How to Prepare for Your Chicago City Hall Wedding
Planning a City Hall wedding in Chicago is an exciting and unique experience. City Hall weddings are intimate, straightforward, and quick, but that doesn’t mean they lack charm or the opportunity to capture beautiful memories.
As a seasoned Chicago wedding photographer, I’ve had the pleasure of documenting many City Hall weddings in Chicago. Here’s a guide to help couples prepare and ensure their day goes smoothly.
6 Things You Should Know Before Chicago City Hall Wedding
1. Timing is Everything
If you’re planning a City Hall wedding on a Saturday, be prepared for a longer wait. Saturdays are popular for City Hall weddings in Chicago, and the line can get long.
I recommend adding at least one additional hour to your timeline to account for this. However, the wait isn’t all bad—it actually provides lots of fun picture opportunities for me.
As a storyteller wedding photographer, I get to capture candid shots of the couple and their crew, moments that will become sweet memories in the future. Although the wait is long, it’s filled with fun and excitement, which adds to the overall experience.
On weekdays, the process is much smoother and faster, as City Hall is much less crowded. Remember, City Hall is closed on Sundays, and there’s one day each week when you can get married via Zoom—check their website for the most up-to-date information.
Read more: The Perfect Time for a Chicago Wedding
2. Bring Your Essentials
Don’t forget to bring cash to pay the required fees; otherwise, you may risk losing your appointment. It is not the end of the world, there is an ATM machine in the building.
And of course, double-check that you have your rings with you before leaving the house! It had happened in the past and the couple borrowed their parents’ ring which I found very sweet.
It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement and overlook these critical details. Additionally, you’re allowed to bring up to 10 guests into the room, so decide in advance who will share this special moment with you.
3. Expect a Short Ceremony
The ceremony at City Hall is brief, typically lasting only 3-5 minutes. It may be shorter than you expect, but this doesn’t take away from the significance of the moment.
Prepare to savor every second, and as a Chicago wedding photographer, I can assure you that those minutes will be filled with emotion and beauty.
4. Capture Memorable Moments Nearby in your City Hall wedding
After your ceremony, you’ll want to take advantage of the beautiful locations nearby for photos. The South Garden of the Art Institute of Chicago is a top pick for couples. Just a short walk away, this serene spot offers a lush, green backdrop perfect for post-ceremony photos. It’s an ideal location to capture the joy of your first moments as a married couple.
Other nearby spots worth considering include Millennium Park and the Chicago Riverwalk, both offering iconic Chicago scenery that adds a special touch to your City Hall wedding photos.
Read more: Different environments for wedding portraits in Chicago
5. Choosing Your Bridal Outfit
When it comes to City Hall weddings, many brides opt for something simpler and less elaborate.
I’ve often seen brides choose short dresses, while others prefer longer styles, but overall, the trend leans towards more understated outfits.
Of course, it’s your day, and you should wear whatever makes you feel special—this is just my observation.
As for the groom, the choice is straightforward: a suit or any formal outfit works perfectly. Whether you go for a classic look or something more relaxed, what matters most is that you feel comfortable and confident as you say, “I do.”
Read more: How to get amazing getting ready photos in your wedding
6. Plan Ahead and Enjoy the Day in your City Hall wedding
Preparing for your City Hall wedding in Chicago involves a bit of planning, but it’s all worth it.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll ensure your day goes off without a hitch. Most importantly, take the time to enjoy this special day and the moments that will become cherished memories. As your wedding photographer in Chicago, I’m here to help you capture those memories beautifully.
