October 29, 2021

Autumn at Independence Grove

October 29, 2021

Autumn at Independence Grove

Autumn. The word itself elicits images of nesting, comfort, and all the cozy feels. We slow down, both in our lives and in our cooking. It’s a time when our thoughts of food transition from the bright freshness of summer to the warm heartiness of harvest. The immediacy of tossed-together salads and quick-grilled proteins transform into deep roasted vegetables and slowly braised meats. It’s a time to reflect, appreciate, and harvest all the beautiful feelings which have ripened over the summer.

Autumn at IG

At Independence Grove, we are fortunate to watch the changing of the seasons right outside our door. The variegated greens of summer give way to the brilliant oranges, reds, and yellows of autumn. Similarly, on our plate, bright new potatoes mature, becoming deeply caramelized sweet potatoes. Herbed chicken breasts mellow into slow-roasted turkey. Everything about Autumn celebrates the patience of waiting for the last falling leaves and the promise of comforting fare.

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One of the most rewarding elements of feeding people is eliciting a feeling of nostalgia amongst our clients. As we all know, a reminder of our childhood is always something that brings joy and depth to eating beyond just the flavors themselves. What better way to do that than to recreate a sweet treat that combines an old ice cream truck favorite, diner interaction, and a little whimsy? We give you the build your own Choco Taco dessert experience!

Choco Taco Action Station Set Up (more…)


August 20, 2019

The Experience of Outdoor Weddings at Independence Grove

August 20, 2019

The Experience of Outdoor Weddings at Independence Grove

There are several decisions that go into planning a wedding, and one of the biggest ones is deciding on the wedding venue.

To be sure, finding the perfect wedding venue isn’t easy! While it’s important to choose a venue that is meaningful to the couple, other aspects such as budget, logistics, and availability should also be considered.

The venue you choose for your wedding sets the tone for your event, whether you choose an indoor or outdoor venue. Both have their pros and cons, but thankfully, a venue like Independence Grove offers the best of both worlds.

Why You Should Have an Outdoor Wedding Ceremony

An indoor wedding may be practical, but weather permitting holding an outdoor wedding can be a great option. No matter the season, an outdoor wedding will always look beautiful.

Here’s why:

  • The outdoors provide a gorgeous backdrop for weddings. Humans can build beautiful things, but nothing beats the beauty of nature. Whether in a garden, by the beach, or along a lake, there’s no need to go overboard on decorations because the view is enough. Imagine having your ceremony in the North Patio, with the South Bay in the background. After the ceremony, guests can proceed to have cocktails by the lake, while the couple is having their photos taken by the forest preserve. There’s a covering outside of the main building so that you can still hold cocktails even if it’s drizzling outside.
  • Enough space. Whether you’re having a large or intimate wedding, an outdoor wedding provides enough space to accommodate your wedding guests.
  • Better wedding photos. Photographers cannot emphasize enough how natural lighting is the best for photography. It adds a soft warmth that makes photographs come out looking magical.

Outdoor wedding ceremony in the Native Garden

Outdoor wedding by the lake in Chicago

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April 17, 2018

Katie + Jay’s Colorful Spring Wedding

April 17, 2018

Katie + Jay’s Colorful Spring Wedding

Spring wedding season is in full swing so we wanted to share one of our past favorites!

Katie & Jay’s Independence Grove wedding kicked off our beautiful spring weddings last year. It couldn’t have been a more perfect day with amazing sunshine and gorgeous spring florals.

From their first look and ceremony in the Native Garden to their wedding reception in Audubon Hall, every aspect of their fairytale day was absolute perfection.

All photos captured by the very talented Kristin La Voie Photography.

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December 11, 2017

Jonathan + Emily: Disney Themed Wedding

December 11, 2017

Jonathan + Emily: Disney Themed Wedding

Is there a better fairytale ending than that of a Disney movie? Perhaps not for Jonathan & Emily, a lovely couple who hosted their enchanted disney themed wedding at Independence Grove based on their favorite fairytales.

Their attention to detail was obvious in every aspect of the ceremony and reception, including a fairytale wedding program, glittering princess heels, fresh floral details, gold embellishments, their favorite Disney movie quotes, and of course, a prince waiting for his bride at the end of the aisle.

Photographer Melissa Marie captured these magical images of the day:

Native Garden Wedding at Independence Grove

The Native Garden at Independence Grove in Chicago

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February 14, 2017

Ellyn + Carlo at Independence Grove

February 14, 2017

Ellyn + Carlo at Independence Grove

Valentine’s Day is a wonderful opportunity to honor and show appreciation for all loving relationships — whether they’re romantic partnerships, friendships, or family bonds. As a full service caterer, we have the amazing opportunity to be a part of so many special moments and celebrations in our client’s lives. 

On this very romantic day, we wanted to share the union of a very specialcouple, Ellyn + Carlo, and their gorgeous wedding at Independence Grove that was featured on David Lai Weddings blog.  

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