You’ve been to plenty of church weddings and splashy receptions in high-end hotels, but that’s just not you. Looking for something that fits your personality like a glove? Whether you’re craving big-city chic or low-key lakefront nuptials, we’ve rounded up some unconventional spots for your dream ceremony and reception. Even better, these ideas fit Trump-sized bank accounts as well as more modest budgets.
Splendor on the grass
Float up the front lawn at the Lincoln Park Conservatory Gardens (2400 N. Stockton Drive, 312-742-4838), available for rental from the Chicago Park District for around $3,000. With beds of tulips and gorgeous skyline views, the outdoor gardens need little decoration and have plenty of room for a tented reception. Just pray it doesn’t rain and leave the stilettos at home.
The South Side’s answer to Lincoln Park is Promontory Point (5491 S. Lake Shore Drive, 312-742-4838), once home to the 1934 World’s Fair. Have your ceremony on the lake for a mere $410 and party at the adjoining Field House for $610. Both sites allow you to bring in your own caterers.
Art thou my beloved?
Shift the talk away from the color of your bridesmaids’ dresses to the more than 100 pieces of artwork at the Chicago Fine Arts Exchange (815 W. Chicago Ave. 312-850-2787). For $4,500 to $5,500, the venue can accommodate up to 200 for ceremonies and receptions (the facility works with a preferred list of caterers).
Looking to tie the knot in an eclectic setting without blowing a bundle? Say your “I do’s” at Mars Gallery (1139 Fulton Market, 312-226-7808), where authentic Andy Warhol prints hang in the warehouse loft formerly occupied by Empire Butter and Egg Company. Rental is $200 per hour for parties up to 125. No caterers on site, folks–find your own.
City chic
The Winter Garden on the ninth floor of the Harold Washington Library Center (400 St. State St. 312-747-4300) isn’t for books but for fancy weddings for those who can shell out $4,750 for amenities such as olive trees and a skylight ceiling more than 100 feet high. The facility has its own list of preferred caterers.
Catalyst Ranch (656 W. Randolph St. 312-207-1710) is as fun as its name sounds. With mismatched seating, retro tables and kitschy artwork, ceremonies and receptions can be held in rooms named Polka, Cha-Cha and Tango. The venue has its own list of preferred caterers and costs $960 to $3,980 to rent.
A room with a view
For that superslick vibe, get hitched at Hotel 71’s penthouse on the 39th floor (71 E. Wacker Drive, 312-346-7100). The space, which rents for $2,500 and hosts receptions ranging from $80 to $130 a head, boasts panoramic views of the Chicago River and downtown.
Fulfill your love boat fantasy and get hitched aboard an Odyssey Cruise (312-321-7606), which sets sail from Navy Pier. Luncheon receptions on Saturday and Sunday cost $56.76 per person. Maybe offer Dramamine as favors?
Fit for a queen
Even Melania Trump would be impressed by the ornate wall sconces and vaulted ceiling (recently restored by Italian artist Lido Lippi, who also restored the Sistine Chapel) in the Congress Plaza’s Gold Room (520 S. Michigan Ave. 312-427-3800). Expect to spend $4,500 to use the room for the ceremony; receptions cost anywhere from $82 to $125 per head.
If you’re into the whole princess thing and don’t shudder at the thought of rural Indiana, try Meyers Castle (1370 Joliet St., Dyer, Ind., 219-865-8452)–a steal at $1,250 to $1,850. Sitting on 10 acres just 45 minutes from downtown Chicago, the mansion features an enclosed tent, outdoor patio, stained-glass windows, sweeping staircases and a chandelier. On-site caterers dish up entrees such as pork medallions and filet mignon for $26 to $50 per head.
Here comes the guide!
Whether you’re getting hitched or you plan on whooping it up at your buddy’s nuptials, RedEye’s Wedding Guide has something for you. Over the next four weeks, we’ll give you the ins and outs on everything from fashion to food to where to seal the deal.
This week: It’s all about location, location, location–get the scoop on offbeat ceremony and reception sites and how to tie the knot abroad. Plus: etiquette tips.
Feb. 10: So what exactly does a bridesmaid have to do? Wedding party responsibilities. Also: creative bachelor and bachelorette party ideas and how to cope with Bridezilla.
Feb. 17: Not into crinoline and lace or tuxes? What to wear if you’re looking to buck tradition. Plus: wedding theme ideas and DJs vs. wedding singers.
Feb. 24: Local caterers for a budget or blowout feast, how to let the good times flow without bankrupting yourself for open bar, and tipping points.
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Edited by Jen Robbins (jrobbins@tribune.com) and Kris Karnopp (kkarnopp@tribune.com)
