About Chicago
As the third most populated city in the United States, Chicago abounds with things to do, and offers nonstop fun, style, and culture for anyone who stops by. Moreover, Chicago’s weather - with with moderate summers and springs - make it a pleasant spot for outdoor activities for the majority of the year. Its city, ripe with sky-high skyscrapers, museums and other attractions make it among the most sought after tourist destinations in the United States. And, finally, it’s coastal view of Lake Michigan to the east, make it an ideal retreat from the downtown crowds, as well.
With so many diverse offerings, and so many different venues - from downtown city high-rises to lakefront venues - Chicago makes for an ideal spot to host a reception. And with its many service offerings - from accommodation to transport to upscale catering and entertainment - it’s hard to resist not wanting to.
Reception Options in Chicago
One of the most overwhelming parts of planning your reception is working out the details, from food to transportation and everything in between. Fortunately, Chicago has many best in class reception and event services can help.
- Catering:
Chicago offers delicious food that will be the talk of any reception. You can find catering in the city that offers classic dishes like renowned Chicago deep-dish pizza. There are also many caterers that create elegant entrees and stunning appetizers. No matter how formal your event is there is a Chicago catering service that can make your food dreams come true.
- Transportation:
The city of Chicago has a large number of transportation services that can help get your guests to your reception on time. Whether you opt for a sleek limousine service, ride-share's, taxi's, or party bus options, you'll find that Chicago has many fast, fun and friendly transportation options available to you.
- Equipment Rentals:
Need dishes, tables, or chairs? Or, perhaps, some decorations? Chicago has plenty of equipment rental companies that can be of service in supplying your reception venue with everything your reception might need. Many will even let you match supplies to your own unique event theme or colors, and will handle everything from logistics to setup.
Reception Planners in Chicago
Enlisting the help of a professional event planner can save you countless hours of time, and make a huge difference. Fortunately, Chicago has some of the best event planners in the business, who have the expertise to help make your Chicago reception flawless.
- Bliss Events:
This woman-owned event planning company has been in business for over 20 years and has built a strong reputation in Chicago. They focus on creating events that “engage, excite, and delight.” Services include day-of coordination and services, decor rentals, design consulting and floral design.
- Lola Event Productions:
Lola Event Productions is made up of a team of veteran event planners with a combined 50+ years of experience. They can help make your Chicago reception like no other, and manage everything from logistics coordination, decor and design assistance, to event production and management.
- Liven It Up Events:
This full-service wedding and event planning and production company has over a decade of experience planning Chicago pop-up spaces and shops. Past clients include Facebook and Miller Lite.
Pros and Cons of Receptions in Chicago
There are going to be pros and cons to every state, city, and venue that you consider. When choosing your reception venues it is important to consider the pros and cons of the city. If you are drawn to a Chicago reception, it's helpful to weigh the good with the bad.
Advantages
- Beautiful Venues
There are going to be a lot of beautiful Chicago reception venues to choose from.
- Moderate Weather
The spring, summer, and fall temperatures in Chicago are great for outdoor receptions.
- Many Attractions
Chicago’s location and history always offer an exciting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy. And the bustling city offers plenty to do.
- Excellent Food
Chicago offers excellent food and catering options.
Disadvantages
- Pricey Venues
Reception venues and party services in Chicago can get pricey.
- Harsh Winter Weather
Chicago’s winter weather is not the best for an event, especially if you have out of town guests.
- Crime
Some parts of the city are not always safe, so you have to be careful about where you chose to lodge.
- Popularity
If you don’t book your reception venue ahead of time it will book up quick.
- High Traffic
The city traffic can make transportation difficult if your ceremony venue is different from your reception venue.
Famous Reception Venues in Chicago
Check out these fantastic Chicago destinations for pre-reception photos or as a post-reception gathering place. You'll be glad you did!
- Art Institute of Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago is a staple of Chicago culture and history. Hosting a reception near this institution will not only create a fun and elegant atmosphere but will allow your guests to explore downtown Chicago.
- Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is another stunning price of Chicago history. The baseball field is home to the Chicago Cubs, and makes for a fun and nostalgic gathering place. Look for a nearby urban loft in a modern Chicago sky-rise to your reception venue, and you can't take the whole party to a post-reception ballgame.
- South Loop Chicago
South Loop Chicago is an emerging neighborhood situated near the coast and the Illinois Institute of Technology. Reception venues in the South Loop are energetic and offer fun for everyone.
- Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is a fantastic place to get away from the bustle of the city. Having your reception nearby the lake will be a great cost-effective option, and great for photo-ops too.