The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Chicago, IL

The Best Raw Wedding Spaces & Venues in Chicago, IL

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18 Wedding Venues in Chicago, IL

Raw space
Quick responder
Bridgeport Art Center 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 750 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor & indoor

Located in a historic 1911 building, it’s been sustainably rehabbed while keeping its raw but elegant essence/nature, it is the most unique space in Chicago. Here you will find your ultimate space for any special event whether it’s a wedding, special occasion, or an intimate gathering. Skyline Loft is completely transformable to make your event unique and unforgettable.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Allows pets
  • Provides a dedicated team on-site

Venue considerations

  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No all-inclusive dining options
We had an amazing experience with the Sculpture Garden at Bridgeport Art Center. We started our process with Claire who was super accommodating with a last minute Friday evening tour to accommodate my work schedule, once we booked we worked with Eleanor who was also wonderful. Communication with both was timely and efficient and they were super patient with all my questions! The space itself was stunning, guests are still commenting on it a month later! For us it was awesome to have an “outdoor wedding” that didn’t need a rain plan due to the cover on the ceremony space. You felt like you were outside with more of the comforts of an inside space, and the pictures turned out amazing with the natural light, tall ceilings and chandeliers! The indoor space is just as lovely and the night flowed beautifully thanks to the venue team!
Lauren, a month ago
Quick responder
Loft Lucia 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 120 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $5,000

This 7,500 square foot lofty gem is nestled in the heart of the West Loop. The architecture is both modern and tasteful, showcasing both Venetian plaster and exposed brick walls, alongside marble slab bars harmonizing texture with elegance. Each of its two floors is impeccably decorated equipped with a full bar. The main floor, located on the third floor of the building, features a commercial-grade kitchen. The top floor features a stunning floor to ceiling retractable glass wall that vanishes to reveal the seamless flow between their indoor cocktail area and their outdoor terrace space. Their selection of lounge furniture, dining tables, and interior decor provides clients with an endless amount of arrangements to choose from. The flexibility of the space makes the venue suitable for private parties, fundraisers, corporate events (both intimate and large scale), and weddings. The venue can be rented in its entirety or each floor separately.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Provides event staff
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • On-site parking not available
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
Loft Lucia was our perfect venue. We found it through Zola initially and immediately fell in love. We knew we wanted to get married in Chicago but wanted something different and more unique! They were responsive to our initial inquiry and we booked it before ever touring it. The pictures are exactly what you get and ours was a perfect fay
Courtney M., 3 years ago
Quick responder
Fairlie 

4.6

CHICAGO, IL
  • Up to 350 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $5,500

Fairlie in Chicago’s West Loop combines industrial chic with contemporary elegance. The venue’s spacious layout, high ceilings, and exposed brick create a modern yet warm atmosphere. Guests appreciate the customizable lighting and sound system, ensuring every moment is perfectly highlighted. The professional staff and comprehensive event planning services make the wedding experience seamless and stress-free. Fairlie’s urban aesthetic and flexible space make it a top choice for couples looking to celebrate in style.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Accommodates more than 200 guests
  • Dressing room available

Venue considerations

  • Does not provide event staff
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • Not wheelchair accessible
Awarded Best of Zola
We are so grateful we had the Fairlie as our wedding venue. The entire team is amazing and so helpful. It is a stunning and reasonably priced location. We did not have a wedding planner nor coordinator and I feel that was possible because of the help of the great Fairlie team - Alison, Alexis, and Orlando were amazing. They helped us build out our day of timeline and helped so much with last minute items that came up. We had no clue who to choose as a caterer & it was great that their team requires you to work with one of their preferred caterers - we could not have been happier with the caterer we met because of the Fairlie. Because they do this - everything is seamless. Our guests could not stop commenting on how gorgeous of a venue the Fairlie is. Choose the Fairlie - it's the most beautiful venue in Chicago!
Kerry Z., 2 months ago
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Field Museum 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 1000 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Sip champagne on our terrace overlooking Lake Michigan. Dance under the shadowed silhouette of Máximo the Titanosaur. Pose for photos in front of an Egyptian mastaba. Celebrate with your guests amid millions of artifacts and specimens—and invite them to explore the exhibitions while they take a break from drinks and dancing. Our variety of spaces accommodate as few as 10 and up to more than 1,000 guests: Celebrate outdoors with a ceremony on the terrace or cocktails in the Rice Native Plant Gardens, or transform the museum’s iconic Stanley Field Hall or East Atrium for your dream wedding.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Handles all cleanup logistics
  • Provides event staff
  • Multiple event spaces

