The Best Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

The Best Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

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1000+ Wedding Vendors in Gardner, IL

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An English Garden Wedding & Event Florals 
Rating: 5.0 (70 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Florist
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

What started out as a dream has become a reality for over 30 years. We are a premiere full-service florist with a wonderful team of not only amazing floral designers, but also the muscle of our delivery team, we have accomplished thousands of weddings over the years. No detail is left untouched and we pride ourselves on giving our absolute best to each and every one of our couples. When booking an event with us, you are not only gaining a florist, you are helping us bloom into more than just a dream. For you are helping each and every one of our teammates and floral artisans achieve things that only love, grace, and unity can grow.

“From the start, our experience with An English Garden Wedding & Event Florals was professional, friendly, and very responsive. The flowers they provided were fresh and beautiful, perfectly complementing our wedding's color scheme. The centerpieces were stunning without overpowering the tables, and the flower girl's basket with the delicate petal pouches was a lovely touch. Kim, the owner, took the time to get to know us and our vision, offering thoughtful suggestions while also listening to our ideas. The only aspect that didn't quite meet our expectations were the bouquets, which were a bit too heavy with long green stems, making them difficult to hold during the ceremony and photos. Overall, An English Garden Wedding & Event Florals played a crucial role in bringing our wedding day to life in a beautiful and memorable way.”
Sherry A., 8 months ago
Sheena Anne photography 
Rating: 5.0 (65 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Classic style
  • Starts at $3,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hey there! I’m Sheena! Your go-to wedding photographer, hype girl, professional chaos wrangler, timeline planner, dress fluffer, & so much more! I have been capturing love stories for a little over 10 years now and I wouldnt have it any other way. Being alongside couples during one of the most meaningful seasons of their lives is my passion. You’re not just a client. You’re someone I’m genuinely cheering for. My couples often tell me I feel more like a longtime friend, and that’s exactly how I like it. I’m big on communication, making you feel comfortable, & helping your day run smoothly so you can actually be present without the stress.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Sheena is the best photographer! She is so organized and great at getting all your family together for photos, setting up cute poses etc and her photos are incredible! She is local to Lockport and knows all the venues nearby so well and knew all the best spots for photos at our venue, Public Landing! All my family said she was the best wedding photographer they have ever seen! She goes above and beyond offering to help with little things like making your wedding timeline for you and giving you great advice throughout the wedding planning process. So much little things she doesn't have to do for you but she does. Highly highly recommend her to anyone she's so talented and a great person!”
Julia V., 2 years ago
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Sweeney Girl Sweets 
Rating: 5.0 (61 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Cakes & desserts
  • Starts at $3
  • Serves Gardner, IL
  • Offer

Baking is therapeutic for me. Having baked with my grandparents as a child, I've baked all my life and I really truly enjoy seeing smiles when people try my made-from-scratch sweets. My fun bubbly personality has transferred over into my business brand and products.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Such a great addition to our perfect day! The cupcakes we ordered were incredible and all of our guests loved them! Customer service was excellent from trying the cupcakes, Molly brought them personally to our home and trialed new flavors for us. The Oreo was a hit! Delivery was seamless and I as the bride didn’t have to stress at all. Would absolutely recommend for your big event or even just treats to have!”
Mackenzie S., a year ago
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CM Planning LLC 
Rating: 5.0 (61 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 7 services
  • Starts at $25
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At CM Planning LLC, we understand that your wedding day is one of the most significant moments of your life, and we are here to ensure it unfolds seamlessly, allowing you to savor every precious moment. Our services cater to diverse budgets and needs. Customized packages accommodate every event, even for untraditional schedules. No need to stress—whether you want full wedding planning or day-of coordination, we’ve got you covered. Can’t find what you need? Contact us to create a personalized package. Explore our a la carte options, including vendor sourcing, timeline creation, wedding set up or tear down, and decor transport/storage.

