Written by Lynn Tangorra | Photography by Cinder and Vinegar Photography

You have spent months planning this amazing party. Every box has been checked, every flower ordered and every name card given a place, but there’s just one thing left to organize — the rehearsal dinner. This is definitely a common tradition that cannot be skipped, unless you want the wedding party trying to figure out what they are supposed to be doing on the fly.

Rehearsal dinners are the perfect place to have a little fun and relieve some stress before the big day. For once, someone else can tell you where to stand and how things should run. At least for the rehearsal part.

WHOM DOES THE GUEST LIST INCLUDE?

First things first: the guest list. Before picking a venue or choosing a menu, decide who should be a part of this evening besides the wedding party.

There are no rules. Other than members of the wedding party, who typically bring a spouse or guest, out-of-town guests are generally invited since they have traveled for the special occasion. The officiant and the immediate families of the couple also attend. Your guest list really depends on the budget and on how big you would like your soirée to be. Have a conversation with whoever is footing the bill to determine how large the guest list should be.

WHO PAYS?

Traditionally, the groom’s parents host the rehearsal dinner. Nowadays, more and more couples are deciding they can pay for the dinner themselves with maybe a little help from Mom and Dad. If the families both feel strongly about helping host the dinner, let them split the bill. Just make sure they are aware of how many guests you want to attend and the type of venue you’ve chosen.

HOW FORMAL SHOULD THE DINNER BE?

It generally depends on the preference of the couple. Typically, if a couple is having a formal wedding, the rehearsal dinner is a more casual, laidback event. Just because an event is casual, though, does not mean you need to forego formal elements. This is an opportune moment for the families to spend some quality time together before all of the excitement begins for the big day. However, you don’t want your rehearsal dinner to compete with your wedding reception. Typically, it’s a smaller event than your actual wedding.

Some couples opt for low-key venues, such as someone’s backyard or a bowling alley. It varies based on how intimate you would like the atmosphere to be. You want your guests to be relaxed and enjoy themselves, especially since most of them may not know each other.

WHERE SHOULD I HOST THE DINNER?

Location may be one of the easiest choices to make. Pick something that is the most convenient for you and your guests. This makes it less stressful on the wedding party and immediate family. Most participants want to relax after the ceremony rehearsal and not spend a good chunk of time carpooling to the next location. Unless you are set on hosting your dinner at a certain venue, find someplace within walking distance or a very short car ride from where the ceremony will be held.

WHEN SHOULD I START PLANNING THE DINNER?

It is suggested to book a rehearsal dinner location within a few months of deciding on your wedding venue. Since many restaurants host both weddings and rehearsal dinners, desired dates often book up quickly. To stay on schedule, have a general idea of who is attending by about three months out.

SHOULD I SERVE CAKE?

Many couples opt for serving a meal that will not be duplicated at their wedding. Family style is a popular choice as it brings in a relaxed and casual feel to the meal, which often correlates well at a rehearsal dinner. Additionally, family style does not require guests to decide on their meal ahead of time so it often feels less like hosting a second wedding. Since most couples serve cake at their wedding, the rehearsal dinner is the perfect time to try something different.

WHAT ABOUT TOASTS AND GIFTS?

The rehearsal dinner is a perfect place for the couple to address friends and family to thank them for the time spent in helping make the upcoming day so special. This is also a great time to thank the wedding party for their involvement. If the groom’s family is hosting, it’s expected that they will give a speech. The bride’s parents can also say a few words if they feel prompted.

If you don’t have time to add a little something extra to the schedule for the wedding, get creative and set aside some time to have it at the rehearsal dinner. This could include slideshows of the couple, any sort of readings, or just fun stories family and friends want to share.

Most couples use this time to hand out wedding party gifts, and special gifts of appreciation to Mom and Dad. Gifts can be as elaborate as jewelry or cufflinks, or as simple as a grooming kit to a bag stuffed with essentials like tissues, lip gloss and a robe for getting ready. It is up to the couple on how much they want to spend on their respective parties.

WHAT ABOUT DECORATING THE VENUE FOR THE REHEARSAL DINNER?

