Chicago Illuminating Company Wedding Cost Guide (2027)

Planning a wedding at Chicago Illuminating Company? As wedding videographers who’ve filmed there, here’s the realistic cost breakdown for 2027.

Venue Rental Fees

Rental packages start around $4,600 and can run as high as $12,000, depending on the day of the week and season. Peak Saturdays in-season sit at the top of that range, while weekday and off-season dates come in closer to the baseline.

Food and Beverage

Catering: Chicago Illuminating Company works with preferred caterers, and per-person food and beverage packages start around $300 per person.

Service charge and tax: budget an additional 20 to 22 percent on top of catering and rental costs.

Other Costs to Budget

Decor add-ons: the venue may offer or encourage specific aesthetic enhancements, such as specialty chandelier installations, which have run around $5,000.

Vendors: photography, videography, florals, music, and planning are separate from the venue. Budget accordingly based on your priorities.

Sample Budget: 150 Guests, Peak-Season Saturday

• Venue rental: $12,000
• Catering and bar (150 × $300): $45,000
• Service charge and tax (~22%): $12,540
• Venue total: roughly $70,000, before optional decor add-ons and outside vendors.

Is Chicago Illuminating Company Worth It?

We filmed Jenni & John’s wedding here, an outdoor ceremony set up to face the alley for a distinctly modern, urban atmosphere you won’t get at a traditional ballroom. The clear-top tent and industrial character give a wedding film a look that’s hard to manufacture at a more polished venue. See our Chicago Illuminating Company wedding films and full venue guide.

Chicago Illuminating Company Wedding Cost FAQ

What is the minimum cost for a Chicago Illuminating Company wedding?
A smaller off-peak wedding can start in the $20,000 to $25,000 range all-in at the venue. Larger peak-season celebrations can run well beyond that with catering and add-ons.

Is catering required through the venue?
Chicago Illuminating Company works with preferred caterers, with per-person packages starting around $300.

How can we save money at Chicago Illuminating Company?
Choose an off-peak date or weekday, keep decor add-ons to a minimum, and confirm your catering minimum for your specific date before booking.

Getting married at Chicago Illuminating Company? We’ve filmed there and know the space. Check your date →