Dreaming of an Intimate Chicago Wedding or Elopement?
Let’s face it: not everyone dreams of a 200-guest ballroom bash. If you’re leaning toward something smaller, more meaningful, and uniquely you—welcome. As a Chicago-based elopement and intimate wedding photographer, I’ve helped couples create and capture their day with intention and ease. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know with How to Plan an Intimate Wedding or Elopement in Chicago, the Windy City—plus, you’ll get two real-world timeline examples to make planning easier.
Why Couples Are Choosing Intimate Weddings and Elopements in Chicago
Chicago offers the perfect blend of city energy and natural beauty. Whether it’s a sunrise elopement by the lake or a micro-wedding in a cozy loft, this city has endless possibilities.
Top reasons couples are going small:
Cost-effective – Spend where it matters (like photography!) and skip what doesn’t.
Meaningful – Less pressure, more time with each other and your closest people.
Location Variety – From skyline rooftops to secret gardens in Lincoln Park.
📸 Quick Tip from a Chicago Photographer:
You’ll want a photographer who knows the city, lighting, and secret spots—someone who can guide you through logistics while capturing your real moments. If that sounds like your vibe, reach out and let’s talk about your date!
Step-by-Step: How to Plan a Chicago Elopement or Intimate Wedding in Chicago
Step 1: Define Your Day
First, decide what small means to you:
Elopement = Just the two of you (plus your photographer and officiant)
Micro-Wedding = 10–30 guests, maybe dinner or a cozy party
Ask yourself:
Want to say your vows with a skyline view or in a garden?
Indoors or outdoors?
Simple ceremony or full-day celebration?
Step 2: Pick a Date + Get Your Marriage License
Best seasons for small weddings in Chicago:
Spring & Summer (May–August): Great for outdoor photos and lakefront vibes
Fall (September–October): Gorgeous foliage + cooler temps
Marriage License Checklist:
Pick up at any Cook County Clerk’s Office
Valid for 60 days
Must wait 1 day after getting it to legally marry
Official marriage license info click here
Step 3: Choose a Location
Here are some of my favorite spots to photograph elopements and micro-weddings in Chicago:
For Elopements:
North Avenue Beach (sunrise views!)
Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool (Lincoln Park’s hidden gem)
Garfield Park Conservatory (lush year-round)
Riverwalk or Wrigley Building (urban backdrops)
Check out this blog, where i talk about these locations a little more.
For Intimate Weddings:
The Firehouse Chicago (vintage charm)
The Joinery in Logan Square (industrial meets cozy)
Glessner House (historic architecture + garden)
Publishing House B&B (intimate, modern, and stylish)
Pro Tip: You may need a photography or event permit for public spaces. I can help guide you through that.
Step 4: Book Key Vendors
Even small weddings need a solid team:
Photographer – (👋 Hey, that’s me!) You’ll want someone who knows how to tell your story in a personal, relaxed way. Let’s connect and see if we’re a good fit!
Officiant – Hire a pro or have a friend get ordained online.
Florist – Keep it simple: bouquet, boutonniere, maybe a floral crown.
Hair & Makeup Artist – Optional but helps you feel amazing.
Step 5: Plan the Ceremony & Celebration
Make it meaningful and simple:
Write your own vows
Do something memorable-like a first dance, take polaroids of each other, or pop a bottle of champagne
Have a private picnic or plan dinner with a view
Even with just two people, it deserves to feel special—and I’ll be there to help document every second.
🕐 Two Sample Timelines (So You Don’t Have to Guess) another tip on How to plan your intimate wedding or elopement in Chicago is a planned out timeline
Intimate Wedding – 20 Guests
Season: Fall in Chicago
6–12 Months Before:
Book venue and your photographer (that’s me! 📸)
Hire officiant, florist, and caterer
Pick your date and start dress/suit shopping
2–4 Months Before:
Send invites
Finalize timeline and guest count
Plan post-ceremony dinner
1 Week Before:
Get marriage license
Confirm vendor arrival times
Wedding Day:
- 10:00 AM – Getting ready + photos
- 2:00 PM – Ceremony
- 2:45 PM – Group photos
- 3:45 PM – Private dinner or reception
- 7:00 PM – Cake + send-off
Elopement Timeline – Just You Two
Season: Summer
3-6 Months Before:
- Pick your date and time
- Book photographer + officiant
- Choose outfits and write vows
1-2 months Before:
- Grab your marriage license
- Confirm meeting spots and timing
Elopement day:
- 3:45 PM – Hair/makeup (optional)
- 5:45 PM – Meet at beach
- 6:00 PM – First look + portraits
- 7:00 PM – Ceremony
- 7:30 PM – fun activity/ sunset photos
Final Tips on How to Plan an Intimate Wedding or Elopement is to Make It Magical
- Always have a weather backup if outdoors
- Bring flats, water, and a little snack (trust me!)
- Make time for moments just the two of you
- Book a photographer early—especially in peak seasons
Ready to Make It Official?
Chicago has so much beauty to offer, and small weddings allow you to truly soak it in. If you’re planning an elopement or intimate wedding and want a photographer who can help guide the day and capture the vibe, reach out and let’s chat.
I’d love to hear your story and help create photos that feel like you.
