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That's a pretty open-ended question! Those are three different places in different neighborhoods.
Marchetti's is just west of the downtown area. They have great outdoor space and the inside, I believe, is Italian themed? If you think people will be out after hours, you walk over the bridge to the Milwaukee/Grand/Halsted intersection for Emmit's (irish bar - oceans 11 scene was filmed there!), Funky Buddha Lounge (funky, hip hop), or Red No.5 (clubby). While it is tucked into a more residential area, it is still very accessible from the 'touristy' parts of Chicago.
Wesin River North is on the border of the loop/"financial district" and the 'touristy' area. It has great views of the river and bridges and it's close to other hotels.
The University Club is the most south of your options but it's right off Michigan avenue.
If I were you and your FI, I would try to prioritize what you both want and make your decision based off that. For example, do you have to have outdoor? then Marchetti moves up. Do you have to be near touristy area for your guests? Then Westin and University Club are best bets. Do you need to have a wedding HQ ala hotel? It goes on and on.
If you asking what we think of each venue, they are each beautiful in their own ways. Not sure how much more I could offer unless you have other ideas of what you want? Also, you could stalk other weddings that have been here - maybe that could help you guys make a decision?
Good luck!
I picked Galleria Marchetti as one of my top three...until I saw the charges for everything. Yikes! But it is a gorgeous space. Better check if they have your date because they book up fast and its already April!
Those are really different feels, certainly. It may be that you and your FI just need to think about what it is you're going for in terms of atmosphere and decor. My wedding will be held at the University Club in just a couple of weeks. Feel free to PM me and I'll do my best to answer any questions you may have about our experience there thus far. Like Baletrina says though, don't wait too long - Galleria Marchetti was booked for this May when I inquired last April, and the University Club had another inquiry the same week we booked!
Hi! We saw a total of 6 venues before deciding on Galleria Marchetti. I agree that it is pricey, but they include many things (linen choices, no fee for cupcakes, etc) that a lot of other places don't. I'm really excited to get married in the garden and enjoy the night with our guests on the patio and in the tent.
I'm happy to answer any questions about the venue, but I am still new to planning too! :)
Thanks for the replies! We went with Galleria Marchetti. We did just have to settle on our "vision" -- the problem was that I could envision a wedding at each!
We booked yesterday for May 5, 2012 -- 365 days to go!
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Hi! My FI and I are choosing between Galleria Marchetti, the University Club and the Westin River North for our reception (approximately 250). All three seem fantastic, but in different ways. If you had your reception at one of the three (or have attended a wedding at one) and have any pros/cons, I'd love to hear them! And of course any other thoughts are appreciated as well!