In a recent Reddit post on r/BigBudgetBrides, user "hoodiehoo2" shared an inspiring and detailed account of her recent wedding at Chicago’s Mae District. With practical planning advice, budget insights, and unique touches, her story offers a valuable guide for couples envisioning an unforgettable city celebration. This article dives into how Mae District’s charm, paired with the couple’s creative vision, created a stylish and guest-oriented wedding. From personalized details to budget-savvy tips, find everything you need to plan a Chicago wedding with flair.
A Personalized Vision
For hoodiehoo2 and her husband, their wedding mission was simple yet heartfelt: to create a “fun, convenient, and guest-oriented” celebration that felt uniquely their own. Inspired by the bright colors of fall, their asymmetrical floral arrangements added vibrant pops of color, perfectly complementing Mae District’s well-lit interiors.
But planning wasn’t always easy. “My husband clowned me for wanting a mission statement,” she joked, “but it ended up grounding us during the planning process!” Their focus on their guests and vibrant aesthetic carried through every aspect of the event, making it as personal as it was unforgettable.
Budget Breakdown
One of the most valuable aspects of hoodiehoo2's story is her transparent budget breakdown, offering practical guidance for couples planning their dream wedding. Here’s how they allocated their budget to create a vibrant, guest-focused event:
Core Elements - 68%
Venue & Food (50%): Ceremony and reception space, catering, upgraded rentals, and a fun dessert food truck.
Photography (7%): Documentary-style photography and engagement session.
Florals (8%): Bright, asymmetrical arrangements that transformed the space.
Music (9%): A six-piece band and DJ kept the energy high throughout the night.
Personalized Touches - 19%
Paper Products & Gifts (5%): Invitations, personalized menus, handwritten notes, and wedding party attire.
Attire (10%): A stunning wedding dress, accessories, alterations, and suit rentals.
Hair & Makeup (2%): A pampering experience for the bride, bridal party, and family.
Fun & Functionality - 7%
Transportation (2%): Smooth rides for the wedding party.
Photobooth (1%): Personalized props and keepsakes for guests.
Decor & Day-of Coordination (4%): Professional management ensured the event ran seamlessly.
Extra's That Counted - 6%
Alcohol & Mixers (3%): A BYOB approach kept quality high and costs low.
Rehearsal Dinner & Welcome Party (3%): Warm, thoughtful hospitality for out-of-town guests.
Reflecting on her priorities, hoodiehoo2 shared, “We wanted every dollar spent to feel meaningful to our guests.” From repurposing floral arrangements to buying alcohol in bulk, their resourceful decisions added up to big savings without compromising quality.
Mae District’s Versatile Layout
Mae District’s adaptable layout was a perfect match for the couple’s vision. With three connected rooms and a charming courtyard, the venue allowed for seamless transitions between ceremony, dinner, and dancing. The upstairs area doubled as a getting-ready space, offering a private yet spacious retreat before the festivities began.
The couple’s dinner setup was equally stunning, with round and rectangular tables dressed in elegant tableware, green napkins, and vibrant floral centerpieces. “We wanted our guests to feel welcomed and comfortable,” shared hoodiehoo2, “and the layout made that so easy to achieve.”
The beautifully arranged dining area showcased a mix of round and rectangular tables, adorned with floral centerpieces, elegant tableware, and green napkins. Mae District’s flexible layout allowed for a stylish, intimate setup that made guests feel welcome
Dining and Menu Highlights
Mae District’s in-house caterer, Food for Thought, delivered an exceptional dining experience. Guests enjoyed an array of creative appetizers, including kebab and seafood stations, followed by a plated dinner featuring seasonal dishes.
For dessert, the couple opted for something playful: a food truck serving made-to-order mini donuts in the courtyard. “We’re not cake people,” the bride explained, “so this was the perfect way to end the night.” The donuts were a hit, adding a whimsical touch that delighted guests.
Floral Arrangements and Decor
Floral arrangements were a show-stopping element of the wedding, even if they exceeded the initial budget. Bright, asymmetrical designs with fall-inspired hues framed the ceremony and reception spaces, creating an elegant yet cheerful ambiance.
To maximize their impact, ceremony arrangements were repurposed for the reception, adding warmth and sophistication. “I didn’t think I cared about florals...but it really did add so much ambiance,” the bride admitted. Many guests echoed her sentiment, praising the refreshing and vibrant decor.
Asymmetrical floral arrangements in fall-inspired colors framed the ceremony area, creating a stunning focal point that highlighted the couple’s bright autumn aesthetic.
Entertainment and Ambiance
Music played a central role in the couple’s celebration, featuring a six-piece band for cocktail hour and dinner, followed by a DJ for the dance floor. With an upgraded sound system to enhance Mae District’s acoustics, the party remained lively all night.
“The dance floor was packed the entire time,” shared the bride. “Our band and DJ were incredible—they really made the night feel magical.” The venue’s flexible setup and acoustics ensured every guest, from dancers to diners, enjoyed the atmosphere.
Personalized Touches for Guests
What truly set this wedding apart were the thoughtful, personalized details. Each guest received a handwritten thank-you note, a small gesture that left a big impression. “I expected people to toss them after reading,” said the bride, “but so many guests kept them as keepsakes.”
The couple also created a custom crossword puzzle for their cocktail hour, cleverly incorporating wedding themes and inside jokes. These playful touches added an interactive element, keeping guests engaged and entertained throughout the evening.
A personalized crossword puzzle, titled "Cocktail Crossword," greeted guests, adding a fun and interactive element to the celebration. Designed by the couple, it was a unique way to keep guests engaged and entertained.
Why Mae District is Perfect for Your Chicago Wedding
Mae District combines historical charm, modern amenities, and flexibility, making it a standout choice for any couple dreaming of a Chicago wedding with personality and style. Its adaptable layout, attentive in-house services, and vibrant city backdrop allow for a completely customizable experience.
Whether you’re envisioning an intimate gathering or a lively celebration, Mae District offers the perfect balance of elegance and versatility. As showcased by hoodiehoo2’s wedding, it’s a venue where your unique vision can truly come to life.
Conclusion
Hoodiehoo2’s wedding at Mae District demonstrates how thoughtful planning and a stunning venue can create a celebration that’s as stylish as it is guest-focused. From budget tips to personal touches, her story is a treasure trove of inspiration for couples planning their own big day.
Ready to start your dream wedding at Mae District? Contact Food for Thought to bring your vision to life in one of Chicago’s most versatile venues.
