Hi everyone! First post here.
We just got engaged on Halloween and are slowly starting our wedding planning. Honestly, the venue is the most important thing for me as we both really want the space to reflect us, but I am struggling!
We would really like an elegant but retro cocktail lounge and/ or tiki bar feel. I've actually come across countless places that are the vibe we're going for but the problem is that none of those locations can accommodate 100 seated guests! (We've talked about trying to lower the guest count but with family and only closest friends we are right at 100) I've also looked into some restaurants/ supper clubs but the ones that would work are mainly located in the city and crazy expensive.
We'd like to have the ceremony and reception in the same location and have a nearby hotel available for guests. The hope is to stay around $15,000 for the venue including food and open bar. We have no specific date set because we just really want to find the right place and go from there.
We live in the near west suburbs and are willing to stretch our search throughout Illinois, Indiana or Wisconsin as well.
Am I being ridiculously picky? Does this type of place not exist?