Hi there! I’m a Michigan-based wedding planner, and if there’s one trend I absolutely love (and specialize in), it’s tented weddings. There’s something incredibly romantic and magical about transforming an open space—whether it’s a private backyard, a lakeside field, or a vineyard—into a custom wedding venue built entirely around your vision.

But I’ll be honest: tented weddings are beautiful, but they’re also a bit of a production. They’re like building a venue from scratch, and that means more moving parts, logistics, and creativity. The good news? With the right team and preparation, your tented wedding can be one of the most unique and memorable events of your life.

Let me walk you through the essentials of planning a tented wedding in Michigan—from layout tips to weather prep.

Find the Right Location

One of the best parts of a tented wedding is flexibility—you can have it just about anywhere! I’ve planned weddings in apple orchards, family estates, on Lake Michigan bluffs, and in wide-open farm fields.

Planner Tip:
Make sure your chosen site is level, has access for vendors to load in/out, and ideally has nearby power and restroom access (or space for rentals).

Choose the Right Tent

There are several styles of tents, and your choice will help set the tone of your wedding:

• Sailcloth tents – airy, elegant, and great for Michigan’s lakefront breeze
• Frame tents – good for tight spaces or when you want to hang decor
• Pole tents – classic, with high peaks and dramatic draping options

Planner Tip:
Always get a tent that’s larger than your guest count requires—you’ll need room for catering, dance floor, bar, and walkways. And don’t forget sidewalls and flooring for unpredictable Michigan weather!

Prepare for Michigan Weather (Yes, Really)

Michigan weather is stunning in summer and fall, but it’s also… moody. Rain, wind, or even an unexpected cold snap can all happen in one day.

Planner Tip:
Always have:

• Sidewalls or clear panels on standby
• Tented walkways to restrooms or parking
• Tent fans or heaters depending on the season
• A solid backup plan

Think Through Power and Lighting

Unlike traditional venues, your tent won’t come wired. You’ll need generators (quiet ones!) to power lighting, catering, DJ setups, and maybe even portable restrooms.

Planner Tip:
Use cafe string lights, chandeliers, uplighting, or even hanging lanterns to add ambiance. Just make sure it’s professionally installed—you don’t want extension cords tripping your guests.

Rent Everything

Tables, chairs, dinnerware, linens, dance floor, restrooms—you’ll be renting all of it. The benefit? Full creative control. The challenge? You’ll need an experienced planner to manage logistics and deliveries.

Planner Tip:
Bundle rentals with one or two reliable vendors to simplify setup and reduce delivery fees.

Bring In the Right Team

Not all vendors are comfortable working in non-traditional venues. Choose a caterer experienced with tented events, hire a day-of coordinator (or full-service planner like me!), and make sure your photographer and DJ are okay with outdoor setups.

Planner Tip:
Communication is key. I always host a walk-through with my vendors to confirm power needs, timelines, and load-in routes.

Embrace the Style

Tented weddings are a blank canvas—you can go rustic, romantic, modern, or coastal chic. The tent gives structure while nature does the rest.

Planner Tip:
Use the surrounding environment to inspire your design. Near Lake Michigan? Light colors and nautical touches. Backyard estate? Elegant florals and vintage furniture work beautifully.

Final Thoughts

A tented wedding in Michigan is one of the most rewarding events to plan. It’s a little more work, sure—but the result is a one-of-a-kind experience that feels both grand and personal. With the right planning, creative vision, and expert vendors, you can turn an empty field into the wedding of your dreams.

Need help bringing your tented wedding to life? I’d love to connect and guide you through the process, step by step.

Check out our blog on The Importance of Hiring a Wedding Planner