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Marriage Planning Guide
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Photo Credit: Andre LaCour
312.321.8735 www.icchicagohotel.com
FOREWORD
At Equality Illinois, we work to promote a fair and unified Illinois where everyone is treated equally with dignity and respect and where all people live freely regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression. We believe that everyone should have the same rights, responsibilities, and opportunities afforded to them, and we envision a world where every loving, committed couple has the freedom to marry. Because of the hard work and commitment of our members and allies, we moved one step closer to achieving that vision when the Illinois legislature approved the Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act, making Illinois the next state to officially provide each and every loving, committed couple the freedom to marry. With our newly-codified freedom to marry in Illinois, many couples have questions about protections and implementation of the new law. We offer this guide to answer many of those questions and to serve as a resource as you begin your lives together as a married couple. While we tried to address a comprehensive list of questions and issues that may come up, each individual couple will be presented with its own set of unique circumstances when planning to marry. Please keep in mind that this summary is intended only as a general description of the laws applicable to same-sex spouses in Illinois. It is not intended as legal or tax advice. You should consult with a legal or tax advisor to discuss the impact of these laws on your personal situation. The freedom to marry in Illinois could never have been possible without your commitment to make it a reality. From all of us at Equality Illinois, we thank you for your support and dedication.
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MARRIAGE
BASICS What rights will I have if I marry my same-sex partner? All laws of the state of Illinois that are applicable to marriage apply equally to marriages of same-sex couples and different sex couples and their children. Therefore, all married couples (same-sex or different-sex) have the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under the law. Marriage provides over 600 state-level rights, benefits, and protections to same-sex lawfully wedded couples, including rights relating to probate, health care decisions, medical and life insurance, and many other areas. The federal government also recognizes marriages of gay and lesbian couples, making available over 1,100 protections and rights.
When will Illinois recognize the freedom to marry for same-sex couples? The Religious Freedom and Marriage Fairness Act officially took effect on June 1, 2014 and more than 5,000 Illinois same-sex couples have already gotten married or converted their civil union to a marriage. If couples encounter any difficulties or have questions, they should get in touch with Equality Illinois by calling at 773-4777173 or emailing us at info@eqil.org.
If we were married in another state or country that has marriage equality, do we need to get married again in Illinois? No. If you were married in another state or country (as long as it was not a common law marriage) with marriage equality, it will be recognized as a marriage in Illinois. You may be required to provide proof of your marriage such as a copy of your marriage license from another state or country, but you do not need to obtain a new illinois marriage license from the county clerk’s office.
Will civil unions still be an option if I do not want to be married? Yes. Civil unions will remain an option for both same-sex and opposite-sex couples.
If I entered into a domestic partnership, civil union, or substantially similar relationship lawfully in another state, will Illinois recognize my relationship? Illinois will recognize your relationship as a civil union.
If my partner and I were registered as domestic partners in Cook County, do we need to get married? If you want the legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits extended to spouses under Illinois law, you may wish to get married. The same legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits afforded to married couples are not extended to domestic partners registered in Cook County. You can legally enter into a marriage regardless of whether you are registered as domestic partners in Cook County. 2014 Marriage planning guide
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Getting
Married Who can legally marry? You can enter into a marriage in Illinois if you are a same-sex or different-sex couple. You and your partner must both be at least 18 years old and neither of you can already be in a marriage, a civil union (see below regarding converting your civil union to a marriage), or a substantially similar legal relationship. Illinois also does not allow marriages between close relatives (e.g. parent, grandparent, aunt, uncle, niece, nephew, brother, sister, child, or grandchild). Do we need to get a marriage license? Yes. To obtain a marriage license, you must submit an application to a county clerk’s office. You may submit the application to any county clerk’s office in the state. A license is valid only in the county where it was issued and thus must be performed and certified in that county. The application requests information about you and your spouse such as your name, sex, occupation, address, social security number, date and place of birth of each party to the proposed marriage, and name and address of the parents or guardian of each party. You must also provide information regarding whether the parties are related to each other and, if so, their relationship. Finally, if you or your partner were previously married or in a civil union or substantially similar relationship, you must provide the name, date, place, and court in which the marriage, civil union, or other legal relationship was dissolved, or the date and place of the former spouse or partner’s death. You may also need to provide proof to the county clerk that you and your partner are not prohibited from entering into a marriage. Illinois prohibits you from entering into a marriage if you or your partner is under 18 years old. Proof of your age may include your birth certificate, passport, driver’s license, or an employment certificate. You are also prohibited from entering into a marriage if you or your partner is already married or in a civil union or substantially similar legal union that has not been dissolved. Proof that your prior marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship has been dissolved may include a certified copy of your divorce or dissolution decree. If your prior spouse or partner died, you may be asked to provide a certified copy of his or her death certificate. You may also be prohibited from entering into a marriage if you and your partner are too closely related to each other. Once you and your partner have submitted the application, the filing fee (described below), and any required proof that you are not prohibited from entering into a marriage, the county clerk will issue you a marriage license.
