THE JOURNAL
Bubbles & Blooms
What a joy it was to welcome so many flower lovers to our recent workshop! We had friends join us from near and far - some driving in from Grand Rapids and Ann Arbor, while others were familiar faces from our local community here in Marshall. It's always heartwarming to see people come together over a shared passion for beautiful blooms.
.
Nothing says 'celebration' quite like the pop of a Prosecco cork and the sight of vibrant dahlias. As we sipped our bubbly, the room filled with excited chatter and the sweet fragrance of flowers. It set the perfect mood for a day of creativity and learning.
.
The main event of our workshop was learning to create European hand-tied bouquets. Each participant got to design their own, and oh my, were the results stunning! It was amazing to see how everyone's unique personality shone through in their arrangements. Some went for bold and dramatic, while others opted for soft and romantic.
.
Real Wedding - Olivia & Joshua
When it comes to wedding venues in Michigan, The Millhaven stands out as an example of modern romance. For one beautiful Michigan bride, Olivia, and her beloved Joshua, our picturesque location in Marshall, Michigan, became the backdrop for their unforgettable union.
.
As if touched by divine intervention, the cloudy skies parted just in time for Olivia and Joshua's garden ceremony. The aisle was adorned with lush hydrangeas, guiding Olivia towards her waiting groom. Promises were made in the presence of God and their dearest family and friends. Smith's Floral Boutique elevated the event with stunning centerpieces and bouquets, seamlessly integrating nature's beauty into the celebration. Complementing the floral arrangements, Beth's Cake Boutique crafted an exquisite wedding cake that was both visually stunning and delicious. Ashley D'Orazio Photography expertly captured every precious moment, from the tender exchange of vows to the joyous reception.
.
For couples seeking the perfect wedding venue in Michigan, look no further than The Millhaven. Our enchanting destination offers a blend of elegance and rustic charm, making it an ideal choice for any Michigan bride dreaming of a truly magical day.
.
Gather & Grow
Yesterday was a day to remember as wedding and event industry professionals gathered at the beautiful Greencrest Manor and The Millhaven. We came together with a shared purpose: to encourage one another and enjoy an incredible meal. This gathering was more than just a social event; it was an opportunity to grow, connect, and strengthen our community.
.
Greencrest Manor, with its rich history and stunning architecture, provided the perfect backdrop for our gathering. As we walked through its elegant rooms and lush English gardens, conversations flowed naturally, and new connections were forged. Our journey continued at The Millhaven, where modern charm meets rustic beauty. A sister property to Greencrest Manor, The Millhaven showcased our venue’s diversity while providing a rich setting for a gorgeous tablescape designed by the Modern Day Collective team and Spanish-inspired cuisine by Chef Kody.
.
As professionals in the wedding and event industry, we often find ourselves working independently or in small teams. This gathering gave us a rare opportunity to come together and share our experiences, challenges, and successes. One of the most valuable aspects of our gathering was the chance to encourage one another. In an industry that can sometimes feel competitive, it was refreshing to create a space where we could uplift and support each other.
.
As we return to our individual businesses, we carry with us the inspiration and connections made during this gathering. Let's continue to support each other, share our knowledge, and grow together. After all, when we lift each other up, the entire wedding and event industry rises. We can’t wait to share more details about our next gathering!
.
Real Wedding - Claire & Alex
As the sun rose over Marshall, a quaint charm buzzed through the Villa on Verona, setting a picturesque stage for Claire and Alex’s real wedding day. It was a day earmarked for elegance and heartfelt moments, a testament to their love and the careful planning.
The ceremony itself was an intimate affair, held within the gardens of The Millhaven. Each aspect of the service was imbued with personal touches from Claire and Alex. Our personal favorite moment was enveloped in levity during the processional when the Flower Men (Beer Boys? Brew Butlers?) distributed White Claws, Bell’s, and Miller Light to the seated guests! What better way to start a marriage then within the echoes of laughter and unadulterated joy!
Known for its rustic industrial charm and historical significance in Marshall, The Pickle Factory was transformed into a night of exhilaration with dancing, laughter, and poignant speeches. The space was accentuated with string lights, creating a warm, inviting glow that danced across the brick walls while DJ Adrian Butler (affectionately known around here as AB) kept the music pumping late into the night!
