Schedule

Friday, July 18, 2025 - Welcome Events
Whether you're local or coming from out of state/across the pond, please join us for our welcome gathering and rehearsal dinner!
4-6 PM - Welcome Gathering in the Gwen Lux Suite
6:30 PM - Welcome Dinner (Walking distance from the Gwen Hotel)

Saturday, July 19, 2025 - Our Big Day
Our wedding ceremony and reception will all take place at the Gwen Hotel. Dress code: Cocktail Attire. Please arrive at 4:30 PM, allowing time for valet parking, if needed.
5 PM - Wedding Ceremony on the Terrace
5:30-6:30 PM - Cocktail Hour
6:30 PM - Reception and Dinner
12:00 AM - After Party in the Gwen Lux Suite

Sunday, July 20, 2025 - Farewell
10 AM-1 PM - Survivor's Breakfast (Walking distance from the Gwen Hotel)

Where to Stay

The Gwen Hotel - We have secured a special group rate for a block of rooms at our wedding venue. Guest accommodations can be reserved directly at this custom booking link. Click Check Availability to find two options: Superior King for $269/night or Superior 2 Queens for $309/night (plus taxes/fees). The group rate is valid July 15 - July 23. The Destination Fee of $25 will be waived at check-in. Discounted overnight and event valet parking will be available.Or, you can call Marriott Reservations at +1.888.627.7039 and request to book within the Bunt and Daley Block at The Gwen Hotel (located at 521 North Rush Street, Chicago, IL 60611).Last Day to Book: Thursday, June 19, 2025 by 5:00 PM CST (23:00 GMT).~~~Alternate Option - Courtyard Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile is located 2 blocks/approx. 6 minute walk away from our wedding venue at 165 E Ontario Street, Chicago, IL 60611. Booking Link is here.
Special rates ranging from $243-$288/night (plus taxes/fees) expires on June 18, 2025.~~~AirBNB/VRBO - Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with distinct character. If you're looking to stay outside of the more touristy areas, take a look at rentals in: River North, Lakeview, & Wrigleyville for nightlife; Lincoln Square & Andersonville for boutiques and cafes; West Loop & Fulton Market for converted lofts and fine dining; Gold Coast & Lincoln Park for convenience to downtown & the loop. Reach out to Merrie & Chris for more specific suggestions.

Sweet Home, Chicago

Merrie and Chris met in Chicago in 2012 and are delighted to share some of our favorite sights, sounds, and tastes.

Airports & Transportation: Chicago is served by two international airports, Midway (MDW) and O'Hare (ORD). Both are served by public transportation (CTA - Chicago Transit Authority) as well as Uber and Lyft. We don't recommend renting a car as parking is an expensive hassle, and public transit and ride share options are prevalent.

Family Friendly:

  • The Chicago Riverwalk

  • Lincoln Park Zoo

  • Field Museum (Natural History)

  • Chicago History Museum

  • Millennium Park, the Bean, Maggie Daley Park

  • Beaches: Montrose Street, North Avenue

  • Navy Pier (Free fireworks Wednesday at 9:30 PM)

  • 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck at the John Hancock Tower

Not just for tourists:

  • Chicago Architectural Foundation - Architectural Boat Tour

  • Art Institute Chicago

  • Grant Park Orchestra (free concerts in Millenium Park)

  • Lakefront Trail (Rent a Divvy bike or take a stroll along Lake Michigan)

Breweries & Cocktails:

  • Birkshire Room (Acme Hotel)

  • Cindy's Rooftop

  • Half Acre

  • Hop Butcher to the World

  • Koval Distillery

  • Revolver

  • Victor Bar

Get out of the Loop:
Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, and public transportation and uber/lyft make exploring incredibly accessible. Here's a few of our favorite food spots and watering holes.

  • South Loop: Reggie's Rock Club

  • Loop & River North: The Northman Beer & Cider Garden, Fado's Irish Pub, XOCO/Frontera Grill

  • West Loop/Fulton Market (foodie destination): Green Street Meats, Girl & The Goat, Duck Duck Goat, Cruz Blanca Brewery, Emporium Arcade Bar

  • Andersonville: Boutiques/shopping, Lady Gregory's Irish Bistro, Hopleaf, Farraguts

Other Details

Dress Code
Cocktail attire suggested.Guests & Children
Your special people are most welcome on our special day. Please indicate names and food preferences when you RSVP.Regarding Gifts
The greatest gift we could ask
is for the honor of your presence
on our special day.
However, if you feel inclined to contribute towards our future home,
a monetary contribution via Paypal (@merriebunt) or Venmo (@Merrie-Bunt) is appreciated.

Additional Questions?
Please reach out to Merrie & Chris in the form below.

Thank You

We look forward to celebrating with you soon!