Getting Married in Chicago: A Complete Wind City Wedding Guide

Wedding Planners

• Chicago Vintage Weddings’s team has more than 40 years of collective experience and has successfully planned hundreds of events. What sets them apart is their attention to detail, eye for design, and high level of service.
• Details Chicago is a creative agency that works with weddings, events, and brand experiences. They are well-known for their designs, inclusivity, and ability to bring their customers’ ideas to life.
• Stunning & Brilliant Events Chicago is an event planning company that offers full-service planning, partial planning, and day of coordination. They will listen to your envisions and work hard to match your style and budget.

Venues

• The Westin Chicago Northwest is a hotel that offers both indoor and outdoor venues for your wedding. This means whether it is a micro or a grand celebration, you will find the perfect setting for it.
• Chicago Botanic Garden is your go-to choice if you’re a nature lover. The location is one of the most popular ones in the city, as many couples had their rustic, glamorous, chic summer and spring weddings there.
• W Chicago - City Center is a premiere wedding location. It has three special spaces for ceremonies, receptions, and dinner-dancings. The venue’s gem is a vintage terrazzo floor where you’ll have unforgettable moments.

Marriage License in Chicago

1. Appear at one of the Cook County Clerk's six locations together.
2. Provide valid identification with proof of age.
3. Fill out the application and pay for the fee ($60).
4. The license will be valid for 60 days, so make sure you’re getting married within that timeframe.

Bridal Salons

• Ultimate Bride is a salon with a long history of 41 years. They offer a wide selection of bridal gowns beginning at approximately $3,900. You’ll find all types of styles and textures here.
• Belle Atelier’s team believes in good quality and good design. Each piece there is hand-picked and goes through a long process to provide the best service and fit from each designer.

Bonus Tip

1. Make sure to book well in advance, ideally 6-9 months before your wedding date. Bridal salons in Chicago can get very busy, especially during peak wedding seasons.
2. If you’re able to, consider scheduling your bridal appointments on weekdays. The thing is, weekends are usually busier and it might be harder to get an appointment then. 
3. Bring your entourage, but be mindful of bringing too large of a group. Limit your entourage to a few trusted individuals whose opinions you value most. If you bring more people and hear too many conflicting opinions, it can become overwhelming.

Florists

• Brides N Blooms specializes in floral supplies, wholesale flowers, wedding flowers, and other events. They provide fresh flowers that will be the perfect final touch to your special celebration.
• Revel Decor is a special event and wedding design and production company. The team uses fabric, décor, floral, lighting, and furniture to transform spaces into experiential event environments.

Makeup and Hair Artists

• Salon Glow Chicago provides high-quality bridal services. The team is equipped to make your hair and makeup visions come to life, whether it’s a subtle or a full-glam look.
• Megan Schnell Hair has more than 10 years of experience. She learned from some of the most popular industry professionals. Her specialties include women’s cuts and styles, updos, and extensions. 
• Three One Two Bridal is a team of hair and makeup artists who offer day-of bridal services. They will create any look for you and your bridesmaids.

• Ian Rempel specializes in fine art photography. He’ll make sure you feel comfortable, laugh with you, and get to know you so he can capture all those beautiful moments on your special day.
• Rebekah Albaugh Photography has shared some of the most precious days with more than 400 couples. She loves to witness the greatest characteristics of people. 

Best Locations for Wedding Photography

• Chicago skyline: If you want a type of dramatic and iconic backdrop for your wedding photos, the Chicago skyline offers many opportunities for stunning shots. Head to popular spots like Millennium Park, Adler Planetarium, or the Museum Campus for sweeping views of the city skyline against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.
• Lakefront parks: Explore locations such as Lincoln Park, Promontory Point, or North Avenue Beach for lush greenery, sandy shores, and panoramic views of the lakefront that make for breathtaking wedding portraits.
• Urban landscapes: Wander through the historic streets of downtown Chicago, explore the colorful murals of Pilsen, or capture the bustling atmosphere of Navy Pier for unique images that reflect the city's rich culture and character.

Average Costs

• Venue: $9,000 - $15,000
• Wedding planner: $2,500 - $20,000
• Photographer: $3,500 - $6,000
• Catering: $35 - $250 per person
• Wedding cake: $500 - $1,500 
• Flowers and decorations: $2,000 - $20,000
• Hair and makeup: $200 - $600

Getting Married in Chicago: Guests Guide

How to Get to Chicago

• Flights: Chicago is served by two major airports: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). These airports offer numerous domestic and international flights.
• Trains: Amtrak operates several train routes that connect Chicago to various cities across the United States.
• Driving: If your guests are within driving distance of Chicago, hitting the road can be a convenient and flexible way to travel. Major highways such as Interstate 90 and Interstate 94 provide easy access to the city.

Places for Out-of-Town Guests to Stay 

• The Langham, Chicago: Situated in a prime location overlooking the Chicago River, The Langham offers luxury and elegance. The hotel provides spacious rooms, full service, and stunning views of the city skyline.
• The Gwen, Michigan Avenue Chicago: Located on the iconic Magnificent Mile, The Gwen ensures guests can enjoy stylish accommodations, gourmet dining options, and easy access to top attractions and shopping destinations.
• The Robey: Nestled in the vibrant Wicker Park neighborhood, The Robey is a boutique hotel housed within a historic Art Deco building. With chic accommodations, trendy dining options, and a rooftop lounge offering panoramic city views, it's an ideal choice for guests seeking a stylish experience.

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