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Where do we get a marriage license? How much does it cost? Licenses are issued by a county clerk. The license becomes valid in the county where it was issued the day after it is issued and is valid for 60 days. During that time, you must have the marriage certified in that county by an authorized person or the license becomes invalid. Once you have the marriage certified, it becomes, and will remain, valid until it is dissolved. For more information about your county clerk’s office, please visit: http://www.elections.il.gov/electionauthorities/elecauthoritylist.aspx Do we both need to be present at the county clerk’s office to apply for a marriage license? Yes. Both you and your partner must appear at the county clerk’s office to apply for a marriage license. You must each present proof of your identity, such as a current driver’s license or state-issued photo identification. Additionally, both you and your partner must sign the application in the presence of the county clerk. A representative cannot sign on one or both of your behalves, even if you have a power of attorney or notarized affidavit giving the representative authority to sign the application for you or your partner. Can a county clerk refuse to issue a marriage license because he or she objects to our relationship? No. County clerks are required to fulfill the duties of their positions as prescribed by Illinois statute, and one of their duties is to issue marriage licenses to eligible couples. Can I get married in Illinois if I am a resident of another state? Yes. The law allows an out-of-state couple to marry in Illinois unless the couple lives in, and intends to continue living in, a state that declares marriages of same-sex couples “void”. Not all states that preclude lesbian and gay couples from marrying have laws declaring such marriages to be “void”. If you live outside of Illinois, the clerk may ask you to sign an affidavit stating that your home state does not declare your marriage void. Can we enter into a marriage if either of us has been married or in a civil union before? Illinois law prohibits you from entering into a marriage if you or your partner are currently married or in a civil union or substantially similar legal relationship unless you are converting your civil union into a marriage. To enter into marriage with your same-sex partner, your prior marriage, civil union, or substantially similar legal relationship must either be dissolved, or your previous spouse or civil union partner must have died. What do we do with our marriage license? You must deliver the license to the person (referred to as an officiant) who will perform your marriage during the period of license validity. After the ceremony, the officiant will complete the date, place, and officiant information and will sign your license. You or the officiant must return the license to the county clerk’s office where it was issued within 10 days of the ceremony/certification so that it can be officially registered by the clerk. The certificate is not a complete legal document until it has been recorded in the county clerk’s office where it was issued.
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Who can perform my marriage? A marriage may be performed by a judge of a court of record, a retired judge of a court of record, a judge of the Court of Claims, a county clerk in counties having 2,000,000 or more inhabitants (Cook County), a public official whose duties include solemnization of marriages, or an officiant in good standing with his or her religious denomination. Does a church, religious denomination, or clergy member have to solemnize my marriage? No. A church, religious denomination, or clergy member is free to decide which marriages to solemnize, and your marriage need not be solemnized by a clergy member in order to be valid. Do we need to have a religious ceremony in order to marry? No. Illinois does not require a religious ceremony to enter into a marriage. Your marriage may be certified by a religious official in good standing, but can also be certified by a non-religious officiant such as a judge or retired judge of a court of record, a judge of the Court of Claims, a county clerk in a county having 2,000,000 or more residents (Cook County), or a public official whose powers include solemnization of marriage. If my partner and I had a ceremony (religious or otherwise), but have not entered into a legal relationship in any state, do we need to get married? If you want the legal obligations, responsibilities, protections, and benefits extended to spouses under Illinois law, you must enter into a marriage by obtaining a license and having it certified and filed with the state of Illinois. Frank EQIL Ad 6791_Frank EQIL Wedding Ad 7/2/14 9:18 AM Page 1
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Wedding Checklist At least 6 months before wedding date Choose and announce the wedding and date Decide on wedding basics - type, style, budget Book location for ceremony, reception, and officiant (see pages 21 and 32 for ideas) Select Caterer (see page 29 for ideas) Select Florist (see page 35 for ideas) Book Entertainment (see page 31 for ideas) Write guest list Book Photographers/Videographers (see page 25 for ideas) Decide on those standing up at wedding Make wedding registry Reserve hotel rooms for out of town guests Order Invitations (see page 26 for ideas) Hire Wedding planner (see page 23 for ideas)
At least 2 weeks before wedding date Call guests that have not RSVPed Finalize all details for honeymoon Finalize menu with caterer and all other details Complete seating plan Reconfirm with all vendors and give them a final head count ● 1 week before wedding date Prepare emergency kit with needle, thread, safety pins, band aids etc. Pick up wedding clothing Pack for Honeymoon Hold any pre-parties
At least 4 months before wedding date Buy wedding rings Purchase clothing for those standing up at wedding and tuxes/dresses for grooms/brides (see page 34 for ideas) ○ Choose wedding cake (see page 35 for ideas) ○ Arrange Transportation ○ Book Honeymoon
Day Before Have everything in place for ceremony Make sure guests have arrived Confirm flights for honeymoon Compile emergency list of vendors Get a good night’s sleep Wedding Day Eat breakfast See stylist Remember the rings Take a deep breath and stay calm Go for it ● After Wedding Go on honeymoon Meet with photographer to go |over pictures Send thank-you notes
At least 2 months before wedding date Send invitations - Send invitations 6-8 weeks before event and make RSVP date no later than 3 weeks before event Obtain License Meet with photographer Meet with officiant to finalize ceremony Write vows and let those speaking at ceremony/ reception to write speeches Choose music and meet with DJ or band At least 1 month before wedding date Confirm hotel arrangements for out of town guests Plan stylists Purchase wedding accessories (ring pillow, baskets, decorations, place cards, favors etc.)
