Planning your dream wedding in the Chicago suburbs? Finding the perfect venue is one of the biggest (and most exciting) parts of the process. Your wedding venue sets the stage for your entire celebration—so how do you know you’ve found “the one”?
At The Bridge Lemont, a top-rated wedding venue in Lemont, IL, we’ve helped hundreds of couples plan unforgettable events. Here are five essential questions every couple should ask when choosing a venue—plus how our space might just be the perfect fit for you.
Quick Answer: 5 Questions to Ask Before You Book a Wedding Venue
What’s included in the venue rental?
What’s the weather backup or rain plan?
Can the venue accommodate my guest count?
What are the vendor rules or restrictions?
How quickly do dates book up?
Let’s dig into each one:
1. What’s Included in the Rental?
Look for a venue that offers more than just a pretty space. At The Bridge Lemont, your rental includes:
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12-hour venue access (12 PM – 12 AM)
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5-hour event window
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Setup + breakdown of furniture
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Cocktail tables, reception tables, chairs, and dance floor
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Linen napkins & tablecloths
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Ambient string lighting
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Private bridal suite
Plus, our Cocktail Room and Reception Hall include elegant touches like:
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A grand fireplace
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Full-service bars in each space
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Natural light and arched wood ceilings
These amenities give you more value—and less to worry about.
2. What’s the Weather Backup or Rain Plan?
If you’re considering an outdoor ceremony, always ask about a rain plan.
At The Bridge Lemont, we offer both indoor and outdoor ceremony spaces so your day goes off beautifully—no matter what the weather brings.
Outdoor: A vaulted pergola with chandeliers and seating for up to 180 guests.
Indoor: A cozy brick-lined hall with a fireplace backdrop and room for 200.
Bonus: both options photograph beautifully in every season.
3. Can the Venue Comfortably Accommodate Your Guest Count?
Here’s how guest capacity works at The Bridge Lemont:
Indoor ceremonies: Up to 200 guests
Outdoor ceremonies: 180 chairs (can invite up to 200 if some guests stand)
Receptions: Up to 250 guests
You don’t need to limit your reception guest list to your ceremony capacity! Many couples invite a smaller group to the ceremony (e.g., 160 guests) and a larger group to the reception (e.g., 220 guests) for cocktail hour and dancing.
4. What Vendors Can I Use?
We know how important it is to work with vendors you love. At The Bridge Lemont:
You’re welcome to bring your own licensed vendors (caterers, DJs, florists, etc.)
Vendors just need to provide a Certificate of Insurance
We also offer a list of trusted preferred vendors who know our space well
This flexibility allows you to personalize your wedding while keeping everything professional and seamless.
5. What Dates Are Available—and How Fast Do They Book?
Venue availability is one of the first things to check—especially for peak wedding season (May–October).
- View our real-time Availability Calendar to find your date
- Consider off-season perks (January–March dates come with special discounts!)
Popular weekends book fast, so we recommend reaching out as early as possible.
Why The Bridge Lemont Is One of the Best Wedding Venues Near Chicago
If you’re looking for a wedding venue in Lemont, IL—or anywhere in the southwest Chicago suburbs—The Bridge Lemont offers the perfect mix of charm, style, and service. Couples love our:
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Rustic-meets-modern interiors
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Stunning ceremony options (indoor + outdoor)
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Private bridal suites
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Flexible vendor policy
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Convenient location just 30 minutes from downtown Chicago
We’re not just a venue—we’re a team here to help you create an unforgettable day.
Ready to Visit?
See the space, ask questions, and start picturing your perfect day.
Schedule a tour of The Bridge Lemont today—we can’t wait to meet you!