Weddings are the work of a giant team of creative professionals all working together to make your dreams a reality.  So, after you determine your wedding budget and choose your wedding style, the ultimate step in the wedding planning process begins:  hiring trustworthy, reputable wedding vendors to carry out your vision. But, who do you hire first? The big decisions will effect the small decisions so following the schedule will ease your stress in the end. To help you with the process we’ve outlined the best order to book your wedding vendors in from start to finish.

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Marissa and Francis exchanged vows in a beautiful outdoor ceremony on June 9, 2018. Here are a few words of wisdom from the bride about their planning experience!

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Your big day is full of little details. Everything, from your stationery to your cake, will play a part in creating one cohesive theme. Here’s a collection of beautiful bouquets and boutonnières, breathtaking invitation suites and fabulous cakes that are sure to inspire!

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From delicate lace and tulle to glamorous satin and sparkles, we’ve rounded up some of the most gorgeous gowns from across Chicagoland just for you!

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Before scheduling an on-site visit with a Chicagoland reception venue, call or email to check availability, capacity and price point. You don’t want to fall in love, only to have your heart broken because it’s not available, won’t hold all your guests, or it’s way beyond the budget.

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It’s an unapologizing affair that’s been going on for years!  Full of love, laughter, and filters.  And if we are being 100%, so much of life would be missed without them. But…at a wedding ceremony, a temporary break from cell phones, Ipads and cameras may be a good time for re-connection.

Here are 5 reasons to consider for asking your guests to refrain.

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The words “I Do” are virtually universal in a wedding ceremony as the affirmation of your bond as husband and wife.

But the text and type of wedding vows have changed throughout the years and are as varied today as the couples that make them.

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This nautical pop-up wedding is what our planner likes to refer to as ‘unexpected done well’. With the bride in her halter mini dress, her groom in a royal blue tuxedo, and the edgy black, brass and burgundy ingredients, she brings the Stately First Lady smartly into 2019!

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For most brides, choosing a wedding dress is an event of a lifetime.  Your dress sets the tone of your wedding day and is a reflection of your personality and style. When shopping for your wedding dress, start early and set a budget.

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Who says you have to have a big wedding? Sometimes the best way to celebrate is with a handful of your closest friends and family. Opting for a small wedding means you’ll have time to spend more than just a few moments with each of your guests–you’ll be able to sit down and chat with them, dance with them, and enjoy a the evening without the pressure of running around to say a quick “hello” to everyone.

Small wedding venues tend to offer a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. From vintage mansions and estate houses, to modern lofts and boutique hotels, there’s something for every taste. Some even specialize in “mircoweddings” and elopements!

Here are five small wedding venues in Chicago, IL that are perfect for small weddings and celebrations.

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Treat your guests to spectacular views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan! Many city venues have spaces that incorporate the surrounding scenery, like rooftops, upper-level lofts and ballrooms, yachts and more. Floor-to-ceiling windows and venues at the highest levels give guests a chance to see the Chicago skyline from a new point of view as they celebrate with you. You’ll love the polished modern backdrop for photo ops during the day and the romantic glow of city lights at night. With Chicago being situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, many lakefront venues also offer picturesque views!

If you’re a big fan of the Windy City and all it has to offer, we know you’ll love these six wedding venues with views of the Chicago skyline!

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Industrial venues tend to be great blank slates for weddings and events of all kinds—from modern and chic, to boho and beautiful. Couples love the tall exposed-rafter ceilings, brick walls and other great features these venues have to offer. These venues are usually warehouses, lofts, etc. that have been completely renovated into versatile open-concept event spaces. Industrial venues are easily dressed up with uplighting, modern lounge furniture and more to create an upscale urban vibe. For those wanting to keep it casual and cozy, farm tables, glowing décor and greenery are popular choices.

Whether you’re throwing a classy, modern soiree or a casual, intimate gathering, you’re sure to fall in love with these nine industrial wedding and event venues in Chicagoland.

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Mansion and estate venues tend to offer a more intimate, cozy setting for weddings and events, even if you have a large guest list! From historic and charming, to modern and sophisticated, these venues create a beautiful backdrop for every style. Some offer gardens and other outdoor spaces for picturesque ceremonies, while others offer beautiful woodwork and sparkling chandeliers for vintage-inspired indoor celebrations. These four mansion and estate venues in the Chicago suburbs are sure make a memorable impression!

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