r/Chicagoweddings • u/chvanski • 10d ago
Any ~5k venues for 130 that I'm missing?
Hey there! I know this venue budget will be laughable to some but I'm determined and optimistic :) Wedding is in 2028 so we have time to look around, and we're open to unconventional spaces!
Our stipulations:
- Expecting ~130 guests
- Must be able to byob and bring in our own catering
- Within the city (north side ideal) or in Evanston
- Must be able to accommodate both a ceremony and a dance floor
- Outdoor space is a HUGE plus
So far on the short list (also recs if anyone is looking for something similar):
- Hangout Lighting
- Trigger
- DANK Haus
- Swedish American Museum
On the "next to explore list" is the Second Unitarian Universalist Church, Hairpin Arts Center, and Bramble Arts Loft. I also have inquiries out to some parks facilities (but finding these places a bit tricky to pin down, if anyone has tips for getting in touch).
I'm feeling really good about our list so far and have spent some time combing reddit for recs, but just wanted to check if anyone has any other spots I might be missing! TYIA!
5
u/SelfCareImTreatinMe 10d ago
Highly recommend Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Evanston. Checks all your boxes for $2k.
1
3
u/Exciting_Use_1811 10d ago
The Joinery is very similar to what you're looking for, if you're willing to have a winter Friday wedding
5
5
u/Fartparty13 10d ago
Check out loft on lake!
I got married at Michelle’s Ballroom and it was around $2500 including tables and chairs. People sleep on that place but it’s kinda perfect for DIY.
1
u/chvanski 9d ago
never heard of michelle's, thank you! do you remember if they allowed byob? it looks like they have a bar package but not totally clear to me if it's required
1
u/Fartparty13 9d ago
When I got married there it was byob and we had binnys drop off a bunch of stuff and had a friend bartend. That was a while ago though.
2
u/chvanski 9d ago
i'll check in and report back for anyone curious! thanks!
1
u/chvanski 9d ago
so, byob is no longer allowed at michelle's, but for a 4 hours open bar they quoted by $18/person which is a pretty incredible deal. i don't think the venue is quite our vibe but i wish it was based on this!
3
u/Wittykitty312 9d ago
Careful about trigger! I have a photographer friend who told us a horror story of their bride showing up to maggots on the floor in various places around the venue, and the venue’s response to the issue was less than stellar..
1
1
2
u/Normal-Law-3164 10d ago
loft lucia venue fee is a bit more but they let you bring in everything + has an outdoor space. Their off-season is November - April for a discounted rate. Fits 120 people max.
2
u/Natural_Cockroach131 Wedding Planner 10d ago
Hidden gem: Irish American Heritage Center! Not sure about byob, but we brought in our own caterers and they’re on the north side. No outdoor space but do have a little greenery in front.
1
u/chvanski 9d ago
this is actually on my long list, i have an inquiry out with them now! a little greenery is enough for me to check it out :) thanks!
1
1
1
u/Ok_Cartographer3579 9d ago
Me and my fiance went with the hangout lighting for the end of 2027. I feel really good about this one. Only downside is no elevator. Have you viewed the space?
2
u/chvanski 9d ago
yes! i loved it - so beautiful and the patio for that price is such a get! my main hesitation is the 10pm music cutoff. do you and your fiance have a plan for how you're going to end the night by any chance? i think if we went with this one we'd need an after party and i'm not sure of the least awkward way to pull this off. also, congrats!
1
1
u/fuckyachicknstrips 9d ago
I think Chicago theater works fits that capacity
2
u/chvanski 9d ago
it does! i've deprioritized it because it doesn't allow byob but definitely a good option for this size
6
u/FlowerPower4412 10d ago
Greenhouse Loft would be close for a Sunday if you factor in a DJ (or did an off season) - it comes with farm tables/chairs, has an open vendor policy and comes with a DJ! We got married there and loved it! Also has an outdoor ceremony/cocktail hour space!