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • No in-house catering options
My husband and I just celebrated our wedding reception at the Field and it was beyond anything I could have dreamed. Peyton and every single Field staff member were amazing to work with. The Field works with the most remarkable vendors in the city and every minute detail is considered and covered. The museum has been a special place for my husband and I. For us to have had our reception there was a dream come true. There is no other space in the city like it! Our guests had a ball being able to explore the exhibits and grounds of the museum. It wasn’t just a reception, it was the experience of a lifetime!
Colleen M., 3 years ago
Quick responder
The Library At 190 South Lasalle 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 180 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor

Warm and palatial, The Library offers an air of refined elegance that nods to another era. The two-story-high, book-lined walls — containing over 50,000 volumes of law books — are flanked by soaring Palladian windows that frame dramatic views of Lake Michigan and the majestic statue of Ceres.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor to dance the night away
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Combines timeless elegance with history

Venue considerations

  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • Does not allow pets
  • Not wheelchair accessible
The Library and The Stacks are two of the most stunning and unique places in Chicago for a wedding or special event. The Library is so classic Chicago with and The Stacks is such a cool, modern space...and they work together so well for events! I don't know where else you can have an event surrounded by thousands of historic law books and amazing architecture. Plus you get amazing views of the city out of every window! Aurieann and her team are so fun and easy to work with that I wish we did all of our events here! They are detailed, organized, and incredibly helpful with recommendations about how to best utilize the space for each event. They make the planning process fun for the clients and give the vendors the space and resources they need to do incredible work for the clients. They are truly event partners in every sense of the word and treat each and every event with the care and attention it deserves to make sure the clients have the best experience possible. If you can't tell from my review this venue comes with the highest recommendation I could give! If you are even considering this venue do yourself a favor and call Aurieann to setup a tour to see it in person!
Todd Klein, 4 years ago
The Pittsfield 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 250 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $10,000

Step back in time to 1927 and celebrate your special day at our elegant downtown Chicago wedding venue. The Pittsfield building is a key part of the Chicago skyline and nestled in it's heart, this historic atrium exudes timeless charm and sophistication. Imagine exchanging vows under soaring ceilings adorned with vintage chandeliers, surrounded by rich architectural details that tell a story of a bygone era. Our venue offers the perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary luxury, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration of love and commitment.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers full flexibility in setup and decor
  • Designed for grand celebrations
  • Handles all cleanup logistics

Venue considerations

  • Does not provide event staff
  • No free parking
  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
As a wedding vendor, I highly recommend The Pittsfield. The staff is professional, communicative and accommodating, and the venue itself is beautiful and versatile. It’s always a pleasure to work here, and the setting is ideal for a wedding.
Kendra S., a year ago
Pru 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor

Boasting a highly recognizable location with some of Chicago’s best panoramic views of the lakefront and skyline, Pru is the perfect venue to host your next meeting or event! Pru offers a variety of spaces from our stunning 7,000 SF Terrace to our 23,000 SF Lounge to our 3 private meeting rooms with start of the art audio/visual capabilities, our atmosphere is unmatched. We can't wait to welcome you to Pru!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Both indoor and outdoor options
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Additional event staff required
  • No on-site guest accommodations
PRU was an absolutely perfect venue to work with for a wedding reception we catered in October. The space was clean, neat, & organized very well for catering. All their staff, from coordinators to on-site staff, were very helpful and kind. It was an absolute pleasure for us to work at PRU.
Jason Melamed, 8 months ago
GemHidden gem
27Loft 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 150 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $2,500

27Loft provides a versatile and contemporary space in Chicago, ideal for tech-savvy couples. The venue’s minimalist design features sleek lines and modern decor, creating a chic backdrop for weddings. Guests enjoy the convenience of its central location and the flexibility of the layout, which can be tailored to different wedding themes. The dedicated staff ensures a smooth planning process, from coordinating vendors to managing event details. For a sophisticated and hassle-free wedding experience, 27Loft stands out as a top choice.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Offers full-service amenities
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe
  • Provides event staff

