Wedding

Planning a Destination Wedding in Chicago

A destination wedding is a unique and memorable way to celebrate your love in a beautiful location away from home. This type of wedding combines the nuptials and a vacation, often creating unforgettable experiences for both the couple and their guests. The benefits of a destination wedding include an intimate setting, often reduced guest list, and the opportunity to celebrate over several days rather than just one. Popular destinations for weddings include tropical beaches, picturesque European cities, and vibrant urban locations. Chicago, with its rich history, diverse cultural scene, and stunning architecture, stands out as an exceptional choice for a destination wedding.

Top 10 Wedding Venues in Chicago

What to Look for in a Wedding Venue

When selecting a wedding venue, consider the following factors:

Scenery: Beautiful natural or architectural backdrops.
Capacity: Suitable for the number of guests.
Amenities: Availability of facilities such as dressing rooms, catering options, and parking.
Accessibility: Ease of access for guests, especially those traveling from afar.

1. The Drake Hotel

Description: An iconic hotel with luxurious ballrooms and stunning lake views.
Address: 140 E Walton Pl, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-787-2200

2. The Rookery Building

Description: Historic architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, perfect for a sophisticated urban wedding.
Address: 209 S LaSalle St, Chicago, IL 60604
Contact: +1 312-553-6100

3. The Art Institute of Chicago

Description: A unique venue offering indoor and outdoor spaces surrounded by world-renowned art.
Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Contact: +1 312-443-3600

4. Galleria Marchetti

Description: A charming venue with elegant gardens and tented spaces.
Address: 825 W Erie St, Chicago, IL 60642
Contact: +1 312-563-0495

5. Chicago Botanic Garden

Description: Lush gardens and serene landscapes for a beautiful outdoor wedding.
Address: 1000 Lake Cook Rd, Glencoe, IL 60022
Contact: +1 847-835-5440

6. The Langham, Chicago

Description: A luxurious hotel offering stunning river views and elegant ballrooms.
Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-923-9988

7. Salvage One

Description: A unique, industrial space with vintage decor and eclectic charm.
Address: 1840 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60622
Contact: +1 312-733-0098

8. Cafe Brauer

Description: A historic landmark with beautiful views of Lincoln Park and the zoo.
Address: 2021 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: +1 312-742-2400

9. Venue SIX10

Description: A modern venue with floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning city views.
Address: 610 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Contact: +1 312-322-1700

10. The Ivy Room

Description: A hidden gem in the city with a beautiful garden courtyard and elegant indoor spaces.
Address: 12 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-645-7760

Top 10 Caterers in Chicago

What to Look for in a Caterer

When selecting a caterer, consider the following:

Menu Options: Variety and customization of menu offerings.
Quality: Taste and presentation of food.
Service: Professionalism and reliability of the catering staff.
Experience: Experience in handling weddings and events.

1. Blue Plate Catering

Types of Food: Gourmet cuisine with customizable menus.
Quality and Uniqueness: Known for exquisite presentation and innovative dishes.
Address: 1061 W Van Buren St, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 312-421-6666

2. Limelight Catering

Types of Food: Contemporary American cuisine with seasonal ingredients.
Quality and Uniqueness: Creative and beautifully presented dishes.
Address: 2000 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612
Contact: +1 773-883-3080

3. Catered by Design

Types of Food: Elegant and diverse menu options.
Quality and Uniqueness: Focus on fresh, local ingredients and custom menu planning.
Address: 9204 Waukegan Rd, Morton Grove, IL 60053
Contact: +1 847-965-4094

4. Jewell Events Catering

Types of Food: Upscale cuisine with a focus on seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
Quality and Uniqueness: Exceptional service and bespoke menu options.
Address: 424 N Wood St, Chicago, IL 60622
Contact: +1 312-829-3663

5. Food For Thought

Types of Food: Creative and globally inspired menus.
Quality and Uniqueness: Emphasis on innovation and sustainability.
Address: 7001 N Ridgeway Ave, Lincolnwood, IL 60712
Contact: +1 847-982-2608

6. Fig Catering

Types of Food: Farm-to-table and organic dishes.
Quality and Uniqueness: Customizable menus and a focus on sustainability.
Address: 1850 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608
Contact: +1 773-793-1035

7. Paramount Events

Types of Food: Modern American cuisine with a variety of options.
Quality and Uniqueness: Known for high-quality ingredients and innovative dishes.
Address: 1932 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60612
Contact: +1 773-880-8044

8. Corky’s Catering

Types of Food: Traditional American and BBQ.
Quality and Uniqueness: Affordable, customizable menus with a focus on comfort food.
Address: 1421 W Fullerton Ave, Addison, IL 60101
Contact: +1 630-396-3030

9. The Hearty Boys

Types of Food: Seasonal and sustainable menus.
Quality and Uniqueness: Focus on creative presentations and high-quality ingredients.
Address: 3404 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-244-9866

10. Catering by Michaels

Types of Food: Wide range of cuisines including kosher options.
Quality and Uniqueness: Highly customizable menus with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Address: 6203 Park Ave, Morton Grove, IL 60053
Contact: +1 847-966-6555

Top 10 Wedding Photographers in Chicago

What to Look for in a Wedding Photographer

When choosing a wedding photographer, consider:

Style: Look for a photographer whose style matches your vision (e.g., candid, traditional, artistic).
Portfolio: Review their past work to ensure consistency and quality.
Experience: Experienced photographers can handle a variety of settings and lighting conditions.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with, as they’ll be a big part of your day.

