Hiring a wedding planner can be one of the best decisions you make during your planning journey — but choosing the right one is key. The right planner will guide you, support your vision and make the process feel effortless. The wrong one? Not so much.

At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we work alongside incredible planners every day — and we also offer support through our experienced in-house event team. Whether you’re hiring a full-service planner or just looking for guidance, here are the top questions to ask — and a few red flags to avoid.

Top 10 questions to ask a wedding planner

1. How many weddings do you take on at once?

You want to make sure your planner has the time and bandwidth to give your wedding the attention it deserves.

2. What services are included in your packages?

Some planners offer full-service planning, while others focus on day-of coordination. Make sure you understand exactly what’s included.

3. Have you worked at our venue before?

Experience at your venue — like Abbington — can be a huge advantage. Familiarity with the space, layout and timing makes everything smoother.

4. Do you have preferred vendors you work with?

Many planners collaborate with trusted professionals. You can also explore Abbington’s preferred vendors to find experienced partners who already know the venue.

5. How do you handle budgeting?

A great planner helps you stay on track financially, guiding you on where to invest and where to save.

6. What does your communication style look like?

Will you be emailing, texting or meeting regularly? Clear communication is essential for a stress-free experience.

7. How do you handle unexpected issues?

Things happen — weather changes, vendor delays, last-minute adjustments. A strong planner will have contingency plans in place.

8. Will you be there on the wedding day?

Some companies assign different coordinators. Make sure you know who will actually be managing your event.

9. Can you walk us through a typical wedding day timeline?

This helps you understand how organized and experienced they are — and how your day will flow.

10. Can we see reviews or speak with past clients?

Testimonials and referrals provide real insight into how a planner performs under pressure.

5 Red Flags to Watch For

Just as important as knowing what to ask is knowing what to avoid. Here are five warning signs to keep in mind:

• 1. Slow or inconsistent communication: If they’re hard to reach now, it won’t improve later.
• 2. Lack of clear pricing: Vague or confusing packages can lead to unexpected costs.
• 3. No backup plan: Every professional planner should have contingency strategies.
• 4. Limited experience or portfolio: You want someone with proven success, not guesswork.
• 5. They don’t listen to your vision: Your wedding should reflect you — not the planner’s personal style.

Why the right planning team matters

Your wedding planner is more than just an organizer — they’re your partner in bringing your vision to life. From coordinating vendors to managing timelines, the right planner makes the entire process smoother and more enjoyable.

At Abbington, couples benefit from working with a venue that already provides expert support. Our in-house team works closely with planners and vendors to ensure every detail is executed flawlessly.

Plan with confidence at Abbington

Whether you’re hiring a planner or leaning on experienced venue support, having the right team in place makes all the difference. If you’re looking for wedding venues in the Chicago area, banquet halls in Glen Ellyn or private event venues in the West Chicago suburbs, Abbington Distinctive Banquets offers the expertise and elegance to make your day unforgettable.

Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour to start planning your wedding with confidence.

Once you’ve secured your venue and wedding date, one of the next big questions couples ask is: “When should we send our save the dates and invitations?” Timing plays a huge role in guest attendance, travel planning and overall organization — especially if you’re hosting guests from out of town.

At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we guide couples through every step of the planning process, including communication timelines. Here’s a simple, stress-free breakdown of when to send save the dates and invitations — plus how to choose between digital and traditional paper options.

When to send save the dates

Save the dates are your guests’ first official heads-up. They don’t need all the details — just enough information to reserve the date and begin travel planning.

Ideal timing:

• 6–8 months before your wedding for local guests
• 8–12 months in advance for destination weddings or heavy out-of-town attendance

If your wedding falls on a holiday weekend, during peak travel season, or involves guests flying into Chicago, sending save the dates on the earlier side is always a good idea.

What to include on a save the date

Keep it simple. Save the dates typically include:

• Your names
• Wedding date
• City and venue name
• A note that a formal invitation will follow

Many couples also include their wedding website URL so guests can begin gathering travel information.

When to send formal wedding invitations

Wedding invitations provide all the important details your guests need to officially RSVP.