“Carolyn was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding. From the beginning, their communication was efficient, quick to respond, and thoughtful - she helped us stay organized and on track throughout the planning process. The quality of her work was exceptional - she was fun, helpful, and extremely detail-oriented, ensuring our timeline ran smoothly and handling any small issues that arose with ease. Carolyn was a joy to work with, and we truly appreciated all of her guidance and support in making our special day seamless. We would highly recommend CM Planning LLC to any couple planning their wedding.”
Maggie, 2 years ago
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Jennifer'S Garden Banquet And Convention Center 
Rating: 4.5 (48 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Morris, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 1200 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $6,664
  • Offer

Jennifer’s Garden, the area’s premier site to host your very special occasion. We are excited at the possibility of bringing to you everything necessary to make this function a wonderful success and a delightful memory. Jennifer’s Garden is focused on providing high-quality service and customer satisfaction. We will do everything we can to meet your expectations. Our commitment to service remains our number one priority. With a variety of offerings to choose from, we are sure you will be happy working with us. Look around our website and if you have any comments or questions, please feel free to contact us.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Allows pets
  • Bridal suite on site
  • All-inclusive venue packages

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
  • No on-premises lodging options
Awarded Best of Zola
“Great communication on what was provided, plenty of opportunities to try out the cakes and talk over the meal. Had time on Friday to get set up. Everything was perfect”
Liz, 2 years ago
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That's My DJ Entertainment 
Rating: 5.0 (40 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,995
  • Serves Gardner, IL

DJ NickyVon is musically diverse and skilled in many aspects of DJing. Having graduated from Scratch DJ Academy, Chicago, he's extremely dedicated and immersed in the DJ community. Having grown up in the 90's he couldn't help but fall in love with hip-hop, but that also played an important part as he learned to explore other genres like, rock, house music, and funk. His diverse music knowledge allows him to blend in any type of environment. Brands such as Match.com and State Farm have trusted him to create a fun and exciting atmosphere for some of their events.

“Kelvon was delight to work with! He was communicative and so friendly and knowledgeable about music. The planning portal he provided was easy to navigate and a breeze to interact with. Even when some scheduling things changed on the fly during the reception, Kelvon seamlessly rolled with it and had a smile to boot. He was such a great DJ and captured our music vibes so wonderfully for our wedding day!”
Samantha C., 10 months ago
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Liza Loret Events 
Rating: 5.0 (36 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 2 services
  • Starts at $1,800
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I am a mother, wife, and business owner. I created Liza Loret Events in 2015, when I wanted to make a difference in the Wedding Industry. My first couple of years, I began to get momentum in how I wanted my business to be structured.

“From the moment we started planning our wedding, Liza Loret Events was by our side every step of the way. Her monthly check-ins helped keep us on track and her attention to detail ensured our day went off without a hitch. Liz is an absolute professional, keeping the day running smoothly and handling any issues that arose behind the scenes so we could fully enjoy our celebration. My whole family and bridal party felt so taken care of and loved by her as well. Her hard work and expertise was worth every penny - we honestly couldn't have done it without her. Best vendor decision we made for our wedding was booking with Liza Loret Events. Liz is truly the best in the business, and we are so grateful for the incredible wedding she helped us create. If she is available for your wedding date, BOOK HER NOW!”
Amy, 2 years ago
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Cylee Catherine Events 
Rating: 5.0 (35 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At Cylee Catherine Events, we believe in planning and coordinating events so that the hosts are able to enjoy the moments that will one day be their favorite memories to look back on. Throughout the planning process, I do my best to listen to your ideas and help bring forward the vision for your special day that you are trying to achieve with a flawless execution.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Where to begin! Cylee was recommended to my husband and I through our amazing Dj at 3rd Shift Djs. She proved to be just as fantastic! We met with her regarding month-of planning services, and she definitely delivered. As a pretty spastic person that isn't the biggest fan of planning, I knew I needed someone that could keep me in line when it came to getting final details together and communicate with my vendors. Cylee came and proved why she is the best at her job! She kept us organized, was available via text, facetime, google meetings, etc whenever we needed something. Our wedding day went off without a hitch. I was completely unaware what time it was all day, able to stay in the moment because she was on top of everything and kept us on schedule. I cannot say enough wonderful things about her. She is one of the sweetest people you'll ever meet, she cares deeply about her job and the folks she works with, and she has a keen eye for the details. My husband and I had the best day ever, and Cylee is a huge reason why! If you're looking for someone to help make your day as magical as mine, she's exactly who you're looking for!!! We love her!”
Jessica A., 5 months ago
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Sanctuary Events 
Rating: 5.0 (34 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
Plainfield, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 175 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor
  • Starts at $8,000

You’re searching for your ideal venue… where you find a grand indoor ceremony, elegant dining, a brag worthy bar and an enticing dance room. A venue where historic charm and ambiance is the backdrop to your wedding day! And here is the best part, all of this and you don’t have to do the work to have that AH-HA moment!

