my favorites
With so many options in the city, where do you even begin when it comes to choosing a ceremony and reception venue? This resource highlights ten of my favorite Chicago Wedding Venues, to help get you started on your way to the wedding of your dreams.
real talk:
Location matters. Your ceremony and reception venue choice will have the single greatest impact on the look and vibe of your wedding photos.
Here are some of our favorite Chicago wedding venues and why we love them. Don't see the venue you've been eyeing? Read below for more tips on what to look for in a venue for swoon-worthy wedding photos.
The grand staircase at the Rookery is a moment all on its own. With interior spaces as beautiful as these you'll have a built-in weather plan.
The atrium is covered with a beautifully designed glass ceiling which allows great natural light for your daytime ceremony.
Walk out the front doors and you're already at one of Chicago's favorite photo spots, the Board of Trade building. Tucked away in the Financial District, the Rookery offers one of the best locations and interiors putting this venue in our top spot.
It doesn't get more classic than the architecture at Chicago's Blackstone hotel. From the checker-floored lounge to the ornate detailing throughout, this space is sure to give your photos that timeless look.
Lake views from your luxurious hotel suite, and a short walk to gorgeous nature-filled portrait locations. Or, hop on your Chicago trolley for a quick drive to the Wrigley building and Riverwalk.
This ballroom features a faux-second story balcony which gives the look of a large open space, with the feel of an intimate gathering. Perfect for mid to smaller sized guest lists.
Need we say more? This rooftop terrace can accommodate a smaller guest list but packs a punch with its incredible location and open-feel terrace.
Situated on Wacker drive, this stunning venue space is steps away from some of your favorite Chicago photo ops along the Chicago Riverfront.
In addition to a gorgeous terrace to host your ceremony, this hotel features a penthouse-level ballroom with a view.
Located near Montrose beach, this venue feels like a private retreat, and provides a quiet, intimate feel.
It's always fun to hit iconic Chicago landmarks for portrait time, but Saddle & Cycle club offers plenty of photo-worthy spots right on-site,
A tented outdoor terrace with built-in weather plan, beautiful ballroom with light-colored interiors, and a space that can be left minimal or transformed to make your day all your own.
From its huge ballroom, spacious bar, and modern loft-feel ceremony space to a rooftop with a view, the Walden boasts plenty of variety for your on-site ceremony and reception.
The rooftop at the Walden is an added bonus to this gorgeous, modern venue. An un-obstructed city view for those oh-so-Chicago photo moments.
The Walden features one of our fave on-site bridal suites for its layout, separate green room-style hair and makeup counters, and fun and bright lounge area.
The interior spaces of Michigan Shores Club give very "royal wedding" vibes. Classic and timeless ornate features full of character and charm.
Located in the quiet and beautifully kept Wilmette suburb without all the hustle and bustle of downtown, this venue is an introvert's dream.
A short drive from Michigan Shores Club, the Ba'hai temple is an architectural masterpiece with a spiritual atmosphere and pristine landscaping. A must-stop photo spot for those choosing to wed at MSC.
Featured in films such as The Untouchables, My Best Friend's Wedding, and Man of Steel, this historic Chicago landmark will undoubtedly bring you a stunning backdrop for your wedding day events.
From its famous staircase, to the grand ballroom, to its ornate, classic exterior, this venue can serve as a one-stop-shop for all your wedding day portraits.
Finding an architecturally ornate Chicago wedding venue that can accommodate a larger wedding can be a challenge, but look no further than Chicago's Union Station to host your wedding with up to 220 guests.
For the boho-chic couples, this industrial-vibe venue is another great all-in-one venue option. Having everything all in one place makes your Chicago wedding easier on guests (and you!).
A remodeled industrial loft with plenty of natural light for your midday ceremony and a beautiful ambiance as you transition your celebration onto the dance floor.
If you can't tell by now, we just love a good staircase moment. They provide movement through posing variation and visual interest and the staircase at The Fairlie is no exception.
The rooftop at Room 1520 offers enough space to accommodate your large wedding party portraits with that city skyline view we love.
Room 1520 puts a light, bright and modern spin on the industrial venue vibes. With its all-white interior ballroom and gorgeous chandeliers, this venue is a modern couple's dream.
Bonus photo spot: this adorable vine-covered alleyway is the perfect spot for an intimate first-look and couples portraits.
Loft Lucia can host your outdoor ceremony and indoor reception for up to 120 guests. Its adorable and well-kept terrace is a beautiful location to exchange vows.
A smaller venue, Loft Lucia is perfect for giving those cozy and intimate vibes.
Minutes from Chicago's Fulton Market District, and just an 11 minute drive (on a good day) to your favorite downtown Chicago photo stops, this venue is one of our faves west of the river.
Daydreaming of getting married in an Italian villa but want to make sure all your closest friends and family can make it to your big day? The Villa Terrace Decorative Arts Museum is your Tuscany-meets-Midwest solution.
We'll just pretend it's the Mediterranean ;)
Your guests will be transported to your European-inspired wedding with a simple two=hour drive from Chicago. It doesn't get much better (or easier!) than that.
iconic architecture
Neutral walls and floors
easy-access to photo locations
minimal, clean furniture
BONUS: ACCESSIBLE ROOFTOP with a view
ready for next steps?
Already found your photo-worthy wedding venue? We can't wait to hear about it! Next up in your planning journey is to lock in your photographer. Follow the link to fill out our contact form and we will be in touch shortly!
“We feel like models now and want to do this again!! I hope you know how much these memories mean to us!”
-Lauryn & Dono