Chicago Wedding Resource Spring/Summer 2018-2019

BANQUETS, RECEPTIONS, SHOWERS, & PARTIES 22 | SPRING & SUMMER 2019 CHICAGO WEDDING & PARTY RESOURCE CHICAGOWEDDINGRESOURCE.COM Churches and hotels aren’t the only options for modern couples. Brides and grooms are tying the knot everywhere from breweries to barns By Carley Lintz, CTWFeatures Before you can decide theR variety of flowers you’ll be carrying down the aisle or what kind of wedding cake you’ll be cutting into, you first need to determine where you’ll be getting hitched. While hotels and places of worship remain popular choices, an increasing number of couples are looking to tie the knot outside of the box. Weddings held in religious institutions have declined from 41 percent in 2009 to 22 percent in 2017. Banquet halls and hotels/ resorts have also fallen out of favor, down from 10 percent and 6 percent respectively from 2009 rates. Unconventional venues, on the other hand, are definitely trending. Rural locales, such as farms, barns and ranches, have increased from just 2 percent in 2009 to 15 percent in 2017. What’s behind this increase in alternative wedding locations? Today’s couples realize that they can still keep traditional aspects at the same time they are trying new things and having fun! Unique spaces often come with a wide range of advantages, including built-in décor, breath- taking views and fun experiences for your guests. Some may even be less expensive than more traditional options. However, it’s import- ant to ensure the venue comes with some of the wedding must-haves. Couples really need to watch what is included with a venue! My best friend got married at a ‘low low price’ venue. Then ended up paying way more because everything was an add on! So, what is included? Tables, chairs, fire pit, back up space in case of rain? Want to walk down a less orthodox aisle? Here are a few ideas for types of unusual wedding venues. 1. MUSEUMS, AQUARIUMS AND PLANETARIUMS These buildings dedicated to knowledge and learning are also often available for private events. So, whether you want to get married amongst the stars, under the sea or beside T-Rex bones, you’re sure to have an awe-in- spiring wedding. 2. HISTORIC VENUES Why not get married somewhere with a story behind it? Historic homes accounted for 14 percent of venues. Plus, you can’t ever go wrong with vintage architecture and antique décor. 3. BARNS AND CABINS Nothing says rustic chic like a wedding in a barn. Whether you’re more bohemian or coun- try, these types of venues are ideal for a casual, yet elegant event. A barn, for example, offers a cabin-like feel with multiple levels and outdoors spaces so the ceremony and reception can be hosted in a single location. Plus, newlyweds can even spend the night in one of their cozy treehouses. 4. ROOFTOPS WITH A VIEW For couples with more urban tastes, a venue with a skyline view is the perfect match. Roof- tops, terraces and skyscraper spaces are all great options for those that want a backdrop of city lights. 5. BREWERIES One of the best parts of a wedding are the drinks, so why not make it a centerpiece by hosting it at a brewery? These types of venues range from pastoral farms to brick tap houses, so there’s something for every wedding style. Of course, the biggest draw is the in-house alcohol supply, which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. © CTW Features Unconventional Ways to Say ‘I Do’ Rural locales, such as farms, barns, and ranches, have increased from just 2% in 2009 to 15% in 2017. P TIES