Maggie, Author at Le Loft

Chicago Wedding Vendors You’ll Want To Rebook Again and Again

Posted on May 13 2025May 13 2025 by Maggie

Hey lovers, planners, and party people—
So, you’re getting married? Cue the confetti and spontaneous dance party! Whether you’re planning a laid-back backyard bash, a candlelit soirée in a hip loft (wink wink), or a three-day art-meets-music festival (we see you), one thing’s for sure: you need your people. We’re not just talking about your guests—we’re talking about your Chicago wedding vendors.

With over twenty years of service in the Chicago bridal industry, we’ve learned a thing or two, so, we’ve put together a short list of essential services to book—no fluff, just the folks who will turn your vision into magic.

1. Wedding Planner (Or Month-Of Magician)

Even if you’re the DIY type with a color-coded Google Sheet, trust us: having someone who knows weddings inside and out is a game changer. A full-service planner can design, budget, and orchestrate the whole thing, while a month-of coordinator ensures your hard work comes together without you lifting a finger (or a fork) on the big day.

Think of them as: Your creative co-pilot with spreadsheet superpowers.

Wanting to tough it out solo as long as possible? A day-of coordinator is a miracle worker for ensuring everything comes together while letting you actually enjoy the day. At Le Loft, we offer both options and have a few trusted vendors, including Jimmy Hibbard of JTH events for the full schbang, or Robin Ryan, for on-site coordination the day-of.

2. Photographer / Videographer

Let’s be honest—your wedding day is going to be a blur (a beautiful, love-soaked blur), and you won’t get to see everything. The way your partner looked right before you walked down the aisle. Your best friend wiping away tears during your vows. That one uncle absolutely crushing it on the dance floor.

A great wedding photographer captures all of that—and so much more.

They’re not just taking pictures; they’re telling the story of your day in a way that feels real, honest, and you. They know how to make you feel comfortable (even if you’re camera shy), catch the in-between magic, and preserve the vibe so you can relive it 10, 20, 50 years from now.

Add a videographer to capture the audio, the vibe, and the motion of it all. It’s like your own indie film.

Two of Le Loft’s three owners are photographers by trade. If you’re hosting with us, ask about this add-on service from Kelly Feldmiller &/or Maggie Rife. We also highly recommend Juan Ariza.

Think of them as: Your memory-makers. Your time-travel ticket.

3. Caterer / Food Truck / Grandma’s Kitchen

Why a Great Caterer Is Everything

Okay, let’s get real: your guests might forget the color of your napkins or how many mason jars were used in your centerpieces—but, when done right (or horribly wrong) they’ll never forget the food. Food isn’t just fuel at a wedding—it’s an experience, a way to share a piece of your story, and a huge part of what sets the tone for the night.

A great caterer doesn’t just make good food—they create a culinary vibe. They’re storytellers with knives and spatulas. They’ll help you craft a menu that reflects who you are, accommodate dietary needs without making it awkward, and make sure everything runs smoothly behind the scenes (no cold entrees, no sad buffet lines, no missing forks). Bonus: many caterers now offer eco-conscious options, global flavors, and interactive food stations that actually add to the party.

Need some inspiration for your menu? Here are some of our favorites:

🍣 The “We Met at a Sushi Bar” Spread

Live sushi rolling station
Miso-glazed black cod
Sake + yuzu cocktails
Mochi dessert bar

🌮 Taco ‘Bout Love

Build-your-own street taco bar
Elote cups or mini churros as passed apps
Horchata + mezcal signature drinks
Late-night nacho station

🧀 Grazing Table Goals

Luxe charcuterie boards with artisanal cheeses, figs, edible flowers
Olive oil + bread bar (yes it’s a thing)
Champagne + cheese pairing experience
Small plates passed tapas-style

Think of them as: Your edible vibe curators.

4. DJ or Live Band

Music makes the mood. Whether you’re vibing with a vinyl-spinning DJ or a brass band with attitude, this is what turns your night into a party. Bonus if they read the room like a therapist with a subwoofer. All those songs from your first dance to the banger at closing time will become the soundtrack you go back to again and again to relive your wedding day memories.

Here are a few of our favorite Chicago DJs:

DJ Tess
Gordan Bromli
Toast and Jam

Think of them as: Your atmosphere architects.

