Country Squire

We looked at five places on Saturday:
1. Midlane Country Club, Wadsworth, IL
2. Illinois Beach Resort, Zion, IL
3. Independence Grove, Libertyville, IL
4. Doubletree Hotel, Mundelein, IL
5. Country Squire, Grayslake, IL

After considering price, proximity of a hotel, location, style, food choices, and extra fees, it was really a no-brainer for me.

Pros of Country Squire:
1. Its fairly central, at least for the parents of the bride and groom and really close to my parents home (I know I am going to forget something the day of).
2. A brand new hotel just steps away (and if enough rooms are booked for our event, a free room for the bride and groom).
3. It was reasonably priced and because they only offered three 'extras' (passed hors d'oeuvres, chair covers, sweet table) above the wedding package, there were no hidden costs.
4. They offered the most food choices and good vegetarian options.
5. We can do a tasting on our own schedule (other places offered tastings only a few times per year- not good for out-of-town brides!).
6. Michael, the on-site wedding coordinator, knew his stuff and made me feel like he really would take care of everything.
7. Both families have had several great experiences there in the past.
8. The ceremony site was great.
9. A bridal room was available for me to use before the ceremony and we would have access 2.5 hours beforehand.
10. We can have a rehearsal there one or two days before the ceremony.
11. The ballroom is pretty, has windows, has plenty of space and a permanent dance floor (picture below).  We will also be able to use the patio area, which is right outside the ballroom doors.
12. There is an extra room for the photographer to set up in so it is out of the way.

Well...you get the picture!