Saic Ballroomone Of Chicago’s Newest Treasures
Ascending the grand staircase of the SAIC Ballroom, your guests are transported to another era. Like a scene out of Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby, the gilded jazz age of the Roaring 20s, your special event will radiate classic elegance.
Formerly the Illinois Athletic Club, this room has been restored to reflect the look and feel of its 1927 splendor. Winner of numerous awards for architectural excellence, the Ballroom boasts 26-foot ceilings, marbleized columns, and a terrazzo dance floor. Complemented by permanent bars on the main floor and balcony, a performance stage, theatrical lighting, and customized sound system, the Ballroom is the perfect venue for any event.
The SAIC Ballroom is located at 112 South Michigan Avenue, in the heart of Chicago’s Loop, within walking distance of many hotels, theaters, and parking garages.
Call our professional sales consultants to plan your next special event at 847-982-2600, or email .
- Ballroom Rental
- 36 S. Wabash Ave.
Big Wedding Venues That Work For Small Weddings
SURPRISE! Small weddings aren’t just for small venues. Many of the most popular Chicago wedding venues work beautifully for small gatherings.
If you’ve always wanted to have your wedding at one of these venues but thought your wedding was too small, think again! While we recommend hiring a pro to help you maximize your mini wedding here are a few tips and tricks for hosting a small wedding in a big venue.
Revel Motor Row was built in 1936 and previously home to the Illinois Automobile Club and the Chicago Defender building. It has been meticulously restored and modern amenities added to make it a landmark wedding venue. Revel Motor Row provides an impressive backdrop for any vision.
The building surrounds a central courtyard which, depending on your small wedding size, could host your whole event from ceremony to send off. The smaller rooms allow for your guests to transition from space to space throughout the wedding. The large ballroom, that once was the club swimming pool, is versatile.
Iconic Chicago Wedding At The Art Institute Of Chicago
Mixing classic with modern, Nadine and Pats wedding at The Art Institute of Chicago combined traditional elements with art deco accents. These glamorous details captured by Emilia Jane Photography showcase the modern creativity combined with some Gatsby vibes. Keep scrolling to see it all!
Wedding Pros:
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The Art Institute Of Chicago + Modern Wing Weddings
FEATURED CHICAGO WEDDING VENUE
Weddings at The Art Institute of Chicago and Modern Wing
The Art Institute of Chicago, located in the heart of Chicago, is a venue offering diversity with a choice of historic or modern event spaces. Equally impressive, both the new and old sections of the museum are fabulous for wedding photography and fitting for both a modern chic or classic Chicago brides wedding event style she desires. Undoubtedly the Art Institute of Chicago is a popular choice for a bride and groom who are art lovers. Share your love of art with your new spouse and guests by enjoying a private art museum gallery walk and viewing famous paintings and art of Degas, Monet, Renoir, and other fine artists on your wedding day.
Established in 1879, the historical section of The Art Institute of Chicago offers a historically classic Chicago wedding look. After all, Chicagos Art Institute is one of the oldest museums in the United States and the building remains an icon for Chicagos famous Beaux-Arts classical architecture. In 2009, the Art Institute expansion opened the doors of the Modern Wing with new galleries and various event rooms from smaller intimate weddings to large scale events.
Classical Styled Weddings in the Historical Michigan Avenue Section of the Chicago Art Institute
Modern Weddings at The Art Institute of Chicagos Modern Wing
The Art Institute of Chicago111 S Michigan Ave
A Wedding At The Art Institute
When we began discussing where we wanted to get married, it was a no brainerit had to be in the city. The other sentimental locations that served as backdrops on the timeline of our relationship couldnt comparethe North Shore was where we had grown up Iowa City had been where we met and fell in love but Chicago was where we grew to realize how much we loved each other as well as this city.
The Art Institute of Chicago is our favorite place in Chicago. We love spending hours walking through the museum and exploring new exhibits as well as visiting some of our favorite museum staples. Regardless of how many times weve been to the museum, there is always something new and exciting to discover. The iconic lions on the front steps is our meeting spot in the city whether it is meeting up for dinner after work or getting lost in the shuffle of a parade or concert, we can always find each other in front of the lions. To be able to share our love for this place and for each other with our closest friends and family meant a lot to us.
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Outdoor Beauty At The Art Institute Of Chicago
Just like the Terzo Piano, the Griffin Court is another blank canvas that will provide a venue for creativity. It is an expansive space that can cater to large-scale wedding receptions. Also, outside the Terzo Piano is the Bluhm Terrace, another outdoor event venue you can take advantage of. It allows you and your guests to enjoy stunning views of the Millennium Park and the Chicago skyline, which is a breathtaking architectural wonder. It is shaded enough for you to experience the outdoor ambiance without worrying about the weather.
Being a museum, you might also be privileged for a private gallery viewing while having your wedding there. But, art lovers or not, anyone will fall in love with an Art Institute of Chicago wedding or even any special event, for that matter. It is a perfect destination wedding that offers incredible views and space options to meet your diverse needs. Intimate and large celebrations can enjoy a feeling of warmth and, at the same, enjoy elegance at this historic wedding venue.
