Planning a Northern Michigan Destination Wedding? Here’s What You Need to Know

Sep 10

If you’re dreaming of a romantic destination wedding surrounded by vineyards, water views, and charming rustic elegance, Northern Michigan should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re tying the knot in the heart of the Leelanau Peninsula or saying “I do” with a Lake Michigan sunset behind you, this region offers unforgettable experiences. And if you're looking for stunning imagery to remember it by, you’ll want to book Elizabeth Berghuis Photography—one of the most sought-after Traverse City wedding photographers—and consider the unforgettable Starry Night Barn in Suttons Bay.

Why Choose Northern Michigan for Your Destination Wedding?

Northern Michigan is known for its natural beauty, wine country vibes, and charming small towns like Traverse City, Suttons Bay, and Leland. The area offers:

Breathtaking backdrops — think rolling vineyards, orchards, and pristine beaches.
All-inclusive weekends — venues here often offer weekend rentals, giving couples time to relax and celebrate with loved ones.
Talented local vendors — especially experienced Traverse City wedding photographers like Elizabeth Berghuis, who know how to capture this region’s unique light and landscape.

Starry Night Barn: Suttons Bay’s Hidden Gem

When it comes to iconic barn venues in Northern Michigan, few are as magical as Starry Night Barn & Studios. Located just 25 minutes north of Traverse City in Suttons Bay, this stunning property offers a perfect blend of rustic authenticity and modern elegance.

What Makes Starry Night Barn Special?

🏡 Historic Charm: A 100-year-old restored barn with exposed beams, high ceilings, and character in every corner.
🌳 29 Acres of Natural Beauty: Willow groves, meadows, orchards, and a seasonal creek provide endless backdrops for photos.
🛏️ Onsite Lodging: Stay the entire weekend with accommodations for up to 32 guests across a farmhouse and two cottages.
💡 Customizable Spaces: The Upper Barn accommodates up to 299 guests, while the South and North Lounges offer cozy spots for rehearsal dinners or cocktail hours.

From creekside ceremonies to dancing under twinkle lights, every detail at Starry Night Barn has been designed with celebration in mind.

🔗 Learn more or schedule a tour at starrynightbarn.com

The Photographer You Need: Elizabeth Berghuis Photography

Your wedding photos should be timeless, elegant, and full of emotion—and Elizabeth Berghuis Photography delivers just that. As a seasoned Traverse City wedding photographer, Elizabeth brings a modern editorial approach blended with heartfelt storytelling. Her style is clean, luminous, and intentional—perfectly suited for the natural beauty and rustic elegance of Northern Michigan venues like Starry Night Barn.

Why Couples Love Elizabeth Berghuis:

📷 Expertise in Natural Light: She uses the region’s golden glow to full advantage, capturing soft, romantic portraits without over-editing.
💍 Experience with Barn + Vineyard Weddings: From Suttons Bay to Glen Arbor, she knows how to use architectural details and landscapes for breathtaking compositions.
🤍 Relaxed, Professional Presence: Known for helping couples feel confident and at ease on camera—so the joy in your photos is completely authentic.

🔗 Explore her portfolio: www.elizabethberghuisphotography.com

Planning Tips for a Northern Michigan Wedding

Here are a few tips to make your celebration seamless:

Book Early — Venues like Starry Night Barn and top-tier photographers like Elizabeth Berghuis fill their calendars quickly (often a year in advance).
Plan for a Wedding Weekend — Maximize your destination experience with welcome parties, wine tours, and lakeside brunches.
Hire Local Vendors — Elizabeth is part of a network of trusted Northern Michigan florists, planners, and venues.
Prepare for the Weather — September and early October bring crisp air and vivid foliage—ideal for barn weddings and golden-hour portraits.

Make It Picture Perfect

Northern Michigan is more than a destination—it’s a feeling. A sense of peace, connection, and celebration. By choosing Elizabeth Berghuis Photography to document your day and booking a one-of-a-kind venue like Starry Night Barn, you’ll create an experience that’s as breathtaking in real life as it is in every photo.