January 28, 2021

Love is in the Air!

January 28, 2021

Love is in the Air!

Engagement season is underway and we are loving all of your romantic proposals and engagement rings on our social media! But what comes after the champagne toasts and congratulations? Wedding planning, of course! It’s easy, right? Wedding planning with a full-time job and chores and errands…ok maybe it’s a big ask. That’s why we’re here to help! Here are some things to think about while planning your unique wedding:

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January 21, 2020

2020 Democratic National Convention

January 21, 2020

2020 Democratic National Convention

EVENT VENUES & CATERING

It’s a historic election year. And we are ready to be a part of it. With the 2020 Democratic National Convention coming to Milwaukee, Catering by Michaels is your candidate to feed democracy!

If you’re hosting a large event near Milwaukee for the 2020 DNC, we are here for you. Whether it’s in Kenosha, Racine, southern Wisconsin, northern Illinois or anywhere in-between, we have you covered with planning, full-service catering, venues, and more.

Catering by Michaels has partnered with the Democratic National Committee and the Milwaukee 2020 Host Committee to provide catering and other event planning services for delegates and visitors. With over 50,000 visitors expected to attend over 1,500 events, having a trusted caterer that knows the areas of Milwaukee, Kenosha, Racine, Lake County, and the surrounding cities is important.

Democration National Convention event in Chicago and surrounding cities, catering and venues

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August 16, 2019

Chicago Venues We Love: The Fairlie

August 16, 2019

Chicago Venues We Love: The Fairlie

The team behind the shared-use commercial kitchen space, Kitchen Chicago, presents The Fairlie —  Chicago’s newest wedding venue.

Located on Bell Avenue in the West Loop neighborhood, The Fairlie opened its doors to the public this spring, just in time for the summer wedding season.

Upon entering the space, you’re greeted by the floor-to-ceiling entrance vestibule, which provides a beautiful view of the outdoors.

As you advance further inside The Fairlie, you’ll find an event space that covers 15,000 square feet across the main floor and mezzanine levels. If you want to plan a grand entrance, you can actually drive a car inside: made possible thanks to the garage door entrance!

All of this space makes The Fairlie a great event space pick for corporate events and expos — though it was created to cater to weddings first and foremost.

The first level of the space can be used for a wedding ceremony. Conceptualized with an industrial-chic aesthetic in mind, the focal point of this space is the fantastic wrought iron staircase located front and center. It’s ideal for creating a dramatic entrance for the bride as she walks down the aisle.

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April 3, 2018

Unique Chicagoland Event Venues

April 3, 2018

Unique Chicagoland Event Venues

The Windy City is full of opportunities to set your wedding, reception, corporate event, fundraiser, gala dinner, silent auction, fashion show or other special event apart.

The variety of unique venues that work with Catering by Michaels are bound to be able to provide the exact atmosphere, mood, and moments you want to capture at your next big event.

Embrace the Outdoors

Opened in March 2001, Independence Grove is a 1,100-acre preserve and recreational area in Libertyville, Illinois.

Prepared to host events throughout the year, Independence Grove offers a variety of venues among the sprawling fields and forested areas:

  • The Native Garden, complete with a waterfall, wildflowers, and greenery.
  • The Beach, which can be booked from June to Labor Day.
  • The rustic Audubon Hall, built from cedar, stone, and glass, complete with a fireplace, built-in bar and panoramic view of the lake.

And, there are a number of additional options—both indoor and outdoor—that celebrate the beauty of the preserve!

Independence Grove Audobon HallIndependence Grove Beach Wedding Melissa Marie PhotographyIndependence Grove Wedding Native Garden

Between a Book’s Covers

When most people think of the Chicago Public Library, they do not think “event venue.” However, the Harold Washington Library Center offers a number of unique settings for your next event.

On the ninth floor, there is the spacious atrium of the Winter Gardenthe architectural centerpiece of the Harold Washington Library Center. With marble floors and a terrazzo, this location can offer seating for up to 400 people.

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February 5, 2018

Chicago Venues We Love: Loft 21

February 5, 2018

Chicago Venues We Love: Loft 21

We’re lucky to have so many amazing venues in our network, giving you direct access to a variety of unique backdrops to complement any type of event.

As part of our ongoing “Chicago Venues We Love” blog series, we recently spoke to Jazmine Gonzalez, Owner and President of Loft 21, to get the lowdown on Chicago’s newest and most awe-inspiring event space that can be transformed time and time again.

loft 21 Chicago event venue

What kinds of events typically take place at your venue?

We have seen clients use Loft 21 for many different events this first year. From mitzvahs and weddings, to corporate and charity galas. We have even done baby showers, 1st birthdays and 50th birthdays. It is incredible seeing how each client transforms the space to fit their vision.

loft 21 Chicago quinceanera

loft 21 Chicago wedding

What are your favorite types of events to host at Loft 21?

My personal favorite is an event where the client comes in excited to be creative. There are so many amenities with Loft 21 — from the divisible space, tables & chairs and my favorite feature, the technology. It really allows the client to put their personal stamp on their event.

loft 21

What are your favorite features of the space?

We have built the 31,000 sq ft venue to be an event space with a distinct blend of industrial and ultra-modern design. With state-of-the-art sound, lighting, 11 giant screens, and 15 mechanical walls, a client can truly transform the space to be personalized every time. There are so many amenities including; tables, ghost chairs, linens, lounge furniture and more. We have a VIP suites, 4 outdoor terraces, private parking and are surrounded by a nature preserve and trails. With 4 trap doors in the ceiling, guests are in awe when aerialists come down to serve drinks and sweets. Truly a dream venue allowing the client to design their event to fit their style.

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