1. Ann & Kam Photography & Cinema

Quality: Artistic and cinematic photography.
Address: 220 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 312-298-9690

2. Megan Saul Photography

Quality: Emotive and candid photography.
Address: 1500 W Carroll Ave, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 773-469-3714

3. Christy Tyler Photography

Quality: Romantic and timeless photography.
Address: 410 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60605
Contact: +1 312-508-3085

4. Ed & Aileen Photography

Quality: Vibrant and storytelling photography.
Address: 1800 W Cornelia Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-564-1125

5. Joshua Albanese Photography

Quality: Modern and dynamic photography.
Address: 321 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: +1 312-544-0022

6. Pen/Carlson

Quality: Classic and elegant photography.
Address: 400 N Racine Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
Contact: +1 312-327-2362

7. Gerber + Scarpelli Photography

Quality: Timeless and sophisticated photography.
Address: 1945 S Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60608
Contact: +1 312-243-9050

8. TimTab Studios

Quality: Artistic and detail-oriented photography.
Address: 211 W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
Contact: +1 312-300-9991

9. Bonphotage

Quality: Light-filled and romantic photography.
Address: 358 W Ontario St, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: +1 312-600-9072

10. True Grace Photography

Quality: Natural and heartfelt photography.
Address: 1231 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-327-1777

Top 10 Florists in Chicago

What to Look for in a Florist

When selecting a florist, consider:

Design Style: Ensure their style matches your vision for the wedding.
Experience: Look for florists with experience in wedding arrangements.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Creativity: A good florist should be able to bring your ideas to life while offering their own creative input.

1. Kehoe Designs

Quality: Luxurious and innovative floral designs.
Address: 2555 S Leavitt St, Chicago, IL 60608
Contact: +1 312-421-0030

2. HMR Designs

Quality: Opulent and bespoke floral arrangements.
Address: 4200 W Diversey Ave, Chicago, IL 60639
Contact: +1 773-782-0800

3. Floral Wonders

Quality: Artistic and intricate floral designs.
Address: 222 Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: +1 312-661-1978

4. Ashland Addison Florist

Quality: Classic and elegant floral arrangements.
Address: 1640 W Fulton St, Chicago, IL 60612
Contact: +1 312-432-1800

5. Blumgarten & Co.

Quality: Contemporary and unique floral designs.
Address: 1457 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-472-4455

6. Stems Chicago

Quality: Organic and whimsical floral arrangements.
Address: 3000 N Sheffield Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-649-0016

7. Flowers for Dreams

Quality: Socially conscious and beautiful floral designs.
Address: 1812 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60622
Contact: +1 312-620-1410

8. J & L Floral Design

Quality: Personalized and creative floral arrangements.
Address: 1717 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Contact: +1 773-342-1495

9. The Flower Firm

Quality: Innovative and high-impact floral designs.
Address: 1550 S Blue Island Ave, Chicago, IL 60608
Contact: +1 312-829-2800

10. Phillip’s Flowers & Gifts

Quality: Full-service floral design with a classic touch.
Address: 1007 E Ogden Ave, Naperville, IL 60563
Contact: +1 630-719-5200

Top 10 Wedding Planners in Chicago

What to Look for in a Wedding Planner

When selecting a wedding planner, consider:

Experience: Look for planners with experience in coordinating weddings.
Reputation: Check reviews and ask for recommendations.
Services: Ensure they offer the services you need, from full planning to day-of coordination.
Personality: Choose someone you feel comfortable with and who understands your vision.

