Planning Your Chicago Wedding: A No-BS Guide to Getting Started!

So, you just said YES! Cue the happy tears, the omg-we’re-doing-this moment, and maybe a celebratory cocktail (or two). Whether you’ve been dreaming of this day forever or it totally caught you off guard, one thing’s for sure—planning a wedding is a BIG deal. But before you get lost in a sea of Pinterest boards and endless venue tours, let’s take a deep breath and break this down step by step. This no-BS guide is here to help you with planning your Chicago wedding without the stress (okay, maybe a little stress, but don’t worry—we’ll tackle it together!).

Tips On Planning Your Chicago Wedding Without The Stress!

Step 1: Pop the Bubbly & Soak It All In

Before you dive headfirst into wedding planning mode, pause. Take a deep breath. Let it all sink in. This is a huge moment, and you deserve to soak up every second of it! Call your best friends, pop a bottle of champagne, and celebrate with your partner. Feeling extra fancy? Plan a little engagement party or a cozy dinner with your closest people. Whatever feels right for you!

And here’s your friendly reminder: there’s no rush. You don’t need to have all the answers today. Your wedding should feel like you, and figuring that out takes time—so enjoy the ride!

Step 2: Set a Realistic Budget

Let’s be real—weddings aren’t cheap! Before you get too deep into planning, grab your partner, sit down, and figure out how much you’re actually comfortable spending. Trust me, setting a budget early will save you so much stress down the road!

Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the biggest wedding expenses:

• Venue & Catering: Usually the biggest chunk of your budget. Chicago has venues that range from affordable to ultra-luxurious, so having a budget in mind will help you narrow down the perfect spot.
• Photography & Videography: This is how you’ll relive your wedding forever. (More on this later, but yes, hire a photographer you love. No regrets here!)
• Attire: Whether it’s a wedding dress, a custom suit, or something totally unique, make sure to set aside funds for your dream look.
• Florals & Décor: This can range from DIY minimalism to full-blown floral installations!
• Entertainment: Live band? DJ? You’ll need to plan for it.
• Miscellaneous Costs: Invitations, transportation, marriage licenses, favors, and other small costs add up fast!

Pro tip: Once you have a number in mind, add a little cushion for unexpected expenses. Weddings always go a little over budget, so be prepared!

Step 3: Pick a Venue That Screams ‘You’!!

Your venue sets the entire mood for your wedding, so take a second to think about what feels like you. Are you dreaming of a romantic rooftop with skyline views? A hidden garden oasis? Maybe something totally unconventional?

• Do you want an indoor or outdoor wedding?
• Do you love city skyline views, or are you more into a nature-inspired setting?
• Are you envisioning something traditional, modern, or totally unconventional?

If you need help picking a wedding venue, I’ve got you covered! Check out 10 Non-Traditional Wedding Venues in Chicago You Haven’t Considered (Yet!) for my top recommendations!

Step 4: Assemble Your Dream Vendor Team

Now that you’ve locked in your venue, it’s time to bring in the pros! Your wedding vendors will make or break your experience, so choosing the right team is everything. You want people who get your vision, vibe, and values—and make the process fun, not stressful.

• Wedding Planner: Lola Event Productions
• Florist: Flowers for Dreams
• Catering: Blue Plate Catering
• Wedding Cake: Bittersweet Pastry Shop
• Photography (That’s Me!): Wren and Rose Photography, I specialize in capturing weddings in a way that feels true to you, real, emotional, and timeless. Whether it’s a grand ballroom or an intimate micro-wedding, I’ll make sure you get stunning, natural photos that you’ll love FOREVER!!

Finding the right vendors is key to making your wedding day stress-free and fun. Book early, Chicago vendors get snatched up fast!

Step 5: Think About Guests & Logistics

Guest experience is everything! Keep these logistics in mind:

• Parking & Transportation: Is there valet? Street parking? Consider renting a shuttle if your venue is tricky to access!
• Hotels & Accommodations: If you have out-of-town guests, look into hotel blocks near your venue.
• Food & Drink Options: Make sure your menu includes vegetarian, vegan, or allergy-friendly options if needed.

A little planning goes a long way in making sure your guests have an amazing time!

Step 6: Find The Look – Say Yes to the Dress (or Suit!)

Whether you’re going for classic, trendy, or totally one-of-a-kind, finding your wedding attire should be fun, not stressful! This is your moment to feel like your absolute best self, so forget the pressure and enjoy the process. Luckily, Chicago is packed with amazing bridal salons and suit shops that cater to every style and vibe. Here are a couple you definitely need to check out:

• Alice in Ivory: Perfect for brides looking for romantic, modern styles.
• SuitShop: A great option for well-fitted, stylish suits at a reasonable price.

Pro tip: Don’t wait too long to start shopping! Wedding attire can take months to arrive, especially if custom alterations are needed!

Step 7: Soak It All In & Enjoy the Ride

Let’s be real—planning a wedding can feel like a full-time job. But don’t let the to-do lists and timelines take over. This is such a special season in your life, so enjoy the journey!

• Take breaks when you need them.
• Plan date nights where wedding talk is off-limits.
• Remind yourself that at the end of the day, it’s all about celebrating your love.

And if things get stressful? Pour a glass of wine, take a deep breath, and trust that it’s all going to come together beautifully. Your wedding will be an incredible day—but this whole process is part of the magic, too. So embrace it, have fun, and let’s make some unforgettable memories!

Ready To Start Planning Your Dream Chicago Wedding? I would love to chat!

Wren and Rose Photography | Chicago Wedding Photographer

Planning your Chicago wedding doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Take it one step at a time, lean on your vendors for support, and most importantly—have fun with it! This is your love story, and it deserves to be celebrated in a way that feels authentic, joyful, and totally you.

If you need a wedding photographer to capture your day authentically and beautifully, let’s talk! Head to my contact page so we can chat about the ideas you have! If you want to learn more about me and what I do, click here. Can’t wait to hear from you!