When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
RLM Studio
Why RLM Studio is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
RLM Studio is a distinctive and spacious venue located in the Irving Park neighborhood of Chicago, offering an inviting 1,200 square feet of event space under soaring 13-foot ceilings. This studio is designed to be a versatile environment perfect for intimate social and professional gatherings, accommodating up to 50 seated guests comfortably. The venue features a state-of-the-art kitchen that enhances the appeal for hosting events centered around dining, such as rehearsal dinners, couples luncheons, and cocktail hours. Its aesthetic combines warm and cozy elements with a fun and festive atmosphere, making it a great spot for moments that range from casual get-togethers to elegant elopements. Conveniently situated within a short walk from the Irving Park Blue Line and Metra Station, RLM Studio offers easy accessibility to guests traveling from various parts of the city and suburbs. The studio promotes a philosophy of collaboration and tailored service, working closely with clients to turn their vision into reality through a consultative and relationship-driven approach. These characteristics make it an excellent choice for those seeking an intimate, creative space for meaningful celebrations or professional meetings while enjoying the benefits of a well-equipped venue in a vibrant Chicago locale.
Here's what people think of RLM Studio
As of recent, RLM Studio holds a 5-star rating based on 37 reviews.
User reviews for RLM Studio consistently reflect a high level of satisfaction, with the venue boasting a perfect 5.0 rating from 37 reviews. Guests frequently highlight the studio's spaciousness and the impressive 13-foot ceilings, which contribute to an open, airy environment that stands out among small event venues in Chicago. The state-of-the-art kitchen receives praise for facilitating smooth catering and food preparation, enhancing the overall event experience. Many recommend the venue for a variety of event types including rehearsal dinners and intimate cocktail hours, appreciating the warm, cozy ambiance paired with the flexibility to create a fun and festive atmosphere. The location's accessibility, being close to public transit options like the Blue Line and Metra Station, is another positive aspect mentioned in reviews, making it convenient for attendees. On the less favorable side, some reviews imply that the venue's capacity and layout are best suited for smaller gatherings, which might limit its appeal for larger events. A few guests have noted that while the space is well-appointed, personalization and decor depend heavily on external arrangements, meaning clients must plan carefully to fully realize their vision. In conclusion, the overwhelmingly positive feedback affirms RLM Studio’s status as a trusted and valued venue for intimate, well-orchestrated events where personalized attention and a welcoming atmosphere are priorities.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Anna Chumley
We rented this space for an engagement party, sight unseen in person. It could not have been better. Truly everything about the space and location was perfect. My 6’4” blue collar construction husband goes, “well this is cute.” And it was - the organization of the space was well thought out. While we had our own decor to put our own flair on it, the space really was ready to go without any extras. Additionally, It was PERFECTLY set up, so easy for the caterer and bartender to function effectively, and just an overall seamless experience. This space made a family event really go to the next level!!
Molly Scanlon
RLM Studio was the perfect spot for hosting a bridal shower. The space is beautiful and has perfect lighting for photos. Our guests loved the options of sitting at the set tables but also of congregating on the chairs/sofa and there was plenty of room to move around and visit. We used the glasses, plates, and tableware that came with the rental and it made the day so much simpler to not have to worry about bringing in any of those table settings. We also rented extra tables, linens, mimosa bar and coffee from RLM which made set up a breeze.They had all our rentals ready for us when we arrived that morning so all we had to do was set the tables and decorate. Brigitte and the RLM team were wonderful and answered all of my questions. I cannot recommend this space highly enough for your event.
Takahya Nelson
We had an amazing experience! Jordyn, the owner, was absolutely phenomenal—so helpful, professional, and kind from start to finish. All of my guests loved the space! It was beautifully set up, clean, and had everything we needed to enjoy ourselves. The vibe was perfect, and we had a great time. Highly recommend this place for any event!
Emily Alexa Powers
We had our wedding here in early May and could not have asked for a more perfect venue! The RLM Team was so accommodating and responsive, and the space itself was absolutely beautiful. It was perfect for an intimate event, with enough space for us to have a small ceremony and meal after. Cannot recommend enough!!
Elina Asti
I reserved the studio for a video shoot and it was versatile, clean, and spacious for what we needed. Parking was pretty easy too. Would be a perfect spot for a birthday party, corporate meeting, baby shower, or other celebration! It's on a busy street so keep that in mind if you need quiet.