1. Big City Bride

Quality: Personalized planning and elegant designs.
Address: 954 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 773-525-7526

2. LK Events

Quality: Detailed planning and luxury weddings.
Address: 900 N Franklin St, Chicago, IL 60610
Contact: +1 312-203-8473

3. Bliss Events

Quality: Full-service planning with a creative approach.
Address: 1820 W Webster Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: +1 773-661-1755

4. Engaging Events by Ali

Quality: Bespoke planning and design services.
Address: 1919 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
Contact: +1 312-282-8700

5. Shannon Gail Weddings and Events

Quality: Modern and meticulous wedding planning.
Address: 37 S Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 312-951-3400

6. Wrap It Up Parties

Quality: Creative and customized event planning.
Address: 1530 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: +1 773-313-6030

7. Honey Bee Weddings

Quality: Personalized and detail-oriented wedding planning.
Address: 2506 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: +1 312-725-6500

8. Revel Decor

Quality: Innovative design and seamless planning.
Address: 2415 W Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60612
Contact: +1 312-226-0588

9. A Perfect Event

Quality: Full-service planning and event design.
Address: 3050 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Contact: +1 773-244-9333

10. Elena’s Garden Events

Quality: Elegant and tailored wedding planning.
Address: 840 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-884-1114

Where to Host the Welcome Reception

What to Consider in Selecting a Wedding Reception Venue

Location: Proximity to the wedding venue and accommodations.
Capacity: Ability to accommodate the number of guests.
Ambiance: The atmosphere and style of the venue.
Amenities: Availability of catering, parking, and entertainment options.

1. The Signature Room at the 95th

Description: Offers stunning city views and elegant dining.
Address: 875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-787-9596

2. Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse

Description: Classic steakhouse with private dining options.
Address: 1028 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-266-8999

3. RPM Italian

Description: Modern Italian cuisine with private event spaces.
Address: 52 W Illinois St, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: +1 312-222-1888

4. City Winery Chicago

Description: Urban winery with a rustic chic ambiance.
Address: 1200 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 312-733-9463

5. The J. Parker

Description: Rooftop bar with panoramic city views.
Address: 1816 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Contact: +1 312-254-4747

6. Aba

Description: Mediterranean restaurant with a lush rooftop.
Address: 302 N Green St, Chicago, IL 60607
Contact: +1 773-645-1400

7. NoMI Kitchen

Description: Contemporary American cuisine with a garden terrace.
Address: 800 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-239-4030

8. Shaw’s Crab House

Description: Seafood restaurant with a charming atmosphere.
Address: 21 E Hubbard St, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-527-2722

9. Quartino Ristorante & Wine Bar

Description: Italian small plates and an extensive wine list.
Address: 626 N State St, Chicago, IL 60654
Contact: +1 312-698-5000

10. The Promontory

Description: Stylish venue with a rooftop and live music.
Address: 5311 S Lake Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60615
Contact: +1 312-801-2100

Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties

Bachelor Party Ideas

1. Wrigley Field Tour and Cubs Game

Description: A private tour of the iconic stadium followed by a Cubs game.
Contact: +1 773-404-2827

2. Chicago Craft Brewery Tour

Description: Visit multiple craft breweries and enjoy beer tastings.
Contact: +1 312-202-9262 (Chicago Beer Experience)

3. Topgolf

Description: Enjoy a competitive golf game with food and drinks.
Contact: +1 630-596-1000 (Topgolf Naperville)

Bachelorette Party Ideas

1. Spa Day at the Peninsula Spa

Description: Indulge in luxurious treatments and relaxation.
Contact: +1 312-573-6860

2. Wine Tasting at City Winery

Description: Enjoy wine tastings and a private tour of the winery.
Contact: +1 312-733-9463

3. Dinner and Dancing at TAO Chicago

Description: Start with dinner at the upscale restaurant followed by dancing at the nightclub.
Contact: +1 224-888-0388

Where to Obtain a Marriage License – Rules

How and Where to Obtain a Marriage License:

Location: Cook County Clerk’s Office, 50 W Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
Contact: +1 312-603-7790
Requirements: Both parties must appear together, present valid identification, and provide personal details.
Documents Needed: Valid photo ID, proof of age, and social security numbers.
Waiting Period: No waiting period; the license is effective immediately.
Fees: $60
Validity: The license is valid for 60 days and can only be used within Cook County.

Transportation Options

1. Airport Transfers

Service: Go Airport Express
Contact: +1 773-247-1200

2. Local Travel

Service: Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
Contact: +1 888-968-7282

Accommodations

1. The Langham, Chicago

Address: 330 N Wabash Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-923-9988

2. The Peninsula Chicago

Address: 108 E Superior St, Chicago, IL 60611
Contact: +1 312-337-2888

Group Activities

1. Architecture River Cruise

Description: Take a guided cruise along the Chicago River.
Contact: +1 312-922-3432

2. Millennium Park

Description: Explore the park’s art installations and gardens.
Contact: +1 312-742-1168

Logistics and Communication

Tip: Use a wedding website to keep guests informed about the schedule, accommodations, and transportation.
Tip: Hire a local wedding planner to handle on-the-ground details and vendor communications.

Conclusion

Planning a destination wedding in Chicago offers a blend of urban elegance and cultural richness. From selecting the perfect venue and caterer to finding the right photographer and florist, every detail contributes to making your wedding day unforgettable. By following this comprehensive guide, you can ensure a seamless and memorable wedding experience in the Windy City. Personalize your celebration to reflect your unique love story, and enjoy the journey of planning your dream wedding in Chicago.