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Provides lighting and sound
  • Pets can join the celebration

Venue considerations

  • No on-site guest accommodations
“Sanctuary Events was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding. From the very first interaction, Nancy and Shelly were easy-going, friendly, and amazing to communicate with. They truly listened to our vision and made it come to life in the most magical way. The space was beautiful, with high ceilings and twinkle lights that gave it an extra special ambiance. The food, the decor, everything was exactly what we wanted and more. We couldn't have asked for a better venue to host our special day. Sanctuary Events went above and beyond to make sure our wedding was perfect.”
Jordan B., 2 years ago
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El'Event Weddings 
Rating: 5.0 (32 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

At El'Event Weddings, we believe in providing services to make your wedding day stunning and unforgettable. For us, affordable prices are what really matter! Having a wedding means a lot of investment, and we want to help you somehow, and not worrying you more. We help busy couples make their dream wedding to come true without feeling overwhelmed. Wedding planning, developing and coordinating are our main priorities. Whether it's a large or small/private event, we would love to be part of it. Every wedding is Unique and amazing results are our best reward!

“I’ve had the pleasure of working with Katherine and the El Event Weddings team many times over the years, and every experience has been absolutely wonderful. Katherine is incredibly organized, calm, and thoughtful, which makes such a difference on wedding days. Her team is always professional, kind, and truly cares about each couple’s experience. As an officiant, I can confidently say that working alongside El Event Weddings makes the entire day flow beautifully. It’s always a joy collaborating with them, and I highly recommend them to any couple looking for a planner they can fully trust. Mercy The Officiant”
Mercy, 9 months ago
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Sholeh Events 
Rating: 5.0 (29 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 5 services
  • Starts at $3,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I have been a wedding planner for over 20 years. I am here to support your ideas and help you find ways to make your wedding day the experience you imagine. I also specialize in planning weddings in a very short amount of time. Its a wonderful challenge and you’ll receive no judgement from me about your timelines! There are no geographic limitations. I’m comfortable working remotely for the planning process and have traveled extensively domestically and abroad. I have supported people from all backgrounds in their journey towards a lifetime of love together. I network extensively with other vendors & have a passion for collaboration.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Wherever you are on your checklist, the next thing you MUST do is book Sholeh as your coordinator/planner/life saver/therapist/best decision we made for our wedding. From the start, she had such a calm and positive energy that fit our vibe perfectly. She provided us with a boat load of tools and checklists from the day we signed our contract. Her network of contacts helped us form literally the Wedding Vendor Avengers. One example, our officiant fell ill ONE WEEK BEFORE THE WEDDING. Sholeh found our officiant within days who put together the most beautiful ceremony imaginable. Sholeh ran our rehearsal and stood in the doorway at the ceremony to ensure a seamless processional. She was a seamstress, an interior decorator, performed crowd control, you name it. Literally, I couldn't tell you what went wrong at my wedding. If anything happened, she took care of it and still hasn't told me. We are grateful beyond words and cannot recommend her enough. Ali and Rob 9.5.25”
Ali T., a year ago
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I Do Memorable Occasions 
Rating: 5.0 (29 reviews)
  • Planner
  • Offers 4 services
  • Starts at $100
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I Do Memorable Occasions is a wedding planning and coordination company based in Lockport, IL. We welcome the opportunity to be part of events in Chicago and Illinois suburbs. Offered packages include comprehensive, customizable planning and day-of coordination for all your wedding needs from your bridal shower and bachelor and bachelorette parties to the big day and the day-after brunch. Whether you only recently got engaged and you're not quite sure where to begin, or you have a crystal-clear vision in mind and just need an extra set of eyes and hands to bring it all together, I Do Memorable Occasions has you covered.

“So so so thankful that we hired Lauren! She went above and beyond our expectations and most of all, she kept us on track. She was easy to communicate with and very responsive for the whole year we worked with her. We were able to have a worry free wedding day experience thanks to her. She also did an extremely great job at setting up all our decor and making our ceremony and reception look STUNNING. Would definitely recommend her to anyone who wants to have a stress free and amazing wedding process. 11/10 on her services.”
Brandon R., a year ago
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The Monte Bello Estate 
Rating: 5.0 (29 reviews)
Lemont, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 275 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor & outdoor

Monte Bello's enchanting 55 acre estate is the perfect backdrop for your unforgettable ceremony and wedding reception. Our extraordinary venue features breathtaking grounds with unlimited backdrops for the most memorable pictures. All our weddings and events are allowed exclusive use of the estate grounds, mansion, and custom tent during your event time. We have an elegant Bridal Suite, a place to display your wedding dress. We also have the perfect Grooms Suite that is a man cave like no other with a poker table, craps table, foosball table, pool table, and guitar and sports memorabilia.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Private area for the wedding party
  • Versatile for various event styles
  • Provides catering services

