Say I Do and Support Camp Blodgett’s Empowering Mission

By Giuseppa Nadrowski•Published On: June 18, 2024•

Looking for a venue that not only helps and gives back to the local youth but also has insane views of Lake Michigan, a private beach, outdoor space, and lodging? Then Loeks Retreat Center at Camp Blodgett in West Olive is just the place to say I Do.

Since 1921, Camp Blodgett has been dedicated to serving the youth of Grand Rapids and Kent and Ottawa Counties. It all began when the “D.A. Blodgett Home for Children, an organization dedicated to the care of orphaned children, purchased a tract of land on the shores of Lake Michigan to provide a fresh air camping experience for the orphans during the summer months,” says Camp Blodgett Events Manager, Tracy E. Sievers. “A concerned group of women associated with D.A. Blodgett Home, called the Babies’ Welfare Guild, took the children camping and worked hard to maintain the camp.”

Over the years the camp expanded its offerings and today, as a partner agency of the Heart of West Michigan United Way, Camp Blodgett not only offers year-round programming but a summer camp for more than 500 kids. “Our goal is to provide a fun, enriching summer camp experience accessible to all kids,” Sievers says. “Summer camp fees are based on a child’s family size and income. In addition, Camp Blodgett offers free school year programs.”

Photo by David Bos

Located right on Camp Blodgett’s stunning Lake Michigan shoreline, the Loeks Retreat Center is a multifunctional event venue with its own private beach. The center’s sweeping lake vistas can be seen from the dining hall, the spacious deck, and the top floor guest rooms.The sunset views are unparalleled!

Built in 2000, the venue can seat 152 guests and offers guests an option to book overnight accommodations, including eight hotel-inspired rooms (14 queen beds in seven rooms, and a king bed in the bridal suite). There’s also a bunk room (which can accommodate 18 guests) for extra space, or as Sievers says, for that “true camp feel.” Brides and grooms will also love the private gathering rooms that allow each to get ready for their big day while overlooking the lake outside.

Photo courtesy of Camp Blodgett

Couples who choose the center’s full wedding weekend package will not only have the opportunity to setup early but will also have the ability to host a rehearsal the night before as well as a morning-after breakfast. Tables and chairs are included with each rental, as is the use of the kitchen and all appliances. Ceremonies can be held on the outdoor deck, on the beach — imagine the shimmering lake as the backdrop to your vows! — or in the dining hall.

There is so much to love about the Loeks Retreat Center, but, Sievers says, “The biggest standouts for choosing Camp Blodgett for your wedding is the access to Lake Michigan and the support of our mission of empowering kids through outdoor recreation opportunities of summer camp.”