5. Hair + Makeup Artists

You want to feel like you, just extra glowy, confident, and camera-ready. Artists who understand your vibe (soft glam? edgy liner? boho braids?) make your prep time feel like a pre-party. Plus, they can handle Aunt Carol’s last-minute blowout. There’s no one who’s more an expert on this subject than Le Loft Co-owner, Emily Wolf, who’s been glamming brides up in Chicago for over a decade. She knows exactly how essential finding the right artist &/or team to transform the bride and her squid all while keeping the vibes easy-breezy. Of course she’s our #1 rec for hair and makeup services, but if she’s booked, try her go-to referrals below:

Jaycie Ganek
Kayla Jarzab

Think of them as: Your beauty hype squad.

6. Officiant

The one who legally (and emotionally) seals the deal. Whether it’s your best friend with a script or a pro who knows how to balance tears with laughter, choose someone who gets your story and can tell it well.

Think of them as: The heartbeat of your ceremony.

7. Florist / Decor Artist

A creative florist or stylist transforms a space with color, texture, and mood. Not into big blooms? They might bring in fruit, feathers, disco balls, or sculptural branches. This is your chance to create a little world.

If you’re looking for simple arrangements and happen to be hosting your wedding at Le Loft, we’re excited to now offer in-house florals. Looking to take things up a notch? Yeah, we love this for you and can’t recommend these two vendors highly enough!

Fieldman + Flora
Pulp

Think of them as: Your space-shifting scene-setters.

8. Rentals + Logistics Crew

Tables, chairs, sound systems, lounge furniture, bathrooms (yup, glamorous porta-potties exist). These behind-the-scenes MVPs make sure your vision has infrastructure.

Check out Carol’s Staffing for on the ground serving support and Tablescapes is our go-to rental for everything from plates to couches!

Think of them as: Your design support + logistics lifeline.

9. Stationer / Signage Designer

Not just for invites. A clever designer can make escort cards, welcome signs, menus, neon installations—your whole vibe in print (or plexi or wood or mirror).

Think of them as: Your aesthetic translators.

Final Thought:

Build a team that feels like you. Look for vendors who share your energy, respect your budget, and can roll with your weird (in the best way). At the end of the day, your wedding is about love, joy, and you two. Everything else? Just bonus.

💬 Got a Chicago wedding vendor you loved? Share them in the comments—let’s hype up the ones who make the magic happen.

Interested in hosting your wedding at Le Loft? We’d love to connect! Learn more about our services here and contact us here.

Tips For Hosting a Chicago Baby Shower: A Guide to Celebrating New Life

Posted on Mar 17 2025May 13 2025 by Maggie

Hey there, party planners and future diaper changers! 🎉 If you’ve landed here, chances are you’re tasked with hosting a Chicago baby shower, and you might be wondering how to make it a memorable bash without losing your mind (or the invite list). Fear not! Here’s your charming and slightly playful guide to hosting a baby shower that’s bursting with love, laughter, and just the right amount of chaos. Let’s dive in!

1. Theme It Up! (But Keep It Chill)

First things first: pick a theme that’s fun and reflects the parents-to-be’s personality. You want it to feel special, not like a corporate meeting. Here are some playful ideas:

Books & Babies: Ask guests to bring their favorite children’s book instead of a card. You get a library for the little one and a great opportunity to reminisce about embarrassing childhood stories while reading “The Very Hungry Caterpillar.” 🍊🐛
Baby-Q: Who says baby showers can’t be barbecues? Fire up the grill, serve some sliders, and throw in some hilarious baby-themed games. You can even have a “Messy Baby Food Challenge.” Spoiler: it’s less about the food and more about the faces you all make!

2. Find The Right Chicago Location for Your Baby Shower

Now that you’ve got the date picked and your theme sorted out, it’s time to find a venue that matches the vibe of your fabulous baby shower! Chicago has a plethora of unique spots that can set the stage for an unforgettable celebration. Consider cozy cafes like The Dearborn for a more intimate gathering, or for a diy friendly spot, consider Le Loft with its stylish décor and photoworthy backgrounds.

