The Ultimate Belle Isle Michigan Elopement Plan

Thinking of eloping in Michigan? Spring and summer at Belle Isle is an amazing option. From the ponds, to the tall grass and the Detroit skyline, it is stunning. Here is a step by step recommendation for planning an elopement at Belle Isle:

Step 1: Pick Your Date & Time 🌸

Spring in Michigan is unpredictable, so go for a mid-to-late morning ceremony (10-11 AM) when the light is dreamy and the temps are warmer. Bonus: fewer people around = more intimacy!

Step 2: Lock in the Legal Stuff 📜

Get your marriage license from any Michigan county clerk’s office. Michigan has a 3-day waiting period, so plan ahead. No officiant? No problem! Michigan allows self-uniting marriages—just sign your license, and BOOM, you’re hitched.

Step 3: Scout Your Spot on Belle Isle 🌿

Top contenders:

• Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory – Lush greenhouse backdrop.
• Lighthouse Point – Water views + historic charm.
• The James Scott Memorial Fountain – If it’s running, it’s a stunning, dramatic setting.

Step 4: Book Your Photographer 📸

You need a pro who knows how to capture the Belle Isle magic! Opt for 2-3 hours of coverage for pre-ceremony portraits, vows, and a post-ceremony adventure session around the island.

Step 5: Plan Your Vows & Ceremony 💌

Keep it short, sweet, and personal! If you’re self-solemnizing, practice what you’ll say to each other. If you have an officiant, a friend or a pro, loop them in early.

Step 6: Choose Your Elopement Attire 👗🤵

Spring in Michigan can be chilly or mild—layers are key! Brides, think flowy dresses with sleeves or a stylish jacket. Grooms, a lightweight suit with a cozy layer will keep you looking sharp and warm.

Step 7: Bring the Details 🌷

• A small bouquet & boutonniere – Spring florals like tulips, ranunculus, or peonies = chef’s kiss.
• A cute picnic setup – Champagne, pastries, cozy blanket = perfect post-vows celebration.
• A Bluetooth speaker – Cue up a playlist for your first dance on the island.

Step 8: Do the Thing! 💍

Head to your chosen spot, soak in the moment, say your vows, and seal it with a kiss! Pop some bubbly and dance like nobody’s watching (because they probably aren’t).

Step 9: Adventure Around the Island 🚗

• Take romantic portraits at the MacArthur Bridge.
• Stroll through the Belle Isle Nature Center.
• Grab epic sunset shots with the Detroit skyline in the background.

Step 10: Celebrate However You Want! 🎉

• Book a fancy dinner in Detroit (try The Apparatus Room or Selden Standard).
• Cozy up at a boutique hotel like The Siren.

Or just order pizza & soda in your PJs—because, honestly, that sounds amazing.

Thinking of your Belle Isle Michigan Elopement? Book me for your elopement here.

More Information

Book me for your elopement here.

My elopement planning tips here.

More of my elopement blogs here.

Link to my affiliate page at Wandering Weddings here.