Chicago Elopement Transportation: Intimate Wedding Car Service

Courthouse Elopement: The Chicago Logistics

Chicago couples can obtain a marriage license and have a civil ceremony at the Cook County Clerk's office at the Daley Center (50 W. Washington St) or any of several suburban locations. Here is how transportation works for a courthouse elopement:

• Pick up at home or hotel: The driver arrives with champagne ready (confirm open-container rules with your provider). You step into a spotless luxury car dressed for your ceremony.
• Drive to Daley Center: The Loop location is accessible from any Chicago neighborhood. Allow 20-40 minutes depending on your starting point.
• Wait during ceremony: Civil ceremonies at the Daley Center take approximately 15-30 minutes including check-in. Your driver waits with the car ready.
• Photo stops: Post-ceremony, your driver takes you to 1-3 scenic Chicago locations for photos. Popular choices include Millennium Park, the Riverwalk, and the Wrigley Building.
• Celebration dinner: Finish the day with a ride to your reservation, whether it is a two-top at Alinea or pizza at Lou Malnati's.

Best Vehicles for Elopements

Elopement transportation should feel intimate. Large stretch limos are overkill. Here are the best options:

• Mercedes S-Class: The most elegant choice. Rear-seat comfort, champagne-friendly interior, and a classic exterior that photographs beautifully.
• Lincoln Continental: Modern luxury with a wide backseat. Slightly more affordable than the Mercedes while still making a statement.
• Vintage Rolls-Royce or Bentley: If available in your area, a vintage car creates unforgettable photos and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Cadillac Escalade: Best if bringing a photographer, videographer, or 1-2 witnesses. The extra space accommodates camera gear and additional passengers.

Chicago Photo Stop Itineraries for Elopements

Your driver can navigate between these popular elopement photo locations efficiently:

Micro-Weddings: Scaling Up Slightly

If your elopement includes 5-20 guests, transportation needs expand slightly:

• 5-8 guests: One SUV or Sprinter van handles the entire party comfortably.
• 10-20 guests: A Sprinter van for the full group or an SUV for the couple plus a second vehicle for guests.
• Keep it simple: One of the joys of eloping is simplicity. One or two vehicles max keeps the intimate feeling intact.

For larger intimate weddings, see our guide on Choosing Wedding Vehicles.

Seasonal Elopement Considerations in Chicago

• Spring (March-May): Cherry blossoms in Jackson Park make stunning backdrops. Weather can be unpredictable, so having a warm car between stops matters.
• Summer (June-August): Longest daylight for photos. Book early as summer weekends fill fast. Lakeshore photos at golden hour are unbeatable.
• Fall (September-November): Autumn colors in Lincoln Park and Grant Park provide rich photo settings. Comfortable temperatures for outdoor vows.
• Winter (December-February): Snow creates a magical backdrop. A warm luxury car between outdoor photo stops is essential. Holiday lights add sparkle to evening elopements.

Frequently Asked Questions