How to Choose the Best Wedding Venue for Stunning Photos: A Guide for Chicago Brides
Photographed by Stephanie Lang Photography
Hi hi!! Choosing the right wedding venue is a crucial decision that can significantly impact the beauty and cohesiveness of your wedding photos + final gallery. As a luxury wedding photographer in Chicago, I understand the importance of selecting venues and locations that not only resonate with your wedding's theme but also create a stunning visual narrative that authentically represents YOU! So, with all of that being said, here’s how to choose the best wedding venue for stunning wedding photos:
Consistency is Key
When planning your wedding day, consistency is essential. It’s not just about the wedding venue itself, but also about all the locations you’ll be using throughout the day, including where you get ready, the portrait locations, the ceremony site, and the reception venue. Ensuring that all these locations align with your chosen vision + theme will help create a cohesive wedding gallery that beautifully tells the story of your day.
Define Your Wedding Vibe
Start by defining the vibe or theme of your wedding. Do you want an "old money wedding" or “old Hollywood” aesthetic (which are very popular right now!!) or a "light and airy" feel? Once you have a clear vision, you can select venues and locations that reflect this vibe.
For an "old money" theme, consider historical venues with classic architecture, grand ballrooms, and elegant gardens. If you're aiming for a "light and airy" theme, look for venues with plenty of natural light, white or neutral color schemes, and outdoor spaces with bright, beautiful accents.
Venue and Location Coordination
Ensure that every location you choose is consistent with your wedding theme. For example:
Getting Ready Location: If you’re going for a "light and airy" theme, opt for a bright, naturally lit hotel suite or a modern loft with large windows. Homes can also work well with this theme if they have a lot of large windows, neutral light colors, + natural light!
Portrait Locations: Select outdoor spaces like parks, gardens, or beaches that offer plenty of natural light and match your theme. In Chicago, some great spots include the Wrigley Building, The Chicago Theater (Chicago Sign). The Peninsula Chicago (Z Bar Rooftop), Trump Tower Terrace 16, South Pond in Lincoln Park, Montrose Beach, Chicago Board of Trade, and the Art Institute / Art Institute Gardens.
Ceremony and Reception Venues: Choose venues that reflect your theme, such as historical buildings for a classic vibe or chic, minimalist spaces for a modern look.
Cohesive Details
Remember, the details matter. This includes everything from the color scheme of your bridesmaids' dresses (as well as your bridesmaids hair / makeup / shoes / jewelry) to the floral arrangements and table settings. Keeping these details consistent with your overall theme will enhance the visual harmony of your wedding photos. Another bonus tip? Mothers’ dresses!! I have absolutely loved seeing some of my mothers of the bride + groom dresses match the color scheme of the wedding. This really ties the family photos together beautifully, as well.
Collaborate with Your Photographer
Ultimately, your photographer plays a vital role in bringing your vision to life. Make sure your photographer understands your vision, vibe, + theme and can suggest locations and settings that complement the dream you are going for. Discuss your ideas and let your photographer guide you in selecting the best spots for stunning photos.
A good photographer will consider not only the aesthetics but also the lighting and technical aspects that are crucial for creating beautiful images (like avoiding exit signs + trash cans in the backgound of your photos!!). Their expertise will help tie everything together, from the locations and details to the colors and lighting, ensuring a cohesive and stunning wedding gallery.
Wrapping Up
Choosing the best wedding venue for stunning photos involves more than just finding a beautiful location. It’s about creating a consistent and cohesive visual experience that reflects your wedding’s theme from start to finish. By carefully selecting your venues and collaborating with your photographer, you can ensure that your wedding photos will be a breathtaking + harmonious representation of your special day.
To learn more about how I help my couples pick their wedding venue, theme, and details, schedule a call with me here!
