This week Illinois became the sixth state to legalize civil unions, starting June 1. Short of full marriage equality, to be sure, but nonetheless an opportunity for a party or five thousand. Now all you Chicago-loving birds have four months to plan a trip to city hall for the certificate and a celebration.
Before you say “I do,” and with no further ado, we assembled some great places around which to build a fabulous commitment ceremony, starting with the reception. In the following weeks, we’ll feature great places for the “Rehearsal Dinner,” “Bachelor/ette Party,” and stores to “Accessorize” your ceremony and after-party outfits.
The Reception:
- Hotel Allegro (Kimpton): Located across the street from City Hall and around the block from the County Clerk’s Office, this boutique hotel is perfectly situated for a post union dinner and overnight stay. The hotel’s historic ballroom is grand but not quite opulent, so your guests will enjoy the intimacy of what’s–with any luck–a once-in-a-lifetime moment without feeling overwhelmed.
- Field Museum: Gay unions will be the biggest new trend in Chicago by June, so celebrate your own with a private tour of the creationist, er, evolutionary, wonders of the planet at the Field Museum. Even though life-size skeletal t-rex is looming over you, no one will be temped by antiquated caveman gender roles in same-sex coupledom.
- Kathy Osterman Beach (formerly, Hollywood Beach): Just imagine, by June 1, all the snow in Chicago will have melted and heat waves will mingle with the cool breeze off Lake Michigan. Outdoor ceremonies are a more casual alternative for those couples comfortable in sandals and loose shirts, and the south-end of Hollywood Beach has always been gay-friendly. Just make sure not to get distracted by the speedo-clad dudes wondering by.
Next week, the rehearsal dinner!
Check out the full GayCities guide to Chicago