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Converting a Civil Union
to a Marriage
How do I convert my civil union to a marriage? Couples already in a civil union will always be able to get married in Illinois by going through the same steps as any couple, provided they meet certain requirements (be the same parties to the civil union, not be in process of dissolving their civil union, etc.). They will incur the same waiting periods and process requirements as any other eligible marrying couple, except there is no fee for the marriage license. BUT… for the first year that the marriage law is in effect, beginning on June 1, 2014, couples in a civil union will also be able to “convert” their civil union, simply by filling out a form with a county clerk. Why would I want to convert my civil union to a marriage? There will be no fees or additional steps associated with this process, and the marriage date would - if you choose - be retroactive to the date of the civil union. However, please note that this shortcut will only be available during the first year that the marriage law is in effect, starting June 1, 2014. When can I convert my civil union to a marriage? As the marriage law took effect on June 1, 2014, it is now possible to convert a civil union to a marriage. Can I get married if I am in a civil union? You can only convert your civil union into a marriage if you meet the requirements described above. If you convert your civil union to a marriage within a year of the law’s effective date, you can avoid paying a fee. How much will it cost to get married if we are already in a civil union? If you convert your civil union to a marriage within the one-year grace period, the fee for doing so is waived ($0). If we are still in a civil union a year after marriage equality becomes law, and the grace period has expired, but we want to get married, how do we go about getting married? Couples in civil unions who wish to marry after the grace period expires can go ahead and marry each other, and the fee will be waived. Will my out-of-state civil union, which is currently recognized as a civil union, be eligible for an “upgrade” in Illinois? Yes. Illinois residents who received a civil union elsewhere can upgrade their civil union to a marriage in the same way that any other civil union can be upgraded - through conversion or through marriage.
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Now That You Are
Married
What is the process if we want to change our last name? First, indicate your desire to change your name on the marriage license forms. Then, once certified, you can update your name on the following forms: Illinois Driver’s License - The Illinois Department of Motor Vehicles will permit a person to change the name on his or her driver’s license with evidence linking the change from the previous information to the new information (such evidence may be your marriage certificate). To request the change, you must visit a DMV facility to apply for a corrected license. A certified copy of your marriage certificate should be sufficient. The fee to apply for a corrected license is $5. Find out more information here: http://www.cyberdriveillinois.com/departments/drivers/drivers_license/drlicid.html Passport - The Department of State recognizes name changes that are permitted under state law for purposes of changing a person’s name on a passport. To request the change, you must complete Form 5504 (if his or her passport was issued less than one year prior) or Form DS-82 (if his or her passport was issued more than one year prior). These are the same forms that are generally used for passport renewals. You must also provide evidence verifying his or her Illinois marriage certificate, as well as other forms of identification generally required to renew a passport. The fees are the same as those for passport renewals. To request the change, a person must complete Form SS-5 to apply for a new social security card. Although not explicitly stated, the Illinois individual most likely will have to provide a certified copy of his or her Illinois marriage certificate, as well as other forms of identification generally required to apply for a social security card. There is no fee. Will my marriage to my same-sex spouse be recognized in other states? In most cases, no. However, a marriage entered into in Illinois may be recognized under the laws of some states and jurisdictions that recognize same-sex marriage, including California, Connecticut, Delaware, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Vermont, Washington and Washington DC. Additionally, all states may be required to recognize same-sex marriages entered into legally in other states if and when Article 2 of the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is repealed. Marriage laws are changing at a rapid pace, so you should consult the laws of the state to which you move to determine whether that state will recognize your Illinois marriage. If we are married, will we still be in a civil union? No. If you convert your civil union to a marriage, your civil union is legally converted into a marriage that is deemed effective on the date you solemnized your civil union. Therefore, you are no longer recognized as being in a civil union, but rather are in a marriage. What happens if we enter into a marriage and our relationship later ends? If you get married in Illinois and your relationship later ends, your marriage must be dissolved by a state court in order to end your legal relationship with your spouse. If you and/or your spouse move to another state after getting married in Illinois, the courts of that state may dissolve your marriage. If your marriage cannot be dissolved by the courts in the state of your residence, your marriage can be dissolved by an Illinois state court. The dissolution of same-sex marriage follows the same procedures and is subject to the same rights and obligations that are involved in the dissolution of different-sex marriages. 14 |
