A Small Chicago Wedding: Planning An Intimate Celebration

Planning a small wedding in Chicago? There are plenty of options for intimate celebrations in the Windy City, from private mansions to vintage lofts, sleek yachts to Italian restaurants.

If you're looking for a unique venue with a blend of historic charm and modern amenities, consider the Creativo Loft, located in the heart of the city. For a more natural setting, venues like Zhou B Secret Garden and Garfield Park Conservatory offer secluded gardens and lush greenery.

Micro-weddings gained popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic and are here to stay, with venues like the Chicago History Museum offering all-inclusive packages tailored for small weddings.

Whether you prefer a cozy celebration with close family and friends or an intimate elopement, Chicago has a variety of venues to choose from, ensuring your special day is truly memorable.

Intimate wedding venues

Chicago has a wide variety of intimate wedding venues to choose from. Whether you're looking for a sleek, modern space or a charming, historic setting, the city has something to offer for every taste and budget.

Rooftop Venues

If you're looking for stunning views of the Chicago skyline, consider The Public Hotel, located in the heart of Gold Coast. This intimate space can accommodate around 30-50 people and offers neutral hotel suites, furniture, and linens. Another option is Little Goat, a cute rooftop venue perfect for an intimate wedding or rehearsal dinner.

Outdoor Venues

For those who love nature and want an outdoor ceremony, Ping Tom Park offers amazing views of the Chicago skyline and is usually not too crowded. Another option is the Japanese garden in Jackson Park, which is typically quiet and provides a beautiful backdrop for your wedding. If you're looking for something more private, you can also rent a room at The Music Box Theater for $200/hour.

Indoor Venues

If you prefer an indoor venue, Kitchen Chicago in West Town offers a unique industrial-chic space with tall ceilings and exposed beams. The Chicago History Museum is another option, providing all-inclusive packages for micro-weddings, including officiant, cake, flowers, and more, along with access to stunning classical architecture for your wedding photos.

Restaurants

If you're looking for a restaurant venue, Galleria Marchetti in the heart of the city offers open-air gardens that can be converted into an enclosed, air-conditioned space. They specialize in fresh, inventive Italian dishes. Another option is Salvatore's, a classic Chicago wedding venue located in Lincoln Park, offering a serene atmosphere, timeless elegance, and a wealth of space.

Boats

For a unique wedding experience, consider a boat wedding on Chicago's waterways. City Cruises - Chicago offers a fleet of luxurious yachts with dedicated event planners and custom décor options to fit a variety of budgets and styles.

No matter what type of intimate wedding venue you're looking for, Chicago has a range of options to make your special day memorable.

Micro wedding packages

Creativo Loft

Creativo Loft offers two types of micro wedding packages: Casual Weddings and Standard Weddings. Both are completely customisable and all-inclusive, except that you separately hire an outside caterer for cuisine and bar packages. Casual Weddings are shorter and better suited to smaller groups of 30 to 62 people, with a more casual feel. Standard Weddings are a full-day schedule and are better for couples who want a more formal experience, with plenty of time for dancing, and a larger group of 50 to 74 people.

Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum provides all-inclusive services for micro weddings, with bundled options for officiants, cake, party favours, flowers, chairs, linens, livestreaming, and live music. You will also have access to stunning classical architecture for your wedding photos.

The Lytle House

The Lytle House has micro wedding packages that include a photographer and officiant.

Charcoal Factory Loft

Charcoal Factory Loft is a unique choice for a micro wedding venue in Chicago, with packages and pricing that allow for 10 to 50 guests, and space to host both your ceremony and a reception or dinner party.

Homestead on the Roof

Homestead on the Roof is a garden oasis, perfect for an intimate wedding or elopement. Say your vows in the covered courtyard overlooking a 1,000-square-foot garden, and then enjoy your reception inside the air-conditioned second story. Venue features include a decorative brick fireplace, locally sourced cuisine, and a full bar.

Small wedding planning

Small weddings have become increasingly popular since 2020, with many couples opting for intimate celebrations with their closest loved ones. If you're planning a small wedding in Chicago, here are some tips and ideas to help you create your dream day:

Venues

When it comes to choosing a venue for your small wedding in Chicago, there are numerous options available, including:

• Historic buildings: Creativo Loft, located in the heart of Chicago, offers rustic charm with original hardwood floors and tin ceilings. The Keith House, a Victorian Châteauesque mansion, combines historic elegance with modern amenities.
• Outdoor spaces: Zhou B Secret Garden, a secluded garden beside the Zhou B Art Center, offers a romantic setting for your ceremony. Garfield Park Conservatory provides three event spaces, including a courtyard and a horticulture hall.
• Restaurants: Salvatore's, a charming restaurant in Lincoln Park, features a European-style courtyard and a mahogany-walled dining room. Beatnik on the River blends global flair with boho-chic decor.
• Unique venues: Chicago History Museum offers all-inclusive packages for micro weddings, including officiants, flowers, cake, and more. Firehouse Chicago, a renovated fire station, provides a memorable and intimate setting.

Capacity and Budget

When selecting a venue, consider your guest list size to ensure the space comfortably accommodates your group without feeling too large or cramped. Micro wedding venues typically cater to smaller groups, with capacities ranging from 10 to 50 guests. Rental fees for small wedding venues in Chicago can vary, with prices ranging from $400 to $8,000 per session or hourly rates starting at $150 to $2,100 per hour. All-inclusive packages are also available, offering additional savings.