Décor should never compete with your reception, but if you like to decorate, decorate away! Many couples use their rehearsal dinner to highlight their story versus highlighting a general theme.

If you choose to host your rehearsal dinner outside, hanging lights could be an intimate, classic option. Long tables are recommended to encourage a family-style meal setting. If your event is very casual and the venue is already beautiful, you don’t have to prepare any decorations or spend the time setting up.

Place cards are unnecessary unless you would like to ensure people mingle with guests they don’t know.

WHAT ABOUT ALCOHOL?

Alcohol can be expensive, so paying for an open bar depends on who is paying for the evening. You can choose not to have an open bar and, if you would like to offer alcohol to your guests, you can speak with the venue to see about packages.

Some hosts offer to pick up the tab for beer and wine, while guests are responsible for purchasing mixed drinks if they want them. Never feel obligated to provide alcohol. Don’t forget, you are already paying for their meal. Some may choose to not have alcohol because they don’t want things to get too rowdy, especially with the wedding party who have to be up early the next day.

SHOULD MY PHOTOGRAPHER ATTEND THE REHEARSAL DINNER?

If you have a little extra wiggle room in your budget, you may choose to have the photographer capture some precious moments of family and friends at the rehearsal dinner. Some photographers prefer to attend the rehearsal because it gives them a chance to find the best angles to shoot the bridal party, especially the bride and groom. It is also nice to have more candid photos of the dinner and guests mingling as extra mementos.

Plus, if you have a large family, you can get photos with everyone during the extra time. Yes, even Uncle Stan! That way, you don’t have to spend too much time worrying about scheduling all of the photos during the reception when you are trying to visit with everyone. Not many couples choose to do this, but if it’s something you can afford, go for it.

Remember, the night before your wedding should be relaxed and stress- free. The dinner is meant to be a time for family members and friends to come together to celebrate the joining of two families. Take the time to plan something that feels right for you and your significant other without trying to top what you have planned for your wedding celebration.

Browse Chicago area rehearsal dinner venues.

Left to Right: KATHRYN’S BRIDAL Enzoani | VOLLE’S BRIDAL & BOUTIQUE Van Der Velde | FRANCIA BRIDAL & FORMALWEAR BOUTIQUE Casablanca Bridal | THE CRYSTAL BRIDE Maggie Sottero

Written by Lauren Beers and Anne Morrissy | Photography by TWA Photographic Artists

Whether you dream of a huge, elaborate celebration or an intimate, private gathering, the perfect gown is a vital element of every wedding. After all, this will be the dress of all dresses and the one you want to remember as nothing less than perfect. All brides-to-be are faced with the decision of which dress to choose, and while this may seem like a monumental task, there are several ways to lessen any anxiety that accompanies this process.

Here are eight tips to help you get the most out of gown shopping. With these tips rest assured, you will be armed with the knowledge and confidence necessary to select the dress of your dreams without second-guessing yourself along the way.

1. CALCULATE YOUR BUDGET.

There is no sense in falling in love with a gown that is outside of your budget. By firmly setting a budget prior to looking at dresses, you ensure that you can both fall in love with, and afford, your dream dress. It is important to consider the cost of any alterations that may be necessary for your dress to fit properly as well.

Before ordering your gown, make sure to ask the salon about the price and process of alterations once the dress arrives. Alteration pricing can vary widely and should be factored into the overall budget. In addition to general fit accommodations, alterations include the gown’s bustle, which can be quite complicated depending on the dress design. Alteration appointments generally begin about four months before the wedding — expect to attend one to three fittings before the gown is completed.

While there is no harm in shopping around for alterations, make sure that whomever you choose is reputable, and guarantees his or her work. While there may be less expensive alteration options available, having your dream dress altered incorrectly could quickly turn into a nightmare.

When setting your budget, also keep in mind what accessories or details may enhance your dream dress. Does your vision include shoes that cost double the price of your dress itself? Is your gown only complete with extra detailing? Do you know how much the veil you have dreamt about since you were little actually costs now that it’s time to say “I do?” By planning for accessories and details ahead of time, you can more accurately define your budget and find a final look that fits within your allotted budget.

