So You Wanna Tie the Knot at the University Club of Chicago: A Hilariously Honest Price Check
Let's face it, planning a wedding is stressful enough without the mystery of how much that fancy venue downtown is going to set you back. Especially a place like the University Club of Chicago, where class oozes from the chandeliers and the waitstaff glides around like ghosts of♂️fancy♀️ socialites past.
But fear not, lovelorn adventurer! We're here to crack the code on University Club wedding costs, with a healthy dose of humor to keep you from freaking out (too much).
First Things First: Buckle Up, Buttercup
This ain't your broke-college-dorm ramen noodle budget wedding. The University Club is swanky, and swanky comes with a price tag. But hey, at least you won't have to explain to Aunt Mildred why the chicken is a little... questionable.
Here's the gist: Budget for a cool $25,000 minimum to get your foot in the door. This is for a Saturday night soiree with around 125 guests and includes their in-house catering (which, by all accounts, is delicious). But that's just the base price, folks. Think of it as the cost of renting out their fancy Monopoly board for the night.
Now Let's Talk About the Fun Stuff (That Also Costs Money)
Remember all those Pinterest-worthy wedding ideas swirling in your head? The cascading flower arch, the ice sculpture shaped like a swan (because, why not?), the Grammy-worthy band that plays all your favorite throwback jams? Yeah, those gotta be added on separate. Consider them micro-transactions on your way to wedded bliss.
Here's a breakdown of some potential cost-adders:
- Food & Booze: We're talking fancy nosh here, people. Expect a price tag of $150-$250 per person and up for that gourmet grub. And let's not forget the drinks. The University Club has a fancy cellar overflowing with vinos that could make your wallet weep Merlot tears.
- Entertainment: DJ or live band? This can range anywhere from a few hundred bucks to whoa-mama territory. Just remember, the πιο ακριβό (pio akrivo = more expensive in Greek) the band, the less likely your uncle Steve is to embarrass himself on the dance floor (hopefully).
- Décor: Flowers, linens, a fog machine to make your entrance extra dramatic (we won't judge)? The sky's the limit, or at least your budget is.
The Not-So-Hidden Fees (Because Adulting is Fun)
There's always a catch, right? The University Club might not explicitly say it, but there's a good chance you'll be looking at some additional fees:
- Valet Parking: Because who wants to schlep a Jimmy Choo down the street? $25 a pop for those fancy wheels.
- Room Block: Thinking of booking a room for out-of-town guests? The Club might have a minimum spend to secure a block of rooms. Just another reason to convince Grandma to, ahem, "accidentally" spill punch on herself and need a place to freshen up.
The Verdict: Is it Worth It?
Only you can answer that, my friend. The University Club oozes elegance and has a stellar reputation for service and food. But that price tag? Oof.
Here's the good news: There are ways to cut corners (think hors d'oeuvres reception instead of a sit-down dinner) and still have a magical day.
Ultimately, the most important thing is celebrating your love with the people you care about. Even if you have to skip the swan ice sculpture (trust me, no one will miss it).