As a wedding coordinator who’s worked with numerous venues across Michigan, I’ve developed some clear favorites over the years. While I love all the spaces I work with, these four venues have truly captured my heart in 2024. Let me share what makes each one so special!
Blue Heron Barn – Kalamazoo, MI
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Kalamazoo, Blue Heron Barn offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and elegant simplicity. This picturesque venue features exposed wooden beams, string lights that create a magical ambiance, and a gorgeous outdoor space that overlooks the river for ceremonies.
What attracts me most to Blue Heron is the down-to-earth and genuine venue owners. They truly take each couple into their hands, pulling out all stops possible to ensure the best day imaginable. Their attention to detail and personalized approach makes every wedding feel special.
Bonus perks: They include linens in your rental package (a huge cost-saver!) and provide access to their “Something Blue” rental collection – a treasure trove of décor items that can add those perfect finishing touches to your wedding vision.
photo: Chris Deau Photo
Bay Pointe – Shelbyville, MI
Bay Pointe holds a special place in my heart – it’s where my husband and I had our first date! While I might be a bit biased, I’ll give credit to their staff all day, every day for running such a well-oiled machine.
This venue offers three fantastic options all in one location:
- Bay Pointe Pavilion: A gorgeous lakeside setting with breathtaking views
- The Boathouse Villa: A larger house perfect for wedding parties to rent during the wedding weekend or for hosting smaller, intimate celebrations
- Bay Pointe Woods: A much larger indoor event space located just across the street from the main hotel area that can accommodate weddings of all sizes all year round.
One of the biggest advantages of Bay Pointe is their all-inclusive wedding packages with in-house catering and bartending. This “one-stop shop” approach makes it easier for couples who don’t want to shop around for multiple vendors.
Their on-site lodging options are perfect for early morning hair and makeup sessions. Bridal parties can start early, with plenty of time to prepare before the venue space opens for decorating and vendor arrival. The convenience of being able to pop back to your room throughout the day to drop off cards/gifts is invaluable!
The only con? That FRICKIN’ hill at the Pavilion that vendors (like me) have to kill ourselves going up and down while loading and unloading décor. My calves get their annual workout every time I coordinate a wedding there!
Left photo: Sincerely Staci Photo Right photo: Josh and Andrea Photography
Hidden Vineyard Wedding Barn – Berrien Springs, MI
Hidden Vineyard offers one of the dreamiest ceremony locations in our area in my opinion. Their Catalpa Tree that sits perfectly in the side yard is absolutely immaculate! The ceremony space overlooks fields of wine vineyards, and when the sun sets over it all… jaw-dropping every single time I’m there. If there is a pause in my evening, I make it a point to be out on the back porch overlooking the vineyard as the sun sets for the evening.
They also offer a unique mobile bar option called the “Honeybee” – the cutest little trailer you can add to your rental package for a touch of vintage charm.
The venue’s design includes some genius features, like sliding doors that open from the basement of the barn (near the groom’s suite). This allows the bridal party to line up for the ceremony while staying hidden behind a line of discreet bushes. It’s ideal for couples opting against a first look – the groom truly doesn’t see his bride until the moment she turns to walk down the aisle.
photo: Son Photo and Film
Augusta Creek – Delton, MI
My most recent relationship and one I’m excited to see grow is with Augusta Creek in Delton. This venue features absolutely showstopping wooden/rustic details that showcase the incredible craftsmanship put into the space. Sitting on 106 acres, it can comfortably accommodate 300 guests while still feeling intimate and warm.
The open concept design with sliding glass doors leading to the beer garden creates a wonderful flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The scenic views of the surrounding woods give off delightful southern country vibes – if you’re curious about the space, check out my WeddingDay cover shoot from October 2024 for a peek at both the venue and my work.
Last but certainly not least, the bridal and groom suite areas are absolutely jaw-dropping! With showers, multiple bathroom stalls, kitchenettes, and – my personal favorite touch – a golf simulator, Augusta Creek has pulled out all the stops to keep couples entertained while waiting to tie the knot.
Photo: Pave Wedding
Looking Ahead
While I’ve worked with countless venues and wonderful owners across Michigan, these four have truly stolen my heart in 2024. Each offers something unique while maintaining that perfect balance of beauty, functionality, and genuine hospitality that makes for an unforgettable wedding day.
I can’t wait to see what new venue relationships 2025 brings! If you need help planning your big day, check out my packages and let’s connect to see how I can help make your dream wedding a reality at any of these amazing venues!
We are the ‘catch all’ for your event day needs! The Groom’s boutonniere fell off and they need an extra pin? Easy peasy! Taking too long getting those dang loopholes around the buttons on your dress? Girl, don’t sweat it, we have a crochet hook just for that purpose!
