This Family Used a Vintage Motorcycle Collection to Transform an Empty Warehouse Into a Venue!

What started as an empty warehouse in the Chicago suburbs quickly became this incredibly cool, spacious, open-air venue run by the most charming and creative family. With a few improvements added over time, including the buildout of a custom bar, a catering kitchen, a collection of handmade (by Dad) ceremony benches, and *wait for it* a full wall installation of stacked vintage motorcycles, this mom and pop venue with roll-up glass garage doors has us plotting our next Midwest gathering.

Warehouse 109, this awesome industrial space got its start as a venue after the owners hosted an engagement party for one daughter and a wedding for the other. Fast forward a bit and this is now a truly family-run business. Mom manages staffing while dad keeps the bar stocked and equipment running; one sister handles client coordination and keeps the business on track while the other sister heads up the design and visual scope of events. As one of the sisters puts it, “our family works as a great team, each person fulfilling a role specific to our strengths.” How cute is that!

 

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Curious about starting your own mom and pop venue? After pouring lots of love into the space and hosting those two big events, the family says, “we had a couple friends ask about using the space for parties of their own. We made a simple website with photos from the wedding and things just took off from there!” We love how they make it all seem so approachable. It’s clear that this family isn’t short on talent!

Supper clubs, weddings, parties, pop-up shops, basically any type of event you can dream up would surely shine in this bright, beautiful warehouse. Photographer Megan Hudak of Blossom Lane Photography recently caught up with us about the perks of shooting at Warehouse 109. And – trust us – you want to hear more about this spot. As if the wall of collectible hogs wasn’t enough to loop you in, the vintage Airstream and collection of vintage furnishings is sure to appeal to all your visual senses.

 

Words and Photography by Meagan Hudak of Blossom Lane Photography
 

What have been some of the highlights of your experiences at the venue?

I've enjoyed the raw warehouse feel with intentional architecture and focal points. It really lends itself to being a comfortable and relaxed setting for guests. I enjoy that people are really laid back when they are hanging here for an event. The motorcycles are always a hit with guests. 

Tell us about Warehouse 109. 

I've loved getting to capture events at Warehouse 109. It's one of the most raw and modern event spaces in the Chicago suburbs that I've had the privilege of photographing. The outdoor area is great for guests to hang before, after or during the event and the large glass garage doors make the indoor space feel so open and allow for some pretty natural light to fill the inside. They've added some fun touches to the space with their airstream and vintage cars, motorcycles and custom bar. It has a great atmosphere. The space feels like it can accommodate a large group of people comfortably. 

 

 

What made the venue a great backdrop and setting for photos?

The natural light from the glass garage door made it nice for capturing details in natural light and the outdoor setting has great texture and architecture to frame photos. 

 

 

What were your favorite design elements of the Warehouse 109?

I love the outdoor patio and the large glass garage doors. The wall display of all the motorcycles creates a pretty cool feel as well. 

 

 

What are the MUST DO's in the area of Plainfield, Illinois​?

I toured the Tequileria. Super sweet neighboring businesses.

 

 

Did you meet anyone at Warehouse 109 that you connected with or made a lasting impression?

The family that runs this venue takes so much pride in the space that they designed and run together. They are hands on and very helpful. They do a great job making you feel like you are at home. I've appreciated every time I've seen them. Super sweet, organized and caring family.

 

 

Venue: Warehouse 109 | Photography:  Blossom Lane Photography