“What Chicago wedding venue do you recommend?” is one of the questions we get asked most often, and Salvage One is a venue that consistently tops our list of vendor recommendations. After planning countless weddings over nearly two decades, trust us when we say it’s hard to find a space that feels as unique and memorable as a wedding at Salvage One.
Unique Wedding Venue
Located in West Town, it is conveniently located minutes away from Wicker Park and West Loop. Salvage One is a spacious converted warehouse that doubles as an architectural salvage store and an event space. It is filled with antique treasures that serve as the perfect background for events. The space gives off an eclectic mix of industrial, vintage, and whimsical vibes. And while there’s a lot to take in, it doesn’t feel cluttered. The collection of antiques is thoughtfully curated, and because the venue is so spacious, it doesn’t feel overwhelming. Instead, there’s this kind of nonchalant, effortlessly cool look that would be really hard to recreate anywhere else. Since it is still a functioning retail store, the inventory is always revolving, and while the overall look of the venue stays the same, we like that each wedding ends up looking a little different. It’s an unconventional venue with a lot of personality that’s perfect for couples who want something creative and maybe nontraditional for their wedding.
Flexible and Versatile Space
There are a lot of reasons this venue stays high on our recommendation list; the flexibility it offers our clients is one of its top selling points:
- Works well for both intimate weddings and larger celebrations up to 250 guests
- Has both an outdoor area and multiple indoor event spaces, giving couples the options to flow, layout, and overall experience
- Existing eclectic decor makes it easy to adapt to a range of different wedding styles: industrial chic, whimsical, vintage, moody, or even a romantic garden party
Vintage Decor and Interesting Backdrops
Another reason this venue remains one of our favorites throughout the years is because of how beautiful and visually interesting the space is. We love that this is not a “black canvas” venue. If you don’t want to source decorations and style an entire venue (especially one as large as this), or if you want an unconventional or maximalist wedding, the venue already provides so much decor. If you are also environmentally conscious, this is a great way to have a more sustainable wedding. Using salvaged furniture and decor already at the venue reduces the need for excess decor and waste, and the need to transport any rentals to your venue, all while still being able to have an aesthetically pleasing and intentional design space.
And from a photography standpoint, it is one of the most dynamic spaces we’ve worked in. The combination of the vast collection of antique architectural goods and diverse locations throughout the venue creates so much texture and depth in every frame. It doesn’t matter where you are in the venue; every corner is a photo opportunity!
For more Salvage One wedding photos, check out this 70’s inspired maximalist wedding or this moody summer wedding.
Event Spaces
One of the greatest benefits of this 60,000 square foot warehouse is its multiple event spaces and the diversity in its spaces.
First Floor
Serving as the front of their retail store, you’ll find exposed piping, cement flooring, and vintage pieces layered throughout the area. Towards the back of the warehouse features two striking Greek columns and pews that are perfect for an indoor ceremony. We also love the front of the space for cocktail hour. The collection of furniture and hanging architectural elements creates these cozy little vignettes, making it a perfect environment for guests to lounge and talk. We love how there are so many cool things to look at because it encourages guests to explore the space and mingle with each other.
Outdoor Courtyard
Just off the first floor is the entrance to what feels like a secret garden in the middle of the city. The ivy-covered walls and rich foliage create the perfect background for group photos, an outdoor ceremony, or a more relaxed cocktail hour. Although the dense greenery makes the space feel cozy and intimate, it can fit up to 250 guests for a large garden wedding.
Second Floor
The upstairs opens up to an industrial loft converted into a spacious reception area and dance floor with exposed brick and a gallery of stained glass windows. One of the unique details at Salvage One is that many of their chairs and tables are for sale, so no two tables are exactly the same, and each is paired with a unique mix of chairs. It creates this eclectic, collected look that feels intentional without being overly styled.
Bridal Suite
And then there’s the bridal suite! This might be our favorite area in the venue. It feels like you’ve teleported into a different time and place, and you’re playing house at some socialite’s dressing room, some decades ago. Again, the furnishings are always revolving, but the vibe remains the same: it’s a mix of romantic, glam, and funky decor. It’s amazing. The stained glass windows overlooking the skyline are just the cherry on top, and really an easy choice for photos. Also, if you have a giant wedding party/family, this wedding suite holds up to 60 guests! It’s a true suite with 2 rooms conjoined by a shared space. If you wanted to, you could have a party within your party.
Let’s Plan Your Wedding at Salvage One
As a preferred vendor at Salvage One, it’s a space we know well and enjoy coming back to. We love helping couples create a one-of-a-kind wedding that is uniquely theirs, and this is the perfect venue for that. If you’re considering Salvage One and are looking for coordination or styling, contact us here!
