Venues!

Not sure what sort of vibe you're going for/budget, but considering looking at the Morton Arboretum. They have some indoor space and/or tent options that could be used as a backup in bad weather. Another one is Heritage Prairie Farm, which has a barn that they use as their backup space. We also looked at Cantigny - they have a few different options as well. Good luck!!

There's also Danada House, Armour House, and a few others if you're willing to go above like 9k.

To clarify; Danada House was $3800 site fee, Armour House was $7500 site fee. I found others that were over 9k as well

Slightly further out than the burbs is Blooming Gardens in Sycamore (near DeKalb). Their venue is beautiful (gardens and loft style interior) and the pricing is really decent. They're popular though, we looked earlier this summer for summer of next year and they were almost fully booked for Saturdays in the summer

Also forgot to mention Cheney Mansion in Oak Park. They do both indoor/outdoor and also are reasonably priced

We’re getting married at Seven Bridges. The outdoor space is really pretty but i think we’ll end up inside (our wedding is 5/2/20) and the indoor space I actually like better and they have us the option to switch inside morning of so they’re super flexible and have been amazing to work with.
We also looked at Arrowhead (hated their outdoor space) and Oakbrook bath and tennis club which had an AMAZING outdoor space, right on a lake. We went with Seven Bridges because they had the date we wanted and everything was all inclusive.
I second looking at the Arboretum and Cantigny if the outdoor ceremony is important to you. I didn’t really care inside or out, I’d probably actually prefer in

Check out your local Fire halls, VFWS and American Legion.

We are going to go to the lakefront and have a small ceremony. (Montrose Beach or 31st street beach because of parking). Technically you’re supposed to get a permit but.... Our reception is in Glen Ellyn at Reserve 22. If it rains 5/9/20 (a week after you) the reception dance floor is where it will be. Check village websites, forest preserves, etc. Tell me what are you’re thinking about and budget? I’ve looked at tons but we have tight budget.

Ours is the Haight in Elgin! They have an outdoor patio and a beautiful indoor space. Affordable as well!

View Quoted Comment Thank you!

View Quoted Comment Thank you!! I’ll have to check it out!

View Quoted Comment Thank you! I too have looked into seven bridges as well as some other golf courses in the area, hard to find something that’s inclusive and has the date you have in mind available!