Venue considerations

  • Couple must handle cleanup and setup
  • No on-premises lodging options
  • Not for you if you are looking for something nontraditional
“Where do I even begin with Monte Bello? It truly was the perfect venue for our wedding. The grounds were stunning, the food was delicious, and the staff was incredible in every possible way. From start to finish, we felt completely cared for, especially on our big day. Abbey, you were such a pivotal part of our experience, and our wedding wouldn't have been the same without you. Choosing Monte Bello was the best decision we made, and we can't recommend it enough for your special day!”
Kelley F., 2 years ago
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Niya Studios 
Rating: 5.0 (27 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $1,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

We are Niraj and Piya, the husband and wife duo behind Niya Studios. We draw from our backgrounds in the visual, fine, and performing arts to sculpt and showcase your love. Our photographic approach combines documentary and editorial styles while incorporating postmodern and neoclassical elements. Your masterpiece awaits

“OMG! Piya and Niraj were AMAZING and I couldn’t imagine anybody else to document our special day! They were so kind and welcoming and we have truly become friends after this experience. Their style of photography is truly artistic and their special vision is amazing to witness in person!”
Payal, 7 months ago
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HEA Events Chicago 
Rating: 5.0 (22 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Planner
  • Offers 3 services
  • Starts at $4,500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I’m Amy Harloe, founder and lead event producer of HEA Events Chicago, formerly Happily Ever After by Amy. Before moving to the Chicago suburbs in 2016, I spent 17 years producing events in Los Angeles. For more than a decade, I’ve planned weddings throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, helping couples navigate the process with clarity, confidence, and calm.

Awarded Best of Zola
“If you are looking for a wedding planner, you have found it. The single best thing I did for my wedding was hire Amy and HEA events to plan it. I just got married at the Adler Planetarium this weekend, and Amy & HEA events is the reason it happened. When I began my wedding planning process, I knew immediately I would need a planner. I was going to have a large 200 person wedding, and I knew I wanted it to be a grand event. I talked with over 10 different planners, and could not find anyone that felt "right", until I talked to Amy. From the minute we talked on the phone, I knew she was the best planner. She was sweet, yet honest, organized, and had a very impressive history of planned weddings. As a very "type A" bride, I was worried that no one would take my wedding as seriously as I did, and I was so wrong. I ALWAYS felt like Amy made my wedding a priority. In the two years leading up to my wedding, she reached out to all vendors, compared pricing, read through every contract, told me where to spend my money and what was a waste. She problem solved the smallest of things that only I noticed/ cared about, and never made me feel like something was silly or too over the top. She sat through every vendor meeting with me, took notes on everything that was said, and remembered every detail that I couldn't keep track of! She came to my tasting and gave her expert opinion on which foods to go with and why. She sent payment reminders, communicated with vendors constantly, helped me make decisions when I just couldn't make any more. However, the real testament of not only Amy's work, but also her character, came on the wedding weekend. During the rehearsal, Amy came with print outs for the entire party and family that clearly explained the timeline of the weekend. She ran the rehearsal so seamlessly. With the weather constantly changing, we had a day- of backup plan, but hoped we wouldn't need it. Then, on the wedding day, before an entirely outdoor ceremony and cocktail hour, we had a very difficult and stressful hour before the ceremony. As the rain continued to pour, Amy did everything in her power to reassure me and calm me down. I never felt any type of stress or concern from her. She was always calm and collected, and did everything in her power to make my wedding happen the way we had planned it. The weather cleared with just a few minutes to spare, and SOMEHOW, Amy and her team pulled off what was nothing short of a wedding day miracle, and we were able to still have the ceremony outside (and on time, might I add!!). Throughout the wedding night, Amy made sure to deal with any issue, handle difficult extended family members, and ensure that the night went off without a hitch. I can sincerely say that without Amy, my wedding would not have been everything I wanted it to be and more. I am going to miss getting to work with Amy every day. With Amy, you're not just getting an exceptional planner with years of experience and unmatched expertise that she brings to the table. You're also getting a friend, an older sister to tell you what to do, someone you can rely on when the stress of a wedding feels too great, and a metaphorical (and sometimes literal) bodyguard/ protector to shield you from vendors, crazy family members, and emotional distress LOL. Do yourself the biggest favor, and hire Amy & HEA events for your wedding or event.”
Yasaman P., 2 months ago
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Victoria’s Beauty Glam 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Beauty professional
  • Team of 1
  • Starts at $1,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Victoria’s Beauty Glam™ specializes in Signature Bridal Concierge Beauty Experiences designed for brides who value calm, intention, and elevated beauty. My approach goes far beyond makeup application. Each experience is thoughtfully curated to enhance your natural features with wearable, camera-ready glam while providing a relaxing, luxury environment on one of the most meaningful days of your life. Each bride who books Victoria’s Beauty Glam™ becomes a Signature Bride™ — receiving intentional beauty, luxury care, and a calm, concierge experience from start to finish.