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Illinois law will dissolve your marriage if you either establish grounds for dissolving the marriage or if you and your spouse have lived apart for at least two years and can establish that your marriage must be dissolved due to irreconcilable differences. If both you and your partner attest to the court that your marriage needs to be dissolved due to irreconcilable differences, the court may only require you to have lived apart for a period of six months in order to dissolve the marriage. If you do not dissolve your marriage when your relationship ends, your legal relationship with your spouse will continue. You and your spouse will continue to have certain legal responsibilities to each other and neither of you can enter into a marriage or another civil union or substantially similar legal relationship until the marriage is dissolved. Can I cover my same-sex spouse under health insurance and other benefits provided by my employer? Your employer is not required to allow you to enroll your same-sex spouse in any benefit plans, unless your employer allows other employees to enroll their spouses. However, Illinois employers are required to offer equal benefits to all employees with same-sex or different-sex spouses. Are benefits that my employer provides to my same-sex spouse taxable? No; neither the federal government nor the state of Illinois will tax you on the value of health benefits your employer provides to your spouse.
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Branch Manager james.tausche@1amllc.com 312-654-7209 (Direct) 312-339-9135 (Cell) 1amllc.com/tausche
EQUAL HOUSING LENDER James Tausche (NMLS:144571) is an agent of Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp. dba 1st Advantage Mortgage an Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee (#MB.0004263 NMLS:2551) located at 701 E. 22nd St. Suite 125, Lombard, IL 60148. Telephone 630-376-2100. Regulated by IDFPR, 122 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603. Telephone 312-793-3000. 01216-02.
Can my spouse and I file jointly for federal income tax purposes? Yes. Because marriages between persons of the same sex are now recognized under federal law, same sex spouses are permitted to file joint federal income tax returns or to claim tax credits or protections that the federal government affords to different-sex married spouses. Can my spouse and I file jointly for Illinois state income tax purposes? The Illinois Income Tax Act provides that spouses are eligible to file a joint income tax return in Illinois. For more information, please consult your tax professional. Now that we’re married, do we still have to perform a second parent adoption to secure our child’s parent-child relationship to the non-biological parent? Even though married parents are both presumed to be parents from birth of children born into the marriage, we still strongly encourage parents to perform adoptions in addition to drawing up wills and powers of attorney, since you may travel to other states that will not respect your marriage or the legal presumption of parentage it creates. Will my same-sex spouse inherit my possessions after I die? If you live in Illinois, die without a will, and you do not have any children, your spouse will inherit all of your possessions. If you have children and you die without a will, your spouse will inherit half of your possessions and the other half will be divided amongst your children. If you die with a will, your spouse has the right to renounce what you leave him or her in your will and will be entitled to half of your estate if you have no children. If you have children, your spouse can renounce what you leave to him or her in your will and will be entitled to one-third of your estate. Your spouse will also have a right to certain financial protection while your estate is being settled following your death. Your spouse is entitled to a portion of the assets of your estate that an Illinois court determines is reasonable to support your spouse during the first nine months after you die. In addition, if you and your spouse have children, the court will include additional money to enable your spouse to support your children for up to nine months following your death while your estate is being settled. Will my marriage be recognized by the federal government? Yes. Under the federal Defense of Marriage Act (“DOMA”), signed into law in 1996, the federal government does not recognize marriages of same-sex couples. However, the U.S. Supreme Court June 2013 decision in the Windsor case overturned Section 3 of the Defense of Marriage Act, allowing the federal government to recognize same-sex marriages. Can I sponsor my same-sex spouse for immigration purposes? Yes. Because same-sex marriage is now recognized under current federal law, a United States citizen who enters into a marriage with a spouse of the same sex who is not a United States resident may sponsor his or her spouse for immigration into the country. If I die, will my same-sex spouse be entitled to receive Social Security survivor benefits? Yes. Under federal law, your surviving spouse will be treated just like a spouse in a different-sex couple. What happens if I have another question not addressed here? All laws of the state of Illinois that are applicable to marriage apply equally to marriages of same-sex couples and different- sex couples and their children. Therefore, all married couples (same sex or different sex) have the same benefits, protections, and responsibilities under the law. You should contact your legal or tax advisor if you have any questions or require legal or tax advice. Disclaimer: This summary is intended only as a general description of the laws applicable to same-sex spouses in Illinois. It is not intended as legal or tax advice. You should consult with a legal or tax advisor to discuss the impact of these laws on your own personal situation.