How to reach RLM Studio
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Why RLM Studio may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at RLM Studio with your friends? Because this vibrant, spacious venue is specially designed to foster connection, creativity, and celebration in a way that few other places can match. With a 5.0-star rating from 37 glowing reviews, RLM Studio has clearly established itself as a favorite destination for group meetups, whether you're planning an intimate gathering or a lively celebration. Its unique blend of bright, open space with thoughtful amenities creates an inviting atmosphere where friends can feel both comfortable and inspired. The 1,200 square feet of flexible space, soaring 13-foot ceilings, and ample natural light combine to give a sense of freedom and energy that’s perfect for socializing, collaborating, or just having fun together. Plus, its convenient location near Irving Park, with easy access to public transportation and parking, makes getting there a breeze for everyone. Whether you're rallying to catch up, brainstorm creative projects, or raise a toast to something special, RLM Studio’s welcoming environment sets the perfect stage for memorable moments with the people you care about.
What activities can you enjoy at RLM Studio that make it perfect for a group meetup? The venue offers an impressive range of possibilities tailored to groups who want both relaxed comfort and dynamic spaces. Inside RLM Studio, you’ll find a state-of-the-art kitchen outfitted with stainless steel appliances, oversized subway tiles, and white quartz countertops, allowing your group to prepare meals together, enjoy catered dishes, or bring your own food and drinks, including alcohol. This culinary amenity makes the studio perfect for hosting rehearsal dinners, cocktail hours, or casual luncheons, turning any meetup into a full experience. The 12-foot dining table on casters, surrounded by stylish blue chairs, encourages group conversation and shared meals. For entertainment or presentations, there’s a big-screen Smart TV on a movable stand and a Bluetooth speaker system so you can play your own music playlist. The lounge area adds another space for more casual socializing or quiet breaks, while the flexible floor plan lets you arrange furniture the way your group prefers. This versatility supports everything from festive parties to productive business meetings or creative workshops.
How does RLM Studio’s environment encourage creativity and connection during your meetup? The studio’s bright and airy design with large north- and east-facing windows fills the space with natural light, creating a vibrant, uplifting atmosphere. The 13-foot ceilings enhance the feeling of openness, making it easier to breathe, move, and engage freely—all important when you want to spark ideas or let loose with friends. The thoughtfully designed layout facilitates both group collaboration and more intimate conversations, whether you’re brainstorming creative content or sharing personal stories. The availability of modern audiovisual equipment supports presentations, screenings, or background music, enhancing the experience without overwhelming the space with distractions. This combination of functional design and aesthetic appeal makes RLM Studio an ideal creative hub for artists, entrepreneurs, or anyone who appreciates an inspiring setting for their gatherings.
What convenience factors make RLM Studio stand out as the ideal meetup spot? Location and accessibility are crucial when planning a group event, and RLM Studio excels on both fronts. Situated in the Irving Park neighborhood, just off the US 90/94 expressway, it is a quick and convenient destination from many parts of the city. The studio lies only a five-minute walk from the Irving Park Blue Line station and the Irving Park Metra station, providing excellent public transportation options for guests who prefer not to drive. Street parking is readily available, which is often a significant perk in urban settings. Inside, the studio offers street-level access for easy entry and exit, plus a spacious, single restroom and wheelchair accessibility, ensuring comfort for all attendees. A dedicated cleaning and disinfecting routine after every rental adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind, allowing your group to focus solely on enjoying their time together.
What makes RLM Studio’s service and ambiance perfect for diverse types of group events? This venue prides itself on being adaptable to your vision, whether you are hosting a couples luncheon, rehearsal dinner, corporate meeting, or fun, festive party. The team behind RLM Studio approaches every event with a consultative, relationship-driven mindset, aiming to help clients realize their vision with “unparalleled delivery and execution.” Their openness to customization means you can tailor the space and services to perfectly fit your occasion. The studio also offers optional event planning, styling, and additional services for those who want a more hands-off experience or professional input to elevate their event. This commitment to personalized service, combined with the warm, cozy yet modern décor, creates an inviting ambiance where groups feel comfortable and valued. These touches help transform any gathering from ordinary to extraordinary.
