Chicago Wedding Venues
Your Guide to the Best the City Has to Offer!
Chicago might just be one of the most beautiful cities America has. So it's only natural that it's a top choice for couples when they are wedding planning. Everything from the lake, to the skyline to the quietness of our neighborhoods, there is a venue that fits everyone's vision. Being a wedding photographer in this city for over 12 years, I've had the pleasure of photographing so many different spaces and I've seen it all! It's about time I finally pulled together a list to highlight some of my favorites!
These spots were chosen for different reasons and if you're looking for something specific, feel free to jump straight to it below, but I'll do a deep dive into why I love each one (from a photography perspective) and why it just might be the spot for your day. Be sure to check out the real wedding's from each space to truly get a feel for how the space feels!
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One Stop Shops
Venues to Show Off Chicago
Venues your Friends Don't Know About Yet
Venues for the Classic Couple
Suburban Surprises
-->The convenience of an all-in-one venue. You can have your ceremony, cocktail hour and reception all at one venue making it easy for guests and a seamless experience<--
Why it's perfect: Galleria Marchetti calls River West home and offers two different venues in one. The Pergola is their option for more intimate weddings and boasts a retractable roof, offering dining under the stars when the weather is perfect. 
The European style crosses into both spaces and can also be seen in their second space, The Pavillion, which showcases an outdoor ceremony space, cocktail zone and a tented reception area for stunning decor opportunities.
The European style crosses into both spaces and can also be seen in their second space, The Pavillion, which showcases an outdoor ceremony space, cocktail zone and a tented reception area for stunning decor opportunities.
From the venue's site: "One beautiful property, two event venues."
Photographer's Tip: Make space in your timeline to utilize the venue as a photo backdrop. The ivy covered walls on both sides of the venue make a great scene for some stunning portraits!
Why it's perfect: Rockwell on the River is one of a kind in Chicago simply for its shear size. You'll often find that venues have to do a "room flip." This is when your ceremony space gets overhauled during cocktail hour to become your reception space.
At Rockwell, there is enough space for you to have ceremony and reception set up at the same time and even have cocktail hour in a third area. It provides a feeling of a great flow for your guests and the best part is your cocktail hour can be right along the river if the weather calls for it! The brick and wood ceilings create a sense of grand size and you will never feel cramped in this space; allowing for you to have different decor vignettes (think stations, photo backdrops, etc!)From the venue's site: "Step off Rockwell Street and onto the cobblestones and see why visitors and guests are awed when they arrive."
Why it's perfect: I love love love Brideport Art Center. For starters, you have options here. But truthfully, the sculpture garden is where it's at. This is such a unique space in Chicago and you won't find another venue that looks like this garden. 
Not only does it photograph beautifully, but you can get married outside and not worry too much about the weather because it's covered. This space transforms into a gorgeous cocktail space before you go into the industrial reception space with wood beams.
Not only does it photograph beautifully, but you can get married outside and not worry too much about the weather because it's covered. This space transforms into a gorgeous cocktail space before you go into the industrial reception space with wood beams.
From the venue's site: "Raw Urban Elegance"
-->You're looking for a venue to enmesh your guests in a true Chicago experience. Be it the food, the views or the vibes that Chicago has to offer, you want your guests to KNOW they are in Chicago<--
Why it's perfect: If you're wanting a venue that is truly unique in the sense of "you can actually get married here?!" then Adler is your space. Not only does it show off the best view of Chicago's skyline + lakefront, but the all glass space allows you to watch the sunset at dinner and dance under the stars. Fitting, considering just a few feet away are the coolest space exhibits that your guests can browse! Bonus: if the weather is right, you can have your ceremony at the steps of the museum right along the lake.
From the venue's site: "Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Lake Michigan and Chicago’s magnificent skyline, making the Solarium the premier event space at the Adler and the most spectacular backdrop for any occasion."
Photographer's Tip: Take full advantage of the museum campus that Adler lives in! The Field Museum is a hop skip and a jump away and it will give you photos that lean into the stunning architecture that Chicago has to offer giving you insane variety between the skyline, lake and the campus grounds.
Why it's perfect: A little piece of my heart lives at Cafe Brauer. Not only is the space absolutely stunning in all its historic glory, it is a perfect location for a killer view of the city skyline. If you want old world charm with brick, antique light fixtures and that touch of color, Cafe Brauer is your spot. The best part is you can do so much in the space to make it your own. Light installs? Yes. Hanging Florals? Yup. Full band stage? You got it. 
From the venue's site: "This venue overlooks Nature Boardwalk, a lively pond ecosystem, and has a clear view of the surrounding park and city skyline from the Great Hall.
Photographer's Tip: Ask your photographer to take full advantage of the balcony for your reception and dancing. The view from up their is epic and it will add that wow-factor to your first dance photos!
