The Wedding of Sara Romano and Spencer Baird

The Inn at Stonecliffe, Mackinac Island

Spencer and I chose to get married on Mackinac Island because my family spent time on the Island while I was growing up. Knowing we wanted to be married by the water, I immediately thought of Mackinac Island. We spent a full afternoon exploring Mackinac Island wedding venues, but we weren’t feeling that “this is it” sensation. After a full day searching, we stopped at a local cafe. One of the locals happened to overhear us discussing our dream venue. He recommended we visit the Inn at Stonecliffe on the west side of Mackinac Island. The next morning, we climbed aboard a horse-drawn carriage and made the trip. Mackinac Island Places to Stay Outside Downtown A bride and groom arrive by horse and carriage at the stately Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island

The Wedding Venue: Mackinac Island's Inn at Stonecliffe

During the ride, we imagined our guests arriving by horse and carriage and, for the first time, we felt we may have found our location. As we entered the gates upon arrival, we found ourselves in utter amazement. Through the tall trees, we caught a glimpse of the Inn at Stonecliffe, immediately aware that we had found the perfect venue! The historic estate was very inviting, and because of its location on the West Bluff, very secluded. We held our ceremony on the hotel’s terraced lawn, which granted panoramic views of Lake Michigan. Having the Mackinac Bridge in the background during our vows made the moment all the more meaningful. Most Romantic Spots On Mackinac Island A wedding ceremony takes place on the terraced lawn at Mackinac Island's Inn at Stonecliffe, with the Mackinac Bridge in the background

The 'Just Married' Carriage Ride on Mackinac Island

After our ceremony, Spencer and I were picked up by one of Mackinac Island's private horse-drawn wedding carriages and whisked away to spend some time alone as husband and wife. Our photographer captured some great moments during that ride. As we rode through town, tourists and locals alike waved to us. We felt like royalty! Following our cocktail reception on the estate’s grounds, dinner took place in Stonecliffe’s pavilion overlooking the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. The pavilion was decorated with Chinese paper lanterns, and our table centerpieces were made of ornamental bamboo placed in vases and surrounded by tea lights. Roses, Gerbera daisies and Stephanotis blossoms adorned the head table and wedding cake. Explore The New Sunset Pavilion Event Space At The Inn at Stonecliffe A wedding reception is held under a pavilion on the waterfront lawn at Mackinac Island's Inn at Stonecliffe

The Wedding Reception and After Party in Downtown Mackinac Island

The dinner menu featured an array of filet and chicken breast followed by wedding cake and a sweet table laden with petit fours. After dinner, our Mackinac Island wedding DJ played our favorite songs while our guests danced the night away. As our event drew to a close, some guests retired to their guestrooms at The Inn, while others jumped onto waiting carriages to continue the celebration in downtown Mackinac Island. It was a night we will never forget. Where To Keep The Party Going In Downtown Mackinac Island RELATED MACKINAC ISLAND BLOGS: