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Updated Feb 10, 2023Small Wedding Venues in Chicago for Any Style and Budget
Small guest list? Gather together your closest family and friends at one of these cozy venues.
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by Jacqueline Mann
Updated Mar 14, 2023
Are you and your partner planning an intimate wedding? Then you have to check out some of the amazing small wedding venues in Chicago. From renovated firehouses and historic homes to rooftop gardens and boutique hotels, there's a venue to fit your wedding vision.
Choosing a small wedding venue means your party won't feel overwhelmed in a space meant for 200. Cozy vibes, intimate seating arrangements and quality time with your favorite people are where it's at when you're hosting a small wedding. Thankfully, there are many options for you in the city if your guest list is fewer than 100. No matter your budget or style, you're sure to love one of these Chicago small wedding venues. And if you end up needing ideas for a larger event, take a peek at all the Chicago wedding venue offerings available on The Knot Marketplace.
Firehouse Chicago
Located in the lovely Edgewater neighborhood, this gorgeous small wedding venue in Chicago is a piece of the city's rich history. Built in 1906 for Chicago's Engine Company 70, Firehouse Chicago was renovated to maintain its unique beauty. The high tin ceilings, antique doors and white glazed brick are all part of its original design.
The venue's vintage style, lush green garden and rustic style can welcome up to 100 of your closest friends and family. Pose for photos on the balcony overlooking the garden or on the chic vintage furniture. Perks also include several wedding arch options, a 48-space parking lot, a reclaimed wood bar and oak bourbon barrels.
Colvin House
Designed in 1909, Colvin House boasts sweeping views of Lake Michigan, lush gardens, and a vintage mansion rich with intricate details. Inside the home, you'll find a striking black marble fireplace, an oak grand staircase, crystal chandelier, ornate columns and a sweet baby grand piano. Host your reception or ceremony inside, or move either celebration outdoors to the brick courtyard with gorgeous gardens.
Colvin House can accommodate up to 100 guests. The venue also includes a two-door coach house with vintage furniture and an outdoor bar. Two dressing rooms are available for the couple – the Lake View Suite and the Something Blue room. Head down to the basement to find a 1920s speakeasy with plush seating and an additional bar.
Villa D' Citta
Hiding behind the exterior of a simple Chicago greystone is a luxurious bed and breakfast venue that invokes old-world glamor. With Italian-inspired architecture throughout, Villa D' Citta has two event halls, each with rich wooden décor. Hold your ceremony or cocktail hour in the peaceful courtyard, also inspired by Italian design. The venue can host up to 100 guests.
Spend your entire wedding weekend at Villa D' Citta from your rehearsal dinner to your farewell brunch. The small Chicago wedding venue is home to several suites and guest rooms for the newlyweds and close loved ones.
Nomad Chicago
Aptly named as a sanctuary for the wandering soul, Nomad Chicago is a delightful small wedding space for up to 34 guests. This modern and relaxed location has a bright and airy feel with lots of natural lighting. Curated décor, eclectic furniture, white brick walls and stunning artwork can be found throughout.
Located in the River North neighborhood of the city, Nomad Chicago is an affordable small wedding venue with a fun and unique atmosphere for a micro wedding. Couples can bring their own food, alcohol and décor for an event that reflects their tastes and style.
Homestead on the Roof
Host your small wedding at this stunning rooftop garden in West Town. Homestead on the Roof is a cozy hidden gem surrounded by lush gardens and a rustic vibe. Hold your wedding reception or ceremony on the rooftop patio with a view of the 1,000-square-foot garden, which is home to a variety of flowers and vertical hanging gardens. The patio boasts seating for up to 100 guests. A decorative brick fireplace and Edison string lights create a warm and inviting feeling when the sun goes down. Inside you'll find a full bar, natural birch wallpaper and seating for up to 80. Natural lighting and intricate terrariums bring the garden feel inside.
