WEDDING WEBSITE FORMAT

Elizabeth and Jeff

March 12, 2022

Celebrate with us!

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You're invited to the wedding of

Elizabeth Mehlhop and Jeffrey Lale

March 12th, 2022

Chicago, IL | The Rookery Building

Our wedding WEEKEND
Fri
Mar 11
2022

1:45 pm
TO 3:00 pm

Shoreline Sightseeing Dock
401 Michigan Avenue
Near Apple Store, walk farther East along the riverwalk

Chicago, IL 60611

Boarding begins 15 mins before departure
Come explore with us!

Taking a Boat Tour along the river is one of the best ways to view and appreciate Chicago's unique beauty - it is our top recommendation for any visitors to Chicago.

If you're in the area on Friday afternoon, feel free to join us on the 1:45pm Chicago River Architecture Boat Tour.

Departing from their Michigan Avenue Dock, Shoreline Sightseeing offers a 75 minute tour through the Chicago River offering views of dozens of architecturally significant buildings in downtown Chicago.

Tickets are ~$40 per person ($20 for ages 12 and under).  Purchase tickets online for the 1:45pm Tour departing the Michigan Avenue Dock at Shoreline Sightseeing Tickets.  Keep in mind that the weather may be chilly in March and the boat tour is mostly open-air, so be sure to dress warmly!

Fri
Mar 11
2022

9:00 pm
TO 10:00 pm

Boleo @ The Gray Hotel
15th Floor
122 W Monroe St

Chicago, 60603

Reservations recommended
Grab a drink with us!

We plan to grab a few drinks at Boleo on Friday evening, the night before the Wedding.  Boleo is conveniently located at The Kimpton Gray Hotel on the top floor.  This bar offers some fantastic Peruvian-inspired food and drinks in a very nice environment with a unique glass roof.

If you're staying nearby, feel free to stop by to grab a drink with us!  We anticipate being there at ~9PM to 10PM.

We recommend making a reservation for your group, since this establishment predominantly offers table-service with limited seats at the bar.  Walk-ins may have to wait to be seated.

* Be prepared to show proof of vaccination *

Sat
Mar 12
2022

5:00 pm
TO 11:00 pm

The Rookery Building
209 S LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604

Saturday, March 12th, 2022
The Rookery Building

Ceremony + Reception

The Rookery Building
209 S LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604

COVID-19 Vaccination Required

For the health and safety of our family and friends and to comply with the City of Chicago Public Health regulations, all guests must be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.  Please be prepared to show proof of vaccination upon arrival.

Note: Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade

The Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade will be hosted on Saturday, March 12th; the parade runs through Grant Park starting at 12:15pm.  Additionally, the Chicago River will be dyed green in the morning - a famous local tradition.

Please plan for longer travel times due to additional crowds.

5PM Wedding Ceremony

Ceremony begins at 5PM

Doors will open at 4:30pm

5:30PM Cocktails + Hors d’oeuvres

on the Mezzanine

6:30PM Dinner

in the Light Court

Dancing To Follow
Sat
Mar 12
2022

11:00 pm
TO 11:59 pm

Elephant & Castle
111W W Adams Street
Chicago, IL 60603

Party with us!

After the Wedding Reception winds down at The Rookery Building, we plan to migrate over to Elephant & Castle for some continued revelry!

This will be an unofficial after-party, feel free to join us if you want to keep the party going :)

Elephant and Castle is located just down the block from The Rookery Building along Adams Street.  It is open until 1AM on Saturdays.

* Be prepared to show proof of vaccination *

Sun
Mar 13
2022

3:00 pm
TO 4:00 pm

Willis Tower (aka Sears Tower)
233 S Wacker Dr
Chicago, IL 60606

Enjoy the views with us!

On Sunday, we plan to take in the sky-high views from the 103rd floor at the Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) Skydeck! 

If you're interested in joining us, we have bought tickets for the 3pm entry on Sunday, March 13th.

Pre-purchasing tickets is recommended (since they may sell out). Tickets are $35, with discounts available for children 11 and younger.

More info at theskydeck.com

ACCOMMODATIONS
ACCOMMODATIONS
The Kimpton Gray Hotel

We've arranged a Hotel Block at the beautiful Kimpton Gray Hotel, which is a short walk to The Rookery Building in Downtown Chicago.

Book online using the link below, or call (877) 771-7031 and mention the "Mehlhop-Lale Wedding Block"  | Book by March 1st

Tip: The Kimpton Gray Hotel offers a daily Complimentary Wine Happy Hour at their lobby (on the 2nd floor) between 5pm and 6pm.  Cheers!

