This one’s for the bride-to-be(s) out there. But not all brides. This one is for the brides who are searching for their dream wedding venue – one that’s flooded with natural light has an intimate feel to it and feels unique in one way or another. I rounded up a list of Midwest (focusing on Wisconsin, Michigan, Minnesota + Iowa) wedding venues that check these boxes. Whether you’re busy dreaming up an intimate Madeline Island elopement or swaying towards an outdoor summer celebration under cafe lights with all your friends and family, you’ll find a venue below that fits the bill.

Wisconsin

Burlap and Bells – ceremony space in the pines + a large open-air reception space (with cafe lights)!

Ecker’s Apple Farm – an absolute favorite of mine. An apple orchard with rolling hills and bluffs sets the backdrop for your ceremony! Also features an open-air beer garden and outdoor dance floor + bar (again – complete with cafe lights!).

The Barn on Madeline Island – technically an AirBnB space rented out – can be transformed into the most incredible island elopement. A jaw-dropping lodge for your closest friends and family to gather after exchanging vows outdoors under the pines.

Stone Prairie – a greenhouse imported from England. I’ll just leave it at that! The NATURAL LIGHT.

Camp Wandewega – A-L-L the summer camp feels, but in an eleveated + exclusive kind of way.

The Greenhouse at Bittersweet – a greenhouse by day + wedding venue by night. Hello natural light and relaxed atmosphere!

Stoudts Island Lodge – with an option to book out THE ENTIRE ISLAND. This venue is unlike any other – brimming with history, inspired by Adirondack Camps, and out-of-this-world beautiful.

The Tinsmith – modern industrial with a greenhouse flair!

Northern Haus – a sprawling property in the heart of Door County. A bright, neutral, and massive space perfect for a larger gathering. Bonus points: you’re encouraged to exchange vows in the forest retreat set beyond the main reception space.

Norskedalen Nature Center – a cozy + intimate feel – perfect for the bride and groom wanting to incorporate a bit of nature into their day.

The Lageret – a little bit industrial, but equally dreamy and romantic. Think exposed brick walls, tall ceilings, and natural light.

The Enchanted Barn – I’m a bit biased here as this was my wedding venue, but this place is magic. Rolling countryside, horses in the pasture, woodfired Italian pizza oven, and light streaming through cracks in the barn boards.

The Ivy House – a modern, industrial space in the city with touches of greenery and soft lighting – DREAMY.

Michigan

Nature Michigan – this venue is absolutely at the top of MY bucket list. Located in Northern Michigan (lower peninsula), it is set on 78 acres in the Leelanau Peninsula features a (gorgeous) clean, modern, and light-filled event space surrounded by private forest.

Brengman Brothers Winery – This dream of a winery is perfect for small scale and larger scale weddings. The tasting room is modern with rustic touches and the property can host tent receptions as well. Also – think about golden hour photos in a vineyard! 

Minnesota

Pinewood – This space rides the edge of modern and rustic design. Designed by a photographer herself, the details are out-of-this-world gorgeous and hello tall pines. 

Gunflint Lodge – set on the shores of Lake Superior, this lodge caters to elopements and includes a stay in a lodge (crackling fireplace and sauna included).

Legacy Hill Farm – This venue is an absolute BEAUTY and is described as having a french, industrial design. This venue has indoor and outdoor spaces in the countryside: an all-in-one feel where you and your guests roll comfortably from ceremony to reception. The ‘pavilion’ boasts floor to ceiling window panes and is flooded with light and greenery views.

Iowa

Little Lights on the Lane – Farmhouse tables, cafe lights, an almost endless wrap-around porch, vows under the oversized tree branches, + a massive glass sliding door to create a d-r-e-a-m-y bright and airy venue space = the venue you just might be dreaming out. Check it out!

There you have it – several unique and handpicked Midwest venues. Let the wedding planning begin! Find the right one? Looking for a photographer as the next step? I’m your girl! Let’s chat about how to bring these venues + the magic of your wedding day to LIFE. Inquire HERE and let’s do a little chatting!