Perfectly situated on Michigan Avenue overlooking Lake Michigan and The Magnificent Mile, The Drake Hotel made its debut in Chicago in 1920. For the past century, Real Chicago Weddings have continued to emanate charm and refinement marked by warm gestures of hospitality to encapsulate life-long memories.
The Drake Hotel is one of the few extraordinary hotels in the world, renowned for its iconic hosting of royals, celebrities, and socialites. A love story that continues here is that of Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio. Following their honeymoon, the two visited Chicago and stayed at The Drake Hotel. While here, they carved their initials, MM + JD, on the bar of The Cape Cod Room, now known as Café on Oak. Marilyn encapsulated romance in a written love message for Joe, which she placed in a decorative bottle, entrusting it to the bartender, and vowed they would return to retrieve the note. Just like Marilyn Monroe and Joe DiMaggio, you are invited to create a symbolic love gesture that speaks to a Real Chicago matrimonial experience, uniquely yours.
Honoring traditions at The Drake Hotel continues as a time-honored practice ever since the hotel opened its doors on New Year’s Eve. The Champagne Procession is a choreographed parade of wait staff with suggested orchestra accompaniment that will usher bottles of bubbly upon the room, surrounding the bridal party with a synchronized pour of Champagne, an illustrious add-on to your wedding celebration. Over the decades, a truly remarkable generational tradition has emerged, as many couples are selecting the same event space at the hotel where their (grand) parents wed. A trend the team views as a wonderful testament to iconic service delivered and one that is proudly honored.
Imagine your once-in-a-lifetime wedding celebration, starting at the Princess Diana Suite, offering a royal experience before saying “I Do” in one of the renowned ballrooms of the hotel. The Art-Deco architecture of the Gold Coast Room provides a perfect backdrop with endless blue Lake Michigan Views and can accommodate up to 900 guests. Originally built in the Roaring ‘20s during the Charleston craze, the Grand Ballroom is perfectly outfitted for your first dance, as the floor is equipped to put a literal spring in your step.
For an intimate, regal setting, The French Room, is recommended, featuring cerulean hues accented by silk wall coverings, crystal chandeliers, and satin damask draperies. The Camellia Room is ideal for small to mid-sized weddings, accommodating up to 200 guests, presenting a romantic ambiance adorned with trellis patterned wallcovering, crystal beaded chandeliers, and complemented with the city and Lake Michigan views.
Whether celebrating with a traditional reception, or with distinct customs, the wedding team welcomes a consultation to create a plan reflective of your style and personality.
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