Lori, Yes, you could make a coleus standard in Michigan. Start now with some of those pretty ruffled ones with Christmas colors. Put good sized plant in a 8" - 10" pot, since you're going to have a heavy top, use clay pot, could even put layer of rocks in the bottom.
Any how pinch back to one trunk, Turn 1/4 turn daily to keep it growing straight. Might plant 3 clean chopsticks close around plant to help support top.
When you get it as tall as you like keep it pinched back.

Lori, that sounds beautiful..
You can keep Coleus for yrs, you don't have to live in Ca or Fl..lol
In winter, keep in bright window, away from heater. Follow MsSidney's advice on growing..I'm not sure about the 8-10" pot though..It all depends on how big a plant you're using..If a cutting, then start w/a 4" pot..If you've an established plant then set in 1-2 sizes larger..
Also, water well but let soil dry a little between waterings in winter. If possible, mist leaves daily. Toni

I'm going to try to "standardize" three coleus I never got in the ground this summer, but am just starting now (September). I'll overwinter in the house, which I've done before, but should I be pinching all the flower heads off, in addition to the lower leaves?