The Cherry Barn
For those planning a wedding in Northern Michigan where both ceremony and reception can be held, look no further than The Cherry Barn Event Venue at Nugent Orchards located near Frankfort, Michigan. The setting of this venue space is within the rolling hills of orchards, valleys and hardwoods owned by five members of the Nugent Family. Herbert Nugent purchased 40 acres in 1918 and a few years later, the adjacent 60-acre house and farm. Herbert’s son Harry eventually purchased the farm and expanded the cherry and apple orchards. I sat down with Parker Nugent, one of Herbert Nugent’s great-grandsons.
“I think the biggest thing is since we’ve all grown up on the property or have spent so much time on the farm throughout our lives it’s such an important part of our family. We’ve all gotten so much joy out of the farm that by having weddings or events on the farm allows others to experience what we’ve experienced for decades and find the joy and fall in love with the property that we all have fell in love with,” said Parker.
In 2018, Parker’s cousin and his now wife wanted to get married on the farm. On the property they had two large buildings that were designed to grow sweet cherry trees, including a clear roof and removable side walls. His cousin wanted to have his wedding reception in one of those barns. The family removed the boxes of trees, put down a white tarp for the floor, installed small white twinkle lights in the rafters, and rented tables and chairs for the reception. Guests kept expressing how beautiful this location is and from there, the family took advantage of a new opportunity, renting out the space as The Cherry Barn Event Venue. They have held weddings, receptions, birthday parties, and Harry Nugent’s Celebration of Life when he passed away.
When booking this venue, you are reserving this working family farm, as well as the event space from 2pm Friday to 2pm on Sunday. Booking this venue allows for people to have a whole weekend experience with the ability to host rehearsal dinner and a Sunday brunch in addition to your ceremony and reception. This is an open-air venue that is perfect for social distancing and couples choose their ceremony location. Improvements for 2021 are new restrooms and private bridal party rooms, one the bride and bridesmaids and another for the groom and groomsmen to get ready or relax in during their time on the farm.
Tables and chairs for up to 200 guests is included in the price. They also have two different sized tents available to rent for larger gatherings, not to mention many other amenities. There is an on-site wedding coordinator in case the client needs anything during the ceremony or reception.
The Cherry Barn Event Venue at Nugent Orchards is a beautiful place for friends and family to come together to celebrate the union of two people. With access to so much of the orchard, it still allows for an intimate setting.
