My Favorite Chicago Venues for Luxury Events & Brand Activations

Planning a luxury event or brand activation in Chicago? Whether you're organizing an elegant soirée, a high-end pop-up, or an immersive brand experience, the Windy City offers an impressive range of venues that blend sophistication with versatility. As a calligrapher and creative professional who’s partnered with luxury brands and curated elevated experiences, I’ve had the pleasure of working at some of the most iconic and stylish locations the city has to offer. Here are my top Chicago venue picks for luxury events and brand activations:

Downtown Chicago views from North Michigan Avenue—an inspiring city backdrop for luxury calligraphy, engraving, and live event personalization.

1. Nordstrom Michigan Avenue – Sophisticated Retail Chic : My First in the List of the Best Chicago Venues for Luxury Events

Nordstrom’s flagship store on Michigan Avenue is more than just a shopping destination—it's an exceptional space for in-store events, product launches, and experiential activations. With its sleek interiors and luxury clientele, Nordstrom is ideal for brands seeking a modern, fashion-forward backdrop for their events.

Why I love it: The open floor plan and high-end aesthetic offer a canvas for creative, design-forward activations that feel both exclusive and approachable.

2. Saks Fifth Avenue – Timeless Glamour Meets Retail Prestige

Hosting an event at Saks Fifth Avenue is synonymous with elevated style. This iconic department store is perfect for luxury trunk shows, designer showcases, or premium gifting experiences.

Ideal for: Beauty launches, fashion partnerships, and high-end calligraphy stations (my favorite kind of pop-up!).

The iconic Saks Fifth Avenue on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile—an elegant venue for luxury calligraphy and live engraving events that elevate client experiences.

3. The Peninsula Chicago – Five-Star Sophistication

Known for its impeccable service and stunning rooftop views, The Peninsula Hotel is a go-to for luxury galas, intimate VIP gatherings, and polished corporate events. The ambiance is refined yet inviting, making it an exceptional choice for upscale brand activations.

Pro tip: Their event spaces pair beautifully with live calligraphy, monogramming, or custom stationery experiences to elevate guest engagement.

4. The InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile – Historic Elegance

The InterContinental Hotel blends old-world architecture with modern luxury, making it a standout venue for large-scale brand events and elegant receptions. Its ballrooms and private spaces can be tailored to suit both contemporary and traditional aesthetics.

Great for: Elevated product reveals, cocktail-style activations, and black-tie affairs.

The historic InterContinental Chicago on Michigan Avenue—an elegant and iconic venue for luxury calligraphy activations and live engraving events that leave a lasting impression.

5. Untitled Supper Club – Speakeasy Vibes with a Lux Twist

Looking for something a little different? Untitled Supper Club is a moody, opulent venue that’s ideal for brand events that embrace a sultry, art-deco-inspired aesthetic.

Perfect for: Private dinners, cocktail receptions, and immersive storytelling events with a luxury twist.

6. Binny’s Beverage Depot – Unexpected & Experiential

Yes, Binny’s might be known as Chicago’s top wine and spirits retailer—but it's also a fantastic venue for unique activations. From private tasting rooms to wine-focused events, Binny’s can be an unconventional yet on-brand location for beverage, hospitality, and lifestyle experiences.

Standout use: Live engraving on glassware or bottles adds a personal, premium touch guests won’t forget.

7. The Drake Hotel – Classic Chicago Glamour

A staple of Chicago’s Gold Coast, The Drake Hotel offers a blend of rich history and timeless elegance. It's perfect for brands that want to align with tradition, legacy, and iconic Chicago style.

My favorite touch: The grand spaces are ideal for creating immersive experiences with vintage flair and luxurious personalization.

The iconic Palm Court at The Drake Hotel—an exquisite setting for luxury calligraphy and engraving events that elevate any celebration with timeless elegance.

8. Neiman Marcus – Luxe Retail Experiences

If you’re looking to host a chic, style-forward activation, Neiman Marcus delivers. The store's luxury reputation and elegant design make it a favorite for upscale pop-ups, influencer events, and bespoke personalization experiences.

Why it shines: The refined environment perfectly complements luxury calligraphy services, gifting stations, or live monogramming.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right venue sets the tone for your entire event or brand experience. Whether you're activating a premium product, hosting an elegant celebration, or offering clients a bespoke gifting experience, these top Chicago venues deliver atmosphere, prestige, and endless creative potential.

If you're planning your next luxury event or brand activation and want to incorporate custom calligraphy, live lettering, or personalized guest experiences, I’d love to collaborate!

Let’s create something unforgettable.