Photo by
Scenic Dining
Kristie Sams-Faulkner of C&C Event Planning & Mgt., Inc. recommends the Terrace at the Conrad Hotel in Chicago for an unforgettable rehearsal dinner. “The restaurant has beautiful cityscape views, fantastic food and a superb staff that will make sure no detail is ignored,” say Sams-Faulkner. (312) 645-1500
Best View
The Edelweiss Penthouse at the Swissotel Chicago provides the perfect backdrop for cosmopolitan couples. Located on the 43rd floor, the room boasts large windows for a fabulous view of Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile. A 30-foot skylight allows the sun to shine through for a daytime ceremony, or you can wed surrounded by the stars at night. (312) 565-0565
Great Perk
The luxurious spa at The Peninsula Chicago features innovative services: You or your guests can indulge in a four-hands massage or a triple-layer vitamin facial pre- or post-wedding, not mention the sun deck, where you can dine on healthy fare. “It is simply one of the best spas in the city,” says Keely Okonmah of An Urban Affair. (312) 239 8015
Group Accommodations
Event planner Frank J. Andonoplas of Frank Event Design tipped us off to the Palmer Hilton House. The hotel is close to some of the city’s major attractions, like the Art Institute of Chicago, Grant Park, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier, and there’s plenty of shopping and fine dining within walking distance. Bonus: When guests return to their rooms after a long day of sightseeing, they can catch some shuteye in one of the hotel’s plush Serenity beds. (312) 726-7500
Romantic Suite
The art-deco inspired penthouse suites at The Sutton Place Hotel is the perfect place to revel in your newlywed status. Pop in a romantic CD from the hotel’s own collection and take a soak in the oversized tub. Then step out onto your room’s private balcony for an amazing view of Chicago. (312) 266-2100
Elegant Ballroom
Located on Michigan Avenue, the décor of Renaissance Ballroom at the historic InterContinental was inspired by the French era of Louis XVI. Perfect for a formal wedding, the walls are paneled from floor-to-ceiling with imported Carpathian Elm Burl wood and topped off by five Baccarat crystal chandeliers. (312) 944-4100
Star Service
At the W Chicago Lakeshore, engaged couples can sign up for the hotel’s “Wow Vows” program, which means an on-site coordinator will be at your beck and call to help plan every aspect of your wedding day. You can even opt to hire a honeymoon concierge who will help arrange the trip of your dreams. (312) 943-9200
Luxe Locale
Jaws will drop when guests take a look at the Eaglewood Resort & Spa in Itasca (just 35 minutes outside of Chicago). Situated on more than 100 gorgeous acres, the resort is constructed in Frank Lloyd Wright-influenced Prairie-style architecture and includes spacious guest rooms with cherry and mahogany furnishings, a beautiful ballroom, a championship golf course, and luxury spa. (630) 773-1400
-- Linda DiProperzio
Courtesy of Conrad Hotel