5K Wedding in the Chicago land area

Not sure how far into the suburbs you want to go, but theres a place called D'Andreas in crystal lake that is pretty decently priced. My friend had her reception there and it was gorgeous. Good luck!

You can take a look at Greenbelt Cultural Center in Waukegan. They have great outdoor space, reasonably priced, and outside catering allowed. Good luck!

Try a VFW hall or park district. The Cheney mansion in Oak Park is very inexpensive also -- and gorgeous -- but only if you live in Oak Park or know someone who does and would rent it for you. Non-residents prices would kill your budget. Good luck and let us know what you do!

Check out Garfield Park or Lincoln Park Conservatory. Other ways to cut down on cost would be to host a brunch or a dessert reception as opposed to a full dinner.

My wedding is also Aug 2014 and for 50 something a person you can do Carriage Greens in Darien or Crystal Grand Banquets in Lemont (my venue). Your biggest problem will be meeting the minimum but Crystal Grand has a 70 person minimum for their smallest room so that would work. Which area are you ideally targeting? You should consider doing Sunday of Labor Day weekend (that's what I'm doing) since many vendors will still let you use the Sunday price or give you a break on the minimums.

Try Michelle's ballroom

Also try 176West in Joliet Il. 40 minutes south of Chicago.