If you’re looking for something a bit more laid-back, a local park like Lincoln Park can provide the perfect backdrop for an outdoor baby-Q, complete with picnic blankets and baby-themed games! Just be sure to book early, especially if your shower is during the busy spring or summer months, and check if the venue offers any party packages that include catering or decorations. A great venue not only complements your theme but also creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for celebrating the upcoming arrival of that little bundle of joy! 🥳🏙️💐

3. Invitations That Set the Tone

Let’s talk invites! You want them to shout, “This is going to be a FUN party!” Skip the pastel clichés and opt for something witty. How about an invite that reads, “Join us as we shower [Mom-to-be’s Name] with love and the smallest of clothes?” Just make sure to include RSVP details (because who wants to chase down friends for a headcount?).

3. Food: It’s All About the Finger Foods

Now that the theme is settled, you need to decide on the menu. Instead of a sit-down meal that may end up looking like a biology project, go for finger foods:

Tiny Treats: Mini sliders, bite-sized quiches, and adorable fruit skewers that look like they hopped straight off a Pinterest board. Just remember, the cuter the food, the better the Instagram stories! Sound intimidating? Let a local Chicago vendor like Ambrosia Foods handle your savory treats.
Mocktail Madness: Go all-out with a drink station featuring mocktails and “Mom-tails.” Think “Virgin Mary” or strawberry lemonade with silly straws. Make sure someone is on babysitting duty so any attendees can enjoy a celebratory drink without judgment!

4. Games That Aren’t Cringe-Worthy

Okay, let’s be real—some traditional baby shower games can be a snooze fest. But not on your watch! Here are some fun and quirky ideas that will keep everyone laughing:

Baby Shower Mad Lib: A fun twist on this timeless game. Let guests get creative with their descriptions and see who’s brings the biggest laughs. You can get yours from this Etsy creator.
Baby Predictions: Have guests fill out cards predicting the baby’s birth date, weight, and future career. “Future world leader” and “professional snack eater” are both solid options.

5. Sweet Memories and Good Vibes

To capture all the fun and sweet moments at your Chicago baby shower, set up a memory station. Have guests write down their best advice for the parents-to-be, or funny stories from their own parenting adventures.

You could even create a DIY photo booth with props like oversized baby bottles, pacifiers, and funny hats. Trust me; those epic photos will be a blast to look back on when the baby is 16 and scrolling through Insta! 📸✨

One other way to make sure the special moments are captured memories is with a professional photographer. Check out our preferred vendors for a few local Chicago photographers to consider.

6. Party Favors That Don’t Suck

Let’s wrap it up with some thoughtful party favors that guests will actually want to take home:

Mini Champagne: Send guests home with mini bottles of bubbly tagged with “Poppin’ It When She Pops” It’s a fantastic reminder of this special day and a chance for them to celebrate come delivery day.
Personalized Candles: Everyone loves a cozy candle to wind down—especially after long days full of introspective diaper changes. Just make sure they’re not baby-scented, unless you want to create awkward “What is that smell?” moments.

Conclusion

There you have it—your complete guide to hosting a Chicago baby shower that’s charming, fun, and slightly chaotic (in the best possible way). The key is to celebrate the parents-to-be while making lasting memories with laughter and love. So grab your party planning hat, summon your inner joy, and get ready to shower some serious love on that future little human. Cheers to new beginnings and even more epic adventures ahead! 🍼💖🥳

Bridal Shower Ideas: Unique Concepts For A Cherished Celebration

Posted on Mar 17 2025May 13 2025 by Maggie

Hey there, party people! Are you ready to ditch the vanilla bridal shower playbook and serve up something that’s as unique as the bride-to-be? If you’re nodding along, you’re in the right place! We’re about to dive deep into the world of epic bridal shower ideas that will have everyone buzzing with excitement. Let’s get this party started!

Theme It Like You Mean It For Your Bridal Shower

First things first: if you wanna throw a unique bridal shower, consider a killer theme. Choose something that truly reflects the couple’s vibe. Here are a few trendy ideas to spark your imagination:

Galentine’s Day Vibes: Celebrate love and friendship with brunch, mimosas, and a whole lot of girl power. Think heart-shaped everything and a super fun photo backdrop like this one. Girls just wanna have fun—and celebrate love! Just don’t forget to book a photographer to make sure you capture all the fun!