Residence Inn Downtown/Loop

We've arranged a Hotel Block at the Residence Inn Downtown/Loop, which is a short walk to The Rookery Building.  The Residence Inn offers free breakfast and all rooms include a sofa bed + kitchenette.

Book online using the link below, or call (312) 223-8500 and mention the "Mehlhop-Lale Wedding Block"  |  Book by February 18th

Overnight Parking

The cost for overnight self-parking in the Loop is around $50 each night.  The hotels offer parking validation at nearby self-park garages, which costs $49 per night at The Kimpton Gray and $51 per night at The Residence Inn.  Valet parking is offered at The Kimpton Gray hotel for $69/night.

Parking is also offered at nearby garages via various apps/websites (e.g. SpotHero, BestParking, iparkit.com)


If you're flying into town, we'd recommend using public transit (the 'L'), Uber/Lyft, or a taxi to get to and from the airport, and then sticking with public transit and walking to get around Downtown Chicago.

Explore
Our Chicago Favorites
Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field

Growing up, Elizabeth spent many days enjoying Cubs games at Wrigley with family and friends. Now, whenever we are back in town, we make a point of attending a game whenever it's possible!

Chicago River Cruise
Chicago River Cruise

A Chicago River Cruise (and when possible, a River/Lake Cruise) is one of the best ways to see Chicago architecture. The history of Chicago is fascinating and the history of the Chicago River and the buildings that surround it is no less fascinating! Definitely a must do for any visitor to Chicago. Keep your eyes peeled for some of our favorite buildings: Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, and new Apple Store!  If you're in town, join us on Friday afternoon for a cruise on the Chicago River!

Portillo's
Portillo's

For some delicious hot dogs or Italian beef, look no further than Portillo's. A Chicagoland favorite, it is one place we make sure to visit every time we fly back to Chicago!

Deep Dish Pizza from Giordano's or Lou Malnati's
Deep Dish Pizza from Giordano's or Lou Malnati's

We highly recommend experiencing Chicago Deep Dish while in town. Despite growing up and refusing to eat deep dish pizza, Elizabeth now adores it and we have it every time we return home. Pick from Elizabeth's favorite, Giordano's, or Jeff's favorite, Lou Malnati's.

Top Floors of the John Hancock Building
Top Floors of the John Hancock Building

One of the best ways to see the City of Chicago is from the top floors of the Hancock Building.  The 94th, 95th and 96th floors offer stunning views of the lake and the buildings beyond. Pro tip: Head up to the Signature Lounge for Cocktails on the 96th floor!

103rd Floor of the Sears Tower - Skydeck
103rd Floor of the Sears Tower - Skydeck

Take in the view high above Chicago at 1,353 feet in the air. The Sears Tower (now Willis Tower) offers the highest observation deck in the US. Come join us on Sunday afternoon to experience the incredible views!

Museum of Science and Industry
Museum of Science and Industry

By far our favorite museum in the city - head over to the Museum Campus and explore the Museum of Science and Industry. From the incredible weather demonstrations at Science Storms to the Henry Crown Space Center, there is something for everyone!

The Bean at Millenium Park
The Bean at Millenium Park

Head on over to the Bean (aka Cloud Gate) at Millenium Park to get lost in the mesmerizing reflections of people and buildings on its surface. Definitely a must visit while in Chicago.

Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park
Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park

Elizabeth absolutely loves the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park. Whenever we have time while in town during the winter, we make sure to stop by and enjoy the experience of skating on a meandering path with uphills and downhills! Definitely a must visit for the skating fans out there!

Stroll down Michigan Avenue
Stroll down Michigan Avenue

A classic Chicago activity, we love meandering down Michigan Avenue and taking in the sights and sounds of the city.

Chicago Architecture Center
Chicago Architecture Center

Visit the Chicago Architecture Center (CAC) to learn more about the history of buildings in Chicago. While the museum within the CAC is quite small, it has wonderful rotating exhibits for visitors to enjoy!

The Art Institute - Modern Wing
The Art Institute - Modern Wing

If art is your thing, head over to The Art Institute for a good time. Our favorite part of The Art Institute is the Modern Wing - in our opinion, it's a must see!

