A Spring Wedding at Cafe Brauer. Alison & Isa had a floral filled wedding in Chicago. Their day was inspired by Le Grand Meaulnes, they wanted to create a space that their loved ones could feel removed from regular life and where they could feel free to let loose. Their day was classic, chic, and filled with rich colors. The venue space was especially captivating, their wedding day was held the great hall of Cafe Brauer, a historic boat house in Chicago. Filled with colorful tiled murals, ornamental brick walls, and grand vaulted ceilings, the whole day was bursting with textures, history, and color. Their cascading tables were candlelit and covered in romantic floral tablecloths.
Why We love Weddings at Cafe Brauer:
A wedding at Cafe Brauer is perfect for couples who want that rare mix of natural beauty and classic architecture—all right in the heart of Chicago. Located on the edge of Lincoln Park and just steps from the lake, Cafe Brauer combines iconic city charm with a timeless, almost cinematic backdrop. Its stunning Prairie School design, warm brick interiors, and soaring skylit ceilings set the stage for a celebration that feels elevated but never overdone.
What makes a wedding at Cafe Brauer truly stand out is the versatility of the space. You can host your ceremony outside with views of the skyline and nature all around, then move indoors for dinner and dancing in the dramatic Great Hall. The space feels grand but still intimate, with just the right amount of history and style built into every detail—from the tiled floors to the art glass chandeliers.
There’s also something undeniably special about how Cafe Brauer flows with the seasons. Spring and summer weddings get that lush, green park setting, while fall events are full of rich tones and crisp air. And even in winter, the indoor space glows with warmth and character. A wedding at Cafe Brauer isn’t just a beautiful location—it’s a chance to bring your people together in one of Chicago’s most iconic spaces, in a way that feels personal, thoughtful, and unforgettable.
A few words from the couple about planning their wedding at Cafe Brauer:
What were some inspirations for your wedding?
Le Grand Meaulnes. We wanted a party that felt removed from regular life, where people felt free to let loose and celebrate.
What are some adjectives that describe your wedding decorations and style?
Classic, Spring, rich colors
What did you love about your having your wedding at Cafe Brauer?
So much. It was a perfect spring day in Chicago, and the Cafe Brauer had beautiful views of the park and downtown Chicago. The florists set it up beautifully for the ceremony, and then by dinner had transformed it completely into a warm, intimate space. But the biggest joy for us was that the dance floor was crowded the entire night. That was our top priority for the reception, and the dancing was so much fun.
Anything nontraditional you incorporated into the day that made the celebration more unique to you?
Alison’s Mother put together beautiful welcome bags for all the guests that included food from both of our hometowns and started the weekend off on a perfect note. For desert, we had a small cake and then a bunch of Arab sweets from a local store that Isa’s father knew. Everyone raved about them, although we barely had time to try between all the dancing.
Best decision during wedding planning?
Trusting our vendors and not micromanaging.
Something you would do differently if you had to do it over?
Worried less during the planning.
Most memorable part of the day?
Our first dance as bride and groom.
Lead Photographer: Nate on a mix of 35mm film and digital.
Post updated May 2025
VENDOR CREDIT: Photo & Video: The Shalom Imaginative // Planning and Design: Kristina Taheri Special Events // Venue: Cafe Brauer // Floral Design: Life in Bloom // Dress: Bella Bianca // Suit: The Armoury // Catering: Blue Plate // Paper Goods: Magnificent // Cake: ECBG Studio // DJ: Okyne Medialab // Desert: Nazareth Sweets // Makeup: Bianca Sansoti
See more like this wedding at Cafe Brauer: Italian Inspired Wedding at Paramour Estate || Romantic Destination Wedding at Prim Mexico City || Midsummer inspired Shelter Social Club Wedding || Highland Park Ebell Club Wedding || Wedding at Casa Cody || Summer wedding in Paris at Grand Powers