The Art Institute Of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the citys cultural prizes, a masterpiece collection of artwork housed in a stunning building that makes a fantastic location for your engagement shoot. The original building, constructed in 1893 for the World Columbian Exposition, was designed in a grand beaux-arts style of smooth, solid walls and impressive archways, giving it an old world feeling of regality. The entrance is guarded by two lion sculptures, each one weighing over two tons. Time has turned their copper forms a fascinating combination of blue and green. In the Art Institute garden, youll find a wonderland of geometric shapes, classical planters, and ivy-covered walls that will inspire you for a creative session. In the fall, youll be treated to a spectacular display of colors as the ivy turns red against the walls and the yellow leaves of the trees. The modern wing is reached by a bridge that also makes an excellent place to shoot with its clean angles. The building displays vertical lines that meet the roof at a perfect right angle, a spectacular sight. Its location and cultural importance as well as its variety of backdrops make the Art Institute of Chicago a fantastic spot for Chicago engagement photography.
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Art Institute Of Chicago Chicago Photo Location
Believe it or not the Chicago Art Institute does allow for professional photography. I know, I know, I was shocked too! Most museums dont allow for professional cameras in the building but the Art Institute is cooler than most museums and does!
If you want to totally stand out from the crowd, taking your wedding photos here will set you apart from all the other wedding couples in Chicago! Not many people think of the Art Institute when they are thinking of where to take their wedding photos so imagine having these gorgeous shots in your wedding album and all of your friends drooling over them!
There is just a few things you need to know before going to take your photos there!
- Youll need to pay the general admissions fee to enter
- Go with tons of time as most weddings are on a weekend and thats when the museums are busy as well so you may have to wait in line or wait for visitors to pass by and get out of the shot
- You cannot bring your bouquet into the museum so leave it in the bus/car or have someone in your wedding party hold it outside of the museum while you take your newlywed photos
- No flash photography is allowed inside the Chicago Art Institute but no worries, the museum has areas with large windows for natural light and your photographer should know how to handle any lighting situation
Stunning Real Wedding At The Art Institute Of Chicago
Being a Chicago native I was instantly drawn to this wedding at the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago. I frequented this museum constantly when studying at Columbia and it always inspired me when I was feeling bogged down by classwork. Post-grad, it remained a favorite for a quick lunchtime pick me up during work downtown or as a perfect date night option. Okay, enough about me, on to this beautiful wedding
Ashley and Tyler tied the knot on a beautiful September day in one of the most timeless venues in Chicago: Art Institute of Chicago! Using the venues various photogenic spots was able to capture both art and architecture in their wedding photography. The black tie optional event was described as, Ethereal And Modern by bride Ashley. Its classic, chic and in a beautiful town that well always love:
The Ceremony
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Small & Intimate Wedding Venues In Chicago
First up, small weddings at hotels. Many of Chicagos top hotels offer small ballrooms that have all of the trimmings of their larger spaces, including chandeliers, upgraded chairs and linens, and beautiful décor or the option of dividing the space for a more intimate experience. Here are just a few of our five star favorites.
A Wedding Venue With Historic Style
If youre specifically looking for a historical, and sleek and modern space for any social events, the Art of Institute of Chicago is what you need.It is a perfect venue, providing diversity and myriads of event space options. The museum also has new and old sections that are both ideals for your wedding photography sessions.
The Womans Board Grand Staircase will add a dramatic effect to your wedding photos and an iconic location for an intimate wedding ceremony. The room design was of Roman and Greek influence with Corinthian columns and limestone. No one will also miss its impressive 26-foot ceilings that radiate pure elegance.
If you are looking for a more classical feel for your reception venue, then you will love the Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room. It is a large ballroom that provides main-floor and balcony-level seating. It is a perfect setting for an elegant wedding reception where you can take advantage of the authentic officers podium for speeches.
The Chicago Stock Exchange Trading Room is a popular reception setting, not only due to its spacious dance floor but also for its historical significance. The original Chicago Stock Exchange was completed in 1894 but was demolished in 1972. Parts of the Trading Room were preserved and used in the reconstruction of this room.
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Art Institute Of Chicago Wedding Photos
We started their wedding day with getting ready photos. Casey wanted to get photos with their golden retriever pup while she was getting ready and of course we made it happen! We headed over to the Art Institute of Chicago for their first look and bridal party photos. Chicagos Art Institute is located in the heart of the city and was the perfect location for wedding photos with a Chicago feel!
Wedding Reception At Art Institute
I had the please to take their engagement photos in Chicago a year before their wedding. Here are some of the best engagement photos with Alex and Hayley.