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Requires outside catering services
  • No free parking
We recently hosted our engagement proposal at this incredible downtown loft, and it exceeded all our expectations! The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the stylish exposed brick walls, towering ceilings, and the flood of natural light throughout the space. The sophisticated decor and adaptable layout allowed us to create the perfect setting for our special day. The host was fantastic—attentive and supportive, ensuring that everything went off without a hitch. Our friends and family couldn’t stop praising the venue’s unique charm and character. It truly was the ideal backdrop for our engagement. We wholeheartedly recommend this loft to anyone looking for an extraordinary event space. Thank you for making our proposal unforgettable! With gratitude, Dana and Ryan
Dana H., a year ago
Grand Personal Chef 

5.0

Chicago, IL
  • Up to 40 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor & outdoor
  • Starts at $1,500

Welcome to the kitchen studio! With over 1800 sqft. of Indoor and outdoor private space. The space features a large open living area, full kitchen and private outdoor patio w/ fire pit. The kitchen includes a curated living room with a mix of vintage and new Mid-Century Modern furniture, free wifi, Sonos speakers, dual LG built-in wall ovens, electric countertop Whirlpool range, two reach-in LG refrigerator/freezers, tons of countertop space for prep and seating, and coffee/ wet bar. Equipped with all of the essential cooking tools and dining accessories. this bright kitchen studio is great for hosting a friends get-together, showers, meetings, family reunions and small intimate dinner parties.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Flexible event spaces
  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has an intimate feel for a small guest list

Venue considerations

  • Dance floor not included
  • Better for more intimiate events
  • No built-in audiovisual options
Chef David was fun, knowledgeable, and definitely knows his way around the kitchen. The food was next level with out being unapproachable and all of our guests walked away with full hearts and tummies. He listened to our vision and made it a reality. We couldn’t be happier.
Timothy G., 2 years ago
Quick responder
Fulton Street Collective 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 80 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor

Our 1900 sq ft of open loft space overflows with natural light and character. Our space is fully customizable with gorgeous high ceilings and windows, wood floors, and rustic brick walls. Arrange the space with chairs, tables, standing room, or all three! We have a comprehensive list of vendors and will assist you with selecting the correct services for your event. Access shelves, mirrors, fridges, etc in our lounge/green room just inside the large rolling door. Foyer available for entrance decoration and signage. Parking is free in our lot and we have plenty of nearby street parking.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Has a dance floor for celebration
  • Bridal suite on site
  • Wheelchair accessible

Venue considerations

  • No in-house catering options
  • Does not provide event staff
  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
Charles A. Hayes Family Investment Center 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 300 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,500

The Charles A. Hayes Family Investment Center, honoring the legacy of Chicago's late Congressman Charles A. Hayes from Illinois' First Congressional District, stands as a testament to collaborative efforts within the Chicago Housing Authority (CHA). Situated at 4859 S. Wabash Avenue in the vibrant Bronzeville community, this center is owned and operated by CHA. It serves as a hub for community engagement, empowerment, and investment, reflecting Congressman Hayes' commitment to the betterment of Chicago's residents.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Space for a large guest list
  • Versatile for various event styles

Venue considerations

  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
  • No on-site bridal suite
Quick responder
Big Mini Putt Club Wicker Park 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 110 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $5,000

Located in beautiful Wicker Park, right on the famous nightlife stretch of Milwaukee Ave, Big Mini Putt Club (Wicker Park) features 9 holes of challenging mini golf, delicious drinks, and a variety of other games to keep you busy before or after your rounds. With a capacity of 180 guests, there's something here for all skill levels.

Venue considerations

  • No venue-provided food services
  • No on-site bridal suite
  • Lighting and sound are not included
Studio 424 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 75 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,000

Studio 424 welcomes you to create unforgettable memories in our unique flexspace venue. Perfect for a unique and vibrant wedding experience. The storefront space serves as a blank canvas to fit your ceremony needs and the back warehouse area provides a hip urban ambiance for your reception. Our venue holds a special place in Chicago Hip Hop history as it was once the site for The Bassment underground performance venue in the early 2000's. In-House Vendor List: Choose from a list of our premium vendors from for DJ's, decorators, caterers, photographers and videographers to make your event a night to remember. Add-Ons: DJ, lighting, and sound equipment, tables, chairs, tablecloths, lounge couches

