Your ultimate Chicago wedding planning guide
Accommodations
The accommodations that you choose for you and your guests are an important extension of your Chicago wedding celebration. You want to make sure that your accommodations enhance the day and provide the atmosphere that you desire for your wedding events. We provide you with a complete listing of all types of Chicago accommodations, including Chicago hotels, Chicago bed and breakfasts, Chicago inns, Chicago retreats, and more. Rest and restore yourself in any style you wish. Sweet dreams!
Bed & Breakfasts and Inns
Chicago bed and breakfasts and Chicago inns offer a charming and intimate atmosphere to add to your wedding celebration. Enjoy the inviting ambiance offered by the many Chicago bed and breakfasts and Chicago inns that are available to cater to your unique needs and distinctive tastes. Our comprehensive list includes descriptions and direct contact information to assist your search for the Chicago bed and breakfast or inn that is perfect for your wedding.
Bridal Accessories
Something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue. Whether you’re looking for all of these things and more, or none of them but something else entirely, we’ll make sure you find exactly what you need for your Chicago wedding. Browse through our thorough list of bridal fashion accessory retailers in Chicago to find the one that is the best fit for you to complete your wedding day fashion with flair and elegance from head to toe.
Bridal Fashion Designers
Browse through this inclusive list of Chicago bridal fashion designers who offer unique, individual wedding dress options in a wide variety of styles. Whether you are looking for a dress that is vintage, classic or cutting-edge, you are certain to find the Chicago wedding dress designer who will provide you with the wedding dress of your dreams. The Chicago bridal fashion designers listed are ready to help you find the wedding dress that is a perfect fit for you both physically and aesthetically.
Bridal Fashions
You’re the bride. It’s your day to look and feel like a princess and every princess deserves to be the bell of the ball. You shouldn’t settle on a dress and you don’t have to. There are so many Chicago locations that can offer you the best of the best when it comes to your wedding gown. With such a wide selection of Chicago vendors, you’ll find that perfect dress to WOW that perfect prince of yours.
Bridal Salons
To veil or not to veil? That is certainly not the only question. We want to help you find exactly what you need to complete the look you’re dreaming of for your wedding day. That’s why we have provided you with a complete list of Chicago wedding dress retailers and Chicago wedding accessory stores. Find it all to fit your style, from the dress to the jewelry and more, and with expert advice to help you each step of the way.
Cakes & Candies
You’ve just said your vows and now you’re ready to party. Did you know that wedding guests remember the wedding cake almost as much as they do the wedding itself? Yes, it’s sad, but true. With so many Chicago bakeries around, it will be, ahem, a piece of cake to satisfy their taste buds. We’ve compiled a list of the best Chicago bakers, so all you have to do is find which one best suits you. That’s a pretty sweet deal.
Catering
Everything for the big day is almost complete. Still, you can’t figure out what foods you want to serve at the reception. Don’t think too hard, because there are amazing caterers in Chicago! Don’t believe us? Check out our comprehensive lists of businesses ready to make your reception delectable. With so many catering choices available in the heart of Chicago, your send off will be given by friends and family with warm smiles and full stomachs.
Ceremony Sites
The Chicago location that you choose for your ceremony is a reflection of the two of you, and you want it to be the perfect place to express your love and commitment to one another. Look through this extensive list of Chicago wedding ceremony sites from traditional Chicago wedding chapels to other Chicago wedding ceremony locations that span from classic to unusual. You already said “Yes”…let us help you find the ideal place to say “I do.”
Classic Cars
When you want to make an impression, originality counts. We provide you with a full listing of Chicago wedding classic car and Chicago wedding limousine rental services. Allow us to help you to find the right company to help you make your wedding entrance and/or exit truly unforgettable. Reflect your own individuality and pizzazz with this distinctive touch. This is a fun, sophisticated way to make your Chicago wedding exceptionally unique.
Classical
The sounds of classical music are well, classic. While your guests wait anxiously for you to commit your hearts to each other, shouldn’t you set the mood with something soothing? Your wedding can be a grand event, just by your music selection. Chicago is full of music services with making your day special in mind. Our list will help you fine-tune your ceremony into something memorable. This wonderful day will be music to your ears.
Counseling
Premarital counseling is as popular as ever. It’s a great idea to talk to a third party before tying the old knot! No need to stress about who you’ll turn to for advice—we’ve done the work for you. You’ll find the best Chicago premarital counselors available listed on our site. You’ll also find that many Chicago counselors work with couples at all stages of their relationship, which may come in handy down the road!
Dance Bands
You love to dance and that’s just what you want to do after your wedding. These Chicago bands are ready to provide you with the perfect music for your wedding reception. These music providers have you covered when it comes to the 70’s, 80’s, big band, swing, today’s current hits and much more! There’s no reason to settle for one style of music when you can get a fabulous Chicago band that can entertain you and your guest with all the music you love.
