Outdoor Wedding Decor in Michigan
Outdoor Wedding Decor in Michigan
Outdoor wedding decor for all Michigan weddings
When you’re planning an outdoor Michigan wedding, the setting you choose already does a lot of the visual work for you. But a little intentional decor can go a long way in making the space feel personal and cohesive. Whether you’re getting married in the woods, Sleeping Bear Dunes, or in someone’s backyard, these outdoor wedding decoration tips in Michigan will help you decorate with purpose—without going overboard.
Check out some outdoor Michigan wedding inspiration here on pinterest!
1. Lean Into the Landscape
Michigan is basically one giant wedding backdrop. From Sleeping Bear Dunes to a tucked-away forest clearing, your location is already doing a lot of the work. So instead of covering it up—complement it! Use decor that reflects the natural color palette: think earthy greens, lake blues, warm sand tones, or moody woodland vibes.
2. Statement Pieces Over Clutter
Instead of trying to fill the space, pick a few intentional statement pieces that really reflect your personalities. Maybe it’s a hand-painted welcome sign, vintage lounge furniture under a tree, or a floral installation climbing up a birch arch. A little goes a long way when nature’s already showing off.
3. Don’t Forget the Functional Pretty Stuff
Decor can be beautiful and useful. Parasols or cute fans for your guests? A drink station that doubles as a gorgeous vignette? Cozy blankets in a basket for chilly evenings? Practical details can double as decor and make your guests feel taken care of.
4. Light It Up, Baby
Michigan summers can stretch the daylight late, but once golden hour fades, you’ll want some cozy lighting. Edison bulbs strung between trees, lanterns down the aisle, fairy lights wrapped around branches—yes please. Pro tip: battery-operated candles are your besties when wind is a factor.
5. Create Vignettes (Not Just a Pinterest Board)
Instead of scattering decor everywhere, group items into little scenes: a Polaroid guestbook table, a memory corner honoring loved ones, a dessert setup that makes your cake look like a celeb. These small, intentional vignettes give your guests little moments to discover throughout the day.
6. Plan for the Elements
Decor that looks good and holds up? That’s the sweet spot. Use sturdy signage (thick wood or acrylic), weighted table runners, and florals that can handle some sun. And if your ceremony is on the beach or in a breezy spot, make sure everything is secured or low to the ground. If you see definite rain on the forecast, consider putting out a basket of clear or fun umbrellas!
7. Make It Personal
The best decor tells your story. Maybe it’s your grandma’s quilt as your altar backdrop. Or framed love letters. Or a table of your favorite books or records. You don’t need to spend big to make it meaningful—just think about what feels like you two.
Check out 60 gorgeous DIY wedding decor ideas
Bonus: Sleeping Bear Dunes Wedding Tip
If you’re planning to get married at Sleeping Bear (hey, local tip: Treat Farm Trail is a fave!), consider minimal, packable decor. A simple bouquet, a blanket to stand on, and maybe a few wildflower arrangements in jars is more than enough. Let the dunes speak for themselves.
Check out my full guide on getting married at The Sleeping Bear Dunes
Outdoor Michigan Wedding Decoration tips / FAQ
What’s the best way to decorate an outdoor wedding on a budget?
Focus on a few meaningful pieces instead of trying to decorate every inch. Borrow items like rugs, lanterns, or vintage furniture from friends and family. You can also repurpose ceremony decor for the reception—think floral arrangements or arches that move with you.
How do I keep decorations from blowing away at an outdoor wedding?
Use weighted bases for signs and heavier materials like wood or acrylic instead of paper. Secure table runners and lightweight decor with clips, tape, or subtle weights. For florals, use sturdy vessels like ceramic pots or wooden crates.
What type of flowers work best for outdoor weddings?
Hardier blooms like roses, dahlias, zinnias, eucalyptus, and wildflowers can handle sun, wind, and fluctuating temps better than delicate flowers. If it’s a hot day, be sure to keep bouquets and arrangements hydrated and shaded until the ceremony.
Should I rent or DIY my wedding decor?
It depends on your vibe, timeline, and budget! Renting can save you stress (and time) and give you access to beautiful high-end pieces without buying everything. DIY is great if you love being hands-on and want to add super personal touches—but keep it manageable. Don’t try to DIY everything!
What’s the easiest way to add lighting to an outdoor wedding?
String lights are the go-to! They’re easy to hang between trees or over a tent and instantly make a space feel magical. You can also mix in battery-operated lanterns, fairy lights in mason jars, and even a fire pit for cozy evening vibes.
Final Thoughts On Picking the Best Outdoor Decor For Your Michigan Wedding
You don’t need to stress about transforming the outdoors into something it’s not. Let nature be the venue, and focus on the small, thoughtful touches that feel like you. Your guests (and your photos) will love you for it.