Catering and Amenities

Decide whether you prefer a venue with in-house catering or one that allows external caterers for more flexibility and potential cost savings. Consider the amenities you'll need, such as sound systems and lighting, as some venues include these in their packages, while others require separate arrangements.

Timing and Location

It is recommended to book your preferred venue and date 9 to 12 months in advance to secure your choice. Choose a location that aligns with your vision, whether it's downtown, near Lake Michigan, or in a quieter area. Consider your guests' convenience regarding accessibility, parking, and nearby accommodations.

Intimacy and Personalization

Small weddings allow for more meaningful connections with your guests. You can also add personal touches to your celebration, such as choosing a venue that reflects your interests or incorporating decorative elements that showcase your style.

With the variety of venue options and customizable details, you can create a small wedding in Chicago that is both intimate and memorable, surrounded by your loved ones.

Outdoor ceremonies

Chicago has plenty of options for outdoor wedding ceremonies, whether you're looking for a venue with a view of the city skyline or a secluded garden. Here are some suggestions for outdoor ceremonies in the Windy City:

Zhou B Secret Garden

An ultra-romantic and secluded garden nestled beside the Zhou B Art Center. The garden features a stamped concrete patio hemmed by a verdant lawn, modern sculptures, a koi pond, and cascading greenery. You can say your vows beneath the arms of a weeping willow as the sun filters through the mature trees. This venue offers a bring-your-own catering option and is suitable for intimate weddings.

Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum offers special packages for micro weddings, providing all-inclusive services such as officiants, cakes, party favors, flowers, chairs, linens, livestreaming, and live music. The museum features stunning classical architecture, including a Georgian-style Chicago Room with views of Lincoln Park and the city skyline. You can choose between an al fresco celebration on Uihlein Plaza or a tented option.

Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory offers three event spaces perfect for small weddings: The Show House, The Blue Stone Courtyard, and Horticulture Hall. Rental rates start at $1,500 for short events like ceremonies or proposals, and $6,000+ for longer events such as weddings and receptions.

Lytle House

Lytle House, located in Chicago, offers 2,800 sq. ft. of continual indoor-outdoor space, exposed brick, high ceilings, large factory windows, and original industrial details. It provides the feeling of being in a huge open space while still being within the city. This venue was voted "One of Chicago's 'Best New 2018 Event Spaces' by Crain's Chicago." It can accommodate up to 100 guests and has a rental-only cost of $4,500, with all-inclusive packages available for up to $20,000.

Outdoor Park Ceremonies

For a more affordable option, consider having your ceremony in one of Chicago's beautiful parks. Ping Tom Park, for example, offers stunning views of the city skyline and plenty of space. You can obtain a Park District permit for a small fee, which allows you to reserve a specific area within the park for your ceremony.

Other popular parks for outdoor weddings include Montrose Harbor, LaBaugh Woods, and the Japanese garden in Jackson Park. Keep in mind that some locations may require permits, so be sure to check with the park's website or supervisor.

Indoor ceremonies

If you're looking for an indoor space for a small wedding in Chicago, there are several options to choose from. Here are some venues that could be perfect for your special day:

Creativo Loft

Located in the heart of Chicago, Creativo Loft is a venue specialising in small weddings, elopements, and intimate events. The loft is situated on the top floor of the historic Baer's Hall building, featuring rustic charm with original hardwood floors and 16-foot tin ceilings dating back to 1887. The space offers plenty of natural light and great views of the John Hancock Building. Creativo Loft can accommodate up to 50 guests and offers all-inclusive packages that include photography, flowers, cake, and more.

Keith House

This elegant venue is a historic event space that was once home to Elbridge Keith, dating back to 1870. With its Victorian Châteauesque style, Keith House is located in Chicago's elite "Gold Coast" neighbourhood. The space combines historic charm with modern amenities and can accommodate 20 to 75 guests. It offers the flexibility of both indoor and outdoor options and is known for its spacious and quietly elegant atmosphere.

Loft on Lake

Loft on Lake provides the ultimate Chicago Loft experience with brick walls, timber beams, and a 65-foot skylight. This venue includes a bridal suite, a cocktail lounge, and a full chef's kitchen for your caterers. They also offer their own in-house photography team, making it a convenient one-stop shop. Loft on Lake can accommodate up to 175 guests and provides rentals, including various amenities, within their typical cost range.

Lytle House

Lytle House offers a unique blend of indoor and outdoor spaces, featuring 2,800 square feet of continual space with exposed brick, high ceilings, large factory windows, and original industrial details. The venue gives the feeling of being in a huge open space while still being located within the city. Lytle House has been recognised as one of Chicago's best new event spaces and is a LGBTQ Women-Owned Business. It can accommodate up to 100 guests and offers a range of rental and all-inclusive package options.

Firehouse Chicago

Firehouse Chicago is a modern venue with a vintage feel and authentic Chicago historical significance. It was originally built for Chicago's Engine Company 70 and has been beautifully renovated to restore its original charm, including antique doors, lighting, and plumbing fixtures. The venue offers three special spaces: renovated lieutenant's quarters, a private deck, and a vintage locker room. Firehouse Chicago provides a hands-on, boutique experience for your small wedding and can accommodate intimate gatherings.

These venues offer a variety of options to suit your preferences and guest list size. Remember to consider factors such as capacity, amenities, catering options, and location when making your decision. Congratulations on your upcoming wedding!

Frequently asked questions