As You Wish

As You Wish is an inclusive wedding planning company in Chicago, Illinois, founded by Lizzie Stam. It offers its services to all couples and is proud to help queer love shine.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

As You Wish is LGBTQ+-owned and states that queer couples are welcome. Lizzie has experience planning all kinds of weddings, which suggests that a same-sex ceremony needs no special explanation. The tone is friendly from the first conversation, like talking to an old friend who also happens to manage logistics.

Planning options

• Full planning
• Partial planning
• Complete weekend planning, covering events around the wedding
• Day-of coordination

Choosing your level

Full planning gives you a guide for every decision. Partial planning suits couples who want help with specific areas such as vendors or timelines. Weekend planning is useful if you have a welcome party, a rehearsal dinner and a brunch to organize. Day-of coordination supports a wedding you have mostly planned yourselves.

The experience

The goal is to make planning feel like part of the party, with a calm, encouraging presence. Ask how often you will meet, how the budget is tracked and how vendors are chosen or approved. Bring a list of priorities, so decisions can be made against what matters most to you.

Chicago planning notes

Chicago weddings have their own rhythms. Summer and early autumn are the busiest seasons, downtown venues have load-in rules, and winter weddings need coat-check plans. A local planner can advise on permits, transport and timing for lakefront or park ceremonies.

Questions to ask

### Do you need to book early?

It is wise to contact a planner soon after choosing your date, especially for Saturdays in peak season.

### Can the planner help with events beyond the wedding?

Weekend planning is listed, so ask what it includes.