Dance Instruction
Two left feet and a wedding quickly approaching? No worries, we’ll get you on the right track. Finding a Chicago dance instructor is as easy as one, two, three…four… Impress your partner with your new moves. These Chicago instructors are ready and waiting to turn your college dance moves into something a little more sophisticated. No matter what song plays at the reception, you should be prepared to dance the night away with the one you love.
Decorations
Everything is almost in order, except the decorations. You want the ceremony and reception to reflect who you are as a couple. You have one taste and he has another. That’s the beauty of marriage – two people blending together. Your decorations can do the same. Your options are endless in Chicago. These businesses can provide you with candles, centerpieces, keepsakes and much more to show off what you represent together. Congratulations and happy hunting.
Disc Jockeys
The music that you choose as the soundtrack for your wedding day helps create and enhance the mood of the celebration. In other words, you don’t want a disco tune blaring over the sound system if you’re having more of a love ballad moment during the first dance with your belove... or maybe you do! No matter what your musical style, browse our extensive list to find the right Chicago disc jockey who will be in tune with your tastes and make sure you and your guests get your groove on!
Favors
So it is time to figure out your wedding favors. You have the guests, the groomsmen, the bridesmaids, and all the other important participants in the wedding to think of. With this list of Chicago favor specialists you are sure to find the perfect favors for your wedding. Have fun and get creative, give your guest some great favors.
Flowers
The most gorgeous flowers can create a stunning atmosphere at your ceremony. Chicago is full of floral specialists that can provide you with flower arrangements and accent pieces that will take your breath away. You want your flowers to be a work of art and that’s just what you’ll get. You want both service and creativity, and these Chicago floral gurus can give you what you deserve. Don’t settle for anything less than the best.
Gifts
Don’t forget to get gifts for your wedding party to show them how important they are to you at this special time, and to thank them for being a part of it. Remember those adorable flower girls and ring bearers, too! Browse our complete list of Chicago wedding gift retailers to find sources for the ideal tokens of your appreciation and affection. Also, find gifts for your wedding guests that will commemorate the day in whatever unique way that you choose.
Gown Preservation & Dry Cleaning
After the vows are exchanged and the reception comes to an end, you and your new spouse will be left to rejoice in the day with one another. Under the circumstances, having to take off your beautiful wedding dress is not such a bad thing…but it is important that it be properly cared for so that it will last for years to come. This extensive listing of Chicago wedding gown preservation and dry cleaning services will help ensure a long life for your treasured gown.
Hair Salons
You can’t trust just anybody to tame your tresses on your wedding day. Look through this list of the finest Chicago hair salons and Chicago wedding hairdressers, and find the one that you want to make your coif look absolutely fabulous! From cut to color to wedding day ‘dos, we have compiled a list of the best wedding hair stylists in Chicago. Let the experts get you ready for the main event!
Hair Stylists
We’ve all had a bad hair day from time to time. Don’t let it happen on your wedding day! After all, it’s not exactly an option to put it in a pony or under a cap and forget about it on this particular occasion. These Chicago wedding hair stylists are the finest in Chicago, and will make sure that your locks are perfectly styled for your trip down the aisle. Find the one that is the best fit for your unique taste and preferences.
Health & Beauty
It’s your day, and all of your family and friends will be there to celebrate your Chicago wedding. Of course you want to be the most stunning version of you! Even supermodels can’t do it without a team of experienced professionals, and we have compiled a list of the best Chicago wedding health and beauty experts available to get you ready for every close-up. Services include teeth whitening, spas, hair salons, tanning salons, personal trainers, make-up artists, nail salons and much more.
Honeymoons
You’ve said those sacred vows. He was the perfect groom and she was the perfect bride. Now it’s time to get away as husband and wife. Whether you and your sweetheart love the beach or the mountains, you’ll be able to find the perfect honeymoon spot by using our list of Chicago honeymoon destination specialists. The possibilities are endless – sun and sand or cabins and nature – you’ll be able to find the perfect place for relaxation or adventure.
Horse-Drawn Carriage
Taking a romantic horse-drawn carriage ride is a wonderful way to add a memorable touch of charm and whimsy to your wedding day. We provide you with a comprehensive listing of Chicago horse-drawn carriage services to complete your wedding day fantasy with style and class. These majestic creatures have carried many new couples off to their own ‘happily ever after’ stories for centuries…why not make them a part of your modern-day Chicago wedding as well?
Hotels
Whether you are looking for urban or rustic, enormous or intimate, you are certain to find the ideal hotel for your Chicago wedding among the extensive list provided of Chicago hotels. Simply browse through the numerous hotel descriptions and photographs we’ve provided to find just the hotel that you are looking for. Contact information is provided for each listing, so that you can get quick answers to your questions and begin booking your events directly and easily.
