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The Gathering Place Blog


4th of July Fireworks Near Champaign IL
4th of July Firework Finale at The Gathering Place near Champaign, IL The Ultimate Guide to Proposing During These Spectacular Fireworks...
Jun 304 min read
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Perfect Spots for Engagement Pictures in Central Illinois's Best Parks
Explore a park to find your perfect engagement photo op! Here in Central IL, from Champaign to Bloomington-Normal, we have some pretty...
Jun 165 min read
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Unique Yard Games to Elevate Your Champaign IL Party Experience
When planning a party, whether it's a casual get-together, a birthday celebration, or even a wedding reception, having fun activities for...
Jun 24 min read
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Get Your Guests Grooving at Your Champaign IL Wedding
Unleash the Dance Floor Magic: Tips for Getting Your Guests Grooving at Your Champaign IL Wedding One of The Gathering Place's favorite...
May 275 min read
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2026 Graduation Trends at Champaign Illinois Venues
Predicting Up and Coming Trends for 2026 Graduations at Champaign, IL Venues As the 2025 graduation season comes to a close and we begin...
May 224 min read
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Affordable Online Wedding Dresses for Your Central Illinois Wedding
Say Yes to the Dress: Affordable Online Wedding Dresses for Your Central Illinois Dream Wedding I always tell clients who come to tour...
May 125 min read
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Affordable Hotels Near Me for Champaign IL
Finding the Perfect Affordable Hotels Near Me for Your Champaign, IL Wedding Guests Choosing the right hotel for your wedding guests can...
May 56 min read
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A Game Changer for Honeymoon Destinations Beyond Central Illinois
Global Entry and CLEAR - A Game Changer for Honeymoon Destinations As my husband and I prepared for our honeymoon destination, we...
Apr 305 min read
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From Central IL to Your Dream Honeymoon Getaway.
Finding a Honeymoon Getaway You Can Enjoy Without a Passport Seventeen years ago, my husband and I embarked on a journey to a honeymoon...
Apr 228 min read
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Travel Tips for Couples Who Go Together Like Peanut Butter and Pickles
Traveling as a couple for your honeymoon can be an exhilarating and bonding experience. If you're anything like my husband and me, I am...
Apr 183 min read
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Exploring the Best Waterfront Wedding Venues in Central IL: A Hidden Gem
So you're engaged! Now your challenge is to find your perfect venue! Finding that perfect venue may just be one of the most important...
Apr 145 min read
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The Best-Kept Breakfast Secret: Merry Ann's Diner in Champaign, IL
If you're in Champaign, IL, to attend a wedding (or really just anytime!) and looking for a breakfast experience, Merry Ann's Diner is...
Apr 83 min read
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Uncovering Champaign IL's Top Wedding Caterers: A Comprehensive Guide
Choosing the right caterer for your Champaign, IL wedding reception is one of the most critical decisions an engaged couple can make. The...
Apr 24 min read
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Rustic Chic: How to Host an Unforgettable Minimalist Wedding in Rural Central Illinois
So many venue choices can leave a bride feeling completely overwhelmed. However, if you're leaning toward a rustic chic minimalist theme,...
Mar 303 min read
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Seasonal Signature Sips for Your Central IL Wedding Reception
Planning a Central IL wedding is all about the details that make your day special. One simple element that can personalize your indoor or...
Mar 243 min read
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Unconventional Elegance: Incorporating Green Into Your Monticello Illinois Wedding Palette
Incorporating a lively green into your wedding color scheme for your outdoor wedding, can amplify the magic of your big day. The...
Mar 173 min read
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Splurge vs Save
When it comes to Champaign IL weddings, many brides battle what is worth spending a little more money on and what isn’t. It’s important...
Feb 192 min read
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