Time is of the essence. As soon as you have set a date for the wedding, sit down and decide the number of guests - this will greatly determine what type of reception sites you should consider. Decide too what type of wedding you are going to have. Is it going to be formal? Classy casual? Will you invite only immediate family and close friends or will you plan a larger event? Based on the type of wedding you're planning, decide on an appropriate setting for your reception.



For a grand affair, consider the International Grand Ballroom at the MGM Grand Detroit. A Detroit icon, the Roostertail is located on the Detroit River and has hosted some of the city's most grand affairs since its inception in the 1950s. Brides have a choice of the Marine Room, Palm River Room, the Club Room, or the Outdoor Deck for a stunning extravaganza. Other distinct venues include the Pine Knob Mansion and Carriage House or the ballroom at The Polo Fields Golf and Country Club for a classic wedding. The Inn at St. John's is another choice for brides looking for a fairy tale atmosphere.

For those with a love of history, the Detroit area is brimming with possibilities in reception sites. The understated elegance of the Henry Ford Estate affords unforgettable ambiance as guests are entertained in the very same rooms where the Ford family once welcomed heads of state and captains of industry. Revenue generated by events at the estate helps support its preservation, so couples have the satisfaction of giving back to the national historical landmark.

Another historic site, the Cranbrook House is the oldest surviving manor home in metro Detroit. The home is decorated with period furnishings, tapestries, and other works of art. The 40-acre Cranbrook Gardens is highlighted by the Sunken Garden, fountains and sculpture, and a lake stretching out beyond the fieldstone walls. Both create a stunning backdrop to any reception.

The Gem and Century Theaters offer banquet facilities inside a beautiful, historic setting. Beautifully decorated with architectural relics such as antique fireplaces, ornate chandeliers and Pewabic tiles, the venue features an upscale restaurant and full-service banquet facilities - all in the heart of downtown's entertainment district.

Brides who want an outdoor wedding/reception have plenty of beautiful sites from which to choose. For example, Heavenly Scent Herb Farm in Fenton provides a variety of water features, a gazebo, and fragrant gardens for up to 250 guests.

A garden wedding at Matthaei Botanical Gardens is perfect for the special day. Set against a lush garden backdrop, guests enjoy panoramic views of the award-winning gardens from the expansive patio, or indoors where floor-to-ceiling windows overlook the Gateway Garden of New World Plants. Outdoor ceremonies can be held on Willow Pond Island or indoors in the Conservatory.

With the moving backdrop of the Detroit River and skyline, the Detroit Princess riverboat offers passengers enough dining rooms on the four entertainment decks to accommodate 1,600 people. Making wedding planning seamless, the Princess is equipped with its own kitchen and staff and does not rely on shoreline caterers. The vessel is available for private charter any day of the week

After deciding what type of wedding and reception you want to throw, narrow down your list of available wedding sites and make arrangements for a site inspection. Many venues include the services of a bridal consultant on the premises to help coordinate all the details. Have fun exploring the city of Detroit's amazing wedding locales - and good luck!