Sometime next year, I’m getting married in Illinois. This is only logical place to have it, as my finance’s family is huge and almost entirely local, while mine is small and scattered. The problem is that we currently live in Massachusetts, which makes planning things difficult. So I come to you Dopers for help.
Our plan on flying in at the end of September to do some scouting. Mainly we are looking to lock in a place to host the event, food, and a photographer. We need other stuff too, but those are the big issues. We are planning to get married by a justice of the peace, so no religious affiliation is necessary. We are looking at ~150 guests and hopefully a budget under 10k, but expect it might be a little more. I would the food be fairly high quality and a bit unique. Given the amount of people and budget it will probably have to be buffet style. There also needs to be a kosher friendly option. We want to get married in spring or summer, but haven’t narrowed days beyond that, figuring it is easier to find a place first.
Suggestions on possible locales, caterers, photographers, or just experiences with long distance weddings are greatly appreciated.