was lavished with real flowers everywhere and it was so impressive and beautiful.

That was one of the many beautiful details at this gorgeous wedding. Spread throughout the whole reception area, big, beautiful boutiques of flowers done by Shelly’s Designs Florist.  And the cheesecakes! Did you know they make cookie dough cheesecake, with a scoop of cookie dough on top of the cheesecake, fantastic!! Okay, so I loved Molly’s details a little, OK, A LOT!  Another totally awesome fyi, is that Charles and Molly’s mothers are best friends.  I have never seen two moms so happy for a wedding, ever!  They were so cute, they kept looking at each other and becoming teary.

Molly and Charles got married at St. Alphonsus Catholic church. This church has so much history in the architecture with the beams and the beautiful windows.  After we headed into downtown Grand Rapids for some pictures in the city.  We were on a bus with this large wedding party and there was never a dull moment!  Of course every one danced the night away. Wishing you many more happy and healthy years together!!!! x0x0x

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