Around the World: If the bride loves to travel, set up mini “destinations” throughout your party space. Each area represents a different locale (think Parisian pastries, Mexican tacos, and Japanese sake) and have guests share their favorite travel stories. Passport stamps, anyone? 🌍✈️

Bridal Shower Invitations That Pop!

Paperless Post and Evite offer great designs you can customize to fit your theme, allowing you to

choose everything for image backgrounds to font families. If your heart pitter-patters for an old school paper invite, they even have options for that too!

QR Codes For Your Bridal Shower

For all you Gen-zers out there, why not lean into the technology and include a qr code on your invite that takes quests to a website with all the helpful information, including a registry, details for the event, and where how to rsvp.

Skip the standard invites—you want something that speaks to the unique vibe of your shower. Use colorful designs, witty puns, or even a video invite! Think “Come celebrate love, laughter, and happily ever after with some bubbly and bad karaoke!” It’s all about setting that fun tone right from the get-go.

Mix UP The Game Roster

Forget the tired games of yesteryear. We’re going for laughter and connection here! Spice up your game roster with these unconventional ideas:

Bridesmaid Karaoke: Set up a karaoke station where bridesmaids can sing their hearts out. Bonus points for choosing songs that have the word “love” in them or songs that reflect their relationship with the bride!
The Newlywed Game: Couple’s Edition: Have Mr. Right answer questions about his bride-to-be and then bring everyone together for the big reveal. Just imagine the laughs when the answers get hilariously awkward!
DIY stations: Not a gamer? More of an arts and crafts person? How about a DIY bouquet station or make your own essential oils roller as a fun keepsake–of course, complete with branded stickers and colors to go with your theme!

diy essential oil rollers bridal shower ideas

Feed Their Souls (and Stomachs)

No bridal shower is complete without a feast, and unique doesn’t mean complicated! Think about these fun and easy food options:

Le Loft Preferred Vendor, Chef Ponzio

Food Trucks or Pop-Up Stations: Instead of the usual catering, why not hire a local food truck to park out front in our loading zone? Or you could do choose-your-own adventure stations, like Tacos with various toppings, or gourmet donuts, or even vegan bowls—all served fresh and delicious!

DIY Drink Stations: Set up a DIY cocktail or mocktail bar where guests can mix their own drinks. Provide fun mixers, colorful garnishes, and some cute glassware. Just imagine the fabulous Instagram stories that’ll come from this! 🍹✨

Personal Touches Everywhere For a Unique Bridal Shower

Let’s sprinkle in some personal elements that scream “you’re special!” Here are some charming ideas:

Memory Lane: Create a wall of love where guests can share their favorite memories with the bride or write advice for her marriage. Use colorful sticky notes, and watch the wall grow with love and laughter!

Picture Perfect Photo Booth: Design a fun photo booth area filled with silly props and a cute backdrop that matches your theme. Guests can snap memories that’ll last a lifetime, plus, it’s the perfect chance to show off those rocking outfits!

Bridal Party Favors with Flair

End the day on a high note with party favors that guests will actually use and appreciate. Forget the cheap trinkets—think meaningful or useful gifts:

Customized Mini Succulents: Sweet little plants that remind everyone of the love they celebrated. Personalize them with tags that say something like, “Let Love Grow.”

Handmade Candles: Offer candles with scents inspired by the bride, like her favorite flowers or a cozy fall evening. They’ll think of the fun times every time they light it up! 🕯️💖

Wrapping Up Our bridal Shower Ideas Guide

There you have it! A fresh, funky guide to throwing a bridal shower that’s uniquely charming and totally unforgettable. Remember, the secret sauce is all about celebrating the bride in a way that feels fun and genuine. So gather your supplies, unleash your creativity, and let the good times roll. Cheers to love, laughter, and unforgettable memories! 🥂💍💐

Looking for a great venue to host your bridal shower? Contact us at Le Loft for availability and help creating your iconic event

Why Event Photography Is A Non-Negotiable

Posted on Mar 12 2025Mar 12 2025 by Maggie

Event photography plays a crucial role in preserving all those thousand moments that happened that are so hard to remember. But it goes beyond just preserving memories; it crafts a story as the day unfolds. This blog delves into why hiring a professional event photographer is a must for your next celebration.

