Couple gets married at Church of Saint Marys next to Deer Path Inn

If you’re looking for an intimate venue with a stunning ballroom, beautiful ancillary spaces, and spectacular on site accommodations, look no further than the Deer Path Inn in Lake Forest, Illinois. The perfect combination of cozy English Inn and event venue without all the stuffiness of a traditional ballroom. Hosting multiple restaurants and bars, the Deer Path Inn is “the ultimate destination for those pursuing life's finer pleasures: divine dining, legendary libations, historic charm, and plenty of festive merriment.”

Marissa and Nate paired their wedding reception with a weekend at the Inn and their ceremony just around the corner at the Church of Saint Mary. The ladies had a lovely suite just off the main corridor giving them quick access to the ballroom, which later proved useful for outfit changes and touch ups. The guest rooms were filled with bright light and tons of comfortable furniture to lounge on. The gentlemen chose to get ready at home and meet up with everyone at the church later.

After spending the morning pampering themselves, the entire wedding party walked the one block to the beautiful church grounds to prepare for the ceremony. We were careful not to let the bride and groom see each other, this was a special request from the groom himself!

Once the ceremony at Church of Saint Mary concluded, guests gathered outside on the church patio and staircase to shower the couple with a furry of streamers and bells to welcome the newlyweds. Then we all began the VIP walk back to the reception space at the Deer Path Inn.

Couple exits church after ceremony at Deer Path Inn

The walk back allowed guests to take in some of the beautiful details of the Inn they may not have noticed on the brisk walk to make the ceremony on time. The Inn is covered in stunning ivy and gives guests a perfect opportunity to take a selfie on the way over to the cocktail hour. There are even wellies and umbrellas waiting by the door in case of rain. Once inside, everyone was welcomed with champagne and signature drinks at the main bar set up in Windsor Hall. The couple snuck off for a few night time photos with their photographer!

The dance floor has been set in the middle of the ballroom with an array of dining tables on either side. Guests have a moment to take in the oak-beamed ceilings, inviting stucco walls, and enchanting details. Both versatile and elegant, Windsor Hall can accommodate up to 200 guests in a space that can be divided into three rooms. Our couple’s cutting cake was set in the middle of the dance floor. But we waited for them to return from a quick outfit change before digging in!

Once guests had their fill of cocktail hour, we welcomed everyone to their seats and began dinner service. Tables were decorated like a garden with low floral arrangements and twisted tapered candles.

Dinner table set at reception at Deer Path Inn

The band set the mood and got everyone ready for speeches and dances! After the couple’s first dance and dances with their parents, the bride slipped off for a quick outfit change and then cut their adorable cake. This really got the party started!

Truly a one of a kind venue in a lovely neighborhood! Highly recommend to anyone looking for a hidden gem of a reception venue with onsite accommodations. Would be perfect for hosting a variety of celebrations!