Why it's perfect: ALL THE VIBES. A rooftop wedding venue in the heart of Fulton Market is the perfect space for the couple looking for a stunner show-off in the Chicago the locals love. Morgan's on Fulton is a space that has your back regardless of the weather. The retractable roof allows for the rooftop vibe even in a rain shower. It's al fresco dining at it's best and the ability to truly make this space yours is top tier.
From the venue's site: "An ideal Fulton Market location, state of the art in-house catering, contemporary design and furnishings, all inclusive food and beverage packages, and a fully retractable glass enclosed rooftop."
Photographer's Tip: This is one of the rare venues in Chicago that shows off the sunset! Take advantage of golden hour on the rooftop space and actually get that glowy light that we don't often see in Chicago!
-->If you're a Chicago native, you might be sick of the same old, same old. Can't choose that venue because 10 of your high school friends got married there? Check out some hidden gems<--
Why it's perfect: Oh my lanta! The Winter Garden is a hidden gem in the Harold Washington Library. Located right in the loop, this venue is jaw-dropping. 
The ceiling; all glass. The aesthetic; Parisian blues. The vibes; immaculate. Your guests won't even know what's coming when you tell them "we're getting married in a library."
The ceiling; all glass. The aesthetic; Parisian blues. The vibes; immaculate. Your guests won't even know what's coming when you tell them "we're getting married in a library."
From the venue's site: "Located on the 9th floor, this elegant and spacious atrium features a terrazzo and marble floor, and a 52-foot glass-paneled dome spanning the entire room."
Photographer's Tip: We got a balcony! Take full advantage of your photo-ops and be sure to request photos from above (first dances)! Especially to capture that gorgeous marble floor!
Why it's perfect: The Joinery is the quaintest spot nestled in the Logan Square neighborhood. If you're wanting Chicago, but not "big city, big lights" Chicago, then this is your spot. It feels like you're at home when you're at The Joinery. That could also be because they have sleeping accommodations on site as well. Or maybe it's their cute courtyard that let's you host cocktail hour outdoors before heading inside to their rustic reception space. 
From the venue's site: "A former woodworking shop sitting on the seam of Chicago’s Humboldt Park and Logan Square neighborhoods, The Joinery celebrates the remnants of a storied past as it sits in the present as a place of gathering for you to create memories for the future."
Photographer's Tip: Take advantage of the fact this venue is truly a blank space. The ability to customize the reception space and make it unique to you is a huge selling factor for The Joinery. Does it have a vintage vibe? Yup. But you can do SO much to make it your very own space.
-->You are a couple that doesn't want to regret those decisions in 40 years. No cringing here. You're looking for something that stands the test of time and will be just as gorgeous when you're showing your grandkids your photos. <--
Why it's perfect: Their might not be a space more Chicago than the Chicago History Museum. Quite literally, your guests can sip cocktails and dine in the middle of Chicago's history. Everything from the grand staircase outside, the white pillars and the black and white checkered floor, this space is *chefs kiss* classical. If you're looking for timeless, this is it. 
From the venue's site: "Tucked along the grounds of Lincoln Park, steps from the lake and a short cab ride from downtown, the Chicago History Museum is the perfect place to host a celebration for the record books."
Photographer's Tip: The stairs in their outdoor plaza is your best friend at this venue. Want large family photos? There's enough space. Huge wedding party? Enough space. Epic portraits of just the two of you? Done. USE. THE. STAIRS.
Why it's perfect: The Dalcy is a stunner in Fulton Market that serves epic food, epic rooftop vibes and a classic reception space for the couple wanting something that won't ever go out of style. 
A white brick interior adds flair to the industrial vibes up top; exposed beams and black accents. That candlelit reception vibe you're wanting? It's achieved here with accolades.
A white brick interior adds flair to the industrial vibes up top; exposed beams and black accents. That candlelit reception vibe you're wanting? It's achieved here with accolades.
From the venue's site: "Sharing the third floor with Aba, a Mediterranean & California-inspired restaurant, the 6,000-square foot venue and 4,000-square foot rooftop patio is the ideal setting."
Photographer's Tip: The Dalcy allows floral installations and putting one in this space easily creates a show-stopping centerpiece of your evening. It's an easy way to create drama in a space that is asking for it! But, if that's not the kind of drama you're looking for, just go into the women's bathroom and find your own dramatic photo spot. Thank me later.
Why it's perfect: Right in the heart of River North, RPM Events combines elegance, riverfront views and the yummiest food experience all in one. 
Boasting a classic black and white ballroom, RPM is the perfect option for the couple looking for a wedding venue that is going to elevate their day and provide a guest experience of that in a 5 star restaurant.
Boasting a classic black and white ballroom, RPM is the perfect option for the couple looking for a wedding venue that is going to elevate their day and provide a guest experience of that in a 5 star restaurant.
From the venue's site: "The venue features sweeping views of the Chicago River, a grand ballroom that can be divided into three independent spaces with access to the outdoor terrace, and a fully customizable culinary experience that provides guests with the best of RPM Restaurants."
