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Weddings

About

The Murphy is a vintage banquet hall wedding venue situated in downtown Chicago, Illinois. Built in 1926 to serve as an everlasting tribute to Dr. John B. Murphy, this impressive auditorium features French Renaissance-style architecture and a breathtaking dome ceiling. Having hosted hundreds of fashion shows, galas, and other celebratory events, this spectacular building is eager to provide the setting for more unforgettable festivities. For those seeking a one-of-a-kind environment that oozes sophistication in the heart of The Prairie State, The Murphy is sure to deliver.

Facilities and Capacity

As guests arrive at this venue, they are immediately greeted by large green doors and stone pillars either side that is reminiscent of ancient Rome itself. The main auditorium is a grand event space that boasts two floors of chic decor, wooden floors, and a truly marvelous dome ceiling. For intimate ceremonies, the area includes a stunning stage where couples can exchange vows as guests on both floors watch on in pure joy. The stage is overlooked by the property’s undeniable masterpiece, a larger than life stained-glass window which is accompanied by an arched ceiling and further pillars. For receptions, this ample space can accommodate up to 300 guests and include tables, a dance floor, and live entertainment upon the stage. Receptions can be arranged in several ways to make use of both floors in the auditorium. Additionally, there is a luxurious side lobby adjacent to the auditorium that makes for ideal cocktail hours before the reception gets underway. Here, guests can converse, congratulate the happy newlyweds, and look forward to a night of dancing and celebration.

Services Offered

Upon booking The Murphy for your wedding, you will receive full access to the building and its range of event services and items. This includes the help of an experienced on-site event coordinator who can help create the wedding you’ve always envisioned. From the stylish decor to ensuring that every inch of space is optimized, this coordinator makes sure that no small details are overlooked. The help staff at this site will also help in the setup and breakdown of the event. This allows you to focus on more pressing matters as you get ready to walk down the aisle. A relaxing suite is also provided on the fifth floor for you and your wedding entourage to prepare yourselves for the grand day ahead.

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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?

$7,500

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

$7,500

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?

$750

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

$750

Which of the following are included in the starting site fee?

Bridal Suite
Chairs
Clean Up

How many event spaces or rooms does your venue offer?

1

Describe your venue:

Banquet Hall
Historic Building

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?

Event Rentals
Get Ready Rooms

What event items are available?

Altar/Arch
Chairs
Dance Floor

What transportation and access is available?

Valet
Wheelchair Access

What months are included in your peak season?

April
May
June
July
August
September
October
November
December

What months are included in your off-peak season?