“Victoria's Beauty Glam was an absolute pleasure to work with for our wedding day. From the very first interaction, Victoria was incredibly responsive, friendly, and positive. The quality of her work was truly exceptional - her team created a beautiful, professional, and personalized look for my bridal party and myself. Their warm energy and attentiveness during the getting ready process was so appreciated, and they were very responsive to any feedback we had. She also styled my hair as an add on and did such a great job. I highly recommend Victoria's Beauty Glam to any couple looking for a talented and dedicated beauty team to help make their special day perfect. As a dark skinned bride, it was really important to me to work with someone who could do makeup well on a variety of complexions and Victoria and her team fit the bill! Would recommend to any Chicago land bride.”
Esther C., a year ago
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3rd Coast Live 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Band or Ensemble
  • Starts at $650
  • Serves Gardner, IL

3rd Coast Live is an ensemble band based in Chicago, IL, that provides live music for weddings, rehearsal dinner, and corporate events. These talented team members can incorporate an array of instruments for your special day, including cello, violin, piano, guitar, harp, you name it! They will customize their set list to match your favorite genres, whether you prefer classic composers or instrumental renditions of Top 40 hits. 3rd Coast Live knows that each couple is different, and work to create a personal soundtrack that best reflects the newlywed’s unique connection.

“It was absolutely wonderful having 3rd Coast Live play at our wedding. From our very first conversation, Kelly and Dorothy were communicative, responsive, and easy to work with, which took so much stress off our plate during planning. They really took the time to understand the vibe we were aiming for, and translated that into such a cool experience for us and our guests. We wanted songs from some of our favorite videogames (Skyrim, Oblivion, Assassin's Creed) worked into the ceremony, and they perfectly adapted those tracks to be played live before the ceremony. Several people mentioned it afterward as one of the most memorable touches of the day. Day-of coordination was completely seamless. They were locked in with our timeline, adjusted smoothly when small things shifted, and never once made us feel like we needed to manage them. Not only could they handle the classics, but they also have the skills to take something unconventional and make it feel elevated. I cannot recommend 3rd Coast Live enough.”
Julia and C., 4 months ago
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Michelle Zapanta Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $6,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL
  • Offer

What started out as a hobby, evolved into a great passion. With a camera on hand for every event, I spent my lunch money as a young kid developing films at the photo store. I became so fond of capturing as many organic moments as I can in photographs and fell in love with the idea of telling people's stories in images rather than words. I started venturing into professional photography right after my own wedding to my high school sweetheart, Erick, which was back in 2014. I LOVE everything wedding-related. My favorite to photographs are the wedding details, the bride and groom portraits and anything that will make me either cry or laugh!

Awarded Best of Zola
“Working with Michelle was the best choice my wife and I made during our wedding preparations. Her photos are stunning. True professionalism, skill, and a keen eye for capturing those happy moments. But best of all, she has a warm personality which made working with her feel easy. She was able to photograph our Indian wedding with such class, that these memories will remain with us forever.”
Kelsey D., 2 years ago
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Warehouse 109 
Rating: 5.0 (21 reviews)
Plainfield, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 170 guests
  • Select services
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $2,250

Our renovated warehouse venue in Plainfield, IL offers a unique blend of industrial charm and modern elegance, creating a stylish and flexible space for unforgettable events. Originally a working warehouse, the space has been transformed into a thoughtfully curated canvas for events of every kind. With a balance of industrial character, vintage charm, and modern functionality, it’s a place designed for creativity, joy, and memorable moments.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides setup and cleanup
  • Dressing room available
  • Flexible event spaces

