Planning your wedding in the Windy City gives you an exceptional backdrop for your celebration. Chicago's architectural heritage meets lakefront splendor across diverse neighborhoods, creating a perfect canvas for your special day.

Chicago's venue landscape has everything from Art Deco landmarks to converted industrial lofts. You'll find The Rookery showcasing Frank Lloyd Wright's luminous glass ceiling while The Old Post Office offers 18,000 square feet of versatile space. Be prepared for costs between $13,900-$17,000 for Chicago venues; significantly higher than the national range of $6,500-$12,000 or what typically represents 25% of your total wedding cost.

A typical Chicago wedding with 150 guests costs about $81,029 with venues taking up 19% of your total budget. Your guest count dramatically impacts costs. With 50 guests you're looking at roughly $34,799 while 300 guests pushes your budget to around $141,008.

West Loop's Lacuna Lofts gives you industrial space perfect for customization with original timber beams that add character. Downtown's Chicago Athletic Association preserves Venetian Gothic architecture with stunning stained glass windows your guests will love. Lincoln Park's Salvatore's delivers vintage elegance with exceptional food including their famous vodka pasta and tiramisu that will have everyone talking.

Beyond your venue you'll need to budget for these key wedding services:

• Photography: $7,011 (9%)
• Florists: $10,825 (13%)
• Catering: $12,372 (15%)
• Bar Services: $9,897 (12%)
• Entertainment: $2,537 (3%)
• Hair & Makeup: $580 (1%)
• Videography: $6,392 (8%)
• Planning: $5,584 (7%)

September leads venue inquiries in Chicago with couples typically booking 14 months ahead. You'll find greater availability at winter venues like The Drake Hotel in December and some venues even offer discounts for January-March events helping you stretch your budget further.

Walden Chicago features wheelchair-accessible layouts with an outdoor courtyard suitable for ceremonies giving everyone a comfortable experience. Loft on Lake in West Loop offers exposed brick walls and timber beams in a wheelchair-accessible setting though you should know it requires additional event staff and you'll handle cleanup and setup yourselves.

The Union League Club gives you exceptional dining with executive chefs offering diverse cuisines. Director of Catering Ken S. is known for creating customized menus that reflect your preferences. The Drake Hotel on The Magnificent Mile combines historic elegance with gourmet options while The Dalcy in Fulton Market provides customized catering experiences tailored to your tastes.

Theater on the Lake offers flexible seating for up to 1,500 guests in a completely enclosed space perfect for advanced remote participation so distant loved ones can join. Adler Planetarium leverages stunning views and diverse event spaces for innovative virtual experiences. The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown provides a sleek backdrop for combining physical and virtual wedding experiences ensuring everyone feels included in your celebration.