By a Local Chicago Wedding Photographer
Hey there! I’m Lindsay — a Chicago wedding photographer based in the South Suburbs — and we have had the honor of photographing weddings at some truly incredible venues. Whether you’re dreaming of an elegant ballroom, a cozy barn, or an intimate city celebration, I wanted to share a few of my personal favorite spots to help you find the perfect place to tie the knot.
Every couple’s wedding vision is different, and I’ve seen firsthand how much the right venue can shape your day. So here are 15 venues I absolutely love — plus a few bonus intimate spots right in the heart of downtown Chicago.
My Favorite Wedding Venues in the South Suburbs
If you’re planning close to home or even just prefer this area in the south suburbs (like Tinley, Frankfort, or Mokena), here are some gems that I always get excited to shoot at as a South Suburbs wedding photographer!
- CD & Me – Frankfort, IL
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Cost: $1,500 + Contact them for direct quote (varies by season/package)
Features: Rustic chic gardens with indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces, string lights, onsite bar, and plenty of photo spots with nature and charm. Perfect for couples wanting a relaxed yet romantic vibe.
- The Odyssey – Tinley Park, IL
Capacity: Up to 500+ guests
Cost: Inquire with them for accurate pricing info!
Features: Spacious ballrooms with marble floors, elegant chandeliers, and stunning views. Great for couples wanting a classic, large wedding with a luxurious feel.
- Tuscany Falls – Mokena, IL
Capacity: Up to 250 guests
Cost: $1,300 and up, inquire for more detailed pricing
Features: Italian-inspired architecture with grand staircases and crystal chandeliers. Indoor/outdoor options include beautiful gardens and courtyard spaces for romantic ceremonies.
- The Derby House – Frankfort, IL
Capacity: Around 100 guests
Cost: Inquire for pricing!
Features: Historic Venue with cozy, intimate vibes. Perfect for smaller weddings that want a personal touch with character and charm.
- Chicago Gaelic Park – Oak Forest, IL
Capacity: 150-280 guests depending on space rented
Cost: Inquire for accurate quote!
Features: Traditional Irish-inspired venue with versatile indoor rooms and spacious outdoor grounds. Known for warm hospitality and customizable packages.
Chicagoland Venues with Intimate or Luxury Vibes
These are venues just outside the city that bring all the upscale, romantic, or totally unique energy. They photograph so beautifully!
- Meson Sabika – Naperville, IL
Capacity: Up to 120+ guests
Cost: $5,000+ based on day and hours
Features: Historic Spanish-style mansion with stunning gardens and intimate indoor spaces. Great for couples looking for elegance and a hint of destination wedding feel close to Chicago.
- The Drake Oak Brook – Oak Brook, IL
Capacity: 250+ guests
Cost: inquire for pricing
Features: Classic luxury with marble floors, grand ballrooms, and vintage glamour. Perfect for couples wanting a formal, glamorous wedding with excellent service.
- Paramount’s Meyer Ballroom – Aurora, IL
Capacity: Around 250 guests
Cost: Contact or fill out a form on their site for a pricing sheet!
Features: Modern ballroom with floor-to-ceiling windows and river views. The natural light and sleek design make it a photographer’s dream.
- Warehouse 109 – Plainfield, IL
Capacity: 150+ guests
Cost: $2,500+ inquire with them for more details.
Features: Industrial vintage vibe with eclectic decor including a motorcycle gallery, and an Airstream trailer bar. Perfect for couples wanting a unique and laid-back celebration.
- The Haley Mansion – Joliet, IL
Capacity: Up to 350 guests
Cost: $10,000 and up, inquire for exact cost!
Features: Gilded Age estate with ornate interiors, grand staircases, and beautiful gardens. A timeless venue with lots of character.
Bonus: Intimate City Wedding Venues I Love in Chicago
Want that iconic Chicago backdrop without the big guest list? These are perfect for couples planning smaller, meaningful celebrations.
Chicago City Hall / Courthouse
Capacity: Up to 15 guests
Cost: Under $100 for a marriage license and ceremony
Timeless, simple, and meaningful — perfect for elopements or intimate weddings. Plus, the Chicago skyline is just steps away for amazing portraits.
The Ivy Room – River North
Capacity: 30-200 guests
Cost: Inquire with them for more accurate pricing!
Private garden courtyard paired with elegant indoor space makes this a romantic urban oasis.
Greenhouse Loft – Logan Square
Capacity: Up to 175 guests
Cost: $5,000–$12,000
Sustainable, bright, and modern, with floor-to-ceiling windows for lots of natural light — great for stylish intimate weddings.
Chicago Wedding Photographers Final Thoughts on the Best Wedding Venues in Chicago
No matter what your wedding day looks like — big or small, classic — I hope this list gives you some inspiration and direction as you start planning. Chicago and the South Suburbs truly have something for everyone.
I’ve been a Chicago Photographer for a few years, working with couples and families to create timeless, joyful memories. And if you’re still searching for someone to capture all of it — I’d love to be part of your day! These venues are places I feel are absolutely beautiful, and helping couples like you feel comfortable and excited on camera is what we do best.
Let’s chat more! [View my portfolio here] or [reach out and say hi].
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