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • No venue-provided food services
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
Awarded Best of Zola
“Warehouse 109 was the perfect venue for us--the staff were so kind and communicative, and everything was so smooth and professional. Our guests RAVED about how cool and unique the venue was, and continued to talk about it for weeks after! I would absolutely recommend them to anyone I know. (The photobooth was also a BIG hit!)”
Molly C., a year ago
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Millieraecophoto 
Rating: 5.0 (19 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $1,750
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hello and welcome! I’m Christina, a passionate photographer based in Joliet, Illinois. Originally from Caramanico Terme, Italy, I bring a blend of European elegance and American warmth to my work. Family is my greatest inspiration. As a proud wife and mother of two girls, I’m reminded daily to find beauty in life’s simplest moments- moments I love to capture. My photography is rooted in storytelling, creating timeless images filled with real emotion and lasting memories. Thank you for visiting, I’d be honored to help tell your story!!!

“Millieraecophoto was an incredible wedding photographer for our special day. From the very beginning, her communication was timely, efficient, encouraging, and extremely detailed - putting us at ease throughout the entire planning process. On the day of the wedding, she helped keep our timeline on track and captured so many amazing, insanely impressive, and perfect moments that we'll treasure forever. She truly was amazing and I couldn't say enough about how great she was leading up to the wedding with the timing and timeline as well as the day of getting everything we needed!! Millieraecophoto got pictures of our people having the best night along with us, and we're so grateful for her hard work and talent.”
Laney B., 9 months ago
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Niko Menko Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (18 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Photographer
  • Photojournalistic style
  • Starts at $1,750
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Hello to all my wonderful clients and future newlyweds! I’m Niko Nikolay Menko, a passionate photographer with a dream to turn life’s fleeting moments into cherished memories. My love for photography sparked in 2008, and since then, I've been on a relentless journey of growth and discovery, honing my skills, building my reputation, and creating my own brand. Based in Plainfield, Illinois, my production company is dedicated to capturing the magic of your special day. With a keen eye for artistry and a commitment to authenticity, I strive to make every creation stand out and appear genuine.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Niko was absolutely great to work with! We did our engagement photos with him. We were able to go to the location we wanted, even though we had to hike to get to a few locations and he carried his gear with no complaint while making conversation. Our photos turned out amazing and I can not wait to see what we can capture at our wedding! Thank you so much Niko!!”
Megan A., a year ago
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Bright and Bloom Floral Design 
Rating: 5.0 (17 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $4,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Bright + Bloom Floral Design is a boutique floral design studio specializing in custom wedding and event florals. Our experienced design team creates thoughtful, refined arrangements tailored to each couple’s unique vision. From intimate celebrations to large scale events, we approach every design with intention, creativity, and care. We offer floral design for personal flowers, ceremonies, and receptions, along with candle styling to create a cohesive, elevated look. We pride ourselves on a collaborative planning process from start to finish, guiding couples through their floral decisions with clarity and attention to detail.

Awarded Best of Zola
“This place is the best!! From the very first meeting, to our wedding day, everything was absolutely perfect. When we had our first meeting to discuss the vision, LaNita understood exactly what it was we wanted, and prepared a brilliant proposal that included incredible descriptions that captured exactly the feeling we wanted for our wedding day. I felt so confident in the whole team there from start to finish, and it was so nice to not have to worry at all about our florals. They are incredibly full service, they included everything such as candles, vases, draping, and even better, set it all up and took it down. I also was looking to save money by reusing the arrangements from the ceremony in the reception, and they had the most creative ideas to repurpose everything. They also stayed to flip everything for a seamless day. The flowers were everything we dreamed of and more. I can’t say enough good things about LaNita and her whole team!”
Emma K., 4 months ago
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Elena Solenkova Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (16 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Editorial style
  • Starts at $3,800
  • Serves Gardner, IL

My name is Elena. I’m a photographer based in Chicago. I'm booking 2026-27 seasons, so I have some available dates if you have realized that you still need a photographer. I’m ready to help you at your wedding day.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We TRULY cannot say enough amazing things about Elena. From our engagement shoot all the way through our wedding day, the entire experience was absolutely incredible. She made us feel so comfortable, confident, and genuinely excited every step of the way. Our engagement photos were ABSOLUTELY stunning, but somehow our wedding photos were even more breathtaking. She captured every emotion, every little detail, and all the in between moments so beautifully. Looking through our gallery felt like reliving the best day of our lives. Elena is not only insanely talented, but she’s also organized, reassuring, and such a positive presence to have around on a day that can feel overwhelming. We felt completely taken care of. If you’re considering booking her.. do it. You will be so grateful you did.”
Laurhen P., 8 months ago
Karl Knutson Boutique Entertainment 
Rating: 5.0 (14 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • DJ
  • Starts at $1,550
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I love what I do. I have been singing since age 8 and DJing since 15. I found a way to combine the best parts of music for an amazing wedding experience! People are wowed at the elegance of live music during cocktails as a first impression. Then they are treated to their favorite songs on the dance floor with me as the dj! It’s a perfect balance!

