Vendor Spotlight: The Rustic Venues


Yes, it's The Rustic Venues (plural) because this property features multiple spaces to host your events. This venue offers spaces that accommodate 100 guests, 300 guests, and 500 guests. Since they purchased the property near Girard, Illinois in 2022, owners Albert & Sheila Hamman have renovated every space with rustic charm and modern convenience. From the day's beginning to the reception winding down, read on to see why I loved photographing a wedding at this venue!

Get ready together, but apart


There are separate "getting ready" spaces on the property, but they are far enough apart to maintain privacy. No worries about seeing each other beforehand. One space is decorated with saloon-style finishes and features a bar area and a flat-screen. Typically, this is where the guys get ready. The other space is a cozy, naturally lit cottage with large mirrors, salon chairs, and plenty of shared spaces. This is a perfect spot for hair and makeup. See photos below!


As a photographer, I love when the entire bridal party gets ready within walking distance of each other. That way, it's easy to coordinate any changes to the day's timeline. For couples, this usually means that they don't have to book a second photographer. I can cover both groups getting ready and photograph the ceremony space in a very short amount of time!

The VIBE of this property is, well, RUSTIC.

The farm is located off the beaten path, so your ceremony feels intimate, but accessible. I love that the large barn is painted a chic, charcoal grey. Though it has modern amenities, all of the cute, rustic details have been preserved. No need to use outside vendors for decor rentals. The Rustic Venues features so many unique, vintage items.

Don't let the charming details fool you...

The romantic, private setting. The charming details like string lights, candles,and barn wood decor. Just because it looks quaint doesn't mean you can't THROW DOWN at The Rustic Venues. Plenty of space means plenty of space... to throw a party!

WHY I LOVE THIS VENUE


  • There are many unique spaces. I could photograph 100 weddings here and no two would look exactly alike.
  • This venue is what I consider an "all-in-one." Not only does it have space for a ceremony and reception, it also has a cottage for lodging and a separate space for getting ready. Couples often experience "sticker shock" when looking at package options at all-in-one venues. Seeing that large, all-inclusive number can be a little daunting. However, it is important to consider that you don't have to hire transportation for your wedding party (like a limo or party bus) and you have more flexibility with your wedding day timeline. All-inclusive packages typically mean working with one vendor rather than coordinating with multiple people. Your caterer, tables & linens, lighting, etc are generally offered by the venues! Additionally, The Rustic Venues has packages that include lodging, so your family and friends can stay close without having to reserve hotel rooms. Have I mentioned that I am a big fan of having a wedding and reception at the same venue???
  • The getting-ready space is filled with natural light, making beautiful photos a breeze.
  • Guys, this is the only venue I have ever photographed with a designated Kid's Area. That's right - there is a playroom in the reception space!
  • This venue is family-owned and operated!

Ready to learn more?

For more information about The Rustic Venues, visit their website here.

Or, if you like to internet creep like I do, check out their Instagram @therusticvenues