Wedding days are a great way for families far and wide to reunite and celebrate growth and new life experiences. With families, often come children, and in some cases, lots of children. When planning signature drinks and décor, it can often slip couples’ minds that there needs to be something to entertain the kiddos as well. We’ve got you covered with ideas on where to start!
Photo: Paxton Photography
Coloring/Activity Books
What kid can’t get lost for hours in a coloring book? Having some sort of interactive book at each of their place settings complete with crayons, stickers, and some wedding-themed pages will keep the kids from constantly bugging their parents for attention. This can provide both an entertaining and educational way of keeping the kids seated and occupied while potentially teaching them what a wedding is about. You can even create a custom “wedding couple story” coloring book to share your story and experiences with the families.
Photo: Michael Murphy IV Photography
Scavenger Hunt
A wedding-themed scavenger hunt is another great educational tool that can be used to encourage the children at your wedding to possibly work as a team while keeping them entertained. You can list items specific to your venue. For example, at Castle Farms, kids could search for flowers in the gardens or hidden antiques. Other options are to include questions like “How many layers does the wedding cake have?” or “What color are the bridesmaids wearing?” or even “What kind of flowers are in the bride’s bouquet?”
Photo: Meghan Lee Harris Photography
Activity Table
Rather than a kids’ dinner table, give them an activity table to go to after dinner where they can do puzzles, play games, or even play with play-doh. It’s often the simple things that will preoccupy the little ones’ minds, and in this case, keep them from wandering about the venue.
Photo: Northern Art Photography
Lawn Games
Lawn games are a classic for guests of all ages. Here at Castle Farms, we provide a variety of outdoor spaces that are perfect for cornhole, ladder ball, giant checkers, Jenga, tic tac toe, and more. The adjoining courtyards and balconies allow guests and children the freedom to venture outside, without being out of sight. This way, kids can let out some of the extra energy they got from eating cake by being active and spending some time outdoors.
Photo: Paxton Photography
By the end of the night, you’ll want your tiny guests to have enjoyed their time at your wedding, while also hopefully ensuring a quiet ride back home or to the hotel. By providing activities for children to partake in, it’ll ensure a smooth, fun and memorable day for everyone involved!
One overarching opinion when it comes to weddings is “the bigger, the better.” Grand, elegant weddings are great. However, not everyone’s big day warrants specialty chairs, linens, tables, and glassware, or riding in on a horse and carriage. Less can be more!
One of the greatest things about Castle Farms is the beauty that comes with the Castle. Our stone walls and soaring towers aren’t something you can find at just any venue. That’s why excessive décor may not even be necessary for your wedding. There’s already so many stunning features that are roped into your space, whether that be your ceremony or reception. Castle Farms is known for its wide variety of reception spaces, so whatever your taste may be, we have the backdrop for you.
Photo: Killer Creations
When looking at décor with this mindset, you’ll want to stick with something minimal. Neutral tones can be incredibly elegant, and they may be all you need. Sticking with grays, black, or even going with a crisp, clean all-white look is timeless. As far as centerpieces go, a few candles, and maybe some greenery, are perfect for a simple, yet beautiful centerpiece. Plus, they’re easy on the budget. Flowers are great, and arguably a wedding staple, but that doesn’t mean they need to be everywhere guests look. Keep the attention on you on your wedding day.
Photo: Dreambox Photography
Minimalism doesn’t have to stop at décor; that can translate to your guest list as well. Small, intimate weddings are becoming more and more common. Couples these days are more drawn to the idea of celebrating with an exclusive group of people, sometimes as low as 30-40 guests.
Photo: Meghan Lee Harris Photography
Less can be more: More focus on the experience of getting married with those closest to you. More focus on the natural setting the gardens or historic stone walls offer. More time for quality conversation and fun because you don’t have to worry about as much clean up at the end of the night from choosing minimal décor. If this concept suits your taste, it will not only offer a timeless overall look, it will give the opportunity to allocate your “would-be budget” to a finer experience for your smaller guest count or to your honeymoon adventures. Whatever your plans may be, you can’t go wrong with simplicity!
There are dozens of steps when it comes to planning your wedding. Which flowers are in season? What is your color palette? Should you invite kids? What kind of attire are you thinking? Buffet? Plated? One major step when it comes to wedding planning, that almost never crosses a couple’s mind: should you insure your wedding?
You may be thinking, “Event insurance? How does that work?” At Castle Farms, event insurance isn’t something that we require, but you may still want to look into its benefits for your event. We do require caterers and bartenders be insured, but they typically are the ones to handle this. Broader event insurance is something that could cover the bigger stuff, like a slip and fall or a lightening strike causing a power outage.
