Cafe Brauer – The Great Hall

An iconic Chicago private event venue, Cafe Brauer stands in the middle of Lincoln Park. With close proximity to the ever-so-popular Honeycomb and South Pond bridge, many couples are quite familiar with Cafe Brauer. And, JPB Designs wanted to be in the know as well.

Carrie Holbo Photography

Now that we have been a part of the Chicago scene for over the last five years, we are crafting and revising an annual bucket list of event venues. (Check out how we’ve grown over the last 14 years here.)

Last year, Cafe Brauer was on our list!

We were fortunate to not only work at CB once – but twice last season!

Something Blue Images

Because we had two weddings in such close proximity to one another at the same location, it really forced us to reflect on what makes each wedding unique.

Between color choices, music selections, and catering options, you really can fine tune how you want your personality to come alive at your wedding.

Both of the weddings I’m referring to had off-site ceremonies at local churches.

…and both were absolutely stunning. The black and white taken by Maggie of Something Blue Images is from St. Michaels of Old Town. The image on the right, taken by Carrie Holbo Photography, is at Holy Family.

Lincoln Park Area

For weddings that have the luxury of time in between the ceremony and reception (which are generally weddings where the couple decides to opt out of a first look and have an off-site ceremony), they have time for post-wedding photos. The four images below were all taken outside of CB in the park.

Something Blue Images

After the outdoor photos, it is close enough to simply walk back just in time to join guests for the beginning of cocktail hour. Typically, if the weather cooperates, cocktails are held on outside on the second floor, which overlooks the south pond.

Inside Cafe Brauer

Once inside Cafe Brauer, it is such a gem! We feel like it is romantic, urban, fun, and classic all at the same time. If you are interested, don’t wait! CB books up very far in advance.

Carrie Holbo Photography
Carrie Holbo Photogaphy

We are super thankful for our experiences at Cafe Brauer this year and anxious to return!

Interested in checking out the venue? Click here.

2020 Venue Bucket List

  • City Hall
  • The Dalcy
  • Fairlie Chicago
  • Museum of Contemporary Art
  • Providence Vineyard