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This guide is a labor of love and dedication. We are especially grateful to attorney Nicole Bashor and the law firm of Quarles & Brady LLP for their diligence and commitment in researching the legal questions and scenarios presented here. And we are indebted to attorney Brian Tiemann and the law firm of McDermott, Will & Emery LLP for their research for the Equality Illinois Civil Unions Guide, on which we relied for some of the answers in this guide.
CA TET HLE HEO TB R A T E EL LOVE BUILT
for more information contact the Catering Team T: 312-422-1325 E: palmerhousecatering@hilton.com 17 EAST MONROE STREET | CHICAGO, IL 60603 palmerhousehiltonhotel.com
Photo courtesy of Jai Girard Photography
WED YOUR WAY
© Ann & Kam Photography
W CHICAGO CITY CENTER // W CHICAGO LAKESHORE TWICE THE LOVE. CELEBRATE MARRIAGE EQUALITY AT THE W WHERE YOU CAN GET WED YOUR WAY.
Whether you seek an intimate fete featuring a lux pre-fixe dinner or an elaborate affair with personalized flair, the W Hotels of Chicago are the perfect venue partners
HOST YOUR WEDDING CELEBRATION WITH W HOTELS OF CHICAGO AND A SPECIAL SPG POINT DONATION WILL BE AWARDED TO ONE OF THE FOLLOWING CHICAGO’S GLBT-FOCUSED NON-PROFITS, INCLUDING: HRC CHICAGO, NOH8, THE POINT FOUNDATION, MARRIAGE EQUALITY USA OR A CHARITY OF YOUR CHOICE ACCEPTING SPG POINT REWARDS.
FOR DETAILS AND BOOKING INQUIRIES, PLEASE CONTACT OUR CATERING TEAM AT 312-917-5630 OR FRANCES.BERGIN@WHOTELS.COM.
Hotels Take the worry out of your weeding weekend. These hotels provide LGBT-friendly service whether for your banquet reception, your wedding night, or the lodging for your guests. Mention this guide for special recognition!
Marriott Hotels Chicago
Hyatt Regency
The Marriott Brand is a world recognized brand with 7 affiliated hotels in Chicago that would be perfect for your wedding day.
Our AAA Four Diamond rated hotel offers everything you need to ensure your special day is exactly as you envisioned it, from exquisite downtown Chicago wedding and event venues and creative catering services, to stylish accommodations for all your event attendees.
(312) 660-8200 www.marriott.com/chicago
Hilton Chicago
(312) 922-4400 www.hilton.com/chicago
(312) 565-1234 www.chicagoregency.hyatt.com
From delightful meals, to polished service, to posh guest rooms the Hilton Chicago will provide you with some of the most dedicated service in Chicago
Courtyard Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile
Intercontinental Hotel
Steps from the world-famous Michigan Avenue, with breathtaking views of the skyline and lake, our hotel offers a quiet and intimate venue for Chicago events in the heart of the city
(312) 321-8735 www.icchicagohotel.com
Featuring breathtaking venues evocative of magnificent eras gone by, this exquisite Chicago wedding location is one of the most sought-after in the city.
Palmer House
(312) 726-7500 www.palmerhousehiltonhotel.com Having been itself a wedding gift from Potter Palmer to his blushing bride, Bertha Honoré, the Palmer House continues to be an inspiring symbol of romance and spectacular venue for wedding receptions, as well as other social events.
Peninsula Chicago
(312) 573-6760 www.peninsula.com/chicago Voted “Most Romantic Hotel for Weddings” by Travel + Leisure Romance Magazine, The Peninsula Chicago fulfills every wedding dream like no other venue.
(312) 573-0800 www.courtyardchicago.com
Pine Manor
(847) 873-7463 gayweddingchicagosite.com Relax and feel at home while you say your vows in front of the charming fireplace or in the beautiful backyard garden of historic Pine Manor, private home of Illinois Wedding Officiant Rev. Pamela.
Park Hyatt
(312) 335-1234 www.parkchicago.hyatt.com Create memories to last forever in our Grand Ballroom, sophisticated Art Gallery or NoMI private dining rooms with stunning views of Lake Michigan and Water Tower Park
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Say YES in the heart of Chicago Chicago’s Essex Inn, your TAG approved, gay–friendly hotel and wedding venue on Michigan Avenue!
