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Weddings

About this vendor

Lisa Cowell
Lisa Cowell
Events Director

Veteran-owned, Woman-owned

2 years in business

We speak English

Small team (2-10 members)

East of Yellowstone is a beautiful secluded 43-acre wedding venue in the countryside of Dixon, Illinois. This peaceful and picturesque retreat offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life while simultaneously lying just an hour and a half from the Chicago suburbs. The proximity to the city makes this an ideal location for out-of-town guests arriving for the celebration. Our brand offers retreat style weddings that include the unique ability for the bride and groom to connect with their family and friends leading up to and/or after their ceremony. The good times and memories made are beyond what a one-day venue can provide.

Facilities and Capacity

Owned by a retired military family, East of Yellowstone is a 43-acre retreat secluded in the woods within the historic Sauk Valley area. We have several premiere outdoor wedding sites including a Creekside venue with the rushing rapid sounds, a gorgeous spot under the massive 100-year-old Oak trees and several spots in the towering pine forest that surround the property. Our one-of-a-kind Crystal Lodge is draped with massive chandeliers and offers the opportunity to have an indoor wedding or reception for you and around 150 guests indoors and 200 with outdoor expansion. Our accommodation includes the stunning luxury Main Lodge which can comfortably sleep 16 guests. This beautiful modern 10,000 sq ft log cabin boasts 5 bedrooms, 7 bathrooms, two game rooms, four lounges - one with a great big cozy fireplace - a massive upscale kitchen, and a gorgeous deck overlooking the forest. The new EoY Outpost boasts 6 premium full service cabins, 2 bunkhouses, 2 rustic glamping cabins, and the Wagon Wheel Cafe. Addionaly the historic Girl Scout Campground boasts 3 rustic upgraded former Girl Scout cabins dating back to 1950, to accommodate more guests for your amazing stay and day. The campground is also home to amazing Crystal Lodge for your wedding or reception.

Services Offered

We pride ourselves on the complete package of accommodation and venue sites all on one expansive property. We can accommodate up to 80 overnight guests on the property and up to 200 wedding guests for your special day. Our full experience includes accommodation, wedding sites, arches, tables/tablecloths, chairs, a campground, over four miles of hiking trails, and luxurious quiet and seclusion for you and your guests. Enjoy an unforgettable "at your pace" wedding experience and make memories you will never forget at East of Yellowstone Lodge & Retreat.

Check availability here….⬇️

https://eastofyellowstonelodge.com

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FAQ

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?

$7,000

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

$5,000

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

No

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

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

Which of the following are included in starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
Clean Up
Event Planning
Parking
Set Up
Tables

What is the starting price per person for bar service?

$800

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

Bartender(s)
House Beer
House Wine

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

1

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

3 indoor and multiple outdoor sites.

Describe your venue:

Banquet Hall
Barn
Campsite/Cabin
Farm/Ranch
Inn/B&B
Mansion
Park
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?

Accommodations
Bar Services
Clean Up
Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms
Wifi

What bar services do you provide?

Liquor License

What event items are available?

Altar/Arch
Audio Equipment
Chairs
Dance Floor
Tables

What transportation and access is available?

Parking
Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March

Still have questions?

Reach out about anything you didn't see answered here—no question is too small!

Wedding couple

Reviews of East of Yellowstone

Weddingwire
5.0/5 1 reviews
Google
5/5 27 reviews
Katie
Katie Sent on 09/20/2025
5 out of 5 rating

Total dream come true

From an old “dusty” barn to a literal Bridal dream venue! We toured EOY in 2023 and were their first ever wedding tour. Lisa had a vision and I was right along for the ride! We took a gamble and oh boy did they deliver!! They have amazing ambition to get things done, they were always, no matter the obstacle ready to roll with anything we wanted/needed! They were in the middle of starting/remodeling/adding-on the whole time we were preparing and they went above and beyond anything I could have wanted or needed for a venue and hosts!
Top notch! LOVED working with them, Keith and Lisa were both hands on deck for ALL of it for us! “The Oaks” ceremony location was the most beautiful spot we’ve ever seen!
We're all about trust. Our community relies on honest reviews to help you make those big decisions with ease.
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Team

Lisa Cowell
Lisa Cowell
Events Director

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Location

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Wedding couple

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