Ideal timing:

• 6–8 weeks before the wedding for local guests
• 8–10 weeks in advance for destination or holiday weddings

Sending invitations too early can lead to forgotten RSVPs, while sending them too late may limit guests’ ability to attend — especially those arranging flights or hotel stays.

When should RSVPs be due?

A good rule of thumb is to set your RSVP deadline 3–4 weeks before the wedding. This gives you enough time to:

• Finalize guest counts
• Confirm seating layouts
• Submit menu selections to your venue

Abbington’s experienced in-house planning team helps couples align RSVP deadlines with catering and event timelines to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Digital vs. paper save the dates and invitations

Modern couples have more options than ever when it comes to wedding stationery. There’s no wrong choice — just what fits your style and priorities.

Digital options

Digital save the dates and invitations are increasingly popular, especially for tech-savvy couples.

• Quick delivery and easy updates
• Lower cost
• Eco-friendly
• Integrated RSVP tracking

Digital works especially well for save the dates, weekday weddings, and casual celebrations.

Paper options

Traditional paper invitations remain a favorite for formal weddings.

• Elegant and timeless presentation
• A tangible keepsake for guests
• Wide variety of textures, finishes and designs

Many couples choose a hybrid approach — digital save the dates paired with printed invitations.

Special timing considerations

You may want to adjust your timeline if:

• Your wedding falls near a major holiday
• Most guests are traveling from out of state
• You’re hosting a destination or multi-day celebration
• You’re planning a winter wedding with seasonal travel considerations

In these cases, earlier communication helps guests plan comfortably and confidently.

Let Abbington help you stay on schedule

From guest counts to seating layouts, communication timelines matter. When you host your celebration at Abbington, our team helps ensure your planning milestones stay on track — including invitation timing, RSVP deadlines and final confirmations.

Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering or a grand celebration in the West Chicago suburbs, Abbington offers the guidance, flexibility and hospitality you need. Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour to start planning with confidence.

Wedding planning is exciting — but it’s also filled with advice, opinions and “rules” that can overwhelm even the most laid-back couple. The truth? Many of the things you’ve heard about planning a wedding simply aren’t true. At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we help couples plan unforgettable celebrations every week, so we’ve heard just about every myth out there. Let’s debunk the most common ones!

1. “You have to plan your wedding at least two years in advance.”

While some couples choose a long engagement, it’s far from required. Plenty of stunning weddings come together beautifully in 12 months — or even 6 months — especially when you choose a venue with an experienced in-house planning team. (Hi, that’s us!)

2. “Weddings must happen on a Saturday.”

Saturday is popular, but Fridays and Sundays are becoming just as trendy. Weekday weddings are also on the rise — they come with great availability, and sometimes even better pricing.

3. “Bigger weddings are more expensive.”

Not always! Costs depend on menu, décor, season and vendor choices. Some intimate weddings end up being more elaborate (and pricey) than large classic receptions. Your vision determines your budget — not your headcount.

4. “DIY always saves money.”

Sometimes DIY projects cost more in time, materials and stress than hiring a professional. Plus, pros ensure everything looks polished. Leave décor, florals and production to the experts — you should be relaxing and enjoying the planning process.

5. “You have to invite everyone you know.”

Nope! Invite the people who matter most. Your wedding should feel meaningful, not obligatory. The trend toward smaller, heartfelt celebrations is stronger than ever.

6. “All vendors book up immediately.”

Some vendors do book early — like photographers and bands — but others have more flexibility. That’s why working with Abbington’s in-house event team is so helpful. We guide you through the ideal booking order and connect you with trusted pros.

7. “You have to stick to tradition.”

No rulebook required. First looks, walking down the aisle alone, mismatched bridal parties, themed weddings — couples are personalizing everything. Your day should feel like YOU.

8. “You need a huge budget for a beautiful wedding.”

Not true. Thoughtful planning, choosing a versatile venue and working with experienced coordinators can create a breathtaking celebration at any budget. Off-peak dates, winter weddings and Fridays often offer great value.

9. “Planning is stressful from start to finish.”

