Central Illinois is home to some truly special event spaces — places where history, hospitality, and celebration come together. These four venues and services stand out for their charm, flexibility, and reputation. From grand historic mansions to full-service catering experts, here’s a closer look at what makes each one shine.

Maybe I shouldn’t even title this with Springfield as the main city. I have toured with couples from Springfield, Taylorville, Alton, Quincy, Peoria, Jacksonville, Decatur and Edwardsville, IL. all looking for more information on dry weddings. This is something that has become increasingly popular – before Dry January 2026 became a popular topic.

Weddings are about love, connection, and celebrating one of the most meaningful days in a couple’s life. For many, that celebration has historically included an open bar and clinking champagne flutes. But today a new trend is rising — dry weddings — and it’s one worth talking about.

I distinctly remember driving to the courthouse, parking and walking into the courthouse to get my marriage license. I remember what the clerk looked like. I remember the outfit I wore. I don’t know why, but it made it all seem truly official. All the work, the planning, the dreaming – doing this one single action item made it seem like the finish line was finally in sight!

Why Couples Should Choose Pole Barn Chic Events for Their Springfield, IL Wedding

Planning your dream wedding in Springfield, Illinois? If you’re searching for a wedding venue that combines rustic charm, modern elegance, and unforgettable experiences, look no further than Pole Barn Chic Events, LLC — one of the most unique and highly recommended wedding venues in Springfield, IL.

How to Stick to Your Wedding Budget (Without Sacrificing Your Dream Day)

Planning a wedding is exciting—but it can also be one of the fastest ways to overspend if you’re not careful. Between Pinterest inspiration, social pressure, and countless “must-haves,” costs can add up before you even realize it. The good news? Sticking to your wedding budget is absolutely possible with the right mindset and strategy. Here’s how to plan the wedding you love without the financial stress.

How to Plan a Wedding Photo Shot List With Your Photographer

Planning a wedding photo shot list is one of the most important steps in preparing for your big day. Your wedding photos preserve your memories long after the celebration ends, and working closely with your wedding photographer ensures no meaningful moment is missed.

A well-thought-out wedding photography shot list helps your photographer understand your priorities while keeping the day relaxed, organized, and stress-free. Here’s how to plan the perfect shot list with your photographer.

Match tasks to personalities and strengths

People are happier helping when the task fits them:

• Organized friend → schedules, timelines, reminders

• Creative friend → décor, signage, playlists

• Outgoing friend → games, group coordination

• Calm under pressure → day-of problem solving

Here’s an up-to-date look at the top wedding trends predicted for 2026 — whether you’re planning a big celebration, an intimate elopement, or just love wedding inspiration. Trends this year are all about bold expression, immersive experiences, and personalization rather than cookie-cutter traditions!

Including a tribute to deceased love ones at your wedding can be a profoundly moving experience. It serves as a reminder of their significance in your life and allows you to honor their memory amidst your celebration.
We have seen several this incorporated several different ways in the venue.

I attended a Wedding Venue Owners Working Vacation, business education for wedding venue owners & managers.

Step inside any of the 3 venues on property and the country and rustic ambiance has drastically been changed to a modern design mimicking a big city venue. Frequently compared to Miami, Las Vegas, LA, New York & Houston, you completely forget you’re standing in the middle of a historic farm in Springfield, IL.

The bridal suite is prepped for you and your family. But not just that one room – you get an entire house. Spread out and relax. It’s going to be a long day and you don’t need to be crammed in one spot with 7 members of the bridal party, hair and makeup teams, photographers, etc.

When you’re planning a wedding, finding the right vendors can make all the difference between a stressful experience and a truly magical celebration. Over time, I’ve been lucky enough to work with some incredible wedding professionals who bring passion, creativity, and heart to every couple’s special day. Today, I’m excited to highlight a few of my favorite vendors — the ones who consistently go above and beyond to make every wedding unforgettable.

Perhaps you’ve planned a family vacay, a solo trip or you’re here for a wedding. But if you have made to Springfield, then welcome! Springfield, Illinois may be small, but it’s packed with history, charm, and great food! Here’s how to make the most of a short visit (2–3 days) in the city. Keep in mind though, before making the trip for any of the Lincoln sites, to call and make sure they are open! Government shut down is a real thing.

Use your venue’s natural backdrop for stunning seasonal photos. Cornfields, pumpkin patches like Bomke’s, Pumpkin Creek Farms or our favorite the Authur Il Great Pumpkin Patch, and tree-lined drives all make perfect photo spots. You can also create a rustic photo booth with vintage props—like an old pickup truck, sunflowers, and hay bales.

The Beauty of Fresh Flowers
Nothing compares to the scent, texture, and natural beauty of fresh blooms. Their organic, delicate quality adds a sense of romance and luxury to your day. Whether you’re walking down the aisle holding a bouquet of garden roses or your reception tables are lined with lush peonies, fresh flowers bring a timeless elegance that photographs beautifully.

It’s great living in the Midwest!
We can literally drive any direction and get “pretty close” to just about anywhere, far enough away from here, yet still far away from the coasts. Lots of people love a good road trip. Whether this is for your honeymoon or a weekend getaway, they’re worth looking into for a great time with beautiful phots!
But if you are more like me, you want that road trip to be packed with a few things. Headphones, snacks and pretty colors. The fall foliage is picture perfect for a short window. Take advantage of it while you can!

Your wedding day will fly by in a blur of happy tears, laughter, and unforgettable moments. Once the music fades and the flowers dry, your photos will be the lasting reminder of your day. That’s why choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during your planning journey. Here’s how to find the photographer you’ll truly love and trust to capture your story.

One of the most heartwarming parts of your wedding day is being surrounded by friends and family who have come to celebrate your love. At the same time, it can feel daunting to think about personally greeting every single guest while juggling the ceremony, photos, and the reception schedule. The good news? With a little planning, you can connect meaningfully with your guests without exhausting yourself.

Choosing your wedding venue is one of the most significant decisions in the planning process. The right space sets the tone for your celebration, while the wrong one can bring unnecessary stress. As you tour locations and review contracts, it’s important to keep an eye out for warning signs that a venue may not be the best fit. Below are key red flags that every couple should consider before signing on the dotted line and what the protocol is at the PBC Venue.