Detroit Whiskey Factory

Detroit, Michigan

This was such a fun event space for a wedding ceremony AND reception! The Detroit Whiskey Factory is in Downtown Detroit.

Wedding Venue Features:

• Two stories: top floor ideal for ceremonies and reception and ground level perfect for cocktail hour
• Rooftop photos: the staff allows the bride and groom to sneak away for some gorgeous golden hour photos overlooking downtown (with a great view of Ford Field)
• Multiple packages: the Factory has multiple packages to choose from that provide the option for their special liquors available to guests
• Ambiance: my favorite thing about this venue was the rustic feel of the ceremony/reception space. It felt old and classic, with light coming through the windows and string lights hung across the top!
• Allows outside catering (You + Me catered the wedding I photographed here, and I highly recommend!)

Photographer side note: this was a dark room for a ceremony. I would recommend planning the ceremony y to make sure there is plenty of light coming through the windows. Consider arranging the room so the window is shining light on the bride and groom and not just backlighting them creating silhouettes.

Greenfield Village/Henry Ford Museum

Dearborn, Michigan

If you're looking for a unique venue with a cozy reception, check out the Henry Ford Museum and it's sister museum Greenfield Village. They have been rated the Best of Weddings from The Knot for good reason.

You can get married in the Martha-Mary chapel and just walk on over to your reception space afterward! The large tables are great for your family and friends to all mingle together.

Wedding Venue Features:

• Take photos inside Henry Ford Museum
• Take photos outside in the historical Greenfield Village
• Unique experience
• Fun opportunity for guests and bridal party
• Great hosts: venue coordinators are available to make sure your needs are met and venue is taken care of
• Actual chapel in the village to get married in
• Option to take a carriage ride around the village

Photographer side note: The Eagle Tavern has a low white ceiling which is great for reception lighting so a camera's flash can bounce off and create great lighting for first dances and speeches without harsh shadows.

Saint John's Resort

Plymouth, Michigan

Saint John's Resort and the Inn at Saint John's is one of the most talked about wedding venues by Michigan wedding photographers. This wedding venue in Plymouth, Michigan has some of the most beautiful architecture I have seen. The resort is a hotel, church and event space, perfect for weddings with guests from out of town or for a couple who are looking for somewhere to stay before and after their wedding. The resort is well known for it's beautiful chapel and long hallways. Here are a few things to keep in mind if you are considering hosting your wedding at Saint John's:

• This venue hosts multiple events at one time and multiple weddings in a single day. Make sure you plan very early in advance to reserve a spot.
• This is a Catholic mass service when you get married in the chapel. Be sure to understand the rules and regulations of the chapel before booking your wedding.
• This venue has multiple event spaces. Take time to tour each space and take photos before committing to the location or a space!
• The Resort hosts tastings so couples can come and taste test before the event
• All-Inclusive venue so you don't have to worry about catering, furniture or linens!

Stonebridge Golf Club

Ann Arbor, Michigan

Stonebridge Golf Club in Ann Arbor is one of my favorite wedding venues of all time! This South East Michigan wedding venue features indoor and outdoor options for ceremonies and receptions, as well as the perfect outdoor bar & patio for cocktail hour in the summer. Unlike some other popular wedding venues, Stonebridge only hosts one wedding per evening so you don't have to worry about sharing the property or rushing through your wedding!

Wedding venue features:

• Window with lots of natural light! A Photographer's dream.
• Indoor and outdoor spaces
• Multiple bars
• All Inclusive
• Bridal suite
• Great staff!

Photographer side note: This is a great venue for indoor and outdoor photos. From natural light inside to a beautiful sunset with greenery outside, you can't go wrong here!

Other Favorite Venues:

• Rochester Hills Museum at Van Hoosen Farm: Located in Rochester Hills, Michigan. Great indoor and outdoor spaces available. Quiet and simple.
• Crank's Enchantment Banquet Hall: Located in Shelby Township. This is a classic wedding venue with spacious dance floor, two bars and friendly staff. Great food!
• Waterview Loft: Located downtown Detroit next to the Renaissance Center. This is a beautiful venue with natural light and separate spaces for a ceremony and reception. It's right on the Detroit River for beautiful views and photos!