If clean lines, statement chandeliers, and architectural elegance are on your wedding vision board, Old Monroe Event Venue in Columbia, Illinois might just be your perfect match. This venue delivers a refined, modern feel with just enough grandeur to create a wow-worthy experience from start to finish. Let me walk you through why I love it so much.

A Look Inside the Space

Old Monroe offers multiple spaces that are beautifully designed and thoughtfully connected:

1. The Ballroom

This is the heart of the venue—a bright, open space with floor-to-ceiling windows, exposed wood beams, crystal chandeliers, and a dramatic central staircase. With two built-in bars and a neutral color palette, it’s an ideal blank slate that supports any wedding aesthetic.

2. The Tasting Room

When guests enter the venue, they’re welcomed into the tasting room—a cozy, moody space featuring a fireplace, stylish seating areas, and a mirrored bar with the venue’s logo. It’s a natural first impression moment and a great space for gathering early in the day or during transitions.

3. The Lower Level

Designed with a speakeasy vibe, this level features copper-toned wallpaper, darker finishes, and an intimate atmosphere. It’s perfect for cocktail hour, smaller events, or giving your guests an unexpected surprise space during the day.

4. The Upper Level

Flooded with natural light, the upper level includes two getting-ready suites with a shared lounge space under a skylight. Whether you’re prepping with your wedding party or taking a quiet moment before the ceremony, this area is beautifully styled and fully functional.

5. The Exterior

With its modern black exterior, expansive green surroundings, and quiet countryside views, Old Monroe offers a setting that feels like your own private world for the day. The patio area is a natural extension of the venue and a great option for outdoor cocktail hour or guest mingling. The flow from indoor to outdoor is seamless, and ideal for couples who want both comfort and open-air.

What I Love as a Photographer

A variety of spaces with completely different aesthetics = so much portrait flexibility
Whether you’re going for light and airy or dark and moody, you can lean into both at different moments of the day
Indoor and outdoor options allow you to adjust for weather, style, and flow—without sacrificing visuals
The natural light in the ballroom and upstairs suites is unmatched
The clean architecture and minimal palette make every design detail pop
And most importantly: the accommodating, professional team makes everything easier. That kind of support behind the scenes makes a huge difference—for both couples and vendors alike.

Final Thoughts

Old Monroe Event Venue offers couples the ability to create a fully personalized wedding experience—while still leaning into the elevated, intentional design the space provides. It’s versatile, photogenic, and genuinely a joy to work in.

Thinking about Old Monroe for your wedding day? I’d love to walk you through how we can bring your vision to life here.

INQUIRE ABOUT YOUR DATE!