About Chicago
Chicago is the third largest city in the United States, located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan in Illinois. It is home to several professional sports teams, including the Bears (NFL), Bulls (NBA), Cubs (MLB), and White Sox (MLB). The architecture in Chicago is also noteworthy as it contains some of America's oldest skyscrapers, like Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), which stands over 1,451 feet tall. From world-class museums and theaters to a thriving music scene, it's no wonder Chicago has been dubbed the "Windy City."
In recent years, Chicago has emerged as one of the most budget-friendly cities for couples seeking an unparalleled wedding experience. From ballrooms with grandeur chandeliers and luxurious decorations to stunning outdoor areas with lush gardens and spectacular skyline views, you can create a unique experience that fits your style and budgetary needs. No matter what kind of atmosphere you envision for your big day, whether urban sophistication or rustic countryside charm, there’s an affordable wedding venue in Chicago for couples on a budget.
Affordable Wedding Options in Chicago
- Catering
For affordable weddings, catering vendors can provide several excellent options for food and drinks, from simple finger foods like sandwiches and fruit platters to more elaborate buffets with all the traditional wedding favorites like chicken, beef, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and much more. There are also plenty of desserts, such as cakes, cupcakes, and ice cream sundaes. Not only can you save on costs by ordering premade frozen entrees in bulk, but many caterers also offer full-service catering packages that include linens, plate ware, and other event essentials without breaking your budget.
- Musicians
Musicians are an essential part of any wedding celebration, and though you may be on a budget, there is no shortage of talented masters who can make your day memorable. Whether you’re searching for a band to provide live entertainment or DJs to spin popular tunes from different eras throughout the night, Chicago musicians have it all. You can also find soloists, string quartets, or jazz ensembles to liven up the reception.
- Photography
Photography is one of the most essential elements of a wedding. Often, Chicago photographers offer package deals with discounts on prints and digital copies so everyone gets something memorable from your big day. Depending on what kind of photos you’re looking for, they could also provide photobooth services with props and backdrops.
- Flowers
Plenty of online flower delivery services offer inexpensive bouquets of traditional flowers like roses and daisies and modern varieties like succulents and tropical blooms, which are becoming increasingly well-liked in weddings today. If you’re feeling creative, try creating your own flower arrangement using artificial flowers which look just like real ones but cost much less.
Affordable Wedding Vendors in Chicago
- Crave Cuisine
Crave Cuisine is a catering company specializing in custom menus for any event. They will work with you to develop a menu that suits your taste and makes your celebration unforgettable, whether you're throwing a wedding dinner party, hosting a supper party, or planning a secret gathering. Plus, the team offers delivery, setup, and fully staffed service with rentals, so you can focus on enjoying your event.
- Westgate Flower & Plant Shop
Westgate Flowers & Plants is a family-owned business proudly serving Oak Park and the entire Chicago area. Flowers and gifts are their specialties, with prompt, courteous service as part of their commitment. The selection includes green and blooming plants, fresh flowers and roses, silk and dried arrangements, tasteful sympathy and wedding pieces, fruit and gourmet baskets, balloons, and plush animals. They also offer daily delivery services throughout Chicago.
- Jennifer Shaffer Photography
Jennifer Shaffer Photography is a family-run small business specializing in wedding and family photography. The owner and lead photographer Jennifer Shaffer has an impressive background in the industry. With a Bachelor's degree in Photography and more than ten years of experience under her belt, her work has been featured in several magazines and online publications. She prides herself on providing clients with professional service with a personal touch. The studio is conveniently located in the vibrant Logan Square neighborhood of Chicago.
Pros and Cons of Affordable Weddings in Chicago
You may want to consider getting married in Chicago for a number of reasons. It is a popular destination for weddings, thanks to its diverse array of venues and its central location. Though it is a beautiful city for your big day, choosing an affordable wedding venue in Chicago can come with both benefits and drawbacks, such as the following:
Advantages
- Couples can take advantage of the abundance of excellent yet budget-friendly restaurants, parks, and gardens in the city to host their ceremony or reception.
- The city has a wide selection of affordable wedding vendors specializing in creating unique experiences for couples on their special day. From modern photo booths and food trucks to classic horse-drawn carriages and vintage cars, there’s something for everyone.
- Hosting your wedding in an affordable venue means you’ll have more budget for other wedding aspects, like the food, decor, and clothing.
Disadvantages
- Logistics can become complicated when coordinating an event across multiple locations due to traffic delays or unanticipated weather conditions during the time you plan on having your ceremony or reception.
- Choosing a popular, affordable venue, such as parks or beaches outside the city limits, may involve additional fees associated with securing permits or reserving space for larger groups.
- Since many couples are looking for ways to save money on venues, most affordable wedding spaces in Chicago are booked up fast.
Tips on How to Organize Affordable Weddings in Chicago
Weddings are expensive; there are no two ways about it. However, having the wedding of your dreams doesn't have to put you in debt. There are numerous ways to have an affordable wedding without sacrificing style or quality. Here are a few tips:
- Set a budget and stick to it: Determine how much you can realistically afford to spend on the wedding, and then make sure all your vendors are aware of this number. This will help avoid any unwanted surprises later on.
- Be creative with your venue: You don't need to rent out a banquet hall or hotel ballroom to have a beautiful ceremony and reception. Consider other options, such as outdoor venues or unique locales that can provide a stunning backdrop for your big day while saving you money.
- Consider DIYs: You don’t have to buy everything to create a lovely wedding ceremony and reception. Unleash your creativity and enlist the help of your friends and family to make DIY decor items, favors, and gifts.
- Don't go overboard with the guest list: It's tempting to invite everyone you know, but this can quickly add up costs. Stick to close family and friends with whom you want to share your special day.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- The Secret Mermaid
In 1986, Jose Moreno and Román Villareal, along with Fred Arroyo and Edfu Kingigna, secretly carved this stone amphibian into the rocky outcropping in Burnham Park. Despite numerous police visits during their nine-day venture, they finished their masterpiece unnoticed. It wasn't until 2000 that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers spotted her while renovating the shoreline. After being put into storage in 2004, students united with the park district to restore her beauty and get her back near water again. Since 2010, the Secret Mermaid has sat proudly at Oakwood Beach, where visitors can take in her beauty all year round.
- Bahá'í Temple
The House of Worship is a beautiful reminder of Baha'u'llah's teachings, both visible in the architecture and symbolism. This serene temple is enclosed by a nine-sided garden and crowned by a single dome, signifying its importance to followers of the Baha’i faith. It serves as an oasis for spiritual contemplation, where one can find inner peace and reconnect to their purpose on Earth. The religion preaches oneness with God, unity among all human beings, and equality regardless of gender or other factors. When life feels too hard to bear, come to this peaceful sanctuary and remember you are never alone.
- Chinatown
Chicago's Chinatown is a vibrant area full of cultural treasures and culinary delights. It is home to the iconic Chinatown Gate and features colorful pagodas and ornate animal structures, which reflect traditional culture. Throughout the year, locals and tourists can enjoy festivals, such as the Lunar New Year celebrations or events like the Chinatown Summer Fair. The area also boasts a Buddhist Temple, which stands as a testament to Chinese customs dating back centuries.