Fresh, comfortable, historical, beautiful, peaceful… These are just a few of the words that come to mind whenever we think of a Mission Table elopement. The ambiance of nature surrounding the exterior, coupled with the historically renovated interior… truly make this venue a one of a kind destination for any Michigan Elopement. Situated on the Old Mission Peninsula just north of Traverse City, you’ll be hard pressed to find another location like it. Continue reading to learn more about Mission Table and some of the considerations you will need to take into account for your Northern Michigan Elopement or Wedding!
Brief History of Mission Table
Mission Table was once called “Bowers Harbor Inn”, and was built originally in the 1880s. In 2006, two natives of Old Mission Peninsula, Jon Carlson and Greg Lobdell, bought the old inn building, and transformed it into Mission Table. They have done their utmost to keep everything as original as it was back in the 1920s, when it was last renovated.
The owners of Mission Table pride themselves on taking as much from the natural beauty surrounding them, and bringing that inspiration into everything they do. From the locally owned farmers, directly to your table, you’ll be in heaven with everything you eat, drink, and see while spending time at your Mission Table elopement.
This amazing location features large majestic pine trees surrounding the property along the West Bay. There are also vineyards filled with lush, welcoming grape vines for some truly romantic portraits. And, once you step foot inside, be prepared to be greeted with an almost fairy tale like setting. We feel that you will have a hard time finding a better location to host your elopement or wedding in Northern Michigan.
Areas to Consider for You & Your Guests
- The Great Lawn
If you want a perfect location for a sunset elopement on the West Bay, then this Great Lawn is where you will want to host it at. The Great Lawn accommodates up to 60 guests, and is right in front of their beautiful inn. Everyone will be facing west, towards the sunset, and enjoying the breeze from the bay itself. The backup rain option, would be inside in the host’s dining room. - The Vineyards
This location is purely for photos and enjoying the view. Being a winery as well as a restaurant, and sourcing everything that is brought to their tables from locally sourced farmers, you’ll definitely want to schedule some time to get pictures among the grape vines themselves. - Genevieve’s Patio
Located outside, and surrounding a part of the building itself, you’ll find Genevieve’s Patio. It’s a beautiful deck with plenty of seating to enjoy the beautiful air and scenery found at Mission Table. - The Harbor Room
The Harbor Room is the largest dining room available at Mission Table. It can seat 60 guests, and includes a large community table that dominates the center of the room. (This table itself seats 20 guests.) You’ll enjoy big beautiful windows that features a spectacular view of the sunset as it takes place over West Grand Traverse Bay, as well as a fieldstone fireplace. - The Library
Located on the second floor of Mission Table, at the top of a beautiful winding staircase, is The Library. This room is perfect for as many as 30 guests. You’ll find lovely windows facing both East and West for a full view of the Bay as well as their gardens and vineyards. - The Chef’s Table
Located on the main floor of Mission Table, is the Chef’s Table. This table can accommodate 12 guests and is a perfect choice for the more intimate elopements and weddings. You’ll enjoy a bit of privacy here, but you’ll still be able to enjoy the beauty of the grounds.
Cost Considerations
The Great Lawn or Genevieve’s Patio have a $1000 facility fee that includes chairs.
The Harbor Room Dinner Receptions have a $500 fee.
The Library Dinner Receptions have a $250 fee.
Other costs and/or fees may be applicable. This information is correct as of 06/03/2020.
Other Considerations
Dinner Receptions include the following services:
- All set up and post-event work
- China
- Glassware
- Silver
- Tables and Chairs
- Linens (white tablecloths upon request)
- Attentive, courteous service.
You can also have North Peak & Jolly Pumpkin beers, Civilized Spirits, and Bonafide Wines produced at their own on-site brewery and distillery for an additional fee.
Also, you may want to note that in order to host your ceremony on The Great Lawn, your ceremony will have to take place after 6pm. The staff of Mission Table will redirect traffic 5 minutes before, during, and 5 minutes after your ceremony itself.
They also have a bridal suite that you and your bridal party may use 30 minutes prior to the ceremony.
Finally, you’ll definitely want to check out our guide to Elopements in Michigan!
Real Elopements at Mission Table
Webster Elopement
A Traverse City Elopement at Mission Table – Throwback Series
Photographed on August 26, 2017