Here is the list of the Vendors that help Hayley and Alex to have a beautiful wedding at Art Institute of Chicago:
Make up- Bridal Brigade-Brandi Papp
Hair- Versed Salon Renee Edgcomb
Wedding Coordinator- Courtney Bollettino Bollo HollowDJ: Eric Claussen
Videographer-Old North Film Company- Dom Udell
Venue coordinator- Cheyanne Jackson is the Special Events Producer for TAI but works for Bon Appetit
Florist- ZuZus Petals Magdalena Sobieski
Cake- Elysia Root Cakes
Dresses: Azzie
Venue: Art Institute of Chicago
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Youll Love These 7 Museum Wedding Venues In Chicago
Chicago is full of fun and unique wedding venues for every couples style. Museum venues offer beautiful event spaces, along with fun, memorable experiences for guests. Imagine being surrounded by walls of beautiful art, artifacts, or even an oceanarium on your big day. Your guests will love the fun atmosphere and youll end up with beautifully unique wedding photos! Here are seven museum wedding venues in Chicago that we know youll love!
Halim Time and Glass MuseumEvantston, IL
The Halim Time and Glass museum holds over 1100 personally curated time pieces and over 70 stained glass pieces of art. In addition to stunning chandeliers and windows, a masterpiece stained glass dome crowns The Wisteria Room an event space that also hold three rare Tiffany portrait windows. The venue also offer a beautiful 2000+ square foot Roof-Top Garden with a breathtaking view of Downtown Chicago and the surrounding area. Its perfect for an evening reception.
Maximum Capacity: 250 seated, 380 cocktail receptionMuseum Style: Glass Art, Stained Glass, Time PiecesSpecial Features: Gardens, Tiffany Portrait and Landscape Windows, Stained Glass Dome
Romantic Wedding At The Art Institute Of Chicago
This Romantic Wedding at The Art Institute of Chicago is full of classic details. From the moment I met Misia, I knew her wedding was going to be one of my favorites. She and Eric are two of the kindest souls and quite stylish, too. It came as no surprise that they chose the Art Institute of Chicago to host their wedding celebration. They were surrounded by a world renowned art collection and made use of the stunning space within the Grand Staircase and the Trading Room at AIC.
I was so glad to see their vision come together in the stunning floral design from HMR Designs. Even the band, Hey Jimmy, enjoyed a beautiful foliage frame! Lush variations of whites and creams played off the texture in their shimmering linen. Walking into that space was like walking into a fragrant garden.
The first time I saw Eric and Misia together on wedding day I was amazed and in awe of how perfect they looked. This was only amplified by the immense joy in their faces which only grew when they were together. Misias gown from Hayley Paige and Erics Giorgio Armani tuxedo really exemplified their impeccable style.
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Art Institute Of Chicago Weddings
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the citys most unique venues for hosting weddings. With both modern and classical architecture as well as priceless works of art, youll be providing your guests with a truly unique experience. Event spaces range from small to large so youll find options for intimate gatherings or large celebrations. The Art Institute is also surrounded by beautiful gardens and the heart of downtown Chicago, making it perfect for amazing photos.
- Phone: 443-3530
- Visit Website
City Wedding At Art Institute Of Chicago + Park Hyatt
Pam and Ed were married in June at Art Institute of Chicago and had their reception at Chicago Park Hyatt. I remember getting off the phone with Pam after our initial call and saying out loud I want this wedding. Fifty-somethings, neither of whom had ever been married and then they flipping found each other. How inspiring is that? I loved it so hard and really was so, so happy to be a part of their day. It was also completely hilarious that Pam kept saying it was the best day of her moms life because she was finally getting married. HA. Pam, you slay me. Pam and Ed had their ceremony on the Grand Staircase at the Art Institute of Chicago. I had never done a wedding on the staircase there and it was so amazing. All of the guests watched from above and it was such a cool 360 degree view.
My pal Janessa and her team at Forget Me Knodt made their visions of a forest in the city come to life. Pam and Ed are travel lovers and love to hike so they wanted to bring a touch of that into their sleek city venues.
*eye candy courtesy of my the lovely Susan Ryan Photography
Pam + Eds Vendors
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Wedding Venue: Art Institute Of Chicago
Your wedding day is the day where your marriage will begin. Every detail, from the stunning blooms to the best music, will contribute to the setting in which you begin your married life with your partner. So, its important to choose the right atmosphere to give your marriage the best start possible.
While deciding upon the best décor and food is important, you still need a base in which all of your gorgeous elements and entertainment can be presented.
Your venue is the base for your big day and will set the tone for your festivities. If you are at a loss for the perfect venue to host your own wedding within, we have a little inspiration for you.The Art Institute of Chicago of Chicago, Illinoisis a stunning location with so much to offer. If you are interested in booking a unique venue, be sure to keep reading to discover what this lovely one has to offer:
- A majestic welcome. From the moment you arrive, you are greeted with towering, majestic statues. With floral displays and proud lion statues greeting every guest, you will certainly have a wedding venue that stands apart from the rest. This will certainly be a lovely welcome shot for your wedding photo collection as well.
With how much your wedding venue contributes to your big day, you will certainly want to choose only the best. The Art Institute of Chicago is a lovely venue that can add an artistic appeal to your big day, as well as many of its other amenities.
