This week’s Martini Mondays felt extra special—and honestly, a little surreal.
For the first time ever, we took the podcast out of my mom’s dining room (yes… where my husband, kids, and I are currently living 😂) and into one of Chicago’s most stunning boutique hotels: the Kimpton Gray. And let me tell you… she delivered.
We sat down in Volume 39, their moody, speakeasy-style cocktail lounge, sipping espresso martinis (with a little twist—hello whiskey version 👀) and chatting all things weddings with Mariah, the hotel’s event manager.
And if you’re planning a wedding weekend in Chicago… you’re going to want to keep reading.
The Vibe: Historic Meets Modern Luxury
From the second you walk in, you feel it.
The Kimpton Gray blends historic Chicago architecture (think marble staircases dating back to 1893) with modern, curated luxury. It’s chic, intentional, and feels like a hidden gem in the heart of downtown.
It’s giving:
- Elevated but not stuffy
- Romantic but still cool
- Classic Chicago with a modern edge
Basically… my dream combination.
You Can Host Your Entire Wedding Weekend Here
One of my favorite takeaways from this episode?
You can literally host everything here.
We’re talking:
- Welcome drinks
- Rehearsal dinner
- Ceremony & reception
- After party
- Wedding brunch
And the best part? Each event can happen in a completely different space—so your guests feel like they’re experiencing something new all weekend, without ever leaving the building.
Spaces We’re Obsessed With
Volume 39 (Where We Filmed 🎥)
Your perfect welcome party spot.
Think: cocktails, small plates, moody lighting, and guests flowing in and out.
Boleo (13th Floor)
A tropical, glass-roof restaurant overlooking the Chicago skyline (hi, Willis Tower 👋).
Perfect for cocktails, apps, or even part of your reception flow.
The Ballroom
For a more traditional moment—chandeliers, elegance, and that classic wedding feel.
Full Floor Buyouts
Yes, you can literally take over an entire floor for your wedding.
Which… obsessed.
The Rooms = A Bridal Stylist’s Dream
As someone who is with my brides all day long, getting-ready space is everything—and this is where the Kimpton Gray really shines.
Because the building used to be offices, the rooms are larger than your typical hotel rooms (major win when you have dresses, glam teams, moms, bridesmaids… chaos 😂).
My Pick: The Presidential Suite
- One bedroom + two bathrooms (game changer)
- Space to separate from the chaos when needed
- Big, comfortable lounge area for your crew
It’s giving calm, collected bride energy… even if everything else is a little hectic.
The Signature Touch That Stole the Show
You know I love a moment—and this one is GOOD.
✨ Espresso Martini Towers ✨
Yes. Towers.
Not only is it such a fun visual moment, but also… weddings are long days. That little caffeine boost mid-reception? Genius.
Beyond that, their beverage team can customize cocktails to match anything:
- Your wedding vibe
- Your favorite flavors
- Even your dog’s name (because obviously 🐶)
Favorite Wedding Moment Ever
Mariah shared one of the most emotional moments she’s seen—and I am officially telling every bride to do this:
A private last dance.
After the reception ends, guests step out, and the couple gets the room to themselves for one final song.
Just the two of them.
City lights.
A moment to actually feel what just happened.
And honestly… that’s what it’s all about.
Why This Matters (From Me, Your Stylist + Best Friend)
We talked about this during the episode, and it stuck with me:
It’s so easy to get caught up in the details—the dress, the timeline, the drama, the everything.
But at the core of it all?
It’s about your connection and commitment.
And what I love about a place like the Kimpton Gray is that it allows you to curate an entire wedding experience, not just a day.
From your welcome drinks to your final brunch look… it all flows, it all feels intentional, and it all becomes part of your story.
Martini Mondays x Kimpton Gray Giveaway 🍸
We also announced a very good giveaway:
✨ 2-night stay in a suite
✨ $150 food & beverage credit
Perfect for:
- A wedding weekend stay
- A mini-moon
- Or honestly… a much-needed mom escape 😂
Head to Instagram for all the details and how to enter.
Final Thoughts
If you’re getting married in Chicago—or even just visiting—put the Kimpton Gray on your list.
Come for a cocktail at Volume 39.
Tour the spaces.
Talk to the team.
And if you’re my bride?
Just know… I already have about 15 outfit ideas for this venue alone 😉
