About Chicago
Chicago is a city with a long and exciting history. It was originally founded in the 1780s by Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, an African-American trader of French descent. The city was officially incorporated in 1837 and soon increased due to its strategic location as a port on Lake Michigan. Over the years, Chicago became known for its manufacturing base, which included steel production and meatpacking, as well as its many cultural contributions such as literature, music, theater, and art.
When it comes to celebrating special occasions such as weddings or anniversaries, there are plenty of event venues in Chicago to explore. From unique rooftop lounges to luxury ballrooms located downtown or along the lakefront – couples can find something special no matter their taste or budget.
No matter what kind of wedding celebration you have planned - whether at a grand hotel ballroom or a smaller venue - Chicago provides all types of after-party venues so couples can create lasting memories with family and friends.
Wedding After Party Options in Chicago
- Bartenders
When it comes to wedding after-party venues in Chicago, a talented team of bartenders is essential. Whether you prefer craft beers or a classic selection of drinks, having the right bartending staff on board makes all the difference. Bartenders create signature cocktails that tie into your overall wedding theme and have specialized knowledge of beer and wine offerings and classic liqueurs—great for when your guests need an extra bit of fortification.
- DJ
A great DJ is a key to any good after-party, and Chicago is home to some of the best in the business. With their impressive music collections and energetic performances, DJs always know how to get everyone up and dancing until the wee hours of the morning. Most also provide sound systems, lighting effects, and other special touches that will take your after-party to the next level.
- Photo Booth
A photo booth is a fun addition to after-parties, and Chicago has plenty of options. From vintage-inspired setups to modern digital booths with instant prints, photo booths are great for capturing the spirit of your celebration and letting guests take home a memento of the night.
Wedding After Party Vendors in Chicago
- My Charcuterie
My Charcuterie offers custom appetizer boxes, boards, cones, boxed lunches, gift baskets, and grazing tables. They have expanded their services to include easy local in-store pickup and contactless delivery. Plus, certain items are available for nationwide shipping so that everyone can enjoy their incredible catering no matter where they are.
- Just Press Play Productions
Just Press Play Productions is a company that rents Bose speaker systems for parties and events. Their iPod DJ service, which lets people connect their portable music players to the speakers, is a hit on every occasion. The company was established in 2007 when it started renting out PA systems. When customers called and asked if they could plug in iPods, Just Press Play said yes, and history was made.
- Lazo Lights Photo Booth
At Lazo Lights, they believe a photo booth should be more than just a box with a camera. They strive to create an experience that is tailored to your specific event, and that will leave your guests with lasting memories. Their sleek and modern photo booth is the perfect way to add a touch of fun and sophistication to any wedding, party, or corporate event. From custom backdrops and props to on-site printing and digital copies, they ensure that your photo booth is an unforgettable addition to your event.
Pros and Cons of Wedding After Parties in Chicago
Whether you want to stay at the reception venue or venture out into the city, Chicago offers a lot of potential for making memories that will last a lifetime. However, there are some considerations to take into account when planning this part of your event. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of wedding after-parties in Chicago.
Advantages
- The Windy City has a plethora of unique venues for hosting after parties ranging from high-end clubs and rooftop bars to ballrooms and historic buildings.
- Finding just the right type of entertainment for your guests can be difficult but with so many options for live music, DJs, and dance performances in Chicago, it’s easy to customize your experience.
- With some of the best restaurants in the world located in Chicago, there is no shortage of delicious cuisine options available that can cater to any taste or budget.
Disadvantages
- After-parties can be expensive due to rental fees, caterers, and other associated costs but with careful planning, it is possible to stay within budget while still having an amazing celebration.
- Depending on where you choose to have your after-party, transportation can become an issue as many venues may be difficult for guests who don’t have cars or access to public transportation.
- If you plan on hosting an after-party late into the night then keep in mind that some guests may not stay since they have work or family commitments early the next morning which could put a damper on things if too many people leave early!
Tips on How to Organize Wedding After Parties in Chicago
A wedding afterparty is an important extension of the main event and should be planned with just as much care. If you’re hosting a wedding afterparty in Chicago, here are a few tips and tricks to ensure your celebration goes off without a hitch.
- Choose Your Venue Carefully: When selecting a venue for your wedding afterparty, it’s important to consider both the size of your party and any special requests you may have. The city of Chicago offers a wide range of options, ranging from clubs and bars to private estates or even outdoor spaces.
- Make Sure You Have Adequate Parking: Finding parking in the city can be tricky, so it’s important to make sure that you have secured adequate parking in advance. If possible, try to arrange for valet services or have designated drivers at the ready if needed.
- Time Your Toast: Hosting an afterparty doesn't necessarily mean you need to relive every moment from the wedding ceremony - but it's always nice for family members or close friends of the couple to make heartfelt speeches about them as part of their celebration!
- Provide Enough Food (and Drinks!): Depending on when your afterparty starts, you may need to provide some food (if not already provided by your venue). If anyone is drinking alcohol there should also be plenty of non-alcoholic drinks available too. Keep your guests hydrated throughout the night.
- Keep Things Fresh: While there are plenty of tried-and-true activities like karaoke which are guaranteed hits at wedding parties, don’t forget that it's perfectly ok (and recommended!) to switch things up every now and again.
Famous Locations in Chicago
- Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary
The Paul Douglas Nature Sanctuary is one of the most beautiful places in Chicago. The sanctuary is home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as different habitats. The sanctuary is also a great place to take a walk, relax, and enjoy the beauty of nature. It is named after Paul Douglas, an environmental advocate, and senator from Illinois. Douglas was a strong supporter of the environment and helped pass many laws protecting the environment.
- Big Marsh Park
Big Marsh Park doesn't disappoint, with 13 acres of open space waiting to be explored. The off-road bike park is perfect for any thrill seeker, while the natural areas are ideal for bird-watching and hiking enthusiasts. The Park is situated on the site of a former steel mill, and it features a variety of unique amenities that make it a great place to spend a day.
- Calumet West Shore and Gull Island
Chicago is home to two lovely islands in the heart of the Windy City: Calumet West Shore and Gull Island. Both offer stunning skyline views and are perfect for a picnic or a stroll. Here, you can enjoy the peace of nature, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the city. Calumet West Shore is an excellent spot for bird watching, as it is home to various feathered friends. On the other hand, Gull Island is perfect for those who want to get away from it all – there are no buildings or roads here, just pristine natural beauty.