Where the Magic Happens

So where was I? Oh right, talking about my wedding.

Since my venue was the decision that most concerned me (obsessed me? Whatever.) it was the one I needed to take care of right away. Plus there is the paranoid panic that all the good places will be taken if I don't book my place right now. A year +2 month out. Because that really happens. In a major metropolitan city. Where there can only possible be like 5 good venues. Anyhoo...

When I visited my family in Chicago right after my engagement (literally 2 weeks after), I arranged appointments at my top 2 places, both restaurants with good outdoor dining space, found through TimeOut Chicago. Visit 1 was to Piccolo Sogno.

Piccolo Sogno:

Inside (source)

 

Outside (source)

 

 

 It was lovely, absolutely charming. The back patio area was like a fairy tale forest, all the trees were wrapped in twinkle lights. I really liked the space, plus there was on-site parking. However, at our budget, it would have to be a early afternoon wedding with brunch reception. And though they were very friendly, the customer service didn't make me confident that they were comfortable having a wedding. They were very unsure about the details and couldn't give me a straight answer about a vegan/vegetarian menu. 8/10

Volo Wine Bar:

Inside and Out (source)

 Volo was great. Its a little edgier, a little more hip. The outdoor space is a great cobblestone courtyard with cabanas and a "barn" (which is pictured above). Cozy, urban rustic, and at a great price. The size was also much more suited to my tiny wedding. Even better, this restaurant/wine bar is gaining some popularity as an off-beat wedding venue, so they have hosted several weddings and are confident about doing so. They will also act as a day of coordinator AND have had several vegetarian events. AND they have this adorable private wine cellar to get ready and take pictures and have some private time. AND did I mention the cabanas? Can you envision how adorable they are (perhaps by looking at the picture above with the bride and groom seated in the cabana)? No? Ok here's a (nother) picture:

Barn and Cabanas (source)

The cabanas line one side of the courtyard and lead up to the barn, both pictured (a bit fuzzily above). 10/10

So, those are the reviews. Can you guess which one I chose? Is the anticipation killing you? I know me, too!

The winner is: VOLO Wine Bar!!!!!!! Yay!

I was (and still am) completely in love with my venue. I feel much more excited about it that the dress shopping (for now...). How did/do you feel about you venue? Were you excited about it, or just excited to get it crossed off the list?