History of the Rookery Building
Historical Timeline
Historical Timeline

The Rookery Building's construction was completed in 1888, standing at eleven stories it was one of the tallest buildings of the era. Read more about the timeline of events before, during, and after its original construction, Frank Lloyd Wright's 1905 renovation, and its more contemporary updates: www.therookerybuilding.com/the-attic-loft

The
The "Rookery" Name

It's unknown exactly how The Rookery Building got its name, but there are a few different prevailing theories.  Interestingly, according to historical records the name originated prior to The Rookery Building's construction in 1888. Read more at: www.therookerybuilding.com/the-country-annex

The Architects
The Architects

From its inception, The Rookery Building has been designed and renovated by some of the most successful and well-known architects.  From Daniel Burnham to Frank Lloyd Wright, read more about the architects who left their mark on The Rookery Building at: www.therookerybuilding.com/the-woodhouse

Architectural Features
Architectural Features

The Rookery Building includes several notable architectural features, from the Light Court to the Oriel Staircase and more.  Read about them and view the photo gallery at: www.therookerybuilding.com/architectural-features 

Specs and Details
Specs and Details

For the finer technical details about The Rookery Building, read about the building's specifications here: www.therookerybuilding.com/specifications

Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
COVID-19

Are guests required to be vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend the wedding festivities?

Yes. For the health and safety of our family and friends and to comply with the City of Chicago Public Health regulations, all guests are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 to attend the wedding ceremony, reception, and all other festivities.

Please be prepared to show proof of vaccination as The Rookery staff will be checking upon arrival.  A physical CDC Vaccine Card, a photo of a CDC Vaccine Card, or a Digitally-Issued Vaccination Record will be accepted.  Guests over the age of 16 will also be expected to show a matching photo ID.

Guests under 5 are not required to be vaccinated.

Additionally, we encourage all eligible guests to receive a Booster shot in order to be the most protected against the latest variants of COVID-19.

Should I take a COVID-19 test before attending the wedding festivities?

We encourage all guests to test negative before attending the wedding festivities.  Guests are welcome to take either an at-home rapid antigen test, ideally taken within a few hours of the event; or a PCR test, ideally within 3 days of the event.

What if I am exhibiting cold-like, flu-like, or covid-like symptoms?

Please do not attend any wedding festivities if you are feeling sick on the day(s) of the wedding festivities or in the days leading up to the wedding.

Wedding Specifics

What time will the doors open?

For the Ceremony at 5pm, the doors will open at 4:30pm.

What is the RSVP Deadline?

Kindly reply by February 18, 2022.

Please RSVP via our website: elizabethandjeff.com/rsvp

What is the suggested attire / dress code?

Cocktail Attire

Will there be a Coat Check?

Yes, there will be a Coat Check available, it will be located just inside the main entrance to The Rookery Building.

Will there be an Open Bar?

Yes, there will be an open bar!  Cheers!

Will there be a live-stream or video recording of the wedding?

No, unfortunately, there will not be a live stream or a video recording of the wedding.

PARKING AND TRANSIT

Will there be any special events or additional crowds in Chicago?

Yes, the Chicago St. Patrick's Day Parade will be hosted on Saturday, March 12th.  The parade runs through Grant Park starting at 12:15pm.  Additionally, the Chicago River will be dyed green in the morning (a famous local tradition).

Please plan for potentially longer drive times due to additional crowds.

Does The Rookery offer parking?

Yes, The Rookery offers $16 validated parking at the 211 West Adams Street self-park garage, located one block west of The Rookery. After parking, please pick-up a rebate/validation sticker from the front security desk before departing The Rookery Building.

What are the nearby transit options?

The Rookery Building is conveniently located in the Loop, placing it quite close to numerous transit options. Here are some specific nearby stations and their distances from The Rookery:
Quincy Loop Lines 'L' station - 1 block (.1 miles)
Monroe (or Jackson) Blue Line 'L' station - 3 blocks (.3 miles)
Monroe (or Jackson) Red Line 'L' station - 4 blocks (.3 miles)
Union Station Metra/Amtrak - 5 blocks (.5 miles)
Ogilvie Station Metra - 7 blocks (.6 miles)

HOTELS

Are there hotel room blocks for wedding guests?

Yes, we have arranged room blocks for discounted rates at two great nearby hotels.

Find more info on the accommodations page

How close are the hotels to The Rookery?

Very close! The two arranged room blocks are at hotels located 1.5 to 2 blocks away (0.1 miles to 0.2 miles) from The Rookery Building.

How expensive is overnight parking at the hotels?

Quite expensive. Since the festivities and hotels are located in the Loop, the cost for parking overnight is $49-$51 per night.

If you're flying into town, we'd recommend using public transit (the 'L'), Uber/Lyft, or a taxi to get to/from the airport, and then sticking with public transit or walking around Downtown Chicago.

Other questions, email us!

Please reach out to us with any additional questions or concerns at jeffabeth882020@gmail.com

Registry
WELCOME TO OUR REGISTRY!

Celebrating with you on our wedding day will be the greatest gift of all. However, should you wish to help us celebrate with a gift, we have set up registries at the stores below.

In lieu of bringing boxed gifts to the festivities, please ship all gifts to California by ordering through the online registries.

GAllery