Michelle’s Ballroom

Michelle's Ballroom is a wedding and events venue in a restored historic bank building on Belmont Avenue, in Chicago's Avondale neighborhood. It has been hosting couples since 1996. The main ballroom pairs ornate architectural detail and chandeliers with a flexible layout, and it can seat up to about 250 guests for a ceremony and reception in the same room.

Why it suits LGBTQ+ couples

This is a venue that hands you the keys to the plan. You choose your own caterer, design your own decor and build your own menu, so the day looks like you rather than a set package. Couples describe staff who suggest vendors that know the building well, which helps if you want guidance without being steered. It is a good fit if you want a striking room and the freedom to run the day your way.

Ceremonies

The ballroom can host both your ceremony and your reception, which keeps everyone in one place and avoids moving guests between sites. A dressing room is available for getting ready, and lighting and sound are part of the rental. Setup time before the event gives you or your planner room to turn the space around between the ceremony layout and the dinner layout.

Receptions and food

You can bring in the caterer of your choice, which makes it easy to serve a family recipe, a favorite local restaurant or a cuisine that matters to you. Bar service is the one part that must go through the venue, and it covers all drinks for the event. The rental includes a dance floor, event rentals, lighting and sound, and Wi-Fi.

Getting there and the area

The ballroom is at 2800 W. Belmont Avenue, at the corner of California Avenue, in Avondale on the city's Northwest Side. It sits between Logan Square and Roscoe Village, both with plenty of bars and restaurants for a rehearsal dinner or after-party. CTA buses run along Belmont and California, and the Blue Line is a short ride away. The venue has its own parking information for guests, so ask the team for details when you book.

Good to know

• The room seats up to about 250 guests.
• Outside caterers are welcome, but the bar is run by the venue.
• The venue is wheelchair accessible.