Congratulations on your engagement! Planning a wedding in Washtenaw County, Michigan, can be a thrilling yet overwhelming experience. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. As you start planning your special day, consider the historic Manchester Mill on the Water as your dream wedding venue. Located in the heart of Manchester, Michigan, this venue offers a unique blend of rustic charm and elegance, just a short drive from Ann Arbor, Jackson, Chelsea, and Saline.
12-18 Months Before the Wedding: Laying the Foundation
Determine your budget and guest list to set the stage for your wedding planning journey. Research potential wedding venues, and consider if your ceremony will be on-site or off-site. Manchester Mill on the Water offers perfect accommodations for an intimate outdoor ceremony. Consider hiring a wedding planner or coordinator to help you navigate the planning process, including choosing a wedding theme, color scheme, and overall aesthetic. If you haven’t already, think of your wedding party and which friends and family members you would like to be a part of your special day.
9-12 Months Before the Wedding: Securing Your Vendors
Take a tour of your favorite venues and book your top choice to secure your wedding date! This is the time to begin exploring necessary vendors to create your perfect day. Manchester Mill on the Water’s Vendor Resources page is a great place to find a delicious caterer, professional photographer, and more.
6-9 Months Before the Wedding: Bringing it All Together
Determine your wedding schedule and timeline, including getting ready, setup, photos, ceremony, cocktail hour, reception, and afterparty. Coordinate with your vendors to ensure a seamless execution of your wedding day. Start thinking about transportation, accommodations, and other logistics for your out-of-town guests. Plan your rehearsal and rehearsal dinner, and make sure your wedding party is on the same page.
3-6 Months Before the Wedding: The Final Countdown
Finalize your wedding attire, including dresses, suits, and accessories. Coordinate with your caterer to create a customized menu that reflects your tastes and preferences. Plan your hair and makeup trials, and book your artists for the big day. Write your vows, toasts, and speeches, and practice your delivery to ensure a heartfelt and memorable ceremony.

Additional Tips and Resources:
- – Marriage License: Check out the Washtenaw County Clerk’s office for information on obtaining a marriage license.
- – Wedding Planning Tools: Create a wedding website to share important details with your guests, and send out save-the-date cards to give them plenty of notice.
- – Emergency Kit: Assemble a wedding emergency kit with essentials like bobby pins, tissues, pain relievers, and breath mints.
- – Budgeting: Take a final look at your wedding budget to ensure you’re on track to stay within your means.
- – Post-Wedding Celebrations: Consider hosting a post-wedding brunch or breakfast for your guests, either at the wedding venue or at a nearby restaurant.
- – Wedding Planning Checklist: Create a comprehensive checklist to stay on task and ensure a stress-free wedding day.
- – Local Wedding Resources: Attend local wedding expos and join online groups to connect with other couples, vendors, and wedding experts who can offer valuable guidance and advice.
- – At Manchester Mill on the Water, we’re committed to helping you create an unforgettable wedding celebration. Contact us today to schedule a tour, and let’s start planning your dream wedding!
- Dawn Donnelly, Manchester Mill on the Water
- (734) 210-9336
- manchestermillonthewater@gmail.com