Let us whisk you away to a timeless celebration—Maria and Roger’s unforgettable The Drake Hotel Wedding! A day where elegance met emotion, and rich traditions bloomed in every detail. Their special day began with quiet anticipation as they got ready in separate suites, their joy building with every moment. Afterward, they exchanged vows in the awe-inspiring Saint James Chapel in Chicago—a venue that radiates classic charm with its towering arches and soft, colored light filtering through stained-glass windows.
The couple’s wedding palette, rich in red and gold, brought warmth and meaning to the day—a nod to good fortune and lasting happiness. The bridal bouquet, crafted by Chicago Floral Events, featured deep reds and delicate whites, perfectly matching Maria’s sophisticated look. Following the ceremony, our professional wedding photographer guided them through downtown Chicago’s iconic backdrops for a romantic and vibrant portrait session, capturing their love against the city skyline.
The celebration continued just a few minutes away at the historic Drake Hotel. Inside, guests were welcomed by a breathtaking reception setup—golden accents, soft candlelight, and luxurious floral arrangements that echoed the couple’s color theme. The newlyweds shared a sweet first dance, followed by heartfelt toasts, a joyful cake-cutting moment, and an evening of dancing that truly never stopped.
As your go-to Chicago wedding photography and videography team, we invite you to explore more beautiful celebrations on our page. We deeply value the kind reviews from our couples, and you can find more inspiring weddings and stories from Chicago and beyond on our blog.
Keep scrolling to enjoy Maria and Roger’s full photo gallery and video!
The Drake Hotel Wedding Photos
The Drake Hotel Wedding Video
Experience Maria and Roger’s magical day through this intimate highlight film. Our talented wedding videographer from Original Weddings beautifully weaves emotion, laughter, and those heartfelt first moments at The Drake Hotel. Throughout Illinois and beyond, our wedding photography and videography packages bring your love story to life, whether in Chicago, the suburbs, or dozens of scenic locations. It’s more than a video—it’s a keepsake. So grab a seat, press play, and let us share the romance. Trust us: you’ll want to watch it again and again.
The Drake Hotel History
The Drake Hotel wedding venue is steeped in nearly a century of Chicago history. Designed by Benjamin Marshall and financed by John and Tracy Drake, the hotel opened on New Year’s Eve 1920 to 2,000 notable guests. Over time, it became a social hub along the Magnificent Mile, hosting luminaries from Winston Churchill to Marilyn Monroe. The Palm Court, Gold Coast Room, and grand architecture reflect both early‑20th‑century elegance and evolving luxury. When you choose the Drake Hotel wedding venue, you’re embracing one of Chicago’s most iconic, storied settings.
The Drake Hotel Wedding Cost
At The Drake Hotel wedding venue, reception packages typically start around $11,190 for 50 guests, with full events averaging near $26,200 and up to roughly $35,250. These figures include food and beverage minimums, while the venue fee may be waived if minimums are met. Clients consistently find that the value in service, ambiance, and culinary quality exceeds expectations—making it a top‑rated choice in Chicago for its blend of prestige and affordability.
Drake Hotel Wedding Menu
Couples celebrating at the Drake Hotel wedding venue enjoy elevated catering—multi‑course plated meals or buffet options featuring seasonal ingredients and customizable chef-crafted menus. From elegant seafood stations to rich main courses and signature desserts, the cuisine earns rave reviews from guests. The famous champagne parade is often a highlight. The Drake’s in-house team ensures seamless service and thoughtful presentation that complements the hotel’s classic ambiance.
Drake Hotel Ballroom
The Drake Hotel is home to a collection of refined event spaces, including two grand ballrooms perfect for weddings. One of the highlights is the Gold Coast Room—a spacious 6,800-square-foot setting featuring crystal chandeliers, soaring windows, and a scenic backdrop of Lake Michigan. With 21 versatile rooms available, the venue can host gatherings of up to 900 guests. Eight of these spaces offer natural daylight and striking city views. Whether you’re planning a lavish affair or a more intimate celebration, this historic hotel blends classic elegance with updated amenities and attentive hospitality.