It doesn’t have to be. With the right venue and support team, wedding planning can be smooth, organized and (dare we say it?) actually fun. Abbington’s culinary team, coordinators and preferred vendors simplify every step.

10. “Something always goes wrong.”

While little surprises can pop up, a strong vendor team prevents most hiccups — and handles everything behind the scenes so you never even know. Your only job on your wedding day is to enjoy every moment.

Don’t let the myths fool you

Wedding planning is a journey, and you deserve guidance rooted in experience — not outdated rules or internet rumors. Whether you’re planning 18 months ahead or pulling things together quickly, Abbington Banquets is here to help you every step of the way. Explore our wedding packages, meet our in-house planning team and schedule a tour when you’re ready to start planning a celebration that reflects your vision — not the myths.

The moment you get engaged, the excitement kicks in — and so does the planning. Some vendors book out over a year in advance, while others have more flexibility. Knowing the right order can save you stress, time and potential disappointment.

At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn, we’ve helped thousands of couples plan unforgettable weddings. Here’s the ideal order to book your vendors based on importance, demand and overall availability, starting from the very first step.

1. Your Venue (12–18 months in advance)

Your venue sets your wedding date, location and overall vision — so it should always be the very first vendor you book. From there, everything else (guest count, décor style, ceremony timing) falls into place.

Abbington’s elegant ballrooms, flexible layouts and convenient location near Chicago and Naperville make it a top choice for couples planning ahead. Once your date is secured with us, you can move confidently into the rest of the planning process.

2. Your Wedding Planner (12–18 months)

If you are hiring a full-service wedding planner, book them immediately after securing your venue. Planners help manage timelines, budgets and vendor recommendations — and the best ones get booked early.

Even if you’re not hiring an outside planner, Abbington’s in-house event team can guide you through key planning decisions from day one.

3. Photographer & Videographer (10–14 months)

Photography and videography are among the fastest-booking vendors because they can only take one event per day. If you have a particular style or artist in mind, reach out early.

• Most book up during peak season (May–October)
• Popular weekend dates often fill first
• Engagement sessions may also be scheduled

4. Officiant / Ceremony Venue (9–12 months)

If you are getting married in a church, synagogue or other religious institution, check availability right after booking your reception venue. Many officiants book well in advance, especially for holiday weekends and summer Saturdays.

5. Caterer (if not provided by your venue) (9–12 months)

At Abbington, our award-winning culinary team provides all food & beverage in-house — so couples don’t need to search for a separate caterer. But if you’re hosting additional events (like a welcome dinner or farewell brunch), you may book those caterers during this stage.

6. DJ or Band (8–12 months)

Entertainment is a major factor in the experience your guests will remember. Bands typically book faster than DJs because of limited availability, but both should be secured early if you have a preferred style or group.

• Bands may book 12–18 months out
• DJs often book 8–12 months out

7. Florist (6–10 months)

Your florist plays a huge role in bringing your wedding vision to life — bouquets, centerpieces, ceremony décor and more. High-end floral designers, or those with a signature style, often book quickly.

8. Hair & Makeup (6–9 months)

Beauty teams, especially those who do on-site styling, can only take a limited number of weddings per day. Booking early ensures you get the artist whose style matches your vision.

9. Transportation (6–9 months)

If you’re booking limousines, buses or shuttles for hotel guests, secure them early — especially if your wedding coincides with prom season, graduation or major Chicago-area events.

10. Cake Designer (4–6 months)

Cake artists vary widely in availability. Some take only a few weddings per week, while others are more flexible. Schedule your tasting early if you’re dreaming of a custom design.

11. Rentals, Décor & Specialty Vendors (3–6 months)

This includes photo booths, uplighting, draping, custom furniture, signage and other specialty elements. Booking early guarantees better selection and availability.

12. Stationery (3–6 months)

Save-the-dates should be sent 6–9 months before the wedding and invitations 6–8 weeks before — so booking your stationery vendor early ensures enough time for design, print and delivery.