Claire’s love for florals was evident throughout the day, thanks to the exquisite designs from our sister company, Modern Day Floral. From the lush bouquets that the bridal party flaunted to the intricate table centerpieces at the reception, each arrangement was a testament to their impeccable taste.
As the night drew to a close, it was clear that Claire and Alex had succeeded in creating a wedding that was not only a celebration of their love but also a memorable gathering for all who attended.
Real Wedding - Olivia & Brad
June weddings have a magic of their own, and Olivia and Brad's special day in Southwest Michigan was no exception. Set against the picturesque backdrop of The Millhaven in Marshall, Michigan, their wedding not only celebrated their love but also showcased the beauty of local vendors and stunning designs. From the gorgeous floral arrangements to the unforgettable photography, each detail added a layer of charm to their perfect June wedding.
Real Wedding - Madalyn & Curtis
Welcome to a glimpse of Madalyn and Curtis's beautiful wedding where we witnessed the beginning of a forever love story and the launch of our very own story hosting weddings. From the rose-lined aisle in their early spring garden ceremony, first look in the Greenhouse, to their lively reception in our unique Pickle Factory, their wedding was nothing short of magical. Enjoy a small gallery of their special day and perhaps find some inspiration for your own celebration!
Our First Wedding - Behind the Scenes!
When Madalyn and Curtis decided to tie the knot at The Millhaven, little did we know just how magical the day would become. The early spring garden, bursting into life with blooming flowers and fresh foliage, was the perfect backdrop for their heartfelt vows. As the couple expressed their eternal love amidst the vibrant hues of tulips and an aisle lined with pink roses, an enchanting atmosphere enveloped everyone present.
Following the beautiful (and slightly chilly) ceremony, guests were guided to the Greenhouse for cocktails. This charming space, filled with lush greenery, created a serene and intimate ambiance for mingling and laughter. The reception in our Pickle Factory was where the celebration reached its peak. With twinkling fairy lights suspended from wooden, barrel-vaulted ceiling along with elegant table settings, it was both a sight to behold and a space that radiated warmth and joy.
What a perfect start to our story at The Millhaven and the beginning of a beautiful forever for Madalyn & Curtis. From the magnificent garden vows to the cozy Greenhouse cocktails and the jubilant Pickle Factory reception, their wedding day showcased the potential of The Millhaven for hosting unforgettable celebrations. Here's to many more enchanting "I dos" and celebrations within our cherished spaces.
Ready to plan your dream wedding at The Millhaven? Reach out today, and let’s start creating magical memories together!
Spring Cleaning
We’re starting to imagine that spring is in the air but why does it still have to be so bitterly cold?! Even so, there's a buzz of excitement as we prepare our Garden for its debut wedding ceremony in a few short weeks. This is not just any garden—it’s where countless beautiful moments and lifelong memories will begin. Creating a dreamy garden goes beyond just planting flowers. It’s about crafting a space that feels inviting and magical and we know that adding pergolas will do just that!
Our ceremony garden holds a promise of beauty and joy, much like the weddings it will host. Thanks to the hard work and dedication of our incredible team, we’re confident it will be the perfect setting for every couple’s special day.
Switching Gears
Exciting News & Heartfelt Thanks from The Millhaven Café Team
As the gentle breezes of spring start to whisper, it's time for some reflective pauses and blossoming opportunities at The Millhaven Café! We're closing our doors for now to celebrate this Easter holiday and spring break in order to shift our focus and sprinkle extra love and attention on our upcoming weddings and events. Our commitment is to ensure every detail sparkles with perfection!
But hey, we’re not going anywhere for long! We're bubbling over with excitement to announce our upcoming schedule of Bubbles and Blooms classes. You won't want to miss this blend of sparkling conversations and floral masterpieces. Get ready to mark your calendars!
And yes, the summer vibes are going to be tastier than ever with our Tasty Tues events! Think of your favorite food trucks rolling back into town, along with some fresh, new faces we know you're going to adore. Let’s make this summer an unforgettable flavor journey together!
