A wooden arbor draped in florals, flickering candlelight, and muted pastels—The Arbory wedding of Carlene and Andy was pure spring magic tucked away in the heart of Chicago. Nestled among nature and bathed in soft sunlight, The Arbory served as the perfect canvas for a day that mixed whimsy with romance in equal measure. What stood out to us as a Chicago wedding photography team wasn’t just the beauty of the setting—it was the undeniable warmth and authenticity that filled every corner of the day.
Carlene and Andy’s story is a true modern fairytale. They met not once, but twice—first on Hinge, then again on Bumble. The second swipe sealed their fate. With roots in New York City and Michigan, they’ve made Chicago their shared home—bonding over speakeasies, smash burgers, and cozy Sundays that melt into the couch. Their wedding reflected their personalities: playful, intentional, and full of heart.
The day began with Carlene stepping into her gown, bathed in soft morning light, while Andy took a quiet moment to adjust his boutonniere. The ceremony space, thoughtfully styled by Sustainable Soirées, brought their woodland dream to life—wood textures, fresh spring blooms, and a warm, inviting glow throughout. Beneath the open beams and natural skylight, they shared personal vows, surrounded by those who matter most.
Post-ceremony portraits took full advantage of The Arbory’s urban-industrial charm, from its warm brick walls to its minimalist modern interiors. The wedding party—dressed in mixed tones—brought a sense of elegance and ease to every frame. As dusk fell, dinner, dancing, and a surprise appearance by a panda-headed guest transformed the night into something unforgettable.
Every detail of this wedding told a story, and we were honored to document it. Curious about our photography and videography packages across Illinois? Visit our blog to explore full galleries, love stories, and all the behind-the-scenes details that make each Original Weddings celebration truly one-of-a-kind.
The Arbory Wedding Photos
The Arbory Chicago
The Arbory wedding venue in Chicago is a unique wedding venue located in the West Town neighborhood, housed in a historic converted lumber warehouse offering a modern industrial vibe. The 8,000-square-foot event space accommodates up to 180 seated guests and 300 cocktail-style attendees. With seven large skylights and over 200 plants, the venue fills with natural light and creates a lush indoor garden atmosphere. Amenities include a private bridal suite, lounge furniture, vintage entrance chandeliers, and five handcrafted murals that add character to the space.
The Arbory Reviews
The Arbory wedding venue consistently receives positive feedback from couples and guests, boasting high ratings such as 4.8 out of 5 on Google and a perfect 5.0 on WeddingWire. Many appreciate the venue’s spacious and versatile design that balances industrial elements with natural touches, allowing couples to customize their celebrations. The attentive and supportive staff are frequently mentioned to make planning easier and events run smoothly. Guests also enjoy the warm and inviting ambiance created by carefully chosen details like soft lighting and abundant greenery. Overall, The Arbory provides a highly rated and welcoming space for weddings.
The Arbory Parking
The Arbory wedding venue does not have its own dedicated parking lot. However, it is located in West Town, where plenty of street parking is available nearby. The venue sits on the ground floor, making it easy for guests to access. On event days, the venue management often provides helpful guidance to assist guests in finding suitable parking spots around the neighborhood. Thanks to these arrangements, parking usually isn’t a major concern for attendees, even without an on-site lot.
Hotels near The Arbory Chicago
If you’re attending a wedding at The Arbory wedding venue or planning one yourself, finding nearby accommodation is easy and convenient. Just minutes away, The Robey in Wicker Park offers a modern vibe with great amenities, perfect for a stylish stay. Not far off, The Hoxton in the Fulton Market district impresses with chic interiors and a central location ideal for exploring the city. For those wanting cozy comfort closer to the venue, Hotel Chicago West Loop provides well-appointed rooms and easy access. These hotels make it simple for guests to relax and enjoy the special day without travel worries.
