Wedding Guide
Getting Married Up North
Congratulations and welcome to one of Michigan’s most celebrated resort areas, Little Traverse Bay. Northern Michigan provides the ideal backdrop for weddings.
A world of exploration lies right at our doorstep. We encourage guests to immerse themselves in our northern Michigan way of life and to sample its many intriguing tastes. Season after season, there is always something here to enjoy.
Our event specialists at Stafford’s are happy to provide you an event encompassing:
∙ On-site ceremonies
∙ Full service reception (with food & beverage)
∙ Rehearsal dinners
∙ Group lodging accommodations
∙ Post-wedding brunch
∙ Wedding showers & lunches
Every detail will be tended to by our event specialists and our promise to you is a fairy-tale wedding that is limited only by your own imagination.
What Our Couples Say
“My daughter’s wedding and reception was held at the Bay View Inn the summer of 2023 and I cannot even begin to tell you how fantastic it was. The venue was beautiful and every single staff member was so helpful and focused on helping make the entire day special. Even when we ran into unexpected issues with the items dropped off by the florist, their dining room manager/event coordinator was right there to jump in and help. 10/10. Would highly recommend! “ Mother of the bride
“It’s not surprising that two weeks after the wedding we’re still hearing raving reviews from our guests about their experience, and how impressed they were with the Stafford’s team. There is no shortage of stories our guests have told us. A few family members couldn’t attend at the last minute, one a close uncle due to a biking accident the day before - the waiter at his table was genuinely concerned about him and boxed up his meal for other relatives to take home to him that night.” Rachel & Jake
Stafford’s Bay View Inn
Our charming Country Inn built in 1886, has been enchanting visitors for over 130 years. Located in the historic association of Bay View, Stafford’s Bay View Inn boasts 31 Victorian style rooms, many overlooking the crystal clear waters of Little Traverse Bay.
The Inn provides an intimate atmosphere and can be rented in its entirety, or in part, for special events. Each area boasts a singular feel all its own and includes Stafford’s signature hospitality service. Our promise to you is a memorable event with historic charm.
Venue rentals include dance floor, bar area, in-house tables, chairs, linen and china. All events require a pre-determined food & beverage minimum. Prices subject to change.
Howard Room, Lakeside Room & Deck
Private event space can accommodate small to large groups. This space features a large dance floor and access to our Lakeside Room & Deck for impeccable views of Lake Michigan’s Little Traverse Bay.
Capacity 100 Guests | $4,000
On-Site Ceremonies
We offer on-site ceremonies in the Staffordshire Garden, in conjunction with a full reception event. Ceremony fee is $500 in addition to reception venue fee. Available May - October.
