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Pricing information

Reception
$3,500 starting price
Ceremony
$3,500 starting price
Bar service
$34 per person
Reception
$3,500 starting price
Ceremony
$3,500 starting price
Bar service
$34 per person

Attributes highlighted by couples

Quality catering
Guests comfort
Unique aesthetic style
Amenities

About

On WeddingWire since 2010

Chicago's First Lady is a boat wedding venue situated in Chicago, Illinois. Your wedding is the start of your lifelong journey together, so begin that journey in a truly memorable way - with a cruise on the Chicago River & Lake Michigan aboard your own private yacht for the night!

Facilities and Capacity

Imagine your wedding unfolding alongside magical views of the city’s iconic skyline. Dance the night away as glittering skyscrapers glide by. Enjoy fireworks over Lake Michigan if you cruise Memorial Day through Labor Day. A wedding aboard Chicago's First Lady Cruises is a night you and your guests won’t soon forget!

You will have six vessels to choose from, where you can host anything from intimate gatherings of two to large, lavish receptions of up to 200. The two largest options, Chicago's Leading Lady and Classic Lady, both feature a spacious upper deck for you and your guests to enjoy unobstructed views of the riverside cityscape. Two full-service bars are also available with the elegant interior salons for an all-in-one experience. For a more intimate ceremony, you're welcome to use the vintage Lady Grebe, which can host up to 6 people aboard at a time.

Services Offered

You will have exclusive use of the yacht during your celebration, ensuring that you get the most out of the nautical setting. Chicago's First Lady offers a variety of catering and bar packages to best suit your vision and budget. The charter team will work closely with you to help you make your wedding day unique to you.

Frequently asked questions

Do you have a site fee for wedding receptions at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during peak season?

$3,500

What is the starting site fee for wedding receptions during off-peak season?

$3,500

Do you have a site fee for wedding ceremonies at your venue?

Yes

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during peak season?

$3,500

What is the starting site fee for wedding ceremonies during off-peak season?

$3,500

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Chairs
Lighting/Sound
Set Up
Tables

Which of the following are included in the cost of wedding catering?

Server(s)

What is the starting price per person for bar service?

$34

Which of the following are included in the starting price for bar service?

Bartender(s)
Open Bar

What is the minimum number of guests required to book your venue?

2

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

7

Describe your venue:

Beach
Boat/Yacht
Cruise Ship
Historic Building
Marina
Rooftop
Waterfront

What kind of settings are available?

Indoor
Uncovered Outdoor

Which of the following wedding events does your venue service?

Ceremony
Reception
Bridal Shower
Engagement Party
Elopements
Rehearsal Dinner

What event services do you offer?

Bar Services
Catering Services
Liability Insurance
Outside Vendors

What catering services do you offer?

Buffet
Cocktail Reception
Dessert
Hors d'oeuvres
Outside Cake
Server(s)
Stations

What bar services do you provide?

Bartender(s)
Champagne Toast
House Liquor
House Wine
Liquor License
Open Bar
Premium Liquor
Signature Drink
Specialty Beer
Specialty Wine

What event items are available?

Aisle Runners
Audio Equipment
Chairs
Dance Floor
Tables

What transportation and access is available?

Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

May
June
July
August
September

What months are included in your off-peak season?

April
October
November
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Any other questions?

Message vendor
4.7 out of 5 rating
6 Reviews
  • Quality of service
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Average response time
    4.6 out of 5 rating
  • Professionalism
    4.7 out of 5 rating
  • Value
    4.8 out of 5 rating
  • Flexibility
    4.4 out of 5 rating
100% Recommended by couples
Sara
Sara Sent on 09/11/2023
5 out of 5 rating

Best of everything

"🌟✨ Our wedding at Chicago’s fair lady cruise was absolutely incredible! From the moment we stepped foot on the boat, we were blown away by its beauty and charm. The staff went above and beyond to ensure that every detail was perfect, and we couldn't have asked for a more seamless and memorable event. Our guests were in awe of the stunning location and the impeccable service provided. We highly recommend Chicago’s first lady cruises to anyone looking for a truly magical wedding experience. Thank you for making our special day unforgettable! 💍"
J
Jim A. Sent on 03/13/2014
5 out of 5 rating
We had our wedding and reception on 'Chicago's Little Lady." It was the greatest day ever. The entire team of people, from the office staff to the crew, helped to make our day what it was. The advice everyone had was priceless,. Thank you all!
P
Peter Sent on 08/13/2014
4.9 out of 5 rating
We choose the First Lady for our wedding reception - and it was absolutely perfect! Working with Max during the planning stages was flawless. So helpful, especially since we had to plan our entire wedding remotely from another country. The staff and boat itself are great - our guests had the best afternoon/evening ever. No better to celebrate in Chicago. Thanks to all!
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Are you interested?

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Awards

6

Team

Clare Agra
Clare Agra
Director of Charter Sales

I've been with Chicago's First Lady for seven years and helping couples celebrate their union is my favorite part. Whether you're looking for an elopement for just the two of you or a large reception with up to 200 guests, we've got a boat for you! Our seven vessels vary in size so we can find the perfect boat for your event. We'd love to host your family & friends on the water, with Chicago's world renowned skyline as your backdrop!

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