2. DECIDE ON YOUR VIBE.

In your hands, you are currently holding a wealth of information when it comes to all things weddings; flip through these pages and see if any gowns stand out to you. Utilize social media as a way to gain inspiration from other brides who have paved the way before you. Reference all of these resources prior to stepping inside a bridal boutique to avoid feeling overwhelmed. Whether you’re flipping through the pages of our magazine or scanning Pinterest, inspiration is everywhere and research is one of the most important parts of finding your wedding dress. Fortunately, it’s the fun kind of research.

Simply compile an archive of dresses you love. Go wild, then once you have a treasure chest full of styles you like, look for similarities. Is there a color, cut or designer that keeps popping up? Pay attention to those. Although you will need to maintain some flexibility, start to develop a list of items to consider. Include the location and season of your wedding, the shades or colors you prefer and the shapes or styles you gravitate towards.

Have you always dreamed of walking down the aisle in a gown that would make Cinderella envious? Or are you seeking a simple yet elegant look? Are you opting out of a dress completely and on the hunt for a modern pantsuit? Deciding what look you would like to convey on your wedding day can help weed out a handful of cumbersome options and unnecessary shopping- related stress.

In the same way, decide what types of styles, fabrics and details you’d like to avoid. Maybe you love the long-sleeve look, for example, but also know you are not going to wear long sleeves for your July wedding. These details are great to make note of. Once you decide on your overall image, you can use your newfound inspiration to hit the ground running in the hunt for your dream dress.

3. RESEARCH BRIDAL SALONS AND BOOK A FEW APPOINTMENTS.

It’s best to make appointments to try on gowns at multiple salons to see the full array of options. At each salon, be honest about your budget and resist the urge to try on gowns that are vastly outside your budget. Be prepared as each salon will offer its very own experience. Smaller, local bridal salons may offer a more personalized experience, although they may have a limited selection of gowns. Larger bridal salons may carry a wider assortment of gowns but may not be available to deliver that personal touch you desire.

4. IT TAKES A (SMALL) VILLAGE.

If one thing can be learned from years of watching wedding shows on TV, it’s that less is often times more. This rings true when it is time for you to determine whom to bring with you dress shopping.

While the idea of having a large group of your closest friends and family with you may sound picturesque, a crowd can often make the already challenging decision that much more difficult as more people often means more input.

Many brides opt for bringing between two and four people with them shopping. Your immediate family members may get first pick (for example, your mom, grandma or sisters), then one or two from the wedding party, followed by your future mother- or sisters-in-law. If you have room, invite more from your wedding party. If you don’t have a good relationship with one of the people listed, however, it’s best to avoid them on this special occasion. After all, this is your day and no matter whom you choose to bring with you, one thing to always keep in mind is that this is the dress you are going to be wearing. You are the one who needs to be in love with your final decision. While it is oftentimes easier said than done, try not to let the opinion of others deter you from following your heart. Looking back on your wedding photographs with regret over not picking the gown you wanted would truly be a shame.

5. KEEP AN OPEN MIND.

Falling in love with a dress while standing in a fitting room is one thing, but you also want to make sure that you can comfortably enjoy yourself for the entirety of your wedding celebration. For instance, you may try on one dress you love, but quickly discover you can’t breathe when you try to sit down. Enjoying your wedding cupcakes would be nearly impossible.

Think about your wedding and find a dress that fits accordingly. Are you planning on dancing until your venue turns the lights off? Perhaps a gown with yards upon yards of additional fabric weighing you down is a bad idea. Or are you saying “I do!” on the beach? Seek out a dress that is lightweight and airy. A great alternative is to choose two dresses — one for the ceremony and one for the reception. It’s your celebration; you can change gowns if you want to! With thousands of options available, finding a dress (or dresses) that makes you feel beautiful, while still enjoying your wedding day festivities is a must and absolutely possible.

Also, don’t forget to take into account advice from the salon staff. While it is helpful to go in with a general idea of what you’re looking for, remember that the salon sales staff are experts, and see hundreds or even thousands of customers every year. Many find that the styles they go in coveting don’t suit them for one reason or another, and they often end up preferring the options the salon staff hand-selects for them instead. Similarly, because sizing of wedding gowns is so erratic, salon staff may have the best knowledge of which sizes to try first.