We provide accommodations for wedding parties and guests for
At the Essex Inn, we have long welcomed the gay community, and we
To find out more about what the Essex Inn can offer, contact our friend Dorothy at 312-542-5116.
are delighted now to be able to help you plan your perfect ceremony!
celebrations held at the hotel or nearby venues like the Field Museum. We can plan your rehearsal dinner or post–wedding brunch, and help you with every detail from florists to hair and make-up.
Chicago’s Essex Inn | 800 South Michigan Avenue | Chicago, IL 60605
Wedding
Planners
If you are feeling overwhelmed with the wedding process, then a wedding planner may be a good option to consider. Wedding planners are a care-free solution to your worries and, although not a necessity, may be able to take some stress off your back. You can even get your friends or family involved by assigning one of them the role of wedding planner. SQN Events
Frank Event Design
By providing 3 different levels of service, the planners at SQN will make sure that everything runs smoothly and seamlessly from start to finish.
LK Events, LLC
(773) 469-6095 www.sqnevents.com
Liven It Up Events (773) 727-4929 www.livenitup.com
LOLA Event Productions
(773) 942-6172 www.lolaeventproductions.com
Jane Allen Events
(847) 721-2563 www.janeallenevents.com
Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender & Allies Associate Network
(773) 275-6804 www.frankeventdesign.com (630) 747-8688 www.lkeventschicago.com
Designed By You Invitations and Events (847) 755-0861 www.designedbyyouinvitations.com
C&C Event Planning & Mgt. Inc (312) 962-1988 www.eventplanning-info.com
Honey Bee Weddings
(773) 412-7358 www.honeybeeweddings.com
WORK YOUR WAY WITH
PRIDE
Diversity is embedded within our culture & is a reflection of who we are as an organization; we leverage our inclusive work environment through integrated technology solutions, diversity of thought, ideas, talents, backgrounds, perspectives, appearances & styles which fuel the innovation that drives our growth. We i nv ite you to ex per ience
Photographers & Videographers When the party is over and you and your partner have wed, you may want something to commemorate your special day. Booking a wedding photographer and videographer to capture your wedding will ensure that you never forget your incredible event! If you don’t want to go this route, you can personalize your reception by providing disposable cameras for your guests to document the festivities from their own perspectives, getting a range of photographs for a fraction of the price. You can also designate a talented friend or family member as the photographer. Lisa Howe-Ebright Photography
Real Life Weddings
(708) 710-2874 www.LHEphoto.com
(773) 509-9393
Lisa Howe-Ebright has been serving our community for over 40 years. Let her expertise and compassion photograph your wedding.
www.reallifeweddings.com
Dartise Photography (773) 255-5221
Joe Gallo Photography
www.dartise.com
(708) 203-0379
Photography by Larry Burrows
www.joegallophotography.com
(708) 308-6583 www.burrowsphotography.com
Julia Franzosa (773) 342-1280
Rick Aguilar Studios
www.julia-franzosa.com
(773) 478-6607 www.rickaguilar.com
r3mg (312) 493-7413
The Artful Photographer
www.r3mg.com
(773) 495-0228 www.artfulphotographer.com
Borrowed and Blue (630) 965-9234 www.borrowedandblueprods.com
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Invitation Designers & Printers Whether you want to do it yourself or hire someone, everyone needs to know when and where the event will take place. These are your guests’ first impression of your event. Throw an invitation party with your friends and involve them in your special journey, laughing over memories and creating unique invitations. For the green couple, consider an e-vite or a paperless alternative. Don’t forget postage!
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DBY Custom Invitations
ForYourParty.com
(847) 755-0861 www.designedbyyouinvitations.com
1-866-383-8957 www.foryourparty.com
Carnelian Creative
Erickson Design - Unique Invitations
(708) 406-9520 www.carneliancreative.com
(773) 283-4988 www.ericksondesign.com
Invitations Etc, Inc
Noteworthy Notes
(630) 326-9546 www.invetc.com
(773) 661-1333 www.noteworthynotes.com
Spilled Ink Press
Jack Sprat
(773) 754-7331 www.spilledinkpress.com
(815) 988-5918 www.jackspratparties.com
2014 Marriage planning guide
Invitations Etc. 24 N. Batavia Avenue - Batavia, Illinois (630)326-9546 - InvEtc.com
You don’t have to spend a lot to let everyone know your intentions, you just have to work with a company that knows how to make things look good at a cost you can afford. See why people enjoy working with Invitations Etc. • 1000’s of Designs and Ideas • Friendly and Supportive • Quick Turnaround • No Hassle & No Stress!
Hopefully you want to support our business, as we actively supported your cause!”
“
Sincerely,
Steve and Michele
Owners of
Invitations Etc.
A Venue to Remember at
Maggiano’s is the perfect venue to host your wedding event including: Engagement Parties, Bridal Showers, Rehearsal Dinners, Receptions, or Day-after Brunches. Our Grand Ballroom seats up to 350 guests and includes the outdoor garden space.
