Pazzo’s Wedding in Chicago | Katrina + Brandon

A Dream Wedding at Pazzo’s at 311

When Katrina + Brandan chose their wedding venue in the heart of Chicago, they opted for a space that would reflect their elegant, modern, and joy-filled style. Their decision? Pazzo’s at 311. A Pazzos’ wedding is perfect for couples seeking a standout Chicago venue with chic, distinct charm.

Why a Pazzo’s Wedding Should Be On Your Radar

If you’re searching for a venue that combines that architectural wow-factor (seriously, this place is STUNNING), downtown convience for your guests, and dependable service, Pazzo’s is an each choice. Here’s what makes Pazzo’s weddings shine:

• Located at 311 S Wacker Drive in Chicago’s Loop, Pazzo’s sits inside a landmark building with a stunning glass-ceiling atrium, making for beautiful light all day.
• The atrium space features high ceilings, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a fountain / statue feature that makes for unforgettable imagery.
• The downtown access also means many gorgeous hotels to choose from for your getting ready space, all just a short Uber away.
• Being downtown means easy access to some of Chicago’s most iconic spots for wedding photos. The Riverwalk, Wrigley Building, Board of Trade Building, and more are convienetly located.
• It’s fully indoors, which means you have an all-season setting. This is key, especially in Chicago’s unpredictable weather. 
• Excellent capacity and service: The venue can accommodate up to 400+ seated guests. A rareity in the city!

For engaged couples who want both style and substance – especially those seeking a downtown Chicago wedding venue with a true wow factor – Pazzo’s wedding is a search worth doing.

Katrina + Brandan’s Love Story

Brandan and Katrina first met after exchanging a few cheeky messages about their mutual love of cooking and baking on Bumble. Their first date was at Kaiser Tiger in West Loop, where Brandan likes to joke that he convinced Katrina to meet him by mentioning that the bar had a resident cat named Bacon (it worked!). They instantly bonded over great food, laughter, and the embarrassing hobbies they had growing up.

The Proposal

During a festive outing to Christkindlmarket in downtown Chicago with Katrina’s best friend, Delmar, (casually but not-so-subtly carrying a camera), Brandan was hoping to propose in front of the beautiful Christmas tree he remembered from previous years. Little did he know, there was no tree that year! Luckily, he had a backup plan. Brandan suggested they all take a stroll to see the Dearborn Street Bridge and the rest was history.

As they stepped onto the bridge, he got down on one knee and for a moment, the world stood still. Passersby paused, cheered, and celebrated as Brandan popped the question, and Katrina said “YES!” Delmar captured the whole moment perfectly (thanks, bestie!).

But the surprises didn’t stop there – Brandan had planned the entire day by having their closest friends pop up one by one at festive date spots across the city. It was an absolutely perfect day filled with love and celebration.

I should mention – this was the second proposal that Brandan had planned! Brandan was originally going to propose a few months prior on their second anniversary. After a romantic day spent recreating all of their early dates, ending at the spot of thei first kiss, Brandan was ready to propose. It was perfect… until Katrina got sick from dinner and spent the rest of the night very sick. Not quite the dreamy ending he had in mind. But eventually, he got his enthusastic yes, and two great stories!

Katrina + Brandan: Their Celebration at Pazzo’s

Katrina and Brandan brought together their closest friends and family in a way that somehow felt both intimate and grand. As a wedding photographer whose style blends editorial and documentary, I was thrilled to capture their day at Pazzo’s: the curated details, the candid laughter, and the genuine connection.

Ceremony:

They chose the atrium for their vow exchange – a space framed by towering glass and natural light with gorgeous marble and a statue as the background. It felt expansive, yet warm and personal. The fountain and architecture became part of the visual story, elevating their ceremony.

Reception:

The reception flowed seamlessly from ceremony to celebration. Guests moved into the resturant space with ease for cocktail hour. The venue’s layout allowed for a clear transition. After cocktail hour, guests returned to the Atrium, now filled with wine, charcuterie, and a candle-lit glow. Dinner, toasts, and dancing all commensed! During the open dance floor, Katrina, Brandan, and I took to the streets of Chicago for some additional portraits with a paparazzi feel. This also allowed me to document Katrina’s dress change, which was so cute!

Key Considerations for a Pazzo’s Wedding

If you’re considering Pazzo’s as the venue for your wedding, here are some tailored questions to ask from a photographer’s and client-experience lens:

1. Which spaces are available for photography?

Ask about access to atrium, mezzanine, private rooms – especially if you want both elegant portraits and candid guest shots in case of rain.

2. Lighting & timing details:

The glass ceiling is beautiful, but depending on time of day, lighting can change. Ask about sunset timing, artificial lighting, and how indoor light will complement your photos. For this space (and all spaces, really), a romantic candle-lit glow is perfect for after the sun sets.

3. Flow between ceremony and reception:

Smooth transitions matter for your guests and for photo-ops. Ask how Pazzo’s handles moving from ceremony to reception.

4. Included furnishings and décor upgrades:

Pazzo’s provides linens, tables, chairs.  You’ll want to know what’s included vs what you’ll need to bring and make any budget considerations.

5. Guest count and capacity constraints:

The venue seats up to ~400.  If you’re smaller scale, ask how that space can be styled to feel intimate (which it absolutely can)!

6. Vendor flexibility + logistics:

As a photographer, I always check vendor access times, whether there’s a preferred vendor list, load-in/out windows, etc. Reviews highlight Pazzo’s staff as responsive and helpful, and my experience working with the staff was great! They were helpful and attentive to K + B’s needs and lead the wedding with efficiency and ease. 

Final Thoughts: Pazzo’s + Your Story

For wedding photographers (and couples) who want more than just a nice room, but truly want their venue to feel like art, Pazzo’s delivers on both aesthetic and experience. As someone who emphasizes editorial imagery and candid emotion, Pazzo’s gives the architectural stage for the intimate moments.

Katrina + Brandan’s day was a beautiful example: their love story, their guests, their joy all framed by the sweeping glass, the cityscape, the detail of guest interactions. If you’re imagining a day where your love is the focus, and the space elevates it without overwhelming it, then a Pazzo’s wedding might just be your perfect match.

Do you need someone to photograph your wedding at Pazzo’s? Inquire here to see if your date is available.

This Pazzo’s wedding is thanks to these incredible vendors:

Venue: Pazzo’s / Photography: Tawny Ballard Photography / Videography: Better Half Weddings / DJ: Big Sand Productions / Hair and Makeup: Angelique Sanchez of The Bridal Beauty Team / Dress: Saint Bridal purchased at Lovely Bride / Suit: Custom made by Daniel George in Chicago / Invitations: Minted, designed by Rebecca McKinney / Wedding Rings: Frank Darling (custom designed by Madison Ogg) / Engagement Ring: James Allen / Veil: Harriet Falvey / Earrings & Necklace: Brilliant Earth