13. Rehearsal Dinner & Hotel Blocks (3–6 months)

If you’re reserving a private dining room or hotel block, secure these once your guest count becomes clearer. Winter weddings often have more availability, while summer weekends near Chicago book up quickly.

14. Final Touches (1–3 months)

This stage includes small but meaningful vendors such as:

• Favors & gifts
• Welcome bags
• Transportation signage
• Late-night snacks

Let Abbington help you make the perfect vendor list

Our experienced in-house coordinating team works with trusted photographers, entertainers, florists and more — and we’re happy to share recommendations based on your style and budget. As soon as you book Abbington Distinctive Banquets, you gain access to our team’s planning expertise, preferred vendor lists and timeline guidance.

Your planning journey starts with the right venue

Whether you’re getting married in the West Chicago suburbs, Glen Ellyn or Naperville, your wedding planning begins with securing the perfect venue. Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour today and start checking off your planning list with confidence.

If you’re newly engaged (congratulations!), one of the first big questions you may be asking is: “How far in advance should we start planning our wedding?” The truth is, every couple’s timeline is unique — but there are industry best practices that can help you secure your dream venue, book top vendors and enjoy a smooth, stress-free planning experience.

At Abbington Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn — just minutes from Chicago, Naperville and Downers Grove — we’ve helped thousands of couples turn their vision into a flawless celebration. Here’s a helpful breakdown of how early to start planning and what to expect along the way.

The ideal planning window: 12–18 months

Most couples begin planning 12–18 months in advance. This window gives you the best chance to book popular venues and vendors, especially if you’re aiming for a wedding during peak season (May–October). Starting a year or more ahead ensures that:

• You can secure your preferred wedding date
• You’ll have first pick of photographers, florists, DJs and planners
• You can take your time choosing a theme, color palette and décor
• Family and friends have ample time to make travel arrangements

If you’re looking at a high-demand time of year or a holiday weekend, the earlier you start, the better.

Planning 9–12 months in advance

If you’re working with a slightly shorter timeline, don’t worry — many weddings are successfully planned in 9 to 12 months. The key is to lock in the major components early:

• Choose and book your venue
• Set your budget and guest list
• Book your officiant and primary vendors
• Secure hotel blocks for out-of-town guests

At Abbington, our grand ballroom and flexible floor plans make it easy to design a stunning event even with a shorter lead time. Our team can help you streamline decisions and stay organized.

Planning 6 months or less — yes, it’s possible!

Short-engagement weddings are becoming increasingly popular. With the right support, you can plan a beautiful wedding in six months or fewer — especially if you’re flexible with dates or open to an elegant weekday celebration. Benefits of a shorter timeline include:

• Potential savings on off-peak dates
• Less time spent overthinking details
• Faster vendor responses and availability during quieter seasons

Winter weddings, in particular, offer exceptional availability and value. Abbington’s stunning indoor spaces, sparkling chandeliers and seasonal décor make winter celebrations warm, festive and luxurious.

Why your venue matters for your timeline

Your venue is the anchor for your entire planning process. Once you secure your date and location, everything else falls into place. Abbington’s convenient location near both Chicago airports, exceptional culinary team and spacious ballrooms make us a top choice for couples across the West Chicago suburbs.

We recommend scheduling a tour as early as possible to explore availability, especially for Saturday evenings and popular seasonal dates.

Lean on Abbington’s expert event team

No matter when you start planning, you don’t have to do it alone. Abbington offers an experienced in-house event planning team ready to guide you through timelines, vendor recommendations and every detail leading up to the big day. Whether you’re working with an 18-month timeline or planning within a few months, our team ensures your wedding is beautifully organized and perfectly executed.

Your dream day starts whenever you’re ready

There is no “right” amount of time to plan a wedding — there is only what works best for you as a couple. Whether you’re dreaming of a grand celebration or a timeless intimate affair, Abbington Banquets is here to bring your vision to life.

Ready to begin? Explore our wedding packages or schedule a tour today.

Finding the perfect venue can make all the difference in your event planning. Located in Glen Ellyn, just outside Chicago, The Abbington blends elegance, versatility and impeccable service. From romantic weddings to corporate training sessions, we provide a stunning backdrop and exceptional amenities to make every occasion unforgettable.