Capturing the Spirit of Celebrations

Step 1: Preserving Key Memories

Event photography is a gateway to reliving those iconic moments we often wish to hold onto forever. Every smile, laugh, and candid interaction is a piece of your life’s story captured in a frame.

Imagine looking back years from now at images of those candid instances—be it blowing out birthday candles or sharing a cigar with your wolf pack. These photographs ignite emotions and memories that last long after the event let down.

The magic of event photography lies in its ability to capture both monumental milestones and subtle nuances—a knowing glance, a shared laugh, or a tear of joy during a heartfelt toast. Each photo weaves a vivid narrative, making your memories timeless keepsakes.

When you hire a professional photographer, you ensure these memories are not just blips on your lifeline but noted peaks to remember. The photos serve as triggers that bring you back in the best way to these events and the significant relationships built along the way.

Step 2: Ensuring Professional Quality

While cell phone cameras have advanced, they’re still limited when it comes to low light, movement, and settings where you need a flash. Plus, it’s just not always convenient or reasonable to rely on yourself or a guest to ensure those big moments are documented. With a professional photographer, you can expect better quality imagery and also ask for exactly what you want captured, so there’s no risk of Uncle Joe missing the first kiss or Aunt Susie cropping your head ackwardly. With an experienced photographer, you can rest easy knowing they understand lighting, angles, and equipment to produce amazing images.

It’s not just the difference of an iphone and slr camera. What distinguishes professional photography is the skill and artistry involved. Masterful photographers understand composition and can create beautiful images even in challenging settings, capturing the event’s essence with finesse.

From exquisite lighting effects to candid portraits, professional photography documents your event from all perspectives. Investing in an event photographer not only benefits, it is crucial for preserving the quality of your memories.

Step 3: Crafting a Compelling Narrative

mother daughter walk down the aisle together

Event photography extends beyond capturing images; it narrates the story of your event. A talented photographer encapsulates the emotions, details, and atmosphere, reflecting your unique experience.

Each photograph has a purpose: some capture the jubilance of the dance floor while others freeze contemplative moments during speeches. Together, they compose a rich tapestry of your special day, allowing you to revisit the story.

Think about your favorite movies or books—they are memorable because they evoke emotions and resonate with experiences. Similarly, expert event photography echoes laughter, love, and quiet moments, providing a story to cherish.

In essence, event photography transforms fleeting moments into a cohesive narrative you can relive and share. It beautifully allows you to not only remember an occasion but re-experience it through the lens of a storyteller.

Step 4: Sharing Experiences with Others

Having exquisite photos enables you to share your experiences with friends and family who couldn’t attend. They also make for excellent social media content and lifelong memories.

With social media’s rise, sharing memories has never been simpler. High-quality event photos encapsulate your special occasions, allowing viewers to feel part of the experience.

Imagine sharing a gorgeous wedding photo on your feed, inviting loved ones to comment and reminisce. These images spark conversations, reignite bonds, and foster a sense of community across distances.

Furthermore, these photos become a part of your family’s legacy. Each shared image is a piece of your story’s foundation, connecting generations through shared experiences.

Step 5: Creating a Lasting Legacy

Top-notch event photography forms a legacy of memories that can be passed down through generations. These photographs offer a tangible link to past celebrations and loved ones.

Consider the stories woven around family photo albums. High-quality images do more than capture an event’s essence—they strengthen family bonds. Future generations will appreciate these glimpses into their family’s history.

This legacy is more than just visuals; it embodies feelings, connections, and your family’s shared history. Each photo carries emotions tied to memories, enriching the family narrative for years.

By investing in professional photography, you create a timeline of meaningful events, ensuring love, joy, and celebration are preserved for future generations.

Conclusion: The Vital Importance of Event Photography

In summary, event photography plays an invaluable role in documenting life’s special moments. It guarantees you have high-quality memories to cherish and share with loved ones. Whether it’s a wedding, birthday, or corporate event, investing in a professional photographer is a decision your future self will be grateful for!

If you’re looking for a few photographer’s to consider, checkout our preferred vendors below.

Kelly Feldmiller
Juan Ariza
Maggie Rife Ponce

First birthday party – How to throw one both Kids & Adults will love!

