A Chicago venue is offering a budget-friendly wedding package — and it’s a fraction of the cost of the average wedding!
In 2025, the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000, according to a study from The Knot. In Chicago, that figure is even higher, with the average nuptials ringing up at $54,190, per the wedding planning service. For those with a tighter budget, one Windy City venue is offering a frugal solution.
Hoste, a production and event venue situated in the city’s Pilsen neighborhood, is now offering a $5,000 wedding package, affectionately dubbed the Shotgun Special. The limited-time deal is a “modern take on the ‘shotgun wedding’ for couples who want to celebrate now — not next year – and do it without taking out a second mortgage,” according to the venue.
Couples can book a wedding at Hoste’s new cocktail production house, with the business billing the budget ceremony “all the good stuff, none of the chaos” and “a fast-track wedding that doesn’t cut corners.”
And while the package prides itself on its “small bill,” the ceremony itself doesn’t have to sacrifice size. According to Hoste’s website, the $5,000 cost includes a “ceremony and/or reception for up to 150 guests,” with access to the venue for seven hours, set-up included.
An open cocktail bar is also included in the limited-time special, and can last up to three hours. The bar menu includes two signature drinks, plus house spirits and mixers.
Hoste’s special also takes away much of the hassle of organizing a reception, with a DJ stage, sound system, green room suite and furniture — lounge seating, plus tables and chairs — also included in the poster price.
The special also boasts on-site staff — a manager, security personnel and a staffed coat check — and, to sweeten the deal, there is no clean-up required on the newlyweds’ behalf.
There is, however, “fine print,” which is detailed in full on Hoste’s website.
Firstly, the wedding must be held within four months of the booking date. Secondly, Hoste is a cocktail line — beer and wine are BYOB, or the deal can be upgraded to add more offerings, per Hoste. Other available upgrades include an expanded capacity (with a limit of 250 guests), more open bar time, and other drink offerings, such as coffee and tea.
Though not included in the package, food “can be brought in from your fave vendor or priced out from our preferred caterer list,” per Hoste. Lastly, the deal is subject to a service charge of 23%, plus applicable taxes.