6. TIMING IS EVERYTHING.

Give yourself plenty of time to find your gown. After all, it took you until this moment to find the one to marry, why settle for a dress that isn’t perfection? Give yourself at least 10 months prior to your wedding to purchase a dress. In contrast, once you find the gown of your dreams, don’t wait too long to order. By doing so, you ensure ample time for your gown to arrive and for you to schedule any necessary alterations to make your dream dress a reality. While it’s possible the bridal salon may have the gown in stock in your size, it’s much more likely the order is placed with the manufacturer, which can be a slow process.

Also allow yourself the opportunity to appreciate each new chapter that accompanies this special time prior to your wedding. Enjoy the celebratory showers and parties that are thrown in your honor, and soak up the love that surrounds you during your engagement. Try not to let the anxiety of finding a gown overshadow these joyous moments. With a minimum of 10 months, you have enough time to find the perfect dress without experiencing the buyer’s remorse that often goes along with rushing a purchase.

Once the perfect dress is officially yours, put it in your closet and don’t look back. In other words, resist the urge to try on your gown over and over again. The last thing you want to do to the perfect dress is tear or stain it before your big day. Besides, if you try it on one too many times, it may lose its luster as you almost certainly overanalyze your decision.

7. HIGHLIGHT YOU.

For most of us, our wedding day is our most photographed day. With that in mind, it’s of the utmost importance that you are in love with the way you look in your dress. Wedding gowns come in a variety of materials, cuts, colors, sizes and designs for a reason. No two brides are exactly alike. What may appear off- putting on the hanger may fit like a glove once you try it on. Think of finding a dress like its very own chapter in your wedding book. Go into this chapter with an open mind and an open heart to ensure that you are giving yourself every opportunity to fall in love.

8. CHOOSE WISELY.

In a one-hour salon appointment, brides typically try on eight to 13 gowns. At each salon you visit, ask if you can take reference photos to help you remember each design. Once you have seen a sufficient number of gowns, narrow the options down to your favorite three to five dresses, then make your choice from these. Be honest about your preferences, and don’t let anyone pressure you into buying a gown you don’t love.

It is also advised to purchase a dress that fits your current figure and not a goal that you set for yourself. While many couples like to use their wedding as motivation to revamp their eating and exercise habits, there is no reason to put extra pressure on yourself to squeeze into a dress that is two sizes too small. Planning a wedding can be stressful enough, why add the stress of weight loss into the mix? Never let your beauty be defined by a number.

The glow that radiates from a bride on her wedding day has nothing to do with the price of the gown, the designer, the size or the style, or even how long it took to decide on the dress. The reason brides are so beautiful on their wedding day stems from the confidence they carry as they walk down the aisle. Confidence in your dress decision brings you one step closer to your happily ever after.

View Chicago area bridal fashion retailers here.

Browse inspiring bridal looks from actual Chicago weddings!

1. Gown: Renée Grace Bridal via Volle’s Bridal & Boutique
2. Floral: Artistic Blooms
3. Ring: Razny Jewelers
4. Styling Spray: Living Proof Dry Volume Blast; Recommended by One Salon and Bridal Co. and Custom Bridal Gowns
5. Shoe: Badgley Mischka
6. Necklace: State Street Jewelers
7. Stationery: Pulp & Ink

Biagio Events and Catering swung by the blog to discuss everything their amazing property has to offer to couples looking for a unique venue with the perfect spot to say “I do!”. 

How have you been able to help your couples during Covid-19?

This has been a very emotional time for all of our events. But we understand that we all are being affected by this and we made the decision immediately to postpone our events that needed to be or have chosen to do so. We also offered the option to use funds towards catering or other events in the future with no restrictions as far as time frame. We made the decision to also have our staff available from the start of Covid-19 so they never feel a lapse in communication. Emails have been open and phones on!

What are your safety & social distancing implementations for upcoming weddings & events at Belvedere?