Posted on Nov 14 2024Mar 12 2025 by Maggie

Work backwards from fun

Planning for your little one’s first birthday can be both exciting and a little daunting at the same time. Our whole team at Le Loft has been in your shoes with our own kiddos. After planning four collective bdays between the three of us, we’ve decided that the trick to making it great is planning something that you–yes you, the parent, would wanna go to. Because, really, your kiddo isn’t gonna remember much and they’ll be happy enough if there’s cake and pizza there.

So with this in mind, we’ve mapped out some steps to help you plan a party that pleases everyone, especially you. Because, after nine months of pregnancy, labor, and a year of raising that child, you deserve your own celebration!

If you’re in the camp where that sounds good in theory but like a lotta work, well we got you. Use this article as a guide to help breeze through the planning process (or just hire us to help and we’ll throw you a kickass party).

First things first, lock down that venue

Whether it’s your neighbors backyard or a rental venue like Le Loft, finding the right place to host your party is a key first step. Work backwards from your non-negotiables. Do you wanna be outdoors? Would you like staff to clean up? Will you need room for a bouncy house? These questions will help inform where you book.

From our experience both as event space managers and parents, it’s pretty great not hosting in your home. 1. It’s nice not having to worry about decluttering your living space beforehand or cleaning the baseboards. 2. You have a firm start and end time, so if Aunt Petunia is lingering, you have the convenient excuse of your rental ending.

Book your vendors

If you decide to hire vendors for the party, consider a photographer to capture the special moments, a baker for a custom smash cake, and perhaps a caterer if you’re planning to serve a meal. You don’t have to make this an MTV Best First Birthday Ever situation with over the top extravagance. Guests are always pleased with pizza and cupcakes. But, if you do want to elevate things a bit, catering fancy sandwiches and a custom balloon arch for pictures can make it extra special. Check out our go-to vendors here.

The essential supplies list

Once you’ve booked your spot and have your guest list, consider whether you want a formal sit down meal, or something more casual (we vote casual). Ask if the venue offers any tables and chairs. Typically it’s great to plan one table for food, one table for presents, and a few others, depending on the guest count, for casual sitting.

A “kids table” is a nice bonus. The fiercely independent little ones will love having something their size to destroy their food at or visit for some arts and crafts.

Other supplies you may want to bring include:

-a high chairs
-a Joovy wheeler for your babe to scoot around in while your socializing
-some kid friendly toys or crafts so the parents can take a breather, e.g. magnatiles, coloring books, books to read, stickers, etc.

Book an activity – Parents will thank you!

Beyond the toys and crafts, splurging on a special activity often pays off huge in so many ways. A bouncy house or soft-play setup can keep kids occupied for hours which lets you catch up with friends and family you probably haven’t had much opportunity to see over the last year. Besides what we already mentioned, we’ve hosted birthdays with magicians, musicians, face painters, and more to great success.

Decorating tips

You don’t have to have a theme. First birthday party is theme enough, but it can be helpful to have one to anchor your decisions. For example, Emily’s son is born on March 16th, so she themed his birthday around St. Patrick’s Day, calling it Sonny’s Lucky Birthday. She used this theme to inspire her decor, choosing streamers and balloons, florals, and more in shades of green and gold.

In the end, don’t stress too much on a theme. It’s just a fun way to get your guests pumped and can help you when it comes to decor. Some of our simple, go-to recommendations include:

-balloons, always balloons
-florals, even simple buds that you can pick up Trader Joes for a steal are great!
-Streamers
-Photos of the birthday child
-Paper plates and cups can also be a festive pop
-A banner for pictures

Ways to Invite Guest

Messenger pigeon, banner on a blimp, or a good ol’ text will do. Or, you could go the old school route and send out traditional paper invitations. Of all these options, we’re big fans of a going digital. Evite or paperless post is simple and gets the job done.

There are tons of cute designs to choose from and lots of customizations if you want to get fancy. Just be sure to include all the important details, such as the date, time, location, and RSVP information. Also, let your guests know etiquette on gifts. If you don’t need or want them (because you’re already stepping on enough toys as is), a simple one liner like, “gifts are appreciated, but not necessary” or “in lieu of gifts, you can make a small donation to this cause” are great ways to communicate your expectations. Lastly, don’t forget a second set of eyes. Any tired parent could use a proof reader to check for typos and missing details.

