If you’re in the Grand Rapids area and searching for a wedding venue that’s not only breathtaking but also steeped in history, the Felt Estate should be on the top of your list. As a seasoned wedding photographer, I’ve had the privilege of capturing the magic of countless weddings, and the Felt Estate is a venue that never fails to leave a lasting impression.

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The Estate’s History

The Felt Estate, with its rich history, tells a tale that dates back to the early 1900s when Dorr Felt, a man captivated by the pristine beauty of Michigan’s western coastline, decided to establish an estate here. This grand vision was not just for himself but for his wife Agnes, their four daughters, and their families to summer. The result was a sprawling thousand-acre farm that included a beach house, carriage house, farm house, and even a petting zoo. In 1925, Dorr Felt embarked on the construction of the magnificent Felt Mansion, lovingly referred to as “Agnes’ House.” It took three years to build, and every detail was meticulously crafted. Tragically, only six weeks after the family moved into their dream home, Agnes passed away. Dorr joined her a year and a half later. The Felt family held onto the mansion until 1949, after which it saw a series of different uses, including a Catholic prep school, a state police office, and even a prison.

In 2001, the restoration journey of the mansion began, and by 2007, it was ready to host a new chapter of history. Today, the Felt Estate stands as a testament to its glorious past and is open for various public and private events, making it an ideal backdrop for your dream wedding.

Stunning Venues for Every Element of Your Wedding

Felt Mansion offers an array of stunning settings that cater to your wedding day needs. Whether you’re dreaming of an intimate gathering or a grand affair, this venue can accommodate your desires.

Indoor Elegance

The mansion itself can host up to 120 guests indoors. It features 25 rooms for your guests to explore, from the library and dining room on the first floor to wedding party suites and guest rooms on the second floor, and a breathtaking ballroom on the third floor. Keep in mind that as a historic home, only the first floor is wheelchair accessible. The rental includes tables, chairs, and equipment, as listed on their website.

Unique Ceremony Locations

Exchange your vows in a setting that resonates with you. Besides the quaint Chapel at Shore Acres, where you can seat approximately 70 people, you have the option of saying “I do” at the idyllic water garden or the grand entry of the mansion. The water garden, surrounded by deep blue water, provides a non-traditional and gorgeous setting, while the grand entry offers an intimate ceremony with the stately mansion as your backdrop.

Carriage House Charm

The Carriage House and adjacent tent can accommodate 100 guests. The main floor has wheelchair-accessible restrooms, a catering kitchen, and an event room opening onto the tent and patio. The second floor has suites for wedding parties or overnight accommodations.

Enchanted Gazebo

The wedding gazebo, nestled at the edge of Saugatuck State Park, allows you to exchange vows surrounded by the beauty of the forest and local wildlife. It can accommodate up to 100 people and can be customized with draped fabric, greenery, and candles to add your personal touch.

Guest Accommodations

For you and your guests, the mansion can accommodate up to 12 guests in six bedrooms, including two suites with en suite bathrooms. The Carriage House can also accommodate up to 12 guests in three bunkhouse-style rooms.

Exclusivity and Excellence

One of the many reasons the Felt Estate is a prime choice for your wedding is the exclusive food and beverage vendors they offer. These professionals provide a range of cuisines, service styles, and price points, ensuring that your wedding menu is tailored to your preferences. Additionally, their exclusive rental partners offer specialty lighting, furniture, decor, and more to enhance your big day.

The Felt Estate is committed to making your wedding a memorable and unique experience, all while preserving the charm and history of this remarkable location. When you choose the Felt Estate for your wedding, you’re not just selecting a venue; you’re choosing to become a part of its story.

Packages and Rates

Destination Package – $16,500

• Includes:
  • Access to Mansion
  • Access to Carriage House
  • Use of West Lawn Tent
  • Ceremony Venue
  • Overnight Accommodations
  • Friday & Saturday Events
  • Saturday Continental Breakfast
  • Accommodates up to 250 People
• Description:
  • This is the premier package, offering exclusive use of The Felt Estate for two days and two nights.
  • Ideal for hosting multiple wedding-related events, including a rehearsal dinner at the mansion, a welcome party at the Carriage House, and the main wedding reception in the tent.
  • Includes overnight accommodations for up to 24 people, with a Saturday morning continental breakfast.
  • Perfect for creating lasting memories with your loved ones over an entire weekend.

Estate Package – $8,550

• Includes:
  • Access to Mansion
  • Access to Carriage House
  • Use of West Lawn Tent
  • Ceremony Venue
  • Rental from Noon to Midnight
  • Accommodates up to 250 People
• Description:
  • Exclusive use of The Felt Estate for your wedding day.
  • Provides access to wedding party suites for getting ready, picturesque ceremony locations, and the beautiful West Lawn Tent for dining and dancing.
  • A perfect choice for a full day of celebration.

West Lawn Package – $6,950

• Includes:
  • Access to Mansion
  • Use of West Lawn Tent
  • Ceremony Venue
  • Rental from Noon to Midnight
  • Accommodates up to 250 People
• Description:
  • A package that allows access to the magnificent mansion and the stunning West Lawn Tent.
  • Ideal for couples who want to say their vows and then enjoy a reception with picturesque views.
  • The West Lawn Tent features French window sides, ensuring you and your guests can enjoy the surroundings, rain or shine.

Amenities & Equipment

The Felt Estate provides a range of amenities and equipment to enhance your wedding experience. These include wedding party suites, catering kitchen, public WiFi, heating, air conditioning, event parking, accessible restrooms, smart TV & DVD player, portable sound system, market lighting, café lighting (Carriage House Only), chandeliers (West Lawn Tent Only), clear umbrellas, wooden cross, trellis boxes (West Lawn Tent Only), 6 ‘ & 8’ long tables, 5’ round tables, sweetheart table, cocktail tables, bistro tables (Carriage House Only), ceremony & reception chairs, highchairs, 8’ portable bar (West Lawn Tent Only), 8’ x 16’ stage with skirting (West Lawn Tent Only), pedestal fans (West Lawn Tent Only), and French window tent sides (West Lawn Tent Only).

For further details, inquiries, or to get in touch with the Felt Estate, you can visit their website at www.eventsatfelt.com or reach out to them through social media on Instagram @eventsatfelt. You can also contact them via email at events@feltmansion.org or call/text at 616.218.0078.

Choosing the right package at the Felt Estate ensures your wedding day unfolds in the historic beauty and grandeur of this exceptional venue. It’s a choice that promises to create unforgettable memories for you and your loved ones.

Let’s plan your Felt Estate wedding today!