“Karl Knutson's Band Or Dj? Get Both! was exactly what we needed for our wedding day. From our first conversation, Karl was clear about what he could offer and flexible when we needed to adjust our plans. During cocktail hour, his singing was a standout moment—our guests couldn't stop talking about how talented he is. He kept the energy high throughout the night while also helping our speeches flow naturally without any awkward transitions. Karl's combination of live vocals and DJ skills meant we didn't have to hire two separate people, and honestly, the value was unbeatable. We'd recommend him to any couple looking to get the best of both worlds.”
Mary Kate R., 5 months ago
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Bella Flora 
Rating: 5.0 (14 reviews)
·Ratings include Zola and Google reviews
  • Florist
  • Serves Gardner, IL

With over 3000 weddings under our belt, the Bella Flora team are pros at all things flowers. Bella Flora was founded with three simple goals: 1-Provide Affordable Designs 2-Provide Exceptional Quality Designs 3-Provide Outstanding Customer Service Since the beginning, we have welcomed clients with any style, budget, or size wedding!

“Working with Lindsay was an absolute dream! From our very first meeting, it was clear she understood our vision and would create our dream wedding floral! She is so easy to work with, and a clear rockstar in the industry. Our guests are still raving about our flowers from our wedding!! Lindsay and her team perfectly executed and turned my dream into reality. Lindsay provided a perfect bridal bouquet, created a beautiful ceremony arch to the most beautiful reception decor & hanging installation!! We could not have been happier! The florals were everything we dreamed it would be and more.”
Lauren H., 9 months ago
Quick responder
Stems and Petals 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $500
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Stems and Petals is a floral design studio based in the suburbs of Chicago, creating fresh, natural, and modern floral designs for weddings, events, and community workshops. We believe flowers should feel effortless and expressive, and we love helping people bring their vision to life — whether it’s a dreamy wedding bouquet, a styled installation, or a fun bouquet bar. Every design is crafted with care, creativity, and a love for meaningful moments.

“Working with Stems and Petals was such a smooth experience from start to finish. The florist listened carefully to what I wanted and delivered exactly what I asked for with my bridal bouquet and the bridesmaids' flowers. Every arrangement was beautiful and looked even better in person than I imagined. Communication was excellent throughout the whole process, and I never felt rushed or unsure about anything. On our wedding day, the flowers were absolutely stunning and held up perfectly all evening long. I would definitely recommend Stems and Petals to any couple looking for a florist who truly cares about bringing your vision to life.”
Sierra F., 2 months ago
GemHidden gem
Two Birds Photography 
Rating: 5.0 (11 reviews)
  • Photographer
  • Fine art style
  • Starts at $2,800
  • Serves Gardner, IL

I am a professional photographer and artist based in Lockport, IL. I own Two Birds Photography and I've been photographing weddings and families for about 20 years. I'm a sensitive nature guy who loves to talk to trees, pick up rocks, and put my hands in running water. I'm good natured, goofy in my own way, introspective, and intuitive. Along with my partner, our house is full of love with four boys, three cats, and dog. I like to create art, make things with my hands, work with plants in a garden, go on hikes, explore the world, talk one-on-one with people, and I like to laugh.

Awarded Best of Zola
“Jake is hands a down the best photographer out there. He was absolutely amazing to work with, professional, speedy, and efficient. We had a few inspiration photos but most let him run free with poses and style and we are SO glad we did. It’s honestly hard to pick our favorite pictures out of the gallery because they are all absolutely stunning.”
Allison J., a year ago
Quick responder
The Barn & Vineyard 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
Beecher, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 300 guests
  • All-inclusive
  • Outdoor & indoor
  • Starts at $7,500

