If you’re starting to feel overwhelmed by the logistics of wedding planning, here’s a helpful truth: You don’t need to figure everything out right away.

The two vendors that usually shape the whole vibe of your day?
Venue and photographer.

Once you’ve chosen a space that reflects your energy, and a photographer you trust to tell the story of it all, so many of the other puzzle pieces (like florals, food, outfits, even the timeline) start to fall into place with way less pressure.

What’s Actually Worth Investing In

Now this is where I make my (slightly biased but totally valid) case for photography being the one thing you don’t skimp on.

You might be thinking, Yeah, of course she’d say that, she’s a wedding photographer.

But hear me out: Your photos are one of the only things from your wedding day that will truly last forever. The florals fade, the food gets eaten, the dress gets packed away. But your photos? They become how you remember the day. For decades.

And that means your photographer is the person responsible for holding onto the memory of what’s hopefully one of the best days of your life.

Photographers charging a few thousand dollars aren’t pulling numbers out of thin air. Chances are, they’ve spent years in the industry. Many are full-time professionals who’ve invested in backup gear, multiple media recording and storage workflows, and experience shooting in every lighting situation imaginable, on top of perfecting their client experience. They’ve learned how to read a room, how to handle unexpected chaos, and how to blend in like a guest while documenting the full emotional arc of your day. Those skills only come with time and, more often than not, price reflects that.

So while I understand it’s a struggle to remain on budget in wedding world, I can’t recommend enough that you invest in your photographer. It’s the one thing you’ll never regret having done right.

---

Now for the fun part. If you’re leaning toward something smaller, more personal, and maybe even a little unconventional, here are a few Midwest venue ideas that I would love to suggest to couples planning intimate celebrations:

✦ Tivoli Tavern — Chicago, IL

Tivoli is the definition of moody elegance. Tucked down a hidden alley in the West Loop, it feels like a romantic European supper club. Warm candlelight, dark wood, velvet booths. It’s ideal for a post-courthouse dinner or intimate reception where good food, good drinks, and good company are the focus. And the best part? It photographs beautifully, even without a ton of added decor. I saw a New Year’s Eve wedding reception held here and the vibes were off the charts. I’ve also eaten here and the food was great, even late night.

---

✦ Panther’s Place — Kansas City, MO

If you’re drawn to a more backyard-style celebration but still want to stay in the city, Panther’s Place is a hidden gem. It’s a cozy courtyard space tucked away behind a historic building, filled with greenery, string lights, and a relaxed, intimate energy. It feels like a warm summer garden party, and the kind of space where guests actually hang out, not just pose for photos and leave.

---

✦ Bowood by Niche — St. Louis, MO

Bowood is one of my favorite suggestions for couples who love a greenhouse aesthetic with a modern twist. Located in the Central West End, this café-restaurant-nursery hybrid is filled with plants, soft light, thoughtful design, and seasonal food. You could easily host a small wedding dinner or reception here that feels refined but incredibly relaxed. This is one of my favorite bites in STL. Think: an elevated garden party under the stars with your closest people, delicious wine, and actual time to enjoy your own meal.

---

✦ Pretty Lake — Columbia, MO

More into rural vibes? Pretty Lake offers lakeside charm with a relaxed, nature-filled setting. It’s perfect for smaller gatherings where you want to bring in a catered buffet, or just a casual hors d’oeuvres spread paired with bottles and cans under twinkle lights. I’ve stayed here myself with friends on more than one occasion and the serenity really can’t be beat. It’s simple, spacious, and gives you the flexibility to make the space your own without the pressure of a formal venue.

---

✦ Sweet Hills — Columbia, MO

Sweet Hills is a wide open event space nestled into a peaceful stretch of land just outside of Columbia. It’s great for couples who want a little bit of rustic charm without leaning too far into a traditional “barn wedding” vibe. With both indoor (limited) and outdoor (plentiful) space, it’s super versatile! Ideal for smaller weddings that want to feel cozy, elevated, and close to nature. Pair it with a relaxed dinner spread or a food truck reception, and you’ve got yourself a celebration that feels both intentional and easygoing.

---

Here’s What I Hope You Take From This

If wedding planning feels like it’s taking over your life, you’re not doing it wrong, you’re just hearing too many voices at once.

Here’s your permission to tune out the noise, shrink the guest list, skip the things you don’t care about, and design a wedding day that actually makes you happy.

There are plenty of smart, beautiful, affordable ways to plan a meaningful celebration. Just don’t cut corners on the part that helps you remember it all.

If you’re planning something a little unconventional in the Midwest, I’d love to be the one to capture it.