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Writer's pictureDawn Klintworth

Venue Spotlight: The Orpheum Champaign


Olivia and Nathan ~ Champaign, IL ~ September 28, 2024 - The Orpheum


The Orpheum Marquee with the couple's name in 'lights'

Have you ever been to the Orpheum in Champaign? If not, then you are missing out! It is a beautiful venue that we had the pleasure of visiting recently. When it comes to choosing the perfect venue for a wedding reception, couples are often torn between elegance and charm. The Orpheum offers a captivating blend of both, making it an ideal location for couples looking to create an unforgettable celebration.


Every now and again, a couple meets with us (or in this case, her mother, grandmother and sister) and they want the full service package - delivery, setup and teardown. These are fun for us as we get to see different venues and see our products in real life!


Olivia's mother, grandmother and sister reached out to us to set up a consultation for the September 28th wedding reception. This was a unique event in that the couple was planning it from out of state. Olivia's crew showed up with a list in hand, theme in mind - ready to make some decisions! I love it!


I was so excited to learn they had booked the Orpheum Theater in Champaign, IL for their wedding reception. I had heard about this venue and loved the pictures I saw online, but had never seen it in person. I couldn't wait to feast my eyes on it!


The Auditorium of the Orpheum with ornate gold trim, original stage and box seat balconies

Originally built in 1914, the Orpheum Theater has long been a cherished part of the Champaign cultural landscape. Its rich history and stunning architecture create a magical atmosphere that instantly transports guests into a world of sophistication. When built, the Orpheum was modeled after the Opera House of Versailles. While the theater seats have been removed and a platform floor installed to allow for one flat surface from the entrance to stage, the regal elegance of the former Opera House days are still there. The balconies that housed the box seats are still there and while they have been closed off from behind, their grandeur is felt in the large auditorium. The ornate columns, gold trim and dark burgundy draping bring a very regal look to the space.


Upon our arrival, the venue had the tables and mis-matched chairs already set up. All our crew needed to do was put the 'pretty' on the tables. Olivia and her crew chose ivory tablecloths, navy table runners and navy napkins for their linens. They wanted an elegant, art deco look and our crystal globe candle holders and mirror bases were the perfect decor.


The decorated reception table with the ornate gold balconies in the background

Our gold chargers matched the gold trim work of the Orpheum perfectly! And the water goblets gave the table a simple, yet functional look.


Head table at a wedding reception at the Orpheum. Faux florals, gold chargers, navy napkins and twinkling candle light complete the look.

Simple faux florals in white, ivory and blush pink topped off the tables. The colors of the venue were complemented perfectly with the design elements that Olivia's crew picked out. It all tied together seamlessly and created a very elegant look that was not overpowering. And who doesn't love the soft glow of candlelight?


Mirror welcoming guests to the wedding of Olivia and Nathan.

The venue also offers a two-story front foyer where cocktail hour can be held. The vintage chandeliers and ornate décor makes for a very cozy setting that your guests won't soon forget. They offer an outdoor courtyard space as well.


If you are looking for a unique venue to host your next event, whether it's a wedding reception, class reunion, holiday party or even a business retreat, the Orpheum is one venue I would definitely suggest you look into.


Check out their website here: https://www.orpheumchampaign.com/




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