Imagine your dream wedding at a rustic barn venue, steeped in the charm of family tradition. Our family-owned and operated barn offers exposed beams, warm tones, and a timeless ambiance. Celebrate your love story in a setting that is both elegant and inviting, perfect for creating memories that will last a lifetime. Let our family host yours for a truly special day. The ceremony site, tucked within our vineyard, offers breathtaking views and ease of access. The Barn & Vineyard is the all-in-one venue for the rustic wedding of your dreams. Our Main floor includes two full-service bars, a cocktail lounge with stunning brick accents, dance floor, dessert area & bridal suite. Our indoor/outdoor cocktail lounge creates the perfect setting for a comfortable and entertaining cocktail hour, complete with outdoor games, bistro lighting, brick and wooden decorative accents, covered outdoor space, fire pits, rocking chairs and a cigar bar.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides catering services
  • Rustic-chic setting
  • Surrounded by beautiful vineyards

Venue considerations

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Not for you if you prefer a more modern aesthetic
  • Large venue, not ideal for small guest lists
Awarded Best of Zola
“My husband and I had the most perfect wedding at The Barn and Vineyard in June 2023! I cannot say enough about how helpful the staff was, especially Amy, Joe, and Kyle, leading up to our wedding day. Amy was available to answer all of our questions and had prompt, detailed replies each time. Joe served as our DJ and he made sure our ceremony ran smoothy and he kept our guests having fun on the dance floor all night! Kyle served as our caterer and we are still receiving compliments on our food. He also created delicious food for our rehearsal dinner, pre-wedding snacks, cocktail hour, and late night pizza. The outdoor space in the vineyard was breathtaking and served as the most beautiful backdrop for our ceremony as well as pictures! The indoor space was perfect for our reception. Our guests truly enjoyed the space and complimented how unique it was having indoor space, outdoor space, and an upstairs area for the younger guests to have fun! We also rented the cigar bar as a unique feature, which was a huge hit! The rental of the photo booth was also a hit with our guests all night long. I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day, and most of that is thanks to the venue and their staff! Also, it was wonderful that The Barn and Vineyard is a family owned and run business who takes pride in providing extraordinary care for their clients, plus the option to hire family members as the DJ and chef was so convenient and both are beyond talented at what they do! I would recommend The Barn and Vineyard to any couples looking for a perfect combination of outdoor and indoor space for their wedding! If you want staff who is available to answer your questions, provide you feedback, and wants to make your day perfect, look no further!”
Sara F., 2 years ago
Morris Country Club 
Rating: 5.0 (10 reviews)
Morris, IL
  • Venue
  • Up to 280 guests
  • Select services
  • Indoor

Admire flowing ceiling tapestries with glittering chandeliers and seating for 85 to 280 guests. A climate controlled environment creates the perfect ambiance for your special event. We offer a wide variety of options including an outdoor wedding site, outdoor cocktail location, chair and table linens, delicious choice entrees, champagne, spirits, wine, beer, and soda. Our superior wait staff completes your successful event and makes it a night for you to treasure.

Why you'll love this venue

  • Provides event staff
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Provides setup and cleanup

Venue considerations

  • No built-in audiovisual options
  • Venue feels large for events with small guest lists
  • Not for you if you are drawn to more unconventional venues
“Our wedding day was truly the best and most stress-free day of our lives, and it’s all thanks the Morris Country Club and team! Stephen and I had a once-in-a-lifetime experience that we will cherish forever. Everything was seamless! From the planning process to the day-of details. We felt so supported the entire time. The staff went above and beyond to make sure every moment was perfect, and we couldn’t have imagined a more beautiful setting to say “I do.” We are forever grateful and highly recommend this venue to anyone looking to have their dream wedding come true!”
Kealy Spain S., a year ago
Quick responder
Petal Station 
Rating: 5.0 (9 reviews)
  • Florist
  • Starts at $2,000
  • Serves Gardner, IL

Since 2001, Petal Station (formerly known as Trudy’s Flowers and BouqBox) has proudly served the local communities in the Greater Chicago region. We only source the best and freshest blooms and greens to produce the most elegant floral arrangements for our customers.

Awarded Best of Zola
“We are so thrilled that we chose Petal Station for my daughter’s florals for her wedding. They were professional, responsive, and had so many fantastic ideas to help make the vision my daughter had come to fruition. From the zoom calls trying to decide on what types of flowers to use for bouquets, centerpieces, etc. to the actual wedding day (that had a couple of snags on our end but Kitty was so patient and accommodating), Petal Station was just the best. My daughter’s bouquet was exquisite and the bridesmaids bouquets were just beautiful. The centerpieces all turned out exactly the way we had envisioned. Thank you so much, Petal Station for helping our daughter’s wedding be the beautiful event that it was!”
D O., 4 months ago

Gardner, IL reception venues by style

Outdoor spaces