Weddings at The Rookery
Chicago, IL
A Historic Wedding Venue in Downtown Chicago
The Rookery is a historic wedding venue in the heart of the Financial District in downtown Chicago, Illinois that hosts one-of-a-kind events.
The History of the Rookery
An architectural Chicago masterpiece, the Rookery was originally designed by Burnham and Root in 1888. In 1905, Frank Lloyd Wright was commissioned to redesign the Rookery's lobby to the Light Court and Oriel spiral staircase that we know today.
The Rookery is a nationally registered historical landmark in Chicago and makes for truly one-of-a-kind weddings and events.
The iconic architecture, delicate little details and luminous lighting create an upscale, luxurious setting for the most beautiful weddings in Chicago.
Rookery Ceremony & Reception Sites
The Light Court
Rookery wedding ceremonies and receptions are held in the beautiful Light Court, which resides on the first floor of the building.
Ceremonies are usually centered around the Grand Staircase.
2nd Floor Lobby
Guests enjoy drinks and appetizers on the Rookery's second floor for cocktail hour.
This makes for an easy transition as the Light Court is flipped from ceremony to reception.
Rookery Wedding Portrait Locations
When you get married at the Rookery, there are beautiful places to take pictures inside and right outside of your wedding venue. These portrait locations are a few of my personal favorites in the Financial District and surrounding area.
Oriel Staircase
Grand Staircase
Light Court
2nd Floor Lobby
Board of Trade
Federal Reserve
LaSalle Street Bridge
Kimpton Gray
The Art Institute Gardens
Oriel Staircase
Grand Staircase
Light Court
2nd Floor Lobby
Board of Trade
LaSalle Bridge
Federal Reserve
Kimpton Gray
Location Information
The Rookery is located at 209 S LaSalle St. in the Financial District of Chicago. It is positioned approximately 5 blocks from downtown Michigan Avenue.
Nearby Hotels
The Rookery is located in the Financial District neighborhood of downtown Chicago and is walking distance from many beautiful hotels that can be used for your wedding getting ready photos and for guest accommodations.
My favorite nearby Chicago hotels include The Kimpton Gray, the JW Marriott, and the Chicago Athletic Association.
Photo taken at the JW Marriott Hotel
Real Weddings at the Rookery
The Rookery is one of my absolute favorite wedding venues in Chicago. Please view these real weddings and portrait sessions to help you envision the space for your celebration!
Thank you for your message. I typically respond to all inquiries within 48 hours, Mondays through Thursdays.
I look forward to getting to know you and hearing more about your wedding plans.
In the meantime, you can read my FAQ and learn more about working together.
Thank you for your inquiry!
Rookery Wedding Photography FAQ
Can I take photos here if I'm not having my wedding at the Rookery?
Yes, you are able to take portraits at the Rookery, but only with a paid photo permit and reservation.
Photo permit prices range between approximately $150-$300, depending on the length of your reservation, what locations you'd like to use and the size of your wedding party.
For more information, please email: ecouch@tjbc.com
Should I include draping for my event at the Rookery?
Absolutely yes.
Draping hides the storefronts in the Light Court and sets the tone for your wedding.
Every wedding I've photographed at the Rookery had draping in place. In my opinion, it's essential to having an event there.
Where's the best place to take family portraits?
For your wedding day family portraits, I recommend using either the Rookery's Grand Staircase in the Light Court or stepping outside and using the exterior of the Federal Reserve building.
Should we do a first look?
If you are having both your ceremony and reception at the Rookery, I highly recommend doing a first look and taking all of your portraits before your ceremony.
There are so many beautiful indoor locations at the Rookery to take your wedding portraits. An hour between your ceremony and reception is not enough time.
Plus, the room will be flipped during cocktail hour so you lose access to the Light Court during this time. This means family photos will have to be moved outside or into a crowded cocktail hour space.
Remember, you are getting married at a one-of-a-kind historic Chicago landmark. Take advantage of this!