Available Services Include: • Rich, beautiful rooms and table settings with linen • Elegant, adjustable lighting and adjustable sound system; • Audio/Visual Equipment • Custom Wedding Cakes • Full-service bars with an extensive selection of wines, spirits and champagnes • Authentic, Chef-prepared Italian dishes served buffet or family style • Skilled Planners experienced in a wide range of social, religious and cultural events • Lettuce Entertain You Frequent Diner member
Please contact: Ann Marie 312.644.4284 chicago.banquet@maggianos.com 516 N. Clark St. Chicago www.maggianos.com
Caterers
Food at a wedding is always a focal point of the event. Some venues provide a list of caterers for you, while others will let you hire your own. Whether you choose to serve hors d’oeuvres or a five course meal, nosh on wedding classics or comfort food favorites, splurge or keep an eye on the budget, your guests will get a taste of perfection at your wedding. J & L Catering
(312) 280-7900 www.jandlcatering.com
CORK Catering & Special Events (888) 932-3233 www.corkcatering.com
Hearty Boys
(773) 244-9866 www.heartyboys.com
Food For Thought (847) 982-2608 www.fftchicago.com
Conn’s Catering
(773) 262-2666 www.connscatering.com
Food Evolution Catering
(847) 678-3663 www.foodevolutioncatering.com
Jewell Events Catering (847) 367-7400 www.froggyscatering.com
Froggy’s Catering
(847) 433-1560 www.georgejewell.com
Kenmare Catering & Events (312) 787-0190 www.kenmarecatering.com
DJs & Entertainment Different wedding receptions may call for different entertainment. Whether you want a DJ at the reception or a harpist at the ceremony, the type of entertainment can customize your special day. For the couple with a musical style all their own, one option is to make a playlist with suggestions from friends, songs that commemorate landmarks in your relationship, or tunes that make your guests want to get up and dance. Stitely Entertainment
Parkwest String Quartet
(847) 866-8002 • www.stitely.com
(773) 412-7753 • www.parkweststrings.com
Stitely Entertainment features dynamic and professional dance bands, DJs and chamber musicians for LGBT weddings in Chicago, the surrounding suburbs and the tri-state area
Matt Stedman Band
Artists, Events & Entertainment LLC
Innocenti Strings LLC
(312) 832-1100 • www.artistsandevents.com
Music By Design
(312) 981-8875 • www.mattstedman.com (773) 360-5405 • www.innocentiquartet.com
The Classic Harpist
(630) 262-0432 • www.mymusicbydesign.com
(877) HARP-578 • www.theclassicharpist.com
Show on the Road Productions
Elle Musique
(630) 357-4697 • www.showontheroad.com
(773) 234-1885 • www.ellemusique.com
Picking an
Officiant In June 2014, we held a daylong special ceremony at the Museum of Contemporary Art where both religious and nonreligious officiants performed some of the first marriage ceremonies in Illinois. Faith communities played a key role in helping us achieve the freedom to marry in Illinois with more than 1,100 faith leaders and clergy our Faith Letter endorsing marriage equality. An important question in picking an officiant is to determine if you want a religious or nonreligious ceremony. As we receive many questions about how to choose the best officiant or how to find a religious institution to preform your same-sex wedding ceremony, Equality Illinois developed resources to help narrow the search for someone to oversee your special day. Below you will find links to supportive religious officiants as well as houses of worship that perform same-sex marriages.
Deciding on an officiant is a very important task. They will be leading your ceremony and actually marrying you. One important question to consider is how much you want to be involved in this process. Some officiants are more hands on while others are more hands off. Make sure that you decide on how much you want to do before you meet with them. The next step is interviewing possible officiants. Besides your involvement in the ceremony, make sure that your views are ideologically compatible with theirs. They should be open and flexible and most importantly have performed an LGBT wedding or be open to performing LGBT weddings. Your officiant should also be able to help tailor your ceremony to you as a couple. Make sure the officiant has a good idea of who you really are as people and that they give you an original ceremony. You should be confident that they will do the best for your special day. We have included a list of LGBT friendly non-denominational officiants who would be more than happy to help plan and perform your wedding ceremony: Michele Rose
(847) 215-7715 www.roselifecycleceremonies.com
Rev. Pamela Magnuson
(847) 873-7463 www.gayweddingchicagosite.com
You may also access our list of gay affirming houses of worship and faith leaders at: http://www.equalityillinois.us/wp-content/uploads/2014/05/LGBT-Religious-Officiants-List-5.27.pdf
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CONGRATULATIONS – YOU'RE ENGAGED! Who are you going to call? CALL: Michele Rose, Certified LifeCycle Celebrant® 847-215-7715
I'll perform your marriage ceremony and personalize it just for you! I officiate at interfaith, non-religious, and same-sex weddings, as well as other lifecycle milestones. Love is love!