How does RLM Studio accommodate different group sizes and types of meetups? Its capacity of up to 50 seated guests makes it ideal for small to medium-sized events — big enough to include your close circle of friends, family, or colleagues, yet intimate enough to maintain warmth and connection. The flexible furniture and open floorplan mean the space can transition smoothly from a seated dinner to a cocktail-style mixer or a brainstorming workshop. Whether you're looking for a relaxed, casual vibe or a more structured, festive setting, RLM Studio can adapt to your needs. This versatility is a rare find in urban venues, where cramped or fixed layouts often limit event options. The venue’s policies encouraging personal touches like outside food and alcohol, combined with its high-quality kitchen and audio-visual tools, further empower groups to design their gatherings exactly as they envision them.
In what ways does RLM Studio enhance the overall meetup experience through thoughtful extras? Small details add up significantly when you’re hosting an event, and RLM Studio covers these essentials well. The venue features a large, moveable dining table on casters, allowing flexible room arrangements and easy setup. A stylish lounge area provides comfortable seating alternatives, encouraging guests to mingle or relax away from the main table. The availability of LED-touch vanity mirrors with lights upon request offers a unique amenity for groups interested in photography, video content creation, or simply primping before an event. The Bluetooth speakers and flat-screen TV mean your group can enjoy high-quality sound and visuals without the hassle of bringing their own equipment. Plus, the policy allowing amplified music (excluding DJs) strikes a balance between energetic atmosphere and respectful noise control, letting your group have fun without disturbing neighbors.
Why is RLM Studio a smart choice for repeat meetups or a dependable event venue? Many review highlights point to the studio’s professionalism, cleanliness, and flexibility as key reasons groups return. The responsive team and the thorough cleaning protocols foster a sense of trust and reliability, important when organizing recurring meetups or planning events months in advance. The venue’s commitment to refunding cancellations up to seven days prior offers peace of mind for bookings that may need to shift. Whether your group meets monthly for book club discussions, quarterly for brainstorming retreats, or annually for celebrations, RLM Studio’s consistency and adaptability make it an excellent long-term choice. The space’s combination of upscale aesthetics, prime location, and functional design ensures every meetup feels special and runs smoothly.
What kind of groups and occasions thrive best at RLM Studio? The studio’s versatile nature caters to a wide range of gatherings—from creative workshops and art-related meetups to corporate meetings and social parties. Couples' luncheons, rehearsal dinners, elopement celebrations, anniversary parties, and small receptions have all found a home here, proving its appeal across multiple event types. The space also welcomes business uses such as team-building events, product launches, or client presentations, combining professionalism with a creative edge. Groups of friends looking for a cozy, stylish place to reconnect or celebrate find the warm vibe especially inviting. Families can comfortably bring their close-knit group for milestone events, while entrepreneurs and artists appreciate the inspiring, well-equipped setting. This broad appeal underlines RLM Studio’s status as a go-to venue for meaningful, memorable gatherings.
What should you know about booking and preparing for your meetup at RLM Studio? When reserving the studio, it is important to include all required setup and teardown time in your rental request to ensure your group has ample time to prepare and pack up without feeling rushed. The venue’s policy prohibits smoking and confetti, helping maintain a clean and pleasant environment. If your group wishes to use confetti, be prepared for an additional cleaning fee, which protects the quality of the space for future guests. RLM Studio encourages guests to communicate specific needs such as furniture arrangements, AV requirements, or catering services well in advance, so their team can assist in creating the perfect setup. This proactive approach to planning helps events run smoothly and maximizes everyone’s enjoyment.
How does RLM Studio support a safe and welcoming environment for guests? In today’s event landscape, cleanliness and health protocols are more important than ever. RLM Studio follows CDC guidelines diligently and completes thorough cleaning and disinfection after every rental. This ongoing commitment ensures that every guest walks into a spotless, hygienic environment. The venue’s wheelchair accessibility and spacious layout also demonstrate an inclusive philosophy, making everyone feel welcome regardless of physical ability. The management’s clear communication about event rules and refund policies reflects transparency and respect for their clients. This professional, guest-centered approach means you can focus on your meetup with confidence, knowing that safety, respect, and comfort are top priorities.
Overall, RLM Studio offers an outstanding blend of space, amenities, location, and service that makes it a superb choice for gathering with friends or family. Its thoughtfully designed environment, versatile functionality, and welcoming atmosphere empower groups to tailor their meetups exactly as they want, whether for fun, work, or celebration. This venue's strong reputation and glowing reviews further underscore its ability to provide memorable experiences that people want to repeat. If you want a place where you can come together, create, connect, and celebrate in style, RLM Studio is an exceptional option to consider for your next group gathering.