Silver Lake Sand Dunes Elopement Highlights – Ian + Annabelle
While only about 90 minutes north of Grand Rapids, Silver Lake Sand Dunes looks like you’ve traveled all the way to the Sahara! Check out high school sweethearts Ian and Annabelle’s stunning boho elopement highlights. *Warning – don’t be alarmed if your jaw frequently drops to the floor with these two!
Curious what it’s like doing a session or elopement at Silver Lake Sand Dunes?! I’ll share my tips and tricks for everything you need to know about SLSD throughout this blog.
1.) Where is Silver Lake Sand Dunes Located? SLSD is located about 90 minutes northwest of GR in a tiny town called Mears, MI. While the park is open all year round, during the summer months (i.e. Memorial Day-Labor Day) you’ll need a rec pass on your license plate to park for free or pay the $25 cash-only parking fee. As a heads-up, if you don’t have the rec pass, make sure to plan ahead with cash since Mears is a super tiny town, and finding an ATM is difficult. The park is located at the end of basically a residential street so the only parking option is in the designated lot.
2.) Are the dunes accessible? Be prepared for a HIKE! Getting to the dune area requires climbing stairs or a very steep sandy incline (like almost vertical!) Remember to factor the “hike” time in and wear comfortable shoes – or go barefoot. You should also bring plenty of water, especially if you go during the hot summer months to stay hydrated. Finally, you can probably expect your calves to be a little tight and sore the following day – but it’ll be worth it!
3.) The dunes can get SUPER WINDY! It’s pretty gusty up there so for the ladies (and fellas) with long hair, be prepared for some Beyonce level windy swept goodness! My advice, just roll with it! If you’re not a fun of the look, consider pulling your hair back in a half up/half down style or updo. The windy means it’s also colder on the dunes than even down in the parking lot. Factor in bringing a jacket or sweater to warm up as needed – yes, even on those summer evenings!
4.) Bring your sense of adventure! Silver Lake Sand Dunes are one of my absolute fav spots to shoot in the Lower Peninsula of Michigan. It’s a magical place for those couples who want an adventure in their session. From the sandy bluffs to the KILLER sunsets, 10/10 I can’t recommend shooting at SLSD enough!
Are you ready for an EPIC session or elopement on Silver Lake Sand Dunes? I sure am! Contact me today and let’s make it happen!
