In the last few years one of my favorite wedding venues has easily become, not one specific space but when couples choose to get married in one of their favorite bars or restaurants. Andrea & Sam picked the iconic Gilt Bar for their ceremony & reception and I may never get over how this wedding felt. It was cool, sexy and intimate (even with a decent guest count!). Gilt Bar is such a perfect space if you’re looking for a venue that brings a vibe all on it’s own.
Backing up just a bit before getting to Gilt Bar for their wedding, Andrea & sam got ready at The Hyatt Place in Wicker Park. A super chill option for those who don’t want to deal with all that staying downtown comes with but this hotel still has a great rooftop view of the Chicago skyline!
The rooftop at this hotel is great for not only portraits but made for a perfect first look spot.
There are plenty of great locations not far from Gilt Bar for portraits.
Including the exterior of Gilt Bar itself!
But now for the photos we’re all really here for!
Restaurants and bar’s are such great venues because they usually already have a built in vibe. Of course florals makes spaces feel more wedding-y and candles make a dark moody room more romantic. A&S nailed both at Gilt Bar on their wedding day.
Having your wedding at an already established space means you don’t have to worry about things like chair rentals and often give you the opportunity to create more cozy and unique seating for your ceremony. I loved that guests got to sit in booths for Andrea and Sam’s wedding.
Gilt Bar is obviously also a great spot for more portraits before or after the ceremony.
Obviously cocktail hour hosted in an an actual bar is not going to disappoint!
And of course you know that the food is going to be out of this world when you’re having your reception at an already established restaurant.
I love when speeches and toasts happen during cocktail hour, especially when your dinner is as good as somewhere like Gilt Bar.
Set up for dinner is an easy flip in a space like this as well and what an easy layout when the restaurant is already prepared to host dinners!
The space may be intimate but there’s still plenty of room for all of your highlight reception moments like cake cutting and a first dance.
And speaking of which, Andrea and Sam proved that you can host an epic dance party in a space like this!
Also who knew there was enough space to do the hora in a restaurant?
Not only is there enough space for a dance floor but the downstairs library room makes for a great after party spot!
All and all, if you’re looking for a super cool and unique wedding venue with a romantic vibe, fantastic food and drink and a space that can handle an epic party - Gilt Bar is a great option for you!
