A Photographer’s Guide to Getting Married in Chicago: What Season Is Right For You?

If you’re planning a wedding in Chicago, you’re already off to a dreamy start. This city? She’s iconic. Think skyline views, lakefront light, old-school beauty and modern luxury all in one, which makes it a stunner of a wedding destination year-round. But here’s the thing: Chicago doesn’t come with a one-size-fits-all wedding season. Each part of the year brings its own energy, aesthetic, and very specific weather patterns (hello, unpredictable spring and steamy summer). So, if you’re wondering when to plan your big day, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re dreaming of rooftop views, cozy candlelit moments, or cherry blossoms in full bloom, this seasonal guide will help you figure out the perfect time to get married in Chicago!

Guide to Getting Married in Chicago

Spring in Chicago (March–May)

Spring in Chicago feels like a fresh start, a quiet build into longer days and warmer air. By May, things start blooming beautifully: think cherry blossoms, magnolia trees, and gardens coming alive. It’s a sweet spot for couples who want romantic, floral-forward portraits and aren’t afraid to lean into a little weather drama! That said, early spring (especially March) can still be chilly, gray, and moody, but if you’re into that misty, soft-lit look, it can be seriously stunning. Plan ahead with cozy layers and indoor venue options just in case the weather decides to surprise you.

Photographer tip: Cloudy spring days actually make for the dreamiest light, soft, even, and cinematic. Bonus points for bringing a clear umbrella (it’s practical and adorable in photos).

Best for: Intimate weddings, garden ceremonies, couples who love fresh florals and aren’t afraid of a little springtime unpredictability.

Summer in Chicago (June–August)

Summer weddings in Chicago are effortlessly vibrant. The days are long, the city is alive, and golden hour along the lakefront? Unreal. It’s prime time for rooftop venues, outdoor ceremonies, and full-glam, high-energy celebrations. Just know: with the beauty of summer comes the heat (and humidity). July and August especially can be hot hot hot, so if you’re planning an outdoor ceremony, schedule it later in the day and have refreshments ready to keep guests comfortable. And since this is peak wedding season, venues and vendors book up fast, early planning is a must!

Photographer tip: That 7–8pm golden hour in summer is what cinematic dreams are made of. Schedule your couple’s portraits around this time to soak in all that glowing, backlit beauty!

Best for: Bold celebrations, rooftop receptions, couples who want that full city-summer energy with lots of light and lush greenery.

Fall in Chicago (September–November)

Fall is, hands down, one of the most popular times to get married in Chicago, and for good reason. The light gets warmer, the colors turn golden, and there’s just something about those jewel-tone palettes and candlelit receptions that feels effortlessly romantic. September and early October are especially dreamy: warm days, cool evenings, and a city that starts to slow down just enough to feel intimate. Late October and November can get chilly fast, but they also bring moody skies and stunning leaf-strewn streets that are straight out of a movie!

Photographer tip: Chicago’s fall colors usually peaks in late October, perfect for Lincoln Park, the Garfield Park Conservatory, or even urban downtown shots.

Best for: Couples who love a cozy, timeless feel with rich details, layered textures, and a hint of nostalgia in the air.

Winter in Chicago (December–February)

Winter weddings in Chicago are the definition of cozy elegance. Think candlelit dinners, velvet gowns, snow-dusted portraits, and intimate celebrations that feel straight out of a winter romance novel. It’s the off-season for many venues and vendors, which means more availability and often lower pricing, major win! Yes, it’s cold. And yes, the days are shorter. But if you’re planning an indoor celebration or just love the moody, low-light vibe, winter could be your season. It’s also perfect for smaller weddings or New Year’s Eve blowouts with all the sparkle.

Photographer tip: Embrace the season. Rich textures like velvet and silk photograph beautifully in low light, and twinkle lights or candles add so much depth and glow to your gallery.

Best for: Intimate weddings, NYE celebrations, couples who want to lean into the cozy, romantic side of the season.

Ready For Me To Capture Your Dream Wedding? Let’s Chat!

Wren and Rose Photography | Chicago Wedding Photographer

The best time to get married in Chicago? The one that feels right for you two. Some couples want that golden, summery buzz. Others crave the quiet magic of winter or the fresh start of spring. Every season here brings its own kind of beauty, it’s all about what aligns with your vision, your vibe, and your dream celebration.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Fall and early summer dates go fast: book early!
• Weekday weddings are growing in popularity (and can be more affordable).
• Let the season inspire you. Your flowers, colors, venue, even your outfits, when they reflect the season, it all just flows.

Ready for me to capture your dream wedding? I would love to! 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!