Micro Weddings. Major Love.

The premiere micro wedding space of Edwardsville, IL

Dream it.

At Essential Venue, we believe in the power of love and the beauty of intimate gatherings. Our intimate and inviting atmosphere sets the perfect scene for your dream wedding, allowing you to focus on the romance and connection between you and your partner. With our attention to detail and personalized service, we strive to make your special day as magical and unforgettable as your love story.

Experience it.

As newlyweds, you'll feel swept away by the magic of your wedding day at Essential Venue. Our event space provides the perfect backdrop for your romantic celebration. From the moment you exchange your vows to the final dance of the night, you'll be filled with joy and surrounded by love in our inviting and warm atmosphere.

Wedding Details

  • Booking Essential Venue provides the flexibility to create a custom atmosphere for your event. The venue comfortably hosts 60 guests for a seated dinner or up to 80 guests for a standing cocktail-style reception.

  • Whether you choose a popular caterer or bring in your favorite family recipes, you’ll be able to serve your guests precisely as you desire. We are located directly next door to 1818 Chophouse, which is a great catering option.

    Our kitchen prep area includes ample counter space, a refrigerator, and a sink that can all be hidden from guest view with pipe and drape.

  • As it pertains to alcohol service at Essential Venue, our customers have 3 options:

    1) Hire a vendor with an Illinois catering license and an Illinois Basset Training certification to bring and serve alcohol at your event

    2) Purchase alcohol directly from Essential Venue, according to guest count, and hire an individual with an Illinois Basset Training certification to serve alcohol at your event

    3) Purchase alcohol directly from Essential Venue, according to guest count, and hire a bartending contractor provided by Essential Venue (our contracted bar tenders are subject to availability on your event date)

    Guests may also use our kegerator for on-tap beer!

  • A smaller venue shouldn’t mean a smaller list of amenities. Round or long dining tables are paired with acrylic Chiavari chairs, and your choice of linen with charger plates will offer an elegant setting for your wedding.

    Our digital photo booth is also included with booking at no additional charge. View our brochure for a full list of included amenities.

  • Trace on the Parkway is Edwardsville’s newest, bustling residential and retail community. Located conveniently off Illinois Route 157, the Parkway will be easy for guests to access. Trace on the Parkway is 0.5 miles from both the Holiday Inn Express and the TownePlace Suites. 25 minutes from St. Louis, we are an excellent choice for hosts looking to accommodate guests from both sides of the river.

  • Elopements and micro weddings may book the venue for the entire day (9 am-11 pm)

    Wedding rates begin at $1500 and include a bartender and photobooth with a personalized digital background.