Invitations
Chicago is full of great designers and suppliers of wedding invitations. These businesses will help you find the invitation best suited for you. Not all invitations are traditional anymore and your search for them doesn’t have to be either. That’s why we’ve found these Chicago invitation designers that break the mold when it comes to announcing your big day. You’ll find the best designs for a wide range of personalities, so you can invite your friends and family with style.
Jazz
Jazz music is extremely soothing and romantic. There’s just something about it. It makes you want to snuggle with the one you love and sway back and forth to the beat. Chicago has many businesses that can provide you with the cool jazz you’ve been looking for. If you’re having that classic and elegant wedding, then jazz might just be the way to go. Browse through these providers to see what they can offer you.
Jewelers
Having trouble finding the perfect rings to display your love for each other? Not to worry, there are a plethora of Chicago jewelers. We know that you want a ring that’s different from the next. Sometimes, it’s hard to find something unique when you don’t have enough options. This is why we’ve scoured Chicago to give you those options you need in order to find the perfect ring. Don’t run in circles anymore. The only circle you need is the one that goes on your finger.
Limousine
If you are looking for wedding day transportation that is classic, elegant and timeless, a Chicago limousine service is the ultimate choice. Look through our full list of Chicago limousine services that are ready to chauffer you and your wedding party in true luxury. Whether you want to enjoy a romantic ride to the reception with your new spouse, or have a mobile champagne toast with twelve of your closest bridesmaids, you will find just what you’re looking for to fit your Chicago wedding wishes.
Lingerie
You want to look and feel gorgeous from top to bottom on your wedding day, and what’s a better way to complete the package than with some exquisite new bridal lingerie? Browse our thorough list of bridal lingerie stores in and around Chicago that are available to help you show off your assets with elegance. These Chicago bridal lingerie stores will also make sure that you are well equipped with bridal lingerie for your wedding night and honeymoon (wink, wink!).
Live Music
Can’t figure out what type of band to hire for the wedding reception? We have lots of great Chicago bands that can fill the room with beautiful tunes. You don’t just want any band and we understand that. This is why we’ve searched for the best of the best to provide you with musical services. Your day should be lively and memorable, and there’s no better way to get that magical feeling than with a live Chicago band.
Makeup
There’s a reason that this is an Academy Award category… because it takes talent and work to successfully achieve a specific look! We have compiled a complete listing of Chicago wedding make up artists, wedding make up supplies and wedding make up services to help you achieve the appearance of your dreams for your Chicago wedding day. Whether you want to be flawlessly natural or daring and dramatic, you will definitely find the right make up specialist to create the perfect bridal visage for you.
Officiants
Finding an officiant or minister shouldn’t be a hassle and with the work we’ve done for you, it won’t be. We’ve listed plenty of Chicago officiants and ministers to make your vows special for both you and your guests. We hope that our research helps make your wedding planning a little easier, and less stressful. Take time to browse through the following list. By finding the right Chicago officiant, your ceremony is guaranteed to be unique and memorable.
Personal Fitness
Hollywood starlets (and leading men, also!) have them, so why shouldn’t the blushing bride and the dashing groom? Get toned and gorgeous for your Chicago wedding. These Chicago personal trainers are available to give you the individualized attention that you deserve, and to make sure that you get the results that you are looking for by your wedding day. Gain confidence and boost your energy while becoming more fit for the big event
Photographers
A picture is worth a thousand words. Or so they say. Well, if it’s true, then don’t you deserve to have your special day captured beautifully? Pictures are the ultimate way to freeze time. No matter how much life changes, you can always look back to the way things were in that amazing moment and smile. Please, take your time and browse through the following brochures to find the Chicago photographer that best suits you.
Reception Facilities
Location, location, location! Whether you're planning for an outdoor wedding for 30 or a formal dinner reception for 300, it's important that your Chicago wedding reception facility provides the right environment in which to celebrate the joy of your Chicago wedding. From traditional to zany, we've got all kinds of options for you to choose from. Look here to see our extensive list of Chicago wedding reception facilities, Chicago wedding venues, and other exciting Chicago wedding locations.
Registries
Avoid receiving that hideous painting from Aunt Betty by registering for what you want! You can do it all right here. You’ll not only find the finest Chicago wedding registries for china, crystal and linens, but you’ll also find independent Chicago registries enabling you to tailor your registry to your personality. Don’t want to register for stuff? Not to worry we’ve also included honeymoon, cash, and charity registries as well. Happy shopping!