The LaSalle Chicago, Autograph Collection
This downtown Chicago small wedding venue provides a regal atmosphere with luxurious touches throughout. Perched on the 22nd floor of the historic landmark building, the Lasalle Ballroom shows off a stunning view of the city from its dramatic floor-to-ceiling windows. Black marble walls, 14-foot ceilings and gold draping complete the elegant space that accommodates up to 100 guests. Pose for photos on the grand monumental staircase leading up to the ballroom.
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The LaSalle Chicago is also home to stylish on-site accommodations to keep all of your guests together in one location. Get ready spaces, on-site catering and event planning are just a few of the services offered at this boutique hotel.
Private Dining by Sepia
Treat yourself and your guests to a Michelin-starred experience at Private Dining by Sepia. Built from an 1890 print shop, Sepia is one of the best restaurant venues for a small weddings in Chicago. With room for up to 100 guests, this venue is decorated with deep, neutral tones, stylish sunburst light fixtures and a walnut and pewter bar.
In addition to the warm and inviting space is exceptional American cuisine by Executive Chef Andrew Zimmerman. Menus are created using natural ingredients, with chutneys, jams and pasta made from scratch. As much as possible, seasonal ingredients are sourced from local farmers.
Celeste
Nestled in the River North neighborhood of Chicago is the stylish wedding venue Celeste. The multi-story historic building has several private event options to choose from, each with chic lounge-style furniture. Host your celebration for 60 or fewer guests in the beautiful Roof Garden. Located on the fourth floor, the room features a retractable glass rooftop, tropical greenery and vine-covered walls. Or choose the cozy Deco room, decorated with turn-of-the-century Chicago architecture in mind. Celeste is also known for its innovative cocktails and extensive menu options to complete your experience.
Hummingbird Studios
Gather your closest family and friends to celebrate your love at Hummingbird Studios. This small wedding venue in Chicago is both lovely and budget friendly. Here you'll find jewel-toned furnishings, lots of natural light, neutral walls and industrial touches. With space for up to 30 seated guests, the modern studio also has a full kitchen for your caterer, comfortable couches for your guests to lounge, and a lofted living room perfect for getting ready. Hummingbird Studios was created to offer the comforts of home, without the hassle of hosting an at-home event.
Alhambra Palace Restaurant
The luxury and grandeur of Alhambra Palace Restaurant may leave your guests in awe. Inspired by the Moorish architecture of the Alhambra Palace in Spain, you will find intricate designs throughout the venue. Hand-carved furniture, rugs, stone mosaics, intricate gilding and arabesques were all created with the Moorish style in mind.
While the venue can accommodate larger parties, the luxurious Babylon Room hosts parties of up to 90 guests for a seated dinner. Walk through the intricate archway and become mesmerized by the detailed blue ceiling. A stunning crystal chandelier and intricate flooring make this a breathtaking space to hold your reception.
LM Studio
Modern glamor meets stunning vistas at LM Studio. This two-floor atelier features open floor plans, custom bars and luxurious lounge seating. Floor-to-ceiling windows overlook Michigan Avenue and Grant Park provide a breathtaking view of the city. For an intimate wedding, book the Atrium on the fifth floor. This space is versatile for any small party. Host a celebration of up to 80 guests at several round tables. Or bring your group of 40 together at rectangular tables for a family-style feel.
All meals are crafted by the culinary team at LM Studio. Work with the chefs to create a custom reception menu for your guests using fresh and seasonal ingredients.
The Langham
Celebrate with friends and family while enjoying views of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan at The Langham. This luxury hotel has several private event spaces for many guest counts. For an intimate wedding, we suggest the Melbourne room with its floor-to-ceiling windows providing stunning views of Chicago. This space can accommodate up to 50 seated guests, and features a neutral backdrop and beautiful wood floors.
Add to your experience with unique menus crafted by The Langham's in-house chefs. After your wedding, guests can retreat to their refined guest room or stylish suite for the evening.
