A Celebration of Marriage Equality at the MCA

About

On Monday, June 2, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago and Equality Illinois will celebrate the passage of historic legislation guaranteeing the right of all people to marry by inviting couples to have their weddings at the MCA. On this date, the MCA will open its galleries and sculpture garden to offer complimentary ceremonies and post-ceremony festivities for up to fifteen couples.

Selected couples will receive private wedding ceremonies in the museum’s spectacular Kovler Atrium. Afterward, each couple and up to 20 guests will enjoy a half-hour celebration on the Kern Terrace, which includes a wedding portrait provided by Fandl Photography as well as a champagne toast and petit fours provided by Wolfgang Puck Catering.

Decor for the ceremony and reception is generously sponsored by Event Creative. Music during the ceremony is graciously provided by Carmel Music and Entertainment.

The MCA will confirm receipt of your email submission. However, your wedding reservation and preferred time are not final until you receive confirmation in writing from the MCA. If selected, all materials submitted become the property of the MCA and may be used for internal and external uses.

The museum will correspond with you about other details as well. The officiant performing the ceremony will also contact you prior to June 2 to learn more about you in order to personalize the ceremony.

Due to limited capacity, the MCA can only host 15 couples to be married at the museum. After the submission window has closed on April 18, representatives from the MCA and Equality Illinois will review all completed submissions with the required information and select 15 couples to get married at the MCA on June 2. The selected couples will be informed no later than April 25. The MCA and Equality Illinois shall have sole discretion in the selection of couples to be married at the MCA on June 2 and its determination in this regard shall be final and binding.

If you would like to extend your ceremony or reception, the MCA and Wolfgang Puck Catering are available for a luncheon or dinner rental. Call us during regular weekday business hours at 312.397.3868.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: When we arrive at the museum, where should my guests and I go?

A: Staff will greet you at the theater and education entrance at the northwest corner of the building.

• Q: In legal terms, what do I need to bring the day of the ceremony?

A: You need to bring your marriage license, which must be obtained prior to the ceremony. Please note that you must have obtained the marriage license at least 24 hours before being married. See the Cook County Clerk and Equality Illinois websites for more details.

• Q: Can I bring my own photographer for additional photos?

A: Yes, but it must be arranged in advance. Please contact Karla Loring at kloring@mcachicago.org or 312.397.3834.

• Q: How many guests can I bring?

A: You may bring up to 20 of your friends and relatives to celebrate with you.

• Q: May I be married by an officiant I provide?

A: Yes, however this also must be arranged in advance. Please contact Gina Crowley at gcrowley@mcachicago.org or 312.397.3857.

• Q: I’d like to reserve a space for a larger reception. Can the museum accommodate that?

A: Yes! Please contact Gina Crowley at gcrowley@mcachicago.org or 312.397.3857.

• Q: What should I do if I need to cancel my reservation?

A: Please notify us as soon as possible if you need to cancel your reservation. Please contact Gina Crowley at gcrowley@mcachicago.org or 312.397.3857.