I'm basically Michigan's biggest coolness advocate, and so many of the amazing couples I photograph say the same. But so often people who are planning an elopement or wedding end up traveling out of state because they don't know what's right here in front of them! Michigan was recently voted the top destination for outdoor enthusiasts by Tripsavvy, and is definitely the midwest's best. I know that might be a little snobby, but Michigan is just so beautiful! 😋 Michigan is truly one of the most beautiful places to elope in the US. Here are some of the top reasons you should consider planning your gorgeous outdoor wedding or adventure elopement right here!

Looking for the best places to get married outdoors in the US? Look no further!

1. Michigan has beautiful views - without the crowds!

If I told you to picture an "epic" location, what immediately comes to mind? I'll bet you probably thought of Yosemite National Park, Washington, the California coast, etc! All of those are of course beautiful places to get married in the US, especially if you're having an outdoor wedding.

But, the one place that is absolutely under-appreciated is Michigan!

Beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls and more make Michigan one of the most beautiful places to get married in the US!

Here are just a few outdoor elements that Michigan boasts:

• almost 3,000 miles of gorgeous shoreline,

• millions of acres of forest with hiking trails galore,

• gorgeous state parks,

• unbelievable waterfalls,

• mountains (not your typical mountains but they count!!),

• miles and miles of dunes,
• A National Park almost nobody knows about

• and some of the bluest bodies of water in the world!

And to top it all off - almost nobody even knows it's here! Even many Michigan natives haven't explored the state!

You can pick whatever landscape your heart desires, without having to worry about crowds or waiting in lines for spots to take photos!

2. Michigan has a little bit of everything - from breweries to island exploring to waterfalls!

Another one of my favorite things about Michigan is that there is so much variety here that a lot of other areas don't have. When you visit a landmark, there is more than likely a ton of other things to do nearby besides sightsee!

Michigan's natural beauty and bevy of outdoor activities makes it one of the most beautiful places to elope in the US.

Michigan has tons of state parks for camping, hiking, and sightseeing. There are also breweries, wine-tastings, and tons of other local joints to explore - Michigan has so many things to do! There aren't many other states that have massive sand dunes, thick forests, huge lakes, and cute towns all within the same area!

3. Michigan gives you the opportunity to spend more of your budget on adventures

Because Michigan is an underrated travel location, it's generally less expensive!

Therefore you'll have more room in your budget to spend on other adventures and activities to incpororate into your wedding weekend!

If you're planning your wedding or elopement in Michigan, you'll likely end up spending less than you would for other locations in the US. You can use the leftover money in your budget to add some extra fun! You could get a cute AirBnb, rent a boat, splurge on a good dinner- you name it!

Or maybe plan an amazing morning after brunch with your people, take a little mini-moon adventure, or do the Upper Peninsula waterfall tour!

You can even plan to check out Mackinac Island (which was ranked as the #1 top summer destination in the US!)

If you love the great outdoors and want to discover a new place, Michigan has so much to offer!

I love traveling and exploring our beautiful mitten state, and am an expert local travel guide! If you want to see more amazing Michigan tips and sessions, check out these tips for planning a waterfall session!

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If you want to set up your own adventure session, or book your wedding or elopement, contact me and let's make some magic together!

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