5. Gilbert and Blake’s
Okemos, Michigan
If you’re planning a small church or courthouse wedding and need a place to go for dinner, Gilbert and Blake’s Restaurant in Okemos has a private room that’s perfect for a small gathering of your closest friends and family. The fireplace gives it a cozy feel, and you can either use it as is or decorate it to your own taste.
And if you’re looking for a nice place to take family and couple photos, you’re only a short drive from Michigan State’s campus, which provides a gorgeous backdrop for photos.
4. A Public Park
Many public parks have pavilions or open areas that can be reserved for a modest fee. I’ve been a part of some gorgeous weddings that hosted the ceremony and portraits in the park and then moved on to a restaurant like Gilbert and Blake’s for dinner.
3. Your Own Backyard
Backyard weddings have a special place in my heart. My parents had a backyard wedding, and so did my sister. Rent a small tent, and make it your own with an easygoing celebration in a place that’s extra special to you.
2. Old Town Marquee
Old Town Lansing, Michigan
Although Old Town Marquee accommodates larger weddings as well, if you’re looking for a space for a small Friday or weekday wedding, they have a space off to one side of the main room that’s perfect for a smaller gathering. The space has a bridal room just off of it, so you can still have the full experience of getting ready in one place before the ceremony.
As an added bonus, Old Town Marquee is right in the heart of Old Town, Lansing, which offers a huge variety of photos—it has a cute downtown area close to nature, gardens and the river, and you’re only a short drive from Michigan’s Capitol Building and Michigan State’s campus.
1. The English Inn
Eaton Rapids, Michigan
Like Old Town Marquee, The English Inn can accommodate larger weddings, but they have a small room for intimate gatherings in their main building. It’s surrounded by windows looking out at their gorgeous garden area, which provides the perfect backdrop for portraits, and your guests can stay steps away in the Inn. The English Inn really has it all in one simple place to make for the most relaxing small wedding—beautiful grounds for a ceremony, cocktail hour and portraits, a private dining room, amazing food and guest accommodations that are only steps away.
As a new Gilmore Girls fanatic, I’m all about the cozy feel of an Inn.
Want more advice as you plan your own small wedding in the Lansing area? Get in touch to chat about the details of your plans and photography needs. My own wedding had only 40 people, and I love sharing what I’ve learned both as a bride and as a photographer with experience across a variety of small weddings.