Photographer's Tip: Do not sleep on the private entrance foyer of this space. A space like this isn't common in Chicago. It's the perfect way to set the vibe for your evening, welcome guests in with stunning installations or get the party started right away with champagne service at the door.
-->Don't want to deal with the hustle and bustle of the city? The Chicagoland suburbs have amazing venue options, too!<--
Why it's perfect: A photographers dream space. If you are searching for a venue that brings outdoor garden vibes but also private estate aesthetics, look no further than The Armour House. Think Old Money. Think rich. The ceremony space is a floral lined grass aisle with a natural pool in the background while your cocktail hour is on the patio. Inside though? The grand staircase is the perfect entrance space leading down into your party.
From the venue's site: "The Armour House hosts only one event at a time ensuring the focus is on you and your every need with our dedicated team."
Photographer's Tip: Walk around. This venue has insane photo backdrops that are hidden all over. The little nooks and crannies in the garden space are everywhere and you can get so many different looks all in one venue. If I could get married again, I'd get married here. Promise.
Why it's perfect: This venue is an all-in-one venue that will serve looks. The variety that Montebello Estate offers in all of their spaces is unmatched. You can choose your ceremony space from 5 different locations spread across 65+ acres. Then, take the party up a notch in their white tent that is truly a blank slate for any design you want. The photos here are unlimited. Ivy, flowers, bridges, woods, fields...I could keep going.
From the venue's site: "A stunning estate style venue overlooking the largest private wildflower preserve in Illinois"
Photographer's Tip: Golden Hour goodness. The sun sets behind the wildflower field, so your golden hour photos are about to be *good.* If you don't get a good sunset on your day, the string lights at the cocktail hour space are also super cute for night photos!
Why it's perfect: The easiest venue on your stressed out wedding planning, ever. The Brix is a family owned venue that is truly a "we can make it happen" venue. You have no limits on who you can choose for your vendor team at this venue. Bring in your own catering, bar, anything. It's so easy at The Brix. 
From the venue's site: "Choose from two wide open spaces that can handle everyone & everything– including your imagination."
Photographer's Tip: Don't skip on golden hour. The Brix on the Fox is nestled right along the Fox River and has stunning light right around sunset. You can get gorgeous portraits while your guests eat dinner and sneak off for 10 minutes to yourselves in the glowing light!
Why it's perfect: Destination weddings can be hard, but Providence Vineyard gives the feel of an escape from the city without the insane travel. A vineyard in the countryside, this venue is a gorgeous space that allows you and your guests to feel like you're on vacation and find yourself at a stunning white wedding.
From the venue's site: "Our timeless & refined vineyard & event venue located in the heart of Chicagoland."
Photographer's Tip: Explore the grounds. Oak trees, vines, barns, fields. There are so many great spots for your portraits here; even indoors. Take full advantage of the gorgeous-ness this space has to offer!
Tips for choosing your venue in chicago
1. Consider your vision
It's important that when selecting a venue for your day, you take into account what the vibe is that you are trying to achieve. If you've always pictured yourself in a light space with lots of open air, a rustic + industrial space might not serve your ultimate goal. When you walk into the space, what do you feel? What do you see? Can you see yourself celebrating there? Ask yourself the important questions and don't try to convince yourself it will work. There are so many options in Chicago; what you want is out there!
2. The Best Time for Photos
There are venues on this list that naturally will work better in different seasons. Outdoor venues in Chicago can be tricky with the unpredictable weather which is why I always encourage couples to make sure they love the rain plan just as much as the OG plan. You have to be sure that even the less than ideal situation is still up to your standards.
3. Photographer’s Insight
Different venues offer different lighting situations, ease of access and ability to kick out your vision through photography. It's important to consider how the space looks in photos because that is how YOUR photos will look in that space. If it's a dark venue, but you love light and natural looking photos, you might not be happy in the end with that venue option. There is an alignment that has to happen. I had a client one time ask for a very specific photo that she saw on the venue's website. The catch; that photo was taken during a styled photoshoot and wouldn't be able to be achieved on a wedding day. Ask the questions and be transparent with what you're looking for. Your future self will thank you.
4. Bonus
It's not crucial for you to hire vendors who have worked at your venue before. Any seasoned wedding professional can work in any space regardless of if they've worked there before. Don't die on the hill that you MUST hire a photographer who has worked in your space before.
The Wrap-Up
Chicago as a whole offers a diverse range of wedding venues. Chances are, your venue is out there. It is often the most stressful part of wedding planning; you can't move on with securing your vendor team until you have your venue and date, so the stress is thick! Trust that what you want is out there and is just waiting for you.
If you're stuck and just need some help; I'm here! You can shoot me an email at hello@photographybylauryn.com if you have venue questions or photography questions as well.
Just remember; your wedding venue mixed with a stand out photographer is a dream team that will forever
imprint on your memories.
Thanks for reading,
Lauryn <3