A very special shout-out to Paige, whose passion and expertise have been the cornerstone of our café. As was originally planned, she will be venturing back to her food truck, Precious Peonies. We’re sending her with all our love and best wishes!
Shaken or Poured?
Signature cocktails are an incredible way to add personalization to your wedding celebration but who doesn't love a classic Espresso Martini?!
At The Millhaven Café, we're passionate about crafting exquisite signature cocktails while also providing timeless favorites! When you come for your venue tour, be sure to stop into the café and sample our latest creations! The Perfect Pear, using our own goat cheese infused gin, has become a cult favorite. Indulge in our Blood Orange Coconut Creme mocktail and you'll instantly be transported to your favorite Spring Break destination! Or stick with a classic Chardonnay which pairs beautifully with the Kale Chicken Salad.
Galentine Glimmers - A Floral Design Workshop
Glimmers — these magical, tiny moments of awe that can spark joy and bring a sense of inner calm. They are the subtle nudges that tell our nervous system, "It's okay, you're safe." Think about the rush of happiness when you see a puppy, the peacefulness of a quiet walk in the woods, or the nostalgia of hearing a song from your college days. And, naturally, the sweet fragrance of a fresh bloom fits right into this category. With the Galentine Glimmers Workshop, the simple act of arranging flowers became a metaphor for seeking out and appreciating these glimmers. Each bloom chosen, each stem carefully positioned, was a reminder to find joy in the small things, to savor those fleeting moments of tranquility and happiness.
Bringing over 20 years of floral design experience to the table, Jenn Ederer, the owner of The Millhaven, Modern Day Floral & Events, and Greencrest Manor, was at the heart of this workshop. With her was a dedicated team, excited to share their passion and knowledge. This event was all about cherishing the friendships that color our lives. The cheerful chatter and warm smiles set the perfect backdrop for what was to come: a hands-on floral design workshop centered around the intricate art of creating a European hand-tied bouquet.
Everyone gathered, whether they came with lifelong friends, new acquaintances, or solo, left with a shared sense of camaraderie and, of course, a bouquet that they skillfully crafted themselves.
3 of a Kind at the Café
Saturday night, The Millhaven Café transformed into the ultimate cozy retreat. It wasn't just about sipping cocktails or digging into comfort food; the real magic came from 3 of a Kind, a live band that raised the roof with their sensational mix of classics, oldies, and blues. As I walked into the café, the very first notes playing set the mood—everyone knew it was going to be a delightful evening.
The cozy atmosphere was a sanctuary from the biting cold outside. The Café’s windows fogged up, creating a semi-translucent screen that isolated us from the wintry world outside. It felt like being in a snow globe where time stood still, save for the soulful music swirling around us.
In the end, it wasn’t just the music or the food and drink that made the evening special; it was the sense of community. As the night drew to a close and the last notes played, a collective feeling of contentment spread through the room.
Gingerbread House Workshop
The holiday season is a time for joy, laughter, and creating cherished memories with loved ones. This year, our 2nd Annual Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop was no exception. Several families from our wonderful community joined us, infusing the room with an atmosphere of festive cheer and creativity.
From the minute families started to arrive, to the final moments of admiring our sugary masterpieces, the experience was one to remember. One of the best parts of the workshop was seeing families come together to create something wonderful. Parents, grandparents, and children worked side by side, sharing laughter and stories as they adorned their gingerbread houses. It was heartwarming to see young hands working carefully with older hands, crafting deliciously decorated homes.
The event left us all with full hearts, sticky fingers, and a collection of delightful holiday memories. Thank you to everyone who participated and made this workshop such a joyous occasion. We can’t wait to see you next year!
Bubbles & Blooms Thanksgiving Edition
The Bubbles & Blooms floral design workshop has gained quite the following lately! It's no surprise really; who wouldn't want to spend an afternoon surrounded by beautiful flowers and good company? Whether you're a seasoned gardener or someone who just loves a nicely arranged bouquet, this workshop has something for everyone.