Party Favors

Consider putting together simple goody bags for the young guests. This could include age-appropriate toys, stickers, or treats. For adult guests, a small token of appreciation such as one hitters or mini-bar size beverages is a nice touch, but not expected. Kiddin’ aside, you can find clever fun options on amazon like these discoball keychains that nod to the days when we still had energy to go to a dance club or more practically, these safety matches for all those friday nights spent lighting a candle and watching Netflix once the kids have crashed.

How to Plan for Meltdowns

Babies and toddlers can get overwhelmed, so be prepared for meltdowns. Have a quiet space available for parents to take their little ones if they need a break, and consider having a few toys or activities on hand to distract fussy children. Snacks are also great when someone gets the hangrees before foods been served, and bubbles are always a good go-to for redirecting an upset child.

Smash Cakes

The traditional smash cake, like the one below from one of our favorite vendors, Pulp Chicago, is a fun and messy way for the birthday baby to dig into their first taste of cake. A small, simple cake just for the birthday child can be a great photo opportunity.

Remember, every child is different, so it’s important to consider your child’s temperament and adjust your plans accordingly. If your kiddo leans sensitive, having a lot of attention on them for a smash cake moment might not be the vision you hope for. Be ready to pivot and save that milestone for another day-perhaps at home with just your close family.

With some thoughtful preparation and creativity, you can create a memorable and enjoyable 1st birthday celebration for your little one!

Interested in hosting your child’s first birthday at Le Loft? Send us a message here or email leloftchicago@gmail.com. We’d love to help you host a great party!

Best Party Venues in Chicago

Posted on Sep 04 2024Nov 05 2024 by Maggie

In a city full of great party venues, choosing the right one can be tough. Chicago has one of the most thriving party scenes in the country. The vibrant culture, world famous restaurants, top notch local vendors, and iconic architecture make this city a perfect location to host any and all celebrations.

As a local party venue in Chicago, our team at Le Loft understands there’s so many decisions to consider when planning a successful event; We’re here to help! This article will guide you through the process, talking you through considerations like size and capacity factors, popular locations, ambience, and budget friendly venue.

Bookmark this page as your plan for your unforgettable event.

What makes a great party venue?

A great party, like many things in life, is not the result of just one thing; it’s a combination of many factors that all come together to create that magic combination. The venue isn’t the only factor, but it is one of the most important. What makes for a great venue you ask? Think of the senses, sight, sound, touch, smell, and see. Your venue should touch on all these things in all the right way.

Atmosphere Matters.

How a space looks and feels to be will make a big difference in your guests experience. The layout, lighting, and decor all create a vibe that leaves a huge impression. For example, when we renovated our space, one of the first things we did was tear out overhead florescent light and add chandeliers, sconces, pendants, and tracks. Lighting alone can make or break a mood.

Sound on.

What’s the sound system like in the space? Can you easily hook up to the speakers to play your music? Is there a system for djs to connect or open space for them to bring their own rig? Make sure to check for all this when researching.

What size party venue should you rent?

Deciding on how many guests are on your invite list will be the first step in narrowing down your options for a party venue. You’ll want to make sure to look for a place that comfortably holds all your guests. Size matters! If you go too big, guests will be spread out and the vibe dies. Some larger venues offer ways of partitioning off their space to make a more intimate setting if your guest list is smaller, be sure to ask if this is an option.What’s the layout like?

Additionally, consider levels and layout. Will your event span multiple floors? We’ve seen a number of high-end corporate events where this was an intentional choice. One event was at a converted bank in Brooklyn where guests were directed through the vault in the basement after dinner to find a speakeasy with a casino and circus vibe. Tour guides led guests to the Modern Wing for cocktail hour, before being directed downstairs for the official program.

If you’re planning a smaller event like a 30th birthday party, you can achieve a similar effect by having guests celebrate in the front of a space for happy hour and dinner, before being led behind a moveable wall to a staged disco floor at the rear of the space.

Where is the event space located?