We are implementing multiple procedures for the safety of all guests and staff including: limiting seating to 6-10 guests per table; face masks when not seated at a table; continuous cleaning of the space including but not limited to bars, door handles, chairs, etc.; concierge buffet service- attendant at buffets to serve guests to limit the number of hands at the buffet; plated meals whenever possible; consistent changing of clean serving utensils; masks on all employees during meetings and events; hand sanitizer stations strategically placed; appropriate signage hung for all to see.

Couples looking to host a wedding in Chicago have hundreds of options. What makes Biagio Events and Catering so unique?

Biagio Events and Catering is newly renovated in the last 5 years. We offer two types of spaces: traditional and loft spaces.

How is Biagio Events and Catering adaptable?

We offer two types of spaces: traditional and loft spaces. And we have a restaurant attached for smaller events or just a drink before your wedding reception.

What about the size of events? How does Biagio Events and Catering cater to small, intimate weddings vs. big, boisterous ones?

All of our spaces are customizable. We have 4 rooms that can combine together or function separately.

– Suite 1 seating up to 200

– Suite 2 seating up to 80

– Suite 3 seating up 200

– Suite 4 seating up to 200

Currently, due to Covid- 19, all of these counts are being adjusted down for social distancing as we require tables are 6ft apart tables and limit the number of guests to 6-10 per table.

Why does Biagio Events and Catering like hosting weddings?

We like to take part in all different events from all different cultures which all have their own unique style.

What are your tips for couples who are just starting the wedding planning process, especially those who are still trying to pick a venue?

Keep an open mind to all options available to you, but keep these tips in mind:

– Know your guest count before you visit the venue.
– Be on the same page about your budget with all parties involved.
– Know your style when you are venue shopping.

Biagio Events and Catering offers a versatile space that can be tailored to accommodate every type and size of event, with a professional events team that will work with you on every detail. Click here for more information about booking your wedding at Biagio Events and Catering. 

The wedding pros at Belvedere Events & Banquets popped by the blog to share all about their beautiful and versatile space for wedding ceremonies and receptions. 

How have you been able to help your couples during Covid-19?

This has been a very emotional time for all of our events. But we understand that we all are being affected by this and we made the decision immediately to postpone our events that needed to be or have chosen to do so. We also offered the option to use funds towards catering or other events in the future with no restrictions as far as time frame. We made the decision to also have our staff available from the start of Covid-19 so they never feel a lapse in communication.

What are your safety & social distancing implementations for upcoming weddings & events at Belvedere?

We are implementing multiple procedures for the safety of all guests and staff including: limiting seating to 6-10 guests per table; face masks when not seated at a table; continuous cleaning of the space including but not limited to bars, door handles, chairs, etc.; concierge buffet service- attendant at buffets to serve guests to limit the number of hands at the buffet; plated meals whenever possible; consistent changing of clean serving utensils; masks on all employees during meetings and events.

Couples looking to host a wedding in Chicago have hundreds of options. What makes Belvedere so unique?

Belvedere is simply unique and offers a subtle atmosphere, outdoor event area, windows, fireplace, private bridal suites. We have a hotel attached to us and we are conveniently located 10 minutes from Chicago O’Hare International Airport. We have wonderful photo opportunities by our patio, fountains, staircases and lobby area.

How is Belvedere adaptable?

Belvedere is designed with all couples in mind. Our silver, gold, white, ivory tones work with all color schemes and ideas.

What about the size of events? How does Belvedere cater to small, intimate weddings vs. big, boisterous ones?

All of our spaces are customizable. We have 4 rooms that can combine together or function separately.

-Patio seating up to 60

-Suite 1 seating up to 300

-Suite 2 seating up to 200

-Suite 3 seating up 200

-Suite 4 seating up to 100

-Lobby seating up to 60

Currently, due to Covid- 19, all of these counts are being adjusted down for social distancing as we require tables are 6ft apart tables and limit the number of guests to 6-10 per table.

Why does Belvedere like hosting weddings?

Because we love to see the joy in people. It is one of the best moments in a person’s life! Why wouldn’t we want to be a part of that occasion?

What are your tips for couples who are just starting the wedding planning process, especially those who are still trying to pick a venue?

Do you see your wedding at that location should be your first question. Not because of outside influences, but is this perfect for your dream and budget? Does it offer flexible spaces? Can menu items be adjusted for your wants and needs?