Rehearsal Dinner
The rehearsal dinner is a special prelude to your wedding day, and you want it to reflect the joy of the occasion. Browse our list of Chicago rehearsal dinner facilities that are ready and equipped to help you celebrate with scrumptious style. You are sure to find the ideal place to be toasted – and maybe even roasted – by members of your family and wedding party, and set the tone that you desire for your wedding festivities.
Rental Services
You’ve got the church and reception facility booked for your big day. However, you still have to worry about making it reflect your style. Chicago has wonderful rental services ready to provide you with anything from chair covers to tables to glassware and much, much more. We’ve done the dirty work for you, so all you have to do is pick up the phone and let them know what you need for your special day.
Retreats
Are you looking for a way to make your Chicago wedding events truly unique, memorable and peaceful? Browse through our extensive listing of Chicago retreats that are available to whisk you and your guests away from the outside world, and into an unforgettably tranquil reality. Whether it’s for an afternoon or for a week, you will surely appreciate the relaxing environment provided to you by these Chicago retreats. Allow your stress to melt away so that you can fully enjoy your wedding celebration. Ahhh…
Shuttle Bus and Trolleys
Browse this list of the most reputable Chicago wedding shuttle bus services and Chicago wedding limousine service companies in Illinois, and find the ideal one to alleviate your wedding day transportation and parking concerns. You can set your mind at ease, knowing that you and your guests will be driven to and from your wedding events safely and in style, by a team of experienced professionals. This is a great way to avoid an unnecessary headache!
Skin Care
Pamper yourself while you prepare for your close-ups with the aid of a licensed Chicago skin care professional. We offer a full list of the finest Chicago skin care services to help you achieve the flawless look that you desire for your wedding day, through the use of facials and many other available spa treatments. Sit back, unwind and enjoy your journey to wedding day beauty. We’re certain that any of these Chicago skin care professionals will leave you glowing with happiness at your results.
Spas
Choose your blissful path to wedding day splendor and relaxation with the help of one of these Chicago spas. Whether you are seeking rejuvenating solitude before the big event, or want to share a spa day with 12 of your closest bridesmaids, these Chicago spas offer a wide variety of treatments designed to beautify and restore in a luxurious environment. Forget about seating charts, dress fittings and RSVPs for a little while and let a Chicago spa team melt your cares away. You deserve it!
Transportation
It’s a monumental occasion, and you want to arrive at and depart from your Chicago wedding ceremony location in style. Check out the wide variety of transportation options available to you for your Chicago wedding. We have a full list of Chicago wedding transportation options for you to choose from, including Chicago limousines, Chicago classic cars, Chicago wedding buses and Chicago horse-drawn carriages. It’s your day…ride off into the sunset however you wish.
Tuxedos
You’ve found that special someone that loves you for you. However, you still need to look your best for her at the wedding. Chicago is full of businesses that sell and rent tuxes. Since we’ve already compiled the list of places, there’s no excuse for waiting until the last minute. You can find the perfect tux for you and your attendants. You’ve impressed her with who you are on the inside – now you can impress her by looking handsome on the outside.
Valet Service
We all know that parking can be a hassle, especially at a large gathering. Why not let somebody else manage the headache on your wedding day? Look here to find an inclusive listing of professional valet services in Chicago. You and your guests will be able to arrive at your Chicago wedding and join the festivities immediately, while a team of experienced parking valets deals with the logistics behind managing vehicles.
Videographers
Pictures are great, but it’s unrealistic that a photographer will capture every moment you’d like to remember. When you have your wedding recorded by a Chicago videographer, you can relive that moment anytime the mood strikes you. Just think about those anniversaries coming your way. This is a great way to celebrate each other for years to come.
Vocalists
Only the right voice can set the right mood for your wedding. Chicago is full of talented artists that can serenade you with songs so you can dance close with the one you love. We’ve compiled a list of Chicago businesses that specialize in wedding entertainment. These great talents can perform music from older eras or today’s hits. The choice is yours. See what Chicago can offer you! This is your day. Let us help you make it special.
Wedding Party Fashions
What ever happened to the multi-bowed, puff-sleeved bridesmaid’s dresses of bygone days? Thankfully, it is now possible for every member of your wedding party to look stunning and chic. We offer a full list of Chicago bridesmaid dress retailers who specialize in fashion for bridesmaids, flower girls, and mothers of the bride and groom. Whether you are after a specific design or are still looking for ideas, you will find the Chicago retailer to help you and your wedding party look their best on your wedding day.
Wedding Planners
So, you just can’t find the time to plan everything yourself. You’ve tried to work planning into your schedule, but it’s just not possible. It’s OK. We’re here to help. Chicago has plenty of wedding planners at your beck and call. Your day needs to be special, and it should be. With our list of planners, you can find the right person who will work hard to give you the Chicago wedding of your dreams.