With beautiful blue water, romantic accommodations and scenic venues, it’s no wonder that Mackinac Island is a ‘world class wedding destination’. From taking a trip on a horse drawn carriage to waterfront views while you say ‘I do’, here are a few of our best tips for planning your own Mackinac Island wedding.
Venues
Mackinac Island is home to a variety of breathtaking locations for your wedding ceremony, reception and rehearsal dinner. There are both indoor and outdoor venues ranging from the full-service Inn at Stonecliffe to the Somewhere in Time Gazebo located on a private bluff. Be sure to check your guest list size before booking a reception venue, as many locations are limited to parties of 100 guests or fewer. We also recommend the Mission Point Resort for lakefront views and more than 240 guest rooms and suites.
Accommodations
Whether you’re local to the area or traveling for your Mackinac Island wedding, the island boasts more than 1,600 rooms. Every hotel and property is privately owned and operated, along with several family-owned properties as well. Choose from historic hotels, romantic bed and breakfasts, intimate cottages or a full-service resort. Some of our favorites include the Chippewa Waterfront Hotel for beautiful views, or the top rated Lilac Tree Suites and Spa.
Vendors
For couples who are struggling with finding the right vendors, Mackinac Island has a great directory of vendors for wedding officiants, photographers, florists, bakeries and more. Since all of the vendors are also local to the island, you can rest assured that your wedding is in good hands. We recommend booking a photographer or videographer up to 6-12 months in advance, and don’t rush your music selection. The island bakeries will also deliver your wedding cake to your venue and set it up at your reception.
Wedding Carriage
Since there are no cars on Mackinac Island, book a romantic horse drawn carriage ride to be whisked away as you wave goodbye to your guests. There are several different colors and styles to choose from so you can find a carriage that best fits your overall wedding theme as well. You’re also free to set your own route so you can see as much of the island as you’d like. We recommend having your wedding photographer snap a few photos of you and your partner in the carriage before leaving so you can capture that special moment.
Wedding Favors
While wedding favors are not mandatory, they are a great way to thank your guests for coming to your special day and treating them to a special surprise at the end of the reception. Mackinac Island is well known for its fudge, which also makes the perfect addition to your wedding favors from local businesses such as Joann’s Fudge and the Original Murdick’s Fudge.
Are you ready to welcome your guests to Mackinac Island? Check out our ideas for what to include in your wedding welcome box such as custom tote bags, local treats and more!
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