Location is another key factor to consider when booking your party venue. Is there public transit nearby? What are the parking accommodations like? Is the venue wheelchair accessible? Many party guests expect to take private transit, so don’t be afraid to choose a spot you love even if it doesn’t have a parking lot or a little off-the-beaten path. Just be sure to inform your guests so they can plan accordingly.

Budgeting for a party venue

Costs for party venues in Chicago can vary widely depending on the size of the space, the location, and the services included. A great venue can make all the difference for your party. So while the expense might seem high, it’s often well worth the memories. Many budget 40-50% of their overall costs to the venue. But, there are a few additional things to consider; Will your event be a “one-stop-shop?” For example, if you’re getting married, can you also get ready and have your ceremony at the venue? If so, that can save you a lot of money and time.

Does the event space need decor?

Additionally, the ambiance and design of the space is important to consider. Some places are blank canvases and need a lot of additional decor, while others are already designed to appeal to a broad audience and do not require a lot of additional enhancements. You should also inquire whether your venue provides any amenities like tables, chairs, and furniture.

Another factor in pricing for venues is the time of year and day of the week. Many venues charge a premium rate for Saturdays during peak season, between June through October. If you’re looking to get a deal, you might opt for a non-weekend date or time of year that’s less popular.

Party venue locations in Chicago

When it comes to finding the best party venues in Chicago, options range from lavish opulence to quirky and fun. From rooftop gardens with stunning views to industrial lofts with a trendy vibes. Below you’ll find a list of popular options that fit a range of budgets.

Top Party Venues in Chicago

best party venues art institute of chicago — The Art Institute of Chicago

The Peninsula Chicago – $$$$

Elegant space with top notch service.
Ideal for: Corporate events, elegant parties.

The Art Institute of Chicago – $$$$

Modern design lovers, this ones for you.
Ideal for: Art lovers, unique celebrations.

The Field Museum – $$$$

Unique features that make it stand out.
Ideal for: Themed parties, educational events.

Chicago History Museum – $$$$

Insights into the historic charm.
Ideal for: Cultural events, history enthusiasts.

Bridgeport Art Center – $$$
Lofted space with large capacity.
Ideal for: Cultural events, large weddings

Ovation Chicago – $$
Brick walls and skylights make this space modern and elegant
Ideal for medium to large events

Morgan Manufacturing – $$$
Industrial complex with multiple rooms
Ideal for: large events

Salvage Once – $$
Vintage, industrial vibe
Ideal for: medium to large events

wedding venue chicago ovation — Ovation Chicago

chicago party venue le loft — Le Loft Chicago

Unique Party Venues in Chicago

Le Loft – $
Hip and stylish open layout loft
Ideal for small-mid size events of all kind.

Emil Bach House – $$
Frank Lloyd Wright home with ample light
Ideal for: smaller events

Floating World Gallery – $$

Gallery space and wedding venue
Smaller-mid size events of all kind.

Ace Bounce – $$$
Play pingpong while celebrating with your friends
Ideal for: birthday parties and corporate events

Tips for Booking Your Venue

Plan Ahead. Chicago’s most popular party venues often book up years in advance. Planning ahead can make all the difference. If you’re having trouble finding your dream spot, consider going off season or booking on a Friday or Sunday

Visit in Person. While many places offer walkthrough videos, seeing a place in person lets you experience the space first hand and map out how you might plan your event. You’ll also be able to ask the owners or managers important questions and learn firsthand important details to know in advance. Preparation is key!

Ask the Right Questions. When interviewing venues, make sure to ask about important policies, like deposits, cancellations, and decor limitations. Are there sound ordinances? Are children and pets allowed? Many places have answers to frequently asked questions, so you can always look for those in advance, but asking in person is recommended too.

Read Review. Reviews are a great resource for verifying the professionalism of a space and experiences with their guests. Reviews often mention important details like customer services and other nuances that might not be listed in the venue description.

In summary, the best party venues in Chicago offer unique settings that contribute to the overall experience of the celebration. Considering factors such as size, ambiance, location, and cost will help you find the perfect venue for your next event. Chicago offers so many great spots to host your event, from the lavish to the trendy. We hope this guide helps when choosing the one that’s right for you! If you have other questions we didn’t answer, please leave a comment below or send us an email to leloftchicaog@gmail.com