Outdoor Photo Location (Western Suburbs)

lilmeli22

Does anyone have a good recommendation for a location to take outdoor photos somewhere in the western suburbs (Elmhurst/Oakbrook area?)

We are taking photos (weather permitting) outdoors before the ceremony, and I'm trying to scout a beautiful location!

Thanks in advance......

jenniferandstephen

Around the Elmhurst College campus is a pretty outdoor garden and green house (Wilder Park, I think) and the two art museums there. I'm fairly sure you need permits for all three of those but not for the college (lots of trees-it's an arboretum-and brick backgrounds, etc).

Does the Hyatt-McDonald's campus let you take pictures around the grounds if your reception isnt' there?

KVMW9182010

I am getting married at the Hyatt Lodge this fall and actually asked about other bridal parties taking pictures that are not having their wedding there (my concern was that there would be too many other bridal parties taking pictures on the property when we wanted to).  They told me that yes, other people can come on the property, but you need to get a permit and pay a fee.  And you can only shoot during certain hours, such as at 3pm.  I am sure if you email them, but can give you all the details.

Salt Creek Woods Nature Preserve looks very pretty, but I don't know specifics about taking pictures there.

eholtz89

I'd recommend Cantigny out in Winfield, the Morton Arboretum in Lisle, or Wilder Park in Elmhurst.  Wilder Park's conservatory and rose garden are gorgeous, but there are usually lots of bridal parties there and it gets a little crowded.  I don't know if any of the above need a photo permit, but they are gorgeous.

Eldridge Park in Elmhurst is also nice.  They have a duck pond, some nice grounds, and a paved path down to a canoe launch.  I don't think anything in Elmhurst Park District territory needs a photo permit, but you should check on that.

Down in Oak Brook, Graue Mill is very pretty (it's an old grain mill from the 1800s I think), and Fullersburg Woods is also great for that sort of thing.  Both have a tendency to be crowded with groups during weekends though.

InATizzy1601

You don't need a permit for Elmhurst Park District property, but if you're doing Wilder park, you do need to let the park district know and book it. THere is no cost, but it will ensure that there is not another wedding at the same time and there will be someone around to help you out. There is the Wilder Mansion at Wilder park as well and the front grounds of the mansion are gorgous. Gardens, walking path, fountain plus the mansion in the background.