Some couples like to take a “we don’t need a huge wedding to make it epic” stance. Jen and Ben (yes, the cutest pair of names there ever was) are one of those couples. They traded the guest list for city views, the ballroom for bustling streets, and “just married” joy for, well . . . just married joy, sparkling like the champagne they toasted with at the Randolph. If you’re considering a North Avenue Beach Chicago elopement, this one just might convince you to jump on in.
It’s not hard to fall in love with Chicago all over again when I get to do an elopement like this. Every corner feels cinematic, every passerby becomes part of the story, and the whole day unfolds with ease and unbridled bliss.
A Stylish Chicago City Hall “I Do”
Jen and Ben tied the knot the way all effortlessly cool couples do: without overcomplicating it. City Hall elopements in Chicago are such a vibe, equal parts classic and spontaneous. You sign some papers, share some vows, and suddenly… you’re married! And then the real fun begins.
After sealing the deal at City Hall (visit the Marriage & Civil Union Court website for details on how to get married at Chicago City Hall), Jen and Ben made their way to The Randolph Tavern for a glass (or two) of celebratory champagne. Because no elopement is complete without bubbles. Picture glassware clinking, the city humming outside, the glow of “we actually did it” washing over them. Perfection.
Then came the best part of their iconic photoshoot: their “just married” stroll through downtown Chicago.
From Board of Trade Scenes to Chicago Riverwalk Views
The Board of Trade is the spot for architecture lovers—stately, bold, and instantly recognizable. The flag-lined street makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into a film scene, and with Jen and Ben walking hand in hand (and looking like a literal Vogue spread), it felt like the whole city stopped for them.
From there, we wandered toward the Riverwalk, and Chicago showed off in every possible way. The water sparkled. The sun played peekaboo through the skyscrapers. And the energy? Contagious!
It was one of those late-season days Chicagoans lovingly call “second summer.” We were blessed with a perfect mix of golden light and lake breeze. Boats drifted by, kayakers waved and cheered, and even the tourists couldn’t help smiling. There’s something about a couple in wedding attire that makes everyone pause. And when that couple is this stylish, you can feel the city collectively swoon. (I’ve never seen so many jaws drop!)
Jen’s sleek dress caught every hint of sunlight, Ben looked impossibly dapper, and together they were the embodiment of modern romance. Minimal effort, maximum impact.
Ending the Day in True Chicago Style
No Chicago elopement is complete without a visit to North Avenue Beach. It’s iconic for a reason. The Chicago skyline stretches across the horizon in cinematic perfection, and Lake Michigan does its best impression of the ocean, shimmering, infinite, and always a bit dramatic.
We hopped in an Uber and made our way there just as the late afternoon light turned everything gold. Jen and Ben laughed their way along the path like the world had narrowed down to just them, ending with a dramatic dip as the grand finale.
There’s something so special about ending a wedding day not with fireworks or a dance floor, but with waves lapping nearby, the skyline behind you, and that calm, can’t-stop-smiling feeling that says, this is exactly how it was meant to be.
How to Do a North Avenue Beach Chicago Elopement in Style
Thinking about eloping in Chicago? Here’s how to take a page out of Jen and Ben’s playbook for an unforgettable (and photogenic) day:
1. Dress up—like, really dress up.
Just because you’re skipping the big ceremony doesn’t mean you have to tone it down. If anything, elopements are the perfect excuse to lean into your personal style. Go bold, chic, unique, or full glam. You’ll turn heads, feel like a million bucks, and your photos will thank you.
2. Pick a few iconic backdrops.
You don’t need to trek all over the city (though we did hit a few favorites). Choose 2–3 spots that reflect your vibe. For their elopement shoot, we visited the Board of Trade for those clean architectural lines, the Chicago Riverwalk for movement and city energy, and of course, North Avenue Beach for skyline magic.
3. Plan a little, wing a little.
The best part about eloping is the freedom. You can make a loose plan—ceremony, drinks, photos—but leave room for spontaneous detours. Chicago’s full of little surprises: an open patio, a street musician, a quiet spot by the water. Let the day unfold naturally.
4. Don’t skip the celebration.
Just because you elope doesn’t mean you have to call it a night after City Hall. Pop into a favorite bar, splurge on dinner, or share dessert at midnight. This is your wedding day; toast to it!
5. Hire a photographer who gets your vision (hi, friends!)
Elopements move differently than traditional weddings. They’re intimate, unpredictable, and full of fleeting little moments. You’ll want someone who knows how to chase light down a street corner and catch every laugh, glance, and breeze-off-the-lake kind of moment. It would be my honor to do that for you.
Why a Chicago City Hall Elopement Might Be Perfect for You
If you’ve ever dreamed of skipping the fuss, reclaiming your time, and focusing on you two, an elopement might be your sweet spot. Chicago gives you the best of both worlds—the energy of a major city, the beauty of the lake, and endless photo ops that feel anything but generic.
And whether you’re signing papers at City Hall, sipping champagne at The Randolph, or walking barefoot on North Avenue Beach as the skyline glows behind you, one thing’s for sure: you’ll remember every second of it.
At the end of the day, it’s not about the number of guests or how long you spent planning. It’s about the laughter, the champagne, and that “we actually did it” feeling you’ll never forget.
Jen and Ben’s elopement was proof that when you do it your way—with style, with joy, and with a dash of sass—the city itself seems to celebrate right alongside you.
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