Keep an open mind to all options available to you.

Belvedere Events & Banquets offers a versatile space can be tailored to accommodate every type and size of event, with a professional events team that will work with you on every detail. Click here for more information about booking your wedding at Belvedere Events & Banquets. 

Wedding planning is stressful enough as it is, then add in a pandemic and we’re sure your stress level has skyrocketed! Take a break from wedding planning and have a little fun with your partner at a socially distanced drive-in like CHI-Together. 

COVID-19 has surely tested the limits on the way that people socialize, form connections and celebrate milestones. Specifically, the milestone of getting married during a global pandemic has put many couples’ relationships to the test. Juggling changes in venue capacity,  narrowing down of guests lists, finding new vendors and abiding by social distancing guidelines can all be additional stressors during a couple’s wedding planning process. However, such alterations are necessary if planning a wedding during a global pandemic.

With all of this added stress, we suggest that all couples step away from their planning and take a night to truly enjoy each other’s company. Find creative activities to do with your partner during this time is a way to keep the romance alive and the weddings worries afar. You must set aside time for each other and your relationship. Stay positive by shifting your focus back on each other and spending quality time together.

Socially safe dates are trending and it’s time for you soon-to-be newlyweds to take a break from wedding planning and get on the bandwagon! Avoiding large gatherings is a must when practicing social distancing, but there are other ways to ramp up date nights yet stay safe as you explore our beautiful city and each other. Look for activities to do with your partner outdoors or activities that you can do while wearing a mask. Make an event out of your date night and go the extra mile to make it special!

Here’s one date night option for you that will take it up a notch while enjoying the city lights, music and a movie all in one experience.  Attend a full evening of fun together at CHI-Together Drive-In at Soldier Field. Bringing back the nostalgia of the classic drive-in yet urbanizing it with an action packed evening of live music, contests and games followed by the movie screening… this night is sure to be a hit and a night to remember!

Take it up a notch and pack a picnic basket of your favorite movie night snacks, creating a comfortable bed in the back seat of your truck or trunk with pillows and attend this drive-in movie experience with your partner. Don’t want to worry about packing dinner? There are food trucks on site too! If you really want to make it special, bring along string lights and have them strung in your trunk or bring candles to layer in some ambiance!

The efforts in combating COVID-19 has brought back the drive-in to weekend entertainment and they are back better than ever (and in the heart of Chicago)! CHI-Together Drive-In is located in the Soldier Field South parking lot offering one of the most innovative drive-in music and movie entertainment experiences that Chicago has boasted since the pandemic swept the country. CHI-Together is the largest drive-in music and movie event in Chicago and has three jumbo screens that feature movies everyone loves to watch.

What makes this deal even sweeter? Each ticket includes the live music pre-show and the movie along with a bucket of popcorn. Want to make it a double date? Go for it! The purchase of one vehicle ticket is good for up to 6 people per car. Socially safe date-night is possible, fun and can re-energize the wedding planning process by taking a step back and simply enjoying each other. So take a break, get out, and enjoy a date night with your future forever!

Tickets, movie line-up and more information can be found online here: www.CHI-Together.com

All photography by As They Are Photography.

(photo credit: She See Photography)

Director of Events, Brandon Bierlein, at Drury Lane dropped in to answer some questions about their beautiful, unique venue. 

Couples looking to host a wedding in Chicago have hundreds of options. What makes Drury Lane so unique?

Location, location, location. We’re perfectly spaced between two international airports, downtown Chicago, and many fabulous suburban downtown areas. We’re also surrounded by picturesque locations perfect for wedding photos.

Inside Drury Lane itself, the crystal chandeliers and bright, lofty ballrooms are a huge draw for us. There are quite literally thousands of Swarovski crystals in nearly every room. Some of them have traveled with us for decades from previous Drury Lane locations across Chicagoland. They’re part of our history and add instant glamour.

And of course, we’re a family business. Many of our event team members have been with us for over 20 years. This organization, while large, is family-run and family-focused at its core. Our team cares about our space deeply, and every single guest is welcomed into our home warmly and with lots of love, attention, and care for the legacy of our space. There is a lot of pride alive in this building.