Weddings at The Abbington: where dreams begin

Your wedding day deserves nothing less than perfection. Our ballrooms feature timeless architecture, glittering chandeliers and beautifully appointed interiors. Here’s why couples from Naperville to Downers Grove choose Abbington:

• Customizable spaces: Whether you’re hosting an intimate ceremony or a grand reception, our spaces adapt to your vision.
• All‑inclusive packages: Enjoy stress‑free planning with catering, décor and coordination handled by our expert team.
• Picture‑perfect moments: Elegant interiors and garden settings offer photo opportunities to cherish.

For detailed package options, explore our wedding packages.

Banquets and celebrations: gather in style

The Abbington is the go‑to destination for banquets and milestone celebrations. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a quinceañera or a gala dinner, our venue adds a touch of sophistication:

• Perfect for any occasion: Anniversaries, fund‑raisers, holiday parties and more—our flexible spaces make planning easy.
• Catering excellence: Our culinary team crafts delicious menus that can be customized to your theme.
• Spacious ballrooms: Host small gatherings or large parties with ease.

Learn more about our menus on the Food & Beverage page.

Corporate events and trainings: elevate your meetings

Looking for a professional and inviting space for your next corporate event? The Abbington offers the tools and ambiance to make your meeting a success:

• Modern amenities: State‑of‑the‑art audiovisual equipment and high‑speed internet support presentations and hybrid meetings.
• Breakout rooms: Ideal for team‑building, workshops and brainstorming sessions.
• Catering options: From coffee breaks to formal luncheons, our food keeps your team focused.

Plan your next conference or training in one of the finest corporate event spaces near Chicago on our Corporate Events page.

Birthdays and more: celebrate with charm

Make your birthday or special occasion a day to remember at The Abbington. Our venue offers:

• Intimate gatherings: Host close family and friends in a cozy, stylish setting.
• Themed celebrations: Bring your vision to life with personalized décor and menu options.
• Memorable experiences: Our attentive staff ensures your celebration stands out.

Why choose The Abbington?

Our versatility, convenient location and expert team are just some of the reasons people choose Abbington. Situated near I‑88 and I‑355, our venue is easily accessible from Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Our experienced staff handles every detail, allowing you to relax and enjoy your event.

Book your event today

Ready to experience one of the premier banquet halls near Chicago? Whether you’re celebrating love, success or life’s milestones, contact us today to schedule a tour. Discover why The Abbington is the perfect venue for weddings, corporate gatherings and private events in Glen Ellyn.

Your wedding day should reflect your love story—and at The Abbington Distinguished Banquets, we’re here to help you craft a celebration that’s uniquely yours. From elegant décor to impeccable service, our team in Glen Ellyn is dedicated to bringing your vision to life.

Newly remodeled spaces

Our recently renovated ballrooms offer a perfect blend of elegance and versatility. Neutral décor provides a sophisticated backdrop that can be customized with your chosen colours, florals and lighting schemes. With spacious dance floors, sparkling chandeliers and modern amenities, you’ll have everything you need for a picture‑perfect celebration.

Expert planning and attention to detail

Planning your dream wedding should be an exciting experience, not a stressful one. Our experienced team walks you through every step—from your initial consultation to the final send‑off. We offer comprehensive services including personalized menu design, floor plan layouts, timeline management and vendor coordination. That way, you can enjoy your day knowing that every detail has been handled with care.

Recognized excellence

The Abbington is proud to be featured on The Knot, Best of Zola and Wedding Wire. Our dedication to service and style has earned us industry accolades and rave reviews. Read more about our recent Best Weddings 2024 win and discover why couples throughout the West Chicago suburbs choose Abbington for their most important day.

Schedule a tour today

Seeing our stunning spaces in person is the best way to imagine your dream wedding. We invite you to contact us to schedule a tour and learn how we can tailor our venue to your style. Whether you’re searching for wedding venues in Glen Ellyn, banquet halls near Naperville or private event venues in Downers Grove, The Abbington is ready to make your dream wedding a reality.