Why Duluth?

A popular wedding location for returning Lake Superior Lovers…

Photography: J.Olson Photography @jolsonweddings

As a Wedding Planner, I make a point to ask my couples how they met, how they got engaged, and what led them to choose Duluth, Minnesota for their wedding. They usually fall into two categories: they met in Duluth and fell in love, or they took a trip up here and fell in love. Either way, this town has a habit of bringing together two people who love nature, the outdoors, and Lake Superior. For the couples who took a trip up here and fell in love, they pack their things, travel the North Shore, and eventually run into a tough spot. If they’re camping and run out of water, they figure out how to get some. If they’re hiking and get lost, they find their way back.

Some couples met at the University of Minnesota Duluth and moved to the Twin Cities area after they graduated college for work. Talking to the couples that moved away, they always say that they miss Lake Superior. When it comes time for these couples to tie the knot, they usually consider a Duluth wedding. Depending on many different things, such as current living location, family location, etc., can influence if a couple has their wedding in the Duluth area.

Whether your guest list is 20 or 200, there’s a ceremony site for you to say your vows in that matches your wedding vision! With so many great venues and stunning locations, there’s an option for every couple looking to get married along the North Shore!

What’s in Duluth?

The Lift Bridge is an attraction for tourists to admire and a stunning location for pictures that couples can build into their wedding day. Many locals have probably gone on a date that included stopping to see the Lift Bridge. The many different venues in the Duluth area offer each couple a place to say their vows in a place that matches their vision.

Photography: Madelyn B @madelynbphotography

For those who want to be near the water and Lift Bridge, The Garden, previously known as Grandma’s Sports Garden, is the ultimate location. Couples who met on the dance floor of Grandma’s Sports Garden have a sentimental attachment and want to continue their love story where it started and will even have their first dance in the same spot where they met years and years ago.

The Malting Building and Clyde Iron Works are a dream come true for couples seeking a moody industrial vibe. This venue, however, is not limited to a single aesthetic. Vibrant pops of color can add a striking contrast to the dark walls. The soft glow of candlelight, whether from floating, votive, taper, or pillar candles, can illuminate the space. A classic black-and-white palette adorned with lush greenery can evoke a timeless elegance. The endless possibilities allow couples to craft a wedding that truly reflects their unique vision.

If you want Lake Superior or the Lift Bridge behind you during your ceremony, Pier B is a place to check out! Their Harborside Deck is an excellent place for your ceremony, while their back patio area is perfect for a first look. With huge windows in their ballroom, the space feels light, airy, and easily adaptable to your décor preferences! Another bonus is the attached hotel for an easy walk to your room after your reception!

Photography: Mattea Rose Photography @mattearosephotography

For couples who love a vintage feel and old and deep history buildings, Greysolon is a venue to check out! Greysolon’s crown molding, beautiful ceilings, and location downtown are all attractive elements. The Greysolon Ballroom and Moorish Room each offer fantastic spaces to get ready, store your things, and have all aspects of the day in one place. With the Sheraton being a quick walk down the road, you’re not too far away from your bed after a long day!

What’s on the North Shore?

The North Shore offers the allure of a destination wedding without the hefty price tag. The star attraction of this area is Lake Superior, a breathtaking expanse of water that often leaves visitors feeling like they’re gazing at the ocean. The lake is bordered by lush cliffs and dense forests, creating a picturesque setting that's hard to beat. And the best part? This doesn't come with a premium price. One thing to note about the North Shore is there aren’t many spaces to host weddings large weddings. A North Shore wedding is ideal for the couple who wants a small affair with their closest family and friends.

Bluefin Bay is the main venue up the North Shore for couples seeking a getting ready, ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception site all in one place. Their ceremony site, Tofte Cove, has a pebble beach that looks out to the stunning Lake Superior! Tofte Cove has all the natural elements of a pebble beach, crisp water, lush trees, and jutting rocks. With a different but not far site for every part of your day, you’ll have seamless transitions from one part of your day to the next.

Photography: Angela Jo Photography @angelajophoto

Places like Palisade Head, Black Beach, Jay Cooke State Park, Gooseberry Falls, Tettegouche State Park, and more up the North Shore are popular and stunning places for couples to have their ceremony. The drive from Duluth to any of these locations is more than enough time to feel like a getaway wedding without being costly. With the natural beauty of the lake, surrounding forests, and rocky cliffs, there isn’t much need for embellishments or decorations. Get 20 or 30 of your closest family and friends and head up the North Shore for an intimate and stunning ceremony!

Lake Superior Is For Lovers

In the end, whether they fall in love in a college bar or camping near the shores of the North Shore, couples find themselves drawn back to exchange their vows. From the iconic Lift Bridge to the rugged beauty of Lake Superior's shores, Duluth, Minnesota offers a picturesque backdrop for weddings of all sizes and styles. Meanwhile, the North Shore, with its natural beauty, provides couples with the opportunity to have intimate celebrations surrounded by the stunning scenery of Lake Superior.

Whether it's the sentimental attachment to a beloved venue or the desire for an intimate gathering in nature, each couple finds their own reason to return to Duluth or explore the North Shore for their special day. (The North Shore is also a great spot to take engagement photos. *wink wink*)

Photography: Taylor Lauren Photography @taylorlaurenphotomn

Whether you're dreaming of a huge celebration or an intimate gathering, there's no shortage of venues and breathtaking views to make your wedding day truly unforgettable. Love always finds its way back home. So come up to Duluth for the weekend, explore the bars, history, and North Shore, and make so many memories together!