If you’re considering an outdoor wedding in Michigan, congratulations! Michigan is such a unique state with tons of beautiful locations for an elopement or intimate wedding.

This blog post will help guide you through the process of getting married in Michigan!

Learn more about why you should consider eloping in Michigan here and check out location ideas for your Michigan elopement here!

With nearly 100,000 square miles and over 100 state and national parks, there is no shortage of incredibly beautiful locations to elope in Michigan.

Imagine getting married…

…on a beach with your toes in the sand and waves crashing on the shore.

…on an epic cliff overlooking Lake Superior.

…under a waterfall.

…in the middle of a forest with only the sounds of birds chirping and the wind rustling the trees.

All of this, and more, is possible when you choose to elope in Michigan! Scroll down to learn more about how to elope in Michigan.

Marriage License

If you or your partner is a resident in Michigan, you can apply for your marriage license in the county where you live, and your license will be valid anywhere in the state of Michigan. However, if both you and your partner are from out of state, you will need to apply for your marriage license in the county you are getting married in. You have the option to complete an application online beforehand, and then go to the clerk’s office to pay the application fee and complete the process.

Application fees for your marriage license are $20-$30 (depending on if you are a resident of Michigan). After your application is submitted, there is a 3 day waiting period, and the license is valid for 30 days from the date of approval.

Each county has their own web page and application to apply for your marriage license. Click here for an example from Marquette County in Michigan.

Officiant & Witnesses

Marriage licenses in Michigan require an officiant and two witnesses to sign. I am legally ordained through Universal Life Church and can sign your marriage license as the officiant (for no extra charge!). However, if you would like an officiant to walk you through your ceremony, there are many wonderful vendors in Michigan that I can refer you to. If you do hire an officiant, I can still sign as a witness!

If you are eloping with just you and your partner, we can arrange a time to sign the license with witnesses before or after, or we can even recruit strangers in the area to sign as witnesses (I’ve never had anyone say no to this request!)

Permits

Most parks require permits to hold your ceremony inside of the park. The requirements vary by location, but each State Park and National Park has a designated webpage where you can find information about permits and/or contact information. And I am always available to help you determine the permit requirements and answer any questions you have.

Other Vendors

A few other vendors to consider for your elopement are a hair/makeup artist, florist, private chef, or live music. I have worked with many wonderful vendors and can provide recommendations for vendors that fit your vision. This is your day, and you can make it whatever you want it to be!

Whether you need help with marriage license requirements, permits, or getting connected to vendors, I am here to help. I guide all of my couples through the process of eloping and making sure that your day is everything you want it to be! I will be your photographer, your guide, your cheerleader, and your friend on the best day of your life.

You can make your wedding day whatever you want it to be!

Scroll down for more photos of gorgeous Michigan elopements, and check out Michigan elopement location ideas here!

x Brittany