Top 10 Wedding Venues in the Chicago Area

 

Choosing a venue that embodies their personal style can be a daunting task for engaged couples. We’ve compiled a list of our 10 favorite photo spots in the Chicago area, and described just why we love them so much!

 

1. Allerton Park

Just a couple hours South of Chicago, Allerton Park is a hidden gem perfect for couples whose style veers on the classic side. With a historic mansion and multiple gardens on the property, Allerton is a fount of natural beauty. Whether a couple prefers rustic or grandeur, this space can accommodate. Allerton Park is certain to please both couples and photographers alike with its timeless aesthetic and abundant light.

 

2. Armour House

Originally built in 1857, the Armour House also boasts classic architecture and abounding gardens, but will especially delight couples with a taste for luxury. Picture marble staircases, floor to ceiling windows, and plenty of antique details. Outside, manicured gardens and reflective pools top off the elegance of this venue. The sprawling campus sits about halfway between Chicago and Milwaukee, making it an ideal spot for photographers and couples in both cities.

3. Chicago illuminating Co

More modern couples who still appreciate organic, natural touches are sure to love Chicago Illuminating Company’s indoor/outdoor venue located on South Wabash. Couples can utilize either (or both!) the more modern, trendy indoor space of the fresh, bright outdoor space with a greenhouse-like tent, and bistro lights that make evenings glow. This spot works for minimalistic couples looking for light and airy photography without much distraction, and also for more luxe ones hoping to layer some richness and depth into their aesthetic.

 

4. The Blackstone Hotel

Couples who think luxury and texture are the name of the game need look no further than the Blackstone Hotel. This downtown Chicago space blends history and class with modern finishes, making it both classic and industrial in a way that complements rather than competes. Anyone looking for photos that reflect both timely and timelessness should do themselves a favor and put the Blackstone at the top of their lists.

5. The Rookery Building

A cursory glance at this historic Chicago building’s website tells you their motto: Always In Style. It couldn’t be more accurate for this regal space that just oozes class.  Designed by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the Rookery is full of breathtaking details: grand staircases, massive windows, and an open-air feel give this venue its magic.

 

6. Chicago History Museum

Another gorgeous vessel of historic, classic style nestled into the city, the Chicago History Museum offers clean lines and natural light bound to make couples glow. Whether inside the building, where couples are sure to star in their own photos against the crisp background, or outside roaming its grounds, photos taken at the Chicago History Museum are classic and metropolitan all at once.

7. Winnetka Community House

Taking a departure from urban style, the Winnetka Community House features classic elements like brick arches ornamented with ivy and shaded walkways. The building itself is softer and more romantic than some other wedding and engagement spots around the city. For natural couples who appreciate light, greenery, and even a little shoreline, it’s hard to imagine a lovelier, more complementary venue.

8. Chicago Botanic Gardens

Any nature lover whose style tends toward organic is likely to consider the Chicago Botanic Gardens as a venue right away, and for good reason: winding paths through idyllic landscaping with enough natural light to make photographers swoon create a perfect environment for shoots. If possible, couples can take advantage of Chicago’s warmer seasons to wind up with bright and inviting photos, full of life and color.

9. Room1520

What couple doesn’t want their happiness to literally shine through in their photos? Room 1520 is a Chicago loft venue, and its bright, bright, bright. Located on W Fulton, this venue fuses urban and eclectic beautifully. Room 1520 is ideal for ultra-trendy couples whose style is both hip and timeless; it’s full of original details like an ornate bar sharpened by modern lighting fixtures and a skyline view to die for.

 

10. Chez

For couples sold on a loft venue but who appreciate a clean slate of modern luxury over eclectic touches, Chez, located in downtown Chicago, should check every box. This venue is light and airy while also being crisp and clean; it’s struck a balance sure to embody tasteful luxury for classic couples. The clear staircase, high ceilings, and white color palette all lend themselves to striking, timeless photos.

 

Need a Chicago wedding photographer or a Chicago engagement photographer & one of these venues have caught your eye? Feel free to contact me & we can chat about it more in depth! Also if you know of any other locations worth mentioning, let me know in the comments!