%20(2).png)
Planning a Wedding on Madeline Island
Madeline Island is just a short 20-25 minute ferry ride away from Bayfield, Wisconsin. The largest Apostle Island, Madeline Island is a beautiful hidden gem for destination weddings.
We love planning weddings and elopements on Madeline Island! We've put together a great starter list of things to consider while you are planning your wedding on the Island!
Photographer: Jaimee Morse
Madeline Island Ferry Line
EVERYTHING has to come to the Island on the ferry! Of course, we are so lucky that we even have a ferry. When planning, always keep the ferry in the back of your mind. Your guests and vendors will have to use it, and be aware of the ferry schedule to AND from the Island. Anything large like a coach bus or restroom trailer will have to schedule the time they board with Madeline Island Ferry Line.
We recommend posting the ferry schedule on your wedding website, and even including your top tips for your guests like:
1. Get to the ferry early (especially when leaving the Island!)
2. Leave some extra time to explore the Island, enjoy local food and have fun! {Here would be a great place to include your favorite things to do on the Island!}
3. If you plan to stay overnight on the Island, book as soon as you can.
4. Be very clear about the FINAL trip to leave the Island, for those guests who aren't staying overnight.
Make sure your vendors know where the ferry terminal is in Bayfield and which ferry time they need to take at the very latest!
Photographer: Jalbus Photo
Factor in Cost
Be realistic when looking at your budget. Keep in mind that any vendors traveling to the Island will be charging extra for the ferry and possibly overnight accommodations as well if they have to get to your wedding very early or stay very late.
Enjoy the Island Life!
Spend time during your wedding weekend having fun and enjoying the Island, and encourage your guests to do the same! Get wet and sandy, explore the hiking trails, listen to live music at Tom's Burned Down Cafe or Bell Street Gallery Artbar, enjoy local food at The Farmhouse Madeline Island or Island Eats Food Truck and R E L A X.
Photographer: Jaimee Morse
Hire Local Vendors When Possible
There are many great local vendors on Madeline Island, in Bayfield and the surrounding areas! Caterers, wedding planners (hint hint), photographers, bakeries etc who have worked on the Island before for a wedding is a real plus. They'll know what to expect and even be able to give you some pointers. Keep in mind you may need to hire vendors such as tent rental companies from as far as Minneapolis or Eau Claire, but we suggest hiring those great local vendors when possible.
Incorporate the Islands into Your Wedding!
Chances are if you're getting married on Madeline Island it's because you have a special connection. You've either been visiting there for years, a family or friend has a vacation home on the Island or you you just love the water and woods! Incorporate the Apostle Island into your wedding, so your guests can really see your love and connection. Stationery, rock table numbers + escort "cards", locally made Madeline Island Candles, and fresh Lake Superior fish are fun ways to do that!
Photographer: Fairlight
As always, whatever you choose to do make sure it's what works best for you two!! This is your wedding and the start to your marriage, do what feels right.
If you're reading all of this, nodding your head and thinking, " I really want to get married there! But... I need help!" Take a look at our packages and contact us!