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides a dedicated team on-site
  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has onsite accommodations

Venue considerations

  • No dedicated areas for getting ready
  • No all-inclusive dining options
  • Dance floor not included
Quick responder
International Museum of Surgical Science 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 100 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,200

The International Museum of Surgical Science is a distinctive venue for events, offering guests an elegant setting, fascinating exhibits, and breathtaking views of Lake Michigan just minutes from downtown Chicago. Few other venues in Chicago offer such an opulent setting in this beautifully preserved early 20th-century mansion. With turn-of-the-century architecture in an idyllic setting, the International Museum of Surgical Science offers an elegant and totally unique space for your special day. The Museum has many unique features, including but not limited to Italian marble floors and fireplaces, decorative cut stone and floor-to-ceiling windows with sprawling views of the Lake. The beautiful walnut walls, decorated with historic murals and statues, compliment event decor for an engaging and intimate special event. This historic mansion truly embodies the Gold Coast splendor of the early 20th century and will provide for an unforgettable occasion.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Raw space for complete customization

Venue considerations

  • Best for events with big guest lists
  • Additional event staff required
  • Does not allow pets
New
Parker Karlov 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 200 guests
  • Raw space
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $1,600

Originally constructed in the 1950's as a steel forging factory then later turned fine carpet & rug repair warehouse, Parker Karlov was established to support creation and conservation. Converted into a mixed use space, the walls continue housing the process of development and the celebration of heritage.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Raw space for complete customization
  • Has a relaxed and casual vibe

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Limited cleanup and setup services
Quick responder
The Rooftop Terrace 
Chicago, IL
  • Up to 320 guests
  • Raw space
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $3,600

The perfect way to make your wedding one-of-a-kind is the picturesque, 360 degree view of Chicago from our Rooftop Terrace. With wet bars, surround sound speaker systems, bluetooth microphones, grills, high speed internet, and more, this venue is the ideal space for not only ceremonies and receptions, but also for engagement parties, rehearsal dinners, and more. We have had the pleasure of hosting some of the most beautiful and personal weddings, and we would love for you to be next. From the Rooftop Terrace to The Garage, this venue is an unmatched indoor-outdoor wedding space for chic and timeless couples who want their special day to be one their family and loved ones never forget. Our rooftop has become the destination of choice for any occasion, whether it be a cocktail party, reception, or wedding ceremony, and our team is so excited to transform the space into your dream spot. VENUE PRICING: (4 HR Event) Friday - $4,000 Sat/Sun Day - $3,600 Sat Night: $4,400 Sun Night: $4,000

Why you'll love this venue

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
  • No in-house catering options
  • Does not have a dance floor

Location flexible? Discover venues near Chicago, IL

About wedding venues in Chicago, IL

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.

What Makes Chicago's Wedding Venue Scene So Special?

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.

How Much Should You Budget for Your Chicago Wedding?

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.

Guest CountEstimated Total Budget
50 guests$34,799
100 guests$58,635
150 guests$81,029
200 guests$101,022
250 guests$121,015
300 guests$141,008

Where Are Chicago's Most Distinctive Wedding Venues Located?

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.

What Are the Costs for Wedding Services in Chicago?

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%)

When Should You Book Your Chicago Wedding Venue?

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.

Which Chicago Venues Excel at Accessibility?

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.

Where Can Foodies Find Outstanding Wedding Cuisine in Chicago?

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.

Which Chicago Venues Offer Exceptional Remote Participation?

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.

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.

What Makes Chicago's Wedding Venue Scene So Special?

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.

How Much Should You Budget for Your Chicago Wedding?

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.

Guest CountEstimated Total Budget
50 guests$34,799
100 guests$58,635
150 guests$81,029
200 guests$101,022
250 guests$121,015
300 guests$141,008

Where Are Chicago's Most Distinctive Wedding Venues Located?

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.

What Are the Costs for Wedding Services in Chicago?

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%)

When Should You Book Your Chicago Wedding Venue?

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.

Which Chicago Venues Excel at Accessibility?

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.

Where Can Foodies Find Outstanding Wedding Cuisine in Chicago?

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.

Which Chicago Venues Offer Exceptional Remote Participation?

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.

What types of wedding venues are in Chicago, IL?

What other Chicago vendors will I need?

What other wedding venues are nearby?

What other wedding services are nearby?