Planning a micro wedding? Inquire now!
©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Outdoor wedding decor for all Michigan weddings
When you’re planning an outdoor Michigan wedding, the setting you choose already does a lot of the visual work for you. But a little intentional decor can go a long way in making the space feel personal and cohesive. Whether you’re getting married in the woods, Sleeping Bear Dunes, or in someone’s backyard, these outdoor wedding decoration tips in Michigan will help you decorate with purpose—without going overboard.
Check out some outdoor Michigan wedding inspiration here on pinterest!
1. Lean Into the Landscape
Michigan is basically one giant wedding backdrop. From Sleeping Bear Dunes to a tucked-away forest clearing, your location is already doing a lot of the work. So instead of covering it up—complement it! Use decor that reflects the natural color palette: think earthy greens, lake blues, warm sand tones, or moody woodland vibes.
2. Statement Pieces Over Clutter
Instead of trying to fill the space, pick a few intentional statement pieces that really reflect your personalities. Maybe it’s a hand-painted welcome sign, vintage lounge furniture under a tree, or a floral installation climbing up a birch arch. A little goes a long way when nature’s already showing off.
3. Don’t Forget the Functional Pretty Stuff
Decor can be beautiful and useful. Parasols or cute fans for your guests? A drink station that doubles as a gorgeous vignette? Cozy blankets in a basket for chilly evenings? Practical details can double as decor and make your guests feel taken care of.
4. Light It Up, Baby
Michigan summers can stretch the daylight late, but once golden hour fades, you’ll want some cozy lighting. Edison bulbs strung between trees, lanterns down the aisle, fairy lights wrapped around branches—yes please. Pro tip: battery-operated candles are your besties when wind is a factor.
5. Create Vignettes (Not Just a Pinterest Board)
Instead of scattering decor everywhere, group items into little scenes: a Polaroid guestbook table, a memory corner honoring loved ones, a dessert setup that makes your cake look like a celeb. These small, intentional vignettes give your guests little moments to discover throughout the day.
6. Plan for the Elements
Decor that looks good and holds up? That’s the sweet spot. Use sturdy signage (thick wood or acrylic), weighted table runners, and florals that can handle some sun. And if your ceremony is on the beach or in a breezy spot, make sure everything is secured or low to the ground. If you see definite rain on the forecast, consider putting out a basket of clear or fun umbrellas!
7. Make It Personal
The best decor tells your story. Maybe it’s your grandma’s quilt as your altar backdrop. Or framed love letters. Or a table of your favorite books or records. You don’t need to spend big to make it meaningful—just think about what feels like you two.
Check out 60 gorgeous DIY wedding decor ideas
Bonus: Sleeping Bear Dunes Wedding Tip
If you’re planning to get married at Sleeping Bear (hey, local tip: Treat Farm Trail is a fave!), consider minimal, packable decor. A simple bouquet, a blanket to stand on, and maybe a few wildflower arrangements in jars is more than enough. Let the dunes speak for themselves.
Check out my full guide on getting married at The Sleeping Bear Dunes
Outdoor Michigan Wedding Decoration tips / FAQ
What’s the best way to decorate an outdoor wedding on a budget?
Focus on a few meaningful pieces instead of trying to decorate every inch. Borrow items like rugs, lanterns, or vintage furniture from friends and family. You can also repurpose ceremony decor for the reception—think floral arrangements or arches that move with you.
How do I keep decorations from blowing away at an outdoor wedding?
Use weighted bases for signs and heavier materials like wood or acrylic instead of paper. Secure table runners and lightweight decor with clips, tape, or subtle weights. For florals, use sturdy vessels like ceramic pots or wooden crates.
What type of flowers work best for outdoor weddings?
Hardier blooms like roses, dahlias, zinnias, eucalyptus, and wildflowers can handle sun, wind, and fluctuating temps better than delicate flowers. If it’s a hot day, be sure to keep bouquets and arrangements hydrated and shaded until the ceremony.
Should I rent or DIY my wedding decor?
It depends on your vibe, timeline, and budget! Renting can save you stress (and time) and give you access to beautiful high-end pieces without buying everything. DIY is great if you love being hands-on and want to add super personal touches—but keep it manageable. Don’t try to DIY everything!
What’s the easiest way to add lighting to an outdoor wedding?
String lights are the go-to! They’re easy to hang between trees or over a tent and instantly make a space feel magical. You can also mix in battery-operated lanterns, fairy lights in mason jars, and even a fire pit for cozy evening vibes.
Final Thoughts On Picking the Best Outdoor Decor For Your Michigan Wedding
You don’t need to stress about transforming the outdoors into something it’s not. Let nature be the venue, and focus on the small, thoughtful touches that feel like you. Your guests (and your photos) will love you for it.
Planning a micro wedding? Inquire now!
©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