Due to the high turn out, we moved our group from the Greenhouse to The Pickle Factory. Our guests had the opportunity to experience its rustic charm which provided a unique backdrop for our floral endeavors. The high ceilings, exposed brick walls, and elegant décor infused the workshop with a sense of expansive creativity. Our main project of the day was creating stunning centerpieces for our Thanksgiving tables. Using a mix of autumnal blooms, rich foliage, and seasonal accents like pears, dried oranges, and grapes, everyone put their personal touch on their arrangements. The results? Simply breathtaking.
Creating beauty with flowers while sipping on mimosas in the warmth of The Pickle Factory is an experience like no other. Whether you're a seasoned florist or just someone who loves flowers, Bubbles & Blooms is a must-try. Who knows? You might even discover a hidden talent along the way!
Taste of The Millhaven
A thank you to our friends and family who joined us at The Millhaven Café. Your presence made our opening truly special. As you mingled, shared stories, and laughed together, you brought a vibrant energy to our space. It's those moments of connection that make our Café more than just a place to dine.
We understand that you took time out of your busy schedules to show your support, and for that, we're incredibly grateful. Each interaction, be it a friendly chat over a Perfect Pear cocktail or a hearty discussion on the Brie Flight, warmed our hearts. Your willingness to experience our offerings and provide feedback means the world to us as we strive to make The Millhaven a beloved spot in our community.
Come dine with us, share in our culinary passion, and make The Millhaven Café your go-to spot for great food, amazing drinks, and warm company. See you soon!
Holiday Open House and Café Preview
We can't express enough how grateful we are for everyone who came out to support our open house and café preview. Your presence truly made the event special. It was heartwarming to see so many smiling faces enjoying the holiday decor, finding that perfect gift, and sampling our new menu and signature cocktails. Our Perfect Pear cocktail with goat cheese was quite the hit!
For those of you who couldn't make it, we missed you! But don't worry, the holiday cheer, amazing decor, and delightful food and drinks will be here throughout the season, and we hope to see you soon. For those who came, we hope you found everything you were looking for and more. Personally, seeing you all enjoying the space made all the hard work worthwhile.
‘Tis the Season
The holiday season is knocking on our doors, and with it comes joy of giving. At The Millhaven, we're thrilled to help make your holiday shopping easier! We're excited to announce that we've prepared exceptional collection of gift baskets, each filled with treasures curated to bring smiles and spread the holiday cheer.
We look forward to welcoming and assisting you in finding the perfect gift that will make this holiday season truly special for you and your loved ones.
Fall Bridal Open House
We cherished every moment spent connecting with both current and future brides at our recent bridal open house held at The Pickle Factory. From enthusiastic first-time brides-to-be to our wonderful existing brides, every attendee brought a unique flair and excitement that made the event truly special.
One of the highlights of the open house was the opportunity to answer all your wedding-related questions. We know planning a wedding can be overwhelming, and our team enjoyed offering advice and sharing our expertise.
We cannot express enough gratitude to everyone who attended. Your enthusiasm and joy were contagious, making the event a resounding success. We hope you left with a wealth of ideas and newfound confidence in planning your big day in Southwest Michigan!
Bubbles & Blooms - With a Twist!
It’s been heartwarming to see the increasing interest in our floral design workshops at The Millhaven. What started as a simple idea to share the joy of floral artistry has blossomed into a community event that brings people together in the most delightful way. New attendees and returning participants alike have shared wonderful feedback, which encourages us to keep improving and adding unique touches to each session.
To take things up a notch, we introduced a new element to our latest workshop: wine pairings. Our wine representative brought a curated selection of wines that perfectly complemented each stage of the floral design process.
We are incredibly grateful for everyone who joined us for the second Bubbles and Bloom workshop. Your enthusiasm and creativity made the day special. It's always a joy to see the unique floral designs that emerge from each workshop and the smiles on everyone's faces as they take home their creations.
"Creativity is contagious, pass it on." – Albert Einstein
September Tasty Tues
As the leaves begin to change and the air takes on that familiar crispness, there's no better time to come together as a community. This past Tuesday, The Millhaven welcomed the fall season with open arms—and what a celebration it was! The cooler temperatures provided the perfect setting for an outdoor gathering, making it both comfortable and refreshing while surrounded by friends and neighbors with the soft hum of live music in the background. It's these little moments that make fall truly magical.