The Ultimate Guide to Booking Marquee Letter Rentals in Chicago

If you're planning a special event in the Windy City, one décor element that's guaranteed to turn heads is marquee letter rentals. Whether it’s a wedding in marquee letters for rent a birthday bash in Wicker Park, or a business event in downtown Chicago, event marquee letters bring a larger-than-life personality to your celebration.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through exactly how to book marquee letters in Chicago—from choosing your letters to delivery and setup—so your event can shine without stress.

Step 1: Decide What You Want to Say

The first step is figuring out what message you want your marquee letters to display. Keep it simple, bold, and meaningful. Some popular examples include:

Initials: “A & J” for a wedding couple

Phrases: “HAPPY BDAY,” “CHEERS,” “GRAD 2025”

Numbers: Ages, anniversary years, graduation dates

Corporate Branding: Business names, hashtags, acronyms

Tip: Limit the number of letters to fit your space, especially in smaller venues.

Step 2: Choose a Style That Fits Your Event

Marquee letters come in different sizes, colors, and finishes:

Classic White: Great for clean, elegant looks.

Rustic Wood: Ideal for barn weddings or vintage events.

Metallic or Custom Paints: Perfect for modern or high-glam events.

Bulb Types: Choose between warm Edison-style bulbs or cool LED lighting depending on the mood you're going for.

Chicago vendors often offer a catalog or gallery of available styles to help you choose.

Step 3: Find a Reputable Rental Company

Not all rental companies are the same. Look for these key qualities:

Experience with Events: Especially in Chicago venues

Full-Service Options: Delivery, setup, and teardown

Positive Reviews: Check Google, Yelp, and The Knot

Customization Options: Some companies offer colored bulbs, unique fonts, or combo packages with photo booths and balloon displays.

Don't hesitate to ask for photos of past setups—this can give you inspiration and help avoid surprises.

Step 4: Confirm the Logistics

Before you finalize your booking, cover these important logistics:

Event Location: Share your venue details with the rental company.

Timeframe: Confirm when setup and takedown will happen. Many Chicago venues have strict timing windows.

Weather Plan: For outdoor events, ask about weatherproof options or backup plans.

Power Needs: Letters require electricity. Make sure outlets are nearby, or ask about battery-operated versions if needed.

Step 5: Book Early

Marquee letters are in high demand—especially during peak seasons like summer and the holidays. To secure the letters you want:

Book 1–3 months in advance (longer for weddings)

Be ready to pay a deposit

Review the rental agreement carefully, including cancellation policies

Final Thoughts

Renting marquee letters in Chicago is easier than ever—and with the right planning, they can elevate your event’s entire look and feel. From start to finish, these illuminated icons create unforgettable moments, dazzling photos, and a personalized experience your guests will love.

Let your message glow with style. Book early, choose wisely, and light up your Chicago event with marquee letters that speak volumes.