Photo: Sidney Bischer Photography
We know now, more than ever, that making sure your wedding is protected should be a top priority. Big or small, event insurance can offer select coverage on a variety of aspects of your wedding. Event insurance can cover property damage, accidental injuries, or even unexpected cancellations. There is a possibility that during your wedding, their may be damage done to the property by guests, which would then be your responsibility to rectify. Some event insurance options may help you cover the damage costs. You can find coverage options for just about anything, even something as little as a dress malfunction.
Photo: E.C. Campbell Photography
Ask an insurance agent if their company can cover your wedding. Often times, they can. If not, there are companies out there that specialize in event coverage. A couple of websites (though we cannot vouch for their services) that have higher ratings include: Protect My Wedding and Eventsured. If you do look into these, make sure that you read through the details to make sure you’re aware of what you can, and cannot, cover.
Photo: Beth Joy Photography
Anything can happen at a wedding, so if you invest in event insurance, what may ordinarily have been an unexpected payment for damages or a loss of vendor deposits, would instead result in peace of mind, less stress, and financial reassurance if something came up!
Castle Farms is home to Charlevoix, a quaint, lakeside tourist town in northern Michigan. Northern Michigan is known for its premiere beaches, lively summer atmosphere, and friendly faces. What can guests expect to do in a place like Charlevoix before or after your wedding day? The possibilities are endless!
*Local Charlevoix businesses have done so much to accommodate to COVID-19 policies. Activities that are safe to participate in while social distancing are annotated with an asterisk (*).
*Hike
What better activity is there than to spend an afternoon taking in the beautiful local scenery while enjoying a nature walk? There are plenty of trails in Charlevoix, including Fisherman’s Island State Park, North Point Nature Preserve, McSauba, or Susan’s Creek, to name a few. Stop alongside the water to take in the fresh air and search for Petoskey Stones. Climb up to a lookout in the middle of a sand dune. Pack a picnic and enjoy an afternoon in the sun.
Photo: Rockhill Studios
*Bike on the Little Traverse Wheelway
The Little Traverse Wheelway is a 26 mile long trail from Charlevoix to Harbor Springs. It’s the perfect trail to get some fresh air and exercise, however you see fit. Whether you bike, walk, or rollerblade, this trail offers so much scenery to enjoy along the way.
*Go to the Beach
There are a number of beautiful beaches all over the area. Take your family to Ferry Beach and sit back, relax, while your kids jump off their pier into crisp, quaint Lake Charlevoix. Right downtown, you’ll find Michigan Beach on Lake Michigan. Complete with sandy beaches, a playground, and a lovely view of the lighthouse, Michigan Beach is the perfect local getaway. On the north side of town is McSauba Beach, a rustic beach graced with sand dunes providing breathtaking views of Lake Michigan. Lastly, Depot Beach, on Lake Charlevoix, is located at Charlevoix’s historic Train Depot & Museum on the north side of town. While you’re at the beach, spend some time looking for some Petoskey stones!
Photo: Michael Murphy IV Photography
Camp at Fisherman’s Island State Park
This rustic campground features many wooded and spacious sites! Reserve a waterfront site just steps away from Lake Michigan to fall asleep to the sound of waves crashing. Hike their trails and swim at the beach for an unforgettable camping experience.
Enjoy Downtown
If you’re looking to stay in an area that’s a little livelier, take a walk downtown. You might find yourself in a sweet, small shop or enjoying a local brew. A few staples include Murdick’s Fudge, The Taffy Barrel, Harwood Gold, Bridge Street Tap Room, or eating waterfront at the Weathervane Restaurant. You could simply plant yourself on a bench in the park and watch the boats float across Lake Charlevoix. Downtown, there’s something for everyone!
Photo: Always Photographic
Visit Art Galleries
Another underrated attraction that Charlevoix offers is a variety of art galleries. One of which is Bier Art Gallery, located in a unique schoolhouse setting, which inspires how art can be better displayed in the home. On the other hand, North Seas Gallery is home to European art and antiques, from statues, to oil paintings. Charlevoix offers all kinds of unique art displays all around town!
*Tour the Mushroom Houses
Charlevoix is known for many things, but one Charlevoix staple is the Mushroom Houses. These eleven houses were designed by architect Earl Young, beginning in 1919. You can listen to a tour guide on an hour-long tour through the neighborhood or *explore them yourself using this map. These houses are straight out of a story book, full of character and whimsy. The best part? Wedding parties can even rent a Mushroom House of their own for the weekend!