www.RoseLifeCycleCeremonies.com RoseCeremonies@gmail.com 847-215-7715
Tuxedo & Dress Shops You will never forget what you wear on your wedding day. Make your memories extra special and find a dress or tuxedo that captures your personal style and makes you feel spectacular! Vintage or contemporary, classic or eccentric, you’ll find something you love at one of these shops. Dame Couture 847-866-7599 Dimitra’s Bridal Couture 312-787-0920 http://www.dimitrasbridal.com
http://www.damecouture.com
Reddington Bridal
847-426-5806 http://www.shelleysbridal.com
847-692-4600 http://www.reddingtonbridal.com
Savvi Formalwear
847-965-5565 www.savviformalwear.com
Kasia’s Bridal & Special Occasion Boutique
773-286-0320 http://www.kasiasbridal.com
Shelley’s Bridal
Kathryn’s Bridal
815-385-7330 http://www.kathryns-bridal.com
Royal Bridal & Tuxedo 630-516-0050 www.royal-bridal.com
Black Tie Formalwear 866-425-2280 www.blacktietuxes.com
Diversity makes life delicious. We’ve put a lot of heart and hard work into tailoring a store-wide selection that’s as wonderful and diverse as the communities in which we live. From our Italian Vero Coffee and Gelato café to our Oki Sushi bar, Mariano’s offers an abundance of fresh, ethnic and exotic foods to create a world-wide shopping experience right here at home.
Bakeries Central Continental Bakery
Lutz Pastry Shop
La Petite Sweet
Sugar Hills Bakery
Allegretti’s Bakery
Swedish Bakery
Amy Beck Cake Design LLC
Sweet Miss Giving’s
BTrue Bakery
Take The Cake, Inc.
(847) 870-9500 • www.centralcontinentalbakery.com (630) 719-1111 • www.lapetitesweet.com (708) 453-4412 • www.allegrettisbakery.com (312) 545-3655 • www.amybeckcakedesign.com (773) 961-8276 • www.btruebakery.com
Florists Anna Held Florist
773-561-1940 http://www.annaheldflorist.com
City Scents Floral & Home (312) 836-0211 http://www.cityscents.com
Flaire Design Studio
773-632-7192 http://www.flairedesignstudio.com
Instincts Design Studio, Ltd
630-665-8960 http://www.instinctsdesignstudio.com
Ashland Addison Florist Co 312-432-8958 http://www.ashaddflorist.com
All Flowers By Marisa
630-690-2809 http://allflowersbymarisa.com
Phillip’s Flowers
630-719-5200 http://www.phillips-flowers.com
Julia’s Blooms
630-639-6678 http://www.juliasblooms.com
Zuzu’s Petals
708-407-8976 http://www.zuzuspetalsfloral.com
Mount Prospect Flowers Inc. 847-956-6000 http://www.mpflowers.com
(773) 478-7785 • www.lutzcafe.com (847) 658-8765 • www.sugarhillsbakery.com (773) 561-8919 • www.swedishbakery.com (312) 255-8470 • www.sweetpsweets.com (312) 850-4530 • www.takethecakeetc.com
Venues Nothing sets the overall tone of an event quite like the venue. Choosing a place to have your special day can be difficult with so many options, so be sure to take the time to find somewhere you both love. Whether you want an extravagant day in a historical mansion or a more intimate affair in the privacy of a loved one’s backyard, here are a few options to get you started. Floating World Gallery
Wilder Mansion
Maggiano’s Little Italy
Artango Bistro
(312) 587-7772 • www.rentfwg.com (312) 644-7700 www.weddings.maggianos.com/chicago
Anita Dee Yacht Charters
(312) 379-3191 • www.anitadee.com
Room 1520
(312) 952-1520 • www.room1520.com
Jacob Henry Mansion Estate
(815) 722-1420 • www.jacobhenrymansion.com
(630) 993-8186 • www.wildermansion.org
(312) 823-4859 • www.artangobistro.com
City View Loft Chicago
(312) 600-8439 • www.cityviewloftchicago.com
Salvage One
(312) 733-0098 • www.salvageone.com
Aurora Country Club
(630) 892-4281 • www.auroracc.com
• Grand Metro Ballroom able to accommodate up to 300 person reception • Ceremony on-site • Customizable Wedding Packages • Complimentary Bridal Suite • Event Coordinator • Exquisite Cuisine– Kosher catering available • Smaller venues for rehearsal dinners and post-wedding brunches • Discounted overnight room rates for guests
www.thechicagometro.com • 312.602.2129 • 733 West Madison Street • Chicago, IL 60661