3 Chicago Neighborhoods for your LGBTQ+ Friendly Micro Wedding
Top 3 LGBTQ+ Friendly Neighborhoods for your Chicago Micro Wedding
When planning your (micro) wedding day as an LGBTQ+ couple, especially one that is affirming and personal, choosing the right neighborhood can make all the difference. Thankfully, Chicago has no shortage of fun, aesthetic venues that also make your day feel like an authentic celebration of your love.
We’ve rounded up three of the most LGBTQ+ friendly neighborhoods in the city that don’t just welcome you, but celebrate you! Each neighborhood has its own vibe and personality which will help make your day uniquely yours. Whether you’re looking for a quiet, intimate dinner reception or a full-on rooftop party, these pre-scouted areas offer everything from great food to gorgeous views without having to sacrifice inclusivity.
Northalsted (a.k.a. Boystown)
If your micro wedding looks like a fun filled dance floor, city streets, and a colorful community that is ready to cheer you on, then Northalsted is the place for you.
Northalsted was the first officially recognized LGBTQ+ neighborhood in the country and it remains a safe place for queer expression to this day. It’s filled with rainbow flags lining the streets, drag shows, and queer bars. This neighborhood is ideal for couples who want their micro wedding to feel like a nonstop party or a celebration that is as lively as they are.
For Northalsted, the venues do not disappoint:
Angelina Ristorante: Angelina brings you into an old world like charm and serves up some incredible Italian food for a sit down dinner.
Wood Chicago: For a more modern feel, Wood is a sleek and stylish spot. It’s got award winning cuisine and a modern, elevated feeling.
Drew’s on Halsted, Lark, and Mia Francesca: If you are looking for a relaxed party space, these venues offer private event spaces with a vibrant energy and menus that never fail.
Andersonville
Andersonville has a more quiet and cozy feel than Northalsted, but it is just as inclusive. This North Side gem feels like a small town inside of a big city.
This neighborhood is perfect for the couples that are very intentional and looking to take their day slow and soak everything in. Couples who want to focus on connection like hosting a candlelit dinner or exchanging vows in a garden setting that is away from the noise of the city would be a good fit here. Andersonville venues tend to feel more intimate and thoughtful which is just like the neighborhood itself.
There is a timeless charm to this part of the city and that transfers to its venues too:
Calo Ristorante: If your vision is a classic, romantic wedding then Calo is the spot. It is a neighborhood staple that offers intimate dining rooms and that old-school type of warmth.
Jin Ju: Just down the block from Calo is Jin Ju. This spot delivers bold Korean flavors with a more modern, dark interior. This is ideal for couples who want a contemporary and new vibe, but still looking to keep things cozy.
Vincent: Now, if your style is more creative, Vincent is an artful space with an effortlessly cool vibe that is perfect for a micro wedding.
Downtown Chicago
For the couples who are looking to go all out or maybe have a mixed idea of what they want, Downtown Chicago is the spot! From lakefront ceremony locations to skyline rooftops, this part of the city has so many options.
Don’t let all the skyscrapers fool you, there are plenty of inclusive vendors, queer friendly venues, and private spaces to hold your perfect celebration. The big city energy here is magnetic. There are historic buildings for ceremonies, sunset riverwalk photo opportunities, and city lights to dance under. Downtown is perfect for couples who want a cinematic and unforgettable wedding.
This part of Chicago brings the drama in the best way:
NoMi: NoMi is located on Michigan Avenue and has breathtaking views of the city skyline. If you are a couple looking for that “wow” factor then this spot is hard to beat.
Osteria Via Stato: Osteria has both elegance and a rustic style about it. If service, intimacy, and some seriously great Italian food are at the top of your list then you have found your venue.
Topolobambo: And if you are searching for something high class and artsy, check out Topolobambo. It is a fine dining experience that has roots in Mexican tradition and is elevated with a unique creativity.
Finding Your Perfect Chicago Micro Wedding Venue
No matter which neighborhood you choose, the most important thing is that your micro wedding feels like YOU. Chicago is a city with deep history and is full of people and places that are ready to welcome all types of couples. Whether you are going bold in Northalsted, cozy in Andersonville, or glam in Downtown, there is a space for you. Your wedding deserves nothing less!
Need help choosing which venue feels right or planning details? Let us help! We’ve got the knowledge and ideas to get you your dream day. Fill out the contact form on our website and someone will get back to you with more information!
The Tiny Wedding Collective offers all-inclusive elopement and intimate wedding planning services for Chicago, Washington DC, Northern Virginia and Baltimore, Maryland. A Tiny Wedding is for couples who want to celebrate their commitment in a thoughtful, stylish way but don’t want the stress and fanfare of a big, expensive wedding. Not all couples fit inside the same traditional box and it’s time that we make space for inclusivity, diversity, and creativity. To find out more about what it’s like to work with us, please fill out our contact form here.