Photo: Jacquelyn Genevieve Photography
Visit McSauba Ski Hill
If you’re having a winter wedding and have guests that are looking for some activities to do in the cold, Mt. McSauba is the place to be. At Mt. McSauba, different options include skiing, snowboarding, snowshoe trails, a sledding hill, and even a skating rink. Whatever winter sport suits you, all are offered at Mt. McSauba.
Rent a Boat, Paddleboard, or Kayak
Every Michigander loves a lake day. Plan your own by renting a boat on Lake Charlevoix or Round Lake. Pack a picnic or order local takeout and bring it on board with a couple friends or family. Go for a dip or just enjoy the sunshine. It’s the perfect care-free day! Summertime Rentals offers everything from boats to jet skis. If you or your guests are interested in fishing, look to Whitecap Charters for everything you need to know from a local fishing expert. Sunshine Charters offers trips around Round Lake on a cruising yacht, a fun activity for friends and family of all ages!
Photo: The Weber Photographers
Go to a Festival
Charlevoix’s downtown takes a turn when festivals come around. Charlevoix holds several festivals annually, including the Venetian Festival in the summer, Apple Festival in the fall, Shadowfest in the winter, and more. These festivals consist of all kinds of activities, from boat parades, fireworks, carnival games, artist booths, and more! There is surely something for everyone at each one of these events, no matter the time of year!
*See the Charlevoix Lighthouse
The Charlevoix South Pier Lighthouse overlooks Lake Michigan. You can follow the channel from the bridge in downtown Charlevoix and walk right up next to the red lighthouse. It’s the perfect place to watch a sunset or take photos. The lighthouse encapsulates Charlevoix, representing its breathtaking beauty and waterfront views.
Photo: Chris Van Winkle Photography
Go to the Movie Theatre
Who doesn’t love going to the movies? Once you’re done exploring downtown, wander over to Antrim St for a movie. Grab some popcorn with an ice-cold drink, and spend an afternoon or evening watching a new film at our theatre, Charlevoix Cinema III!
*Explore the Castle’s Grounds
What better way to enjoy a Castle Farms wedding than coming back for a self-guided or guided historical tour? You can spend the day exploring the many gardens, strolling through courtyards, or listening to the fascinating hundred-year-old history. Enjoy a glass of wine right in the heart of the Castle. The Queen’s Tavern is a stunning, cozy backdrop, perfect for sipping on a glass of Visionary or Reflection, and is home to our 1918 Cellars tasting room.
Photo: The Weber Photographers
We may be biased, but there aren’t many places better to have a wedding than beautiful northern Michigan! Give your guests the opportunity to spend a few days exploring Charlevoix, a true Michigan treasure.
Weddings are almost always expected to be on a Saturday. But, why? There are plenty of other days of the week that would make for a perfect wedding day. Don’t push the idea away just yet, because there are plenty of reasons to show weekdays some attention.
Longer Vacation Time for Guests
Wedding guests are already looking forward to a fun-filled day catching up with family and friends. If your wedding is on a Friday, it allows them to take a couple extra hours, or even the day, to set aside for your wedding weekend. Same goes for a Monday wedding. Why stop there? Any day of the week can allow for some extra days off surrounding your big day. With Save the Dates and invitations, guests have more than enough time to plan accordingly and make a little vacation out of the week. If your wedding is being held at Castle Farms, guests can spend a few days enjoying local restaurants and shops downtown, touring the Mushroom Houses, hiking, exploring the Castle’s grounds, or venturing all over northern Michigan. They’ll have the opportunity to see and experience local food and activities or simply take an extra day to relax before heading home.
Photo: The Weber Photographers
More Vendor Availability
Taking all the Saturday weddings into consideration, think of how open caterers, photographers, DJ’s, and other vendors are on, say, Mondays, Wednesdays, or even Fridays! This means that you have more options available to you on your wedding date. Had to ditch plans with your favorite local restaurant due to availability? Not when you’re booking them on a weekday!
Photo: E.C. Campbell Photography
Save Money
In some cases, it is way less expensive to have a wedding on any day other than a Saturday. Wedding venues can range anywhere from high to low. When weekdays are thrown into that equation, prices can drop dramatically. Saving on your venue can allow you to splurge in other areas, or just simply save some cash because, let’s face it, weddings can be expensive! Holding your wedding on a weekday can also be more affordable for your guests. Staying in a hotel room, in some cases, can be priced lower on a weekday.