January
February
March

Reviews of The Murphy

M
Melanie Sent on 09/30/2015
5 out of 5 rating
This was the best venue ever! It was incredibly unique and the layout is amazing for a wedding around 160 people with a large dance floor area! Our guests were mesmerized by how gorgeous and spacious it was inside and had a blast dancing on the stage, sitting in the wooden thrones, going up to the second level (with auditorium seats). We also had a private suite on the 5th floor which was perfect for us to have a quiet moment together and our wedding party to store their stuff! Would 100% recommend having your wedding at The Murphy.
U
User2191044 Sent on 06/18/2015
5 out of 5 rating
We had a fairytale wedding! The Murphy is an absolutely stunning venue that will leave all of your guests talking. We couldn't have asked for a better contact (Cathy)...she made everything so easy and was always available if we had any questions. if you are looking for a gorgeous and classic Chicago wedding, this is the space you have been dreaming of!
C
Courtney Sent on 05/26/2015
5 out of 5 rating
This was a spectacular place for our reception. There was ample space for dancing, Our 12 piece band, and 170 guests! This historic building was a huge hit for the out of towners and Chicago locals alike. We recommend this venue highly.
V
Virginia Sent on 05/26/2015
5 out of 5 rating
The venue was beautiful and I can't complain about a thing. The staff was very accommodating and professional. Everything went exactly as planned and I couldn't be happier in choosing the murphy for my big day! Just amazing!
N
Nicole Sent on 11/19/2013
5 out of 5 rating
My husband and I first saw photos of The Murphy on Chicago Wedding Venue's and our hearts dropped. There was no way we could get such a grand and beautiful place for our big day. Thankfully we made an appointment anyway. After a few long days of searching for venues we walked into The Murphy and for the first time throughout the search we both were grinning ear to ear. This was IT, period. The Murphy is magnificent. The space is breath taking. It has been recently restored to its original glory and updated with the modern amenities every good events space needs. It is pristine, artfully maintained, and you can tell someone loves this place and cares for it constantly. From our first conversation until our last with Catherine Carey, the Event Coordinator, she was professional, helpful, knowledgeable and a huge asset to the success of our day. She put us at ease, walked us through the major milestones and provided industry knowledge we never would have known. She is invaluable to The Murphy. The day of our wedding went off without a hitch. Cathy worked with our vendors to ensure that everyone knew their role that day and executed it to perfection. It was a joy to work with everyone at The Murphy. The security staff was fantastic, kind and professional; our restroom attendants kept the rooms clean and came prepared with mints and bobby pins and other MacGyver types of things you need but never have during a formal event. And all of our vendors worked with Cathy and her team to make our day special. Go and look at the space and you will love it. And Cathy and team will do their best to make sure you have everything you need; you are in good hands at The Murphy.
S
Jamie Sent on 05/14/2010
5 out of 5 rating
I absolutely LOVED having my ceremony and reception at the Murphy. Cathy was a dream to work with . . . friendly, professional, and very timely with responses. She has also seen tons of weddings, and had great advice about everything - pictures, floral arrangements, vendors, table linens, etc. She was a huge help~!
S
Suzanne Sent on 07/08/2009
5 out of 5 rating
This venue was spectacular; it FAR exceeded our expectations. Catherine was very prompt in returning emails. They are well organized and will ensure everything is perfect for your wedding day.
A
Alex Sent on 11/23/2011
4.6 out of 5 rating
We had such a wonderful time at the Murphy auditorium. I heard from many guests how unique and beautiful it was, and the space was perfect for the ceremony, cocktails and reception. Catherine Carey was tremendously patient, helpful and responsive throughout the process and it's my understanding that the vendors found the set-up, etc. extremely smooth. I can't recommend the site highly enough - if for no other reason than the stunning setting.
D
D Sent on 06/14/2017
4.4 out of 5 rating
We felt in love with the venue the moment we saw it. It's such an amazing place and has everything you need to host any type of party.. but most importantly.. it's absolutely gorgeous and the staff is wonderful to work with. Our wedding wouldn't have been this special and beautiful if it wasn't for The Murphy.
L
Sara Sent on 07/06/2010
4.1 out of 5 rating
We had our reception here and from a visual standpoint, nothing can beat the Murphy Auditorium. It is the most gorgeous venue in downtown Chicago (probably in the whole Chicagoland area, but we only looked at downtown). The venue will take your and your guests' breath away. Cathy, the event coordinator is a very sweet woman, but it was sometimes difficult to get a response from her. For example, after sending her the contract and check, we got no response for several weeks - making us very nervous that we didn't have the venue! However, the Murphy has only been open to the public for 3 years, so I think that these are kinks that will worked out with time. It's an expensive venue ($6,000 in 2010) that doesn't include a whole lot (chairs and security), but not any more so than other downtown locations. It's definitely worth the money if you're looking for something to wow your guests and it doesn't require much in the way of decorations.
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Awards

10

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Map

The Murphy frequently asked questions

The Murphy includes the following items and services for wedding events in its starting site fee:
  • Bridal Suite
  • Chairs
  • Clean Up
The space offered by The Murphy for wedding events is known for:
  • Banquet Hall
  • Historic Building
The Murphy offers the following indoor/outdoor options for weddings:
  • Indoor
  • Uncovered Outdoor
The Murphy offers the following types of wedding events:
  • Ceremony
  • Reception
  • Bridal Shower
  • Engagement Party
  • Elopements
  • Rehearsal Dinner
The Murphy offers the following services for wedding events:
  • Event Rentals
  • Get Ready Rooms
The Murphy offers the following furniture and decor items for weddings:
  • Altar/Arch
  • Chairs
  • Dance Floor
The Murphy is recommended by 96% of couples who have used their services. Their overall rating is 4.8 out of 5 with the following breakdown: 5 in quality of service, 4.8 in flexibility, 4.8 in professionalism, 4.8 in value and 4.7 in average response time.
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