Our Wedding Ceremony

The Marriage Court of Cook County offers ten slots per saturday for holding your ceremony at the Chicago Cultural Center instead of the dreary basement of the Cook County Building. We were able to get one of the slots -- we paid our $10 fee a few weeks ago. It seems that not many people wanted to get married on November 13th -- not sure why!

We arrived early and got to explore the GAR Hall -- it memorializes Civil War veterans. So, with Jim's history interests and family history, the battle names all around the room where we wed was appropriate!

Jim has an ancestor who was in one of the battles listed above this door.


The lobby outside where everyone gathered is covered by an elaborate Tiffany dome. They set up event tables, candles, and centerpieces to make it more festive.

We were the third couple to go in (the actual wedding was private and behind closed doors). Most of the other brides and grooms were a bit more decked out than we were -- there were tuxes and brides in the whole regalia.

Just before the ceremony, in the room where we took our vows.

We took our vows under an arbor they set up, on a small stage.

With our souvenir marriage certificate.

After the ceremony, an attendant opens the big wooden doors an announces the couple to the rest of the wedding parties and everyone cheers. Introducing: "Mr and Mrs Kenneth!" No...Heniff!

we aren't quite sure what she actually said but it was fun to walk out there.

We kept it simple and had a great time -- good historic location and very Chicago.