Photo: Paxton Photography
More Quality Time with Out of Town Guests
Your wedding day—while absolutely beautiful and memorable—is a busy whirlwind of a day: from getting dressed and ready, to taking photos, getting married, taking more photos, briefly greeting guests, and enjoying your planned special events like having dinner, toasts, and dancing. Having a Monday or Friday wedding frees up more time to sit down and catch up with those who traveled far for your big day. Guests who work weekdays, would typically already have the weekend off, which means no one is in a rush to get out of town, allowing them more time to spend with the newlyweds.
Photo: Michael Murphy IV Photography
A More Intimate Wedding
If you were planning on a more intimate wedding to begin with, a weekday wedding may be perfect for you. While there are quite a few people who work weekends and atypical weekday hours (take our Event Team, for example!), there are about 83% of Americans working the typical Monday through Friday. Though many employees have flexible work schedules where they can use a personal day or make up hours another day of the week, inviting weekday workers could still lead to having a narrowed down guest list giving you a quaint and intimate experience. If you’re planning your wedding festivities surrounding a weekday wedding, you can expect to have less-populated hotels, bars, and restaurants, even in a tourist town like Charlevoix. Even your venue will feel more exclusive to you and your guests.
Photo: E.C. Campbell Photography
Picking a date is such an important wedding decision. It is your future anniversary, after all! If there’s a date that you’re set on, go for it. It will fall on a weekend at some point in the future. After all, no matter what day you get married on, food tastes the same, pictures will still turn out beautifully, and at the end of the day, you can still have the wedding of your dreams. The fact is, your guests will try their best to be there if they really want (and are able) to celebrate with you. Therefore, it shouldn’t matter whether you choose a weekday or weekend day; choose what is best for you and embrace the memories that will be had on that special day!
When planning your wedding, there’s so much more than just creating a wedding hashtag online. As necessary as it might be to scope out the work of photographers on Instagram or get inspiration from a Pinterest board, there are tons of online resources that can make wedding planning a breeze. The best part? You don’t have to leave your living room!
Photo: The Weber Photographers
If planning in general is where you’re stuck, turn to wedding planning apps, like Wedding Planner by both The Knot and WeddingWire. Apps like those can build all kinds of useful tools like a spending plan based on your unique budget, guest list-tracking, streamlining vendor contacts, and creating a timeline.
Along with wedding planning apps, are sites that make the more personal side of your wedding a piece of cake. Wedding cake, that is. Zola provides an all-in-one registry site, builds free wedding websites, and Save the Dates. It’s the perfect one-stop-shop when it comes to creating a platform your guests can visit for any wedding day details.
Photo: Beth Joy Photography
Speaking of Save the Dates, it’s becoming more and more common to send them virtually. Think of all the time it takes to seal each envelope or the expense when it comes to postage. By sending them online, you can personalize any template without the risk of anything getting lost in the mail or accidentally thrown out. Oftentimes, you can send your Save the Dates right from your wedding website.
There are some circumstances that make getting your bridesmaids to a bridal shop all at once difficult. That’s why sites like Azazie are great resources. Through this site, your bridesmaids can easily select samples online, try them on at home, mail the samples back, and order their gown!
Photo: Paxton Photography
When it comes to finding those personalized pieces that make your wedding unique, Etsy is the place to be. Etsy is great for those customized pieces, while supporting a small business. You can get anything from engraved gifts, to signs, to programs, to flower girl baskets. Whatever you’re looking for, you can find it on there. If you’ve ever passed those adorable monogrammed table numbers at someone else’s reception and wondered “Where on earth did they get those?” Odds are, it was Etsy.
While you’re browsing the web, be sure to read up on all Castle Farms’ blogs. We have an entire category of blogs dedicated solely to wedding tips and trends. If you’re stumped on where to go from here, read more Castle blogs here.
Photo: The Weber Photographers
On the day of your wedding, there are even more technological resources you can use to enhance your big day. Lots of couples these days are choosing to livestream their ceremonies on social media. This can be great when sticking to an intimate ceremony setting or accommodating elderly relatives who couldn’t make it. Couples can also add other fun elements to their big day using the internet, like creating customized Snapchat filters guests can use when sharing with friends. Video booths are also great, interactive ways for guests to have fun at your reception. They can create GIFs to share on social media, or just look back and laugh at the virtual memories they created.
Whether you’re leaning towards an unplugged ceremony or something more social media-savvy, there are countless online resources that you can use when planning your wedding!