(Photo credit: Maha Studios)

How does Drury Lane adapt to couples’ needs?

We offer various customizable spaces, custom floor plans, complimentary parking, the list goes on. The Drury Lane team is passionate about creativity, and every couple is treated with individual attention and care. Each event is perfectly catered to our couple’s wishes, and we love turning new and innovative ideas into reality, whether that involves working with new vendors or getting creative with our own team’s skills.

How does Drury Lane cater to small, intimate weddings vs. big, boisterous ones?

We host events for anywhere from 50 guests to over 2,000 guests and pride ourselves on the flexibility of our spaces; within each room, the floor plan is completely customizable. Our most intimate private space, the English Room, accommodates anywhere from 50 to 80 guests and is perfect for small weddings, rehearsal dinners, or bridal showers. The Grand Ballroom holds 2,000 guests, and it can be divided into four smaller ballrooms – the Oak, Brook, Terrace, and Venetian Rooms – each of which accommodates up to 400 guests. The Crystal Ballroom, which holds up to 240 people, is a separate ballroom with its own cocktail foyer, which is perfect for weddings with both ceremony and reception at Drury Lane.

(Photo credit: Monika Baranski Photography)

What makes a Drury Lane wedding special?

We are so much more than a venue – our relationship with our couples is everything. We love working with couples from the moment they walk into our space for the first time to the end of their event with us night-of. Our attention to detail, our offerings, and the care from our team speaks volumes. We enjoy lending an ear and offering professional advice throughout the process in addition to all the various things we provide in our package. At the end of the day, we enjoy working with people, and we love making memories with our couples and assisting in a smooth, stress-free experience from every angle.

(Photo credit: Elizabeth Greve Photography)

What are your tips for couples who are just starting the wedding planning process, especially those who are still trying to pick a venue?

Go with your gut. It’s important not only that you love the space but also that you really vibe with the team. Look to work with people who are honest, bright, positive, and willing to go above and beyond to ensure you are comfortable and happy with every aspect of their offerings. If you love planning, then by all means, take the helm and enjoy the ride. If you’re not much of a planner, we encourage you to hire a planner or relay any questions you have directly to us. We will always do our best to steer you in the right direction. At the end of the day, the process should be fun and enjoyable, and so much of that comes from who you’re working with.

(Photo credit: Jaime Campanelli Photography)

Drury Lane Theatre & Events versatile space can be tailored to accommodate every type and size of event, with a professional events team that will work with you on every detail. Click here for more information about booking your wedding at Drury Lane Theatre & Events. 

(photo credit: TWA Photographic Artists)

There’s a lot to consider when planning a wedding. What should the color palette be? Who will be in the wedding party? What food will be served? But a global pandemic? That’s a new one.

As couples weigh their options of keeping or postponing their wedding date, Chicago Marriott Naperville is prepped with health and safety guidelines that minimize your anxiety.

It goes beyond staff wearing masks during your event. The Chicago Marriott Naperville has truly thought of everything!

Wide Open Spaces

The beauty of a ballrooms is that it’s designed to hold big crowds, making it the perfect setting for a spaciously laid out venue. Rooms can be customized to accommodate airy floor plans with intimate table placements that allow for plenty of elbow room. Don’t forget to consider an outdoor wedding, too!

A Grand Entrance

It’s the little things, like guests not having to open the door to your venue, that make a big impact. The Marriott recommends propping doors open with way-finding signage guiding guests to entrances and exists.

Passing the White Glove Test

No one should have to worry about cleanliness during any wedding! Attentive staff will be sanitizing high-touch areas like tableware, chairs, centerpieces, and audio/visual equipment between each use. Also, placing sanitizing stations strategically can help guests quickly and easily refresh their hands.

Dinner is Served

Food displays can be altered as well, with options for grab-and-go plated meals. Want to offer guests a late-night snack? Opt for treats family and friends can quickly snag from a table, instead of passed food or drinks.

Love is not cancelled. Weddings are happening. Rest assured that, at Chicago Marriott Naperville, you and your guests will enjoy every moment of your celebration feeling safe and at ease.