Best Venues
Atrium at the Inn at St. Johns, Plymouth, MI (High budget)While it may be very pricey, the Inn at St. Johns is my choice for best food, service and overall venue. There is nothing quite as elegant as this location, but the price is quite staggering. Food is 5 star all the way. While I don't have a proper review written, here are some photos: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150237783587081.312158.305732127080&type=3
Webers of Ann Arbor may not be as unique, but the food is excellent and the remodel they did last year makes a world of difference. Great service food and a classy, but relaxed setting. Still a bit pricey, but far less than the Inn at St. Johns.
The Howell Opera House, Howell, MI (Medium budget)
For many, this may not even be on your radar as a venue, but the unique setting (brick walls, wood floor, and glass front entrance area) and historical upstairs area, create some excellent photos! There are a few choices for caterers at this location. I recommend Gerard's Catering (see below). Up lighting can do wonders here, as the venue is a blank canvas. I've done a few reviews, here is the most recent: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/06/2013-weddings-some-familiar-places.html
And for the budget minded, I have a tie between...
St Agnes of Fowlerville, MI and the American Spirit Center in Brighton, MI
Both are nice venues that can be improved greatly with the addition of up lighting and a few decorations.
Review for St. Agnes: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/09/venue-review-st-agnes-gerards-catering.html
Review for American Spirit Center: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2011/08/venue-reviews-are-back-american-spirit.html
Best Caterers
Gerard's Catering (Chef Joe) 517-548-1303I've been told his prices are reasonable and the food is top notch!
Most Unique Venue
Fox Hills (Classic) in Plymouth, MIThe log cabin look, beautiful outdoor scenery (gazebo for ceremonies), top notch service and five star food make this not only a great venue, but my choice for most unique this year. It's layout is a bit different, but still works quite well for sound and dancing. Read my review here: http://edthedjguy.blogspot.com/2013/10/venue-review-fox-hills-classic-fox.html
Best Photographer
Starting from the high end...Bak Photography 734-429-1111
No one brings more to the table than Mark Bak. His attention to detail and 30+ years experience are unmatched. He's done Hollywood stars, politicians and professional athletes.
Lindsay Jane Photography (LindsayJBphoto@gmail.com)
Lindsay is a pleasure to work with and is reasonably priced. She did our wedding 8 years ago and gave us exactly what we wanted.
Thanks for checking out my top picks and be sure to call me for all your entertainment needs...
DJ, photo booth and up lighting (517-404-0418) The DJ Guy
Have a great 2014!