Goldenstar- I haven''t asked the coordinator about privacy just yet. We spoke once on the phone & exchanged a few emails to set up an appt. to see the place. I am happy to hear that you liked the venue in person. I guess with being so far away, I''ve taken on a lot research & trying to hear the opinions of those who have either been there or looked there. I''d say 90% of the feedback I''ve gotten is really positive, but what we need is just to see the place for ourselves.
As far as what we''re looking for, I always *thought* I wanted a Chicago wedding with pictures in the big city. When we got engaged, though, it suddenly hit me that I didn''t want a big wedding or the skyline, though I do love it. What we''re going for is somewhere that has a warm, intimate, romantic feeling. Classy, natural beauty with just an extra touch of uniqueness. I want it to be simplistically "wow," if that makes any sense. I think the views from Auberge will provide that. We also want good food, which we hear Auberge can give us as well! I also would like a place that will have some great photo opportunities- I really like the more photojournalistic style & probably won''t ask for many posed pictures. I am hoping the venue we choose will have some places that will lend themselves to our photography. I haven''t seen many photos from Auberge that weren''t "posey" on the ceremony deck, so I''ll have to check that out.
Bottom line- I don''t want to plan a DW unless the venue is truly special. There are a few places in Chicago that we do like, but it will end up costing us more since a Chicago wedding will be larger. I''d love any suggestions based on the places you looked! Newbie124 also graciously sent me her spreadsheet which is awesome!
Clairetek- No worries! I completely appreciate your trying to help, even if the pricing didn''t work out for us! Do you remember hearing anything about their bar package options? It''s $68/person for 4 hour open bar & I just find that INSANE. I don''t know if I can justify that but I worry about consumption- we have some friends who like to party.
I''m going to have ask Casey for options.
Thanks,
tessari! I think I will email Carneros!
roppongi- Thank you for chiming in! It doesn''t sound like you were too bothered by the diners, which eases some of my fears. Alas, I don''t think we or our guest will be able to stay at Auberge but, boy, would I love that!
Did you find that there were enough places for you & DH to take pictures after the ceremony?