Towering over the University of Pittsburgh, Heinz Chapel is an iconic landmark and a coveted venue for couples seeking a truly special wedding ceremony. My husband and I were married in Heinz Chapel, so I’m extra-invested in my couple’s hosting their wedding ceremonies in this beautiful Pittsburgh venue! This expert guide walks you through the Heinz Chapel wedding cost and reservation of one of Pittsburgh’s most loved chapels!
With its grandeur comes questions, especially around cost and availability. Not to worry, though, because this guide unveils the intricacies of renting Heinz Chapel for your wedding, demystifying the process and helping you plan your dream ceremony within budget. Having photographed tons of weddings at Heinz Chapel and working closely with the coordinators, I know a lot of the details on how to get your ideal date and time on the calendar!
Renting Your Slice of History:
Heinz Chapel offers various rental options, catering to both full-fledged ceremonies and more intimate events. Here’s a breakdown of the key points:
A La Carte Space Rental:
- Perfect for weekday weddings or unique celebrations like engagement sessions and vow renewals.
- Heinz Chapel Wedding cost – Hourly rates range from $400 to $600, depending on timing and guest count.
- Some of my couples host more intimate weddings, and this is a great option for them!
Full Weekend Ceremony Options:
- 5 slots are available starting in 2024: Friday at 3 PM, Saturday at noon, 2:30 PM, and 5 PM, and Sunday at 3:30 PM.
- This personalized approach ensures more attention per couple and minimizes overlap.
- Heinz Chapel Wedding cost – Choosing one of these dedicated times requires a separate fee of $2000, not included in the a la carte option.
- This option also allows adding extra time to existing bookings for décor, photography, and other needs.
Additional Perks:
- Pre-Ceremony Time: Ease into your special day with an extra 15 minutes for settling in, vendor setup, and capturing precious moments.
- Last-Minute Bookings: While advance planning is recommended, the chapel can accommodate shorter notice weddings upon request.
Reservation Process:
- Plan Ahead: Reservations can be made up to 2 years in advance via email. Dates open on the first day of the month at midnight.
- The Waitlist Myth: Don’t fret about a waitlist! Reservations are handled on a rolling basis, ensuring fairness and transparency.
- Virtual Tours: Out-of-town couples can explore the chapel virtually before scheduling an in-person tour.
Beyond the Heinz Chapel Wedding Cost:
Remember, the cost is just one aspect of your Heinz Chapel wedding. Consider additional factors like:
- Officiant: While the chapel offers officiant recommendations, you can choose your own officiant. You can be married by your priest or a family friend, which is great for all couples.
- Music: Organist services are available, but hiring additional musicians is encouraged. They have lots of options and ideas for music – from traditional Catholic music to more modern takes. Just ask!
- Photography: The chapel has restrictions on photography, so ensure your photographer understands the guidelines. I know the chapel inside-and-out, and have photographed numerous weddings here!
- Decorations: The chapel has specific rules regarding decorations, so plan accordingly. The coordinators can tell you what can be brought in, although they usually do err on the side of flexibility, so bring your ideas to them!
Planning Tips:
- Contact the Chapel Early: Reach out well in advance, especially for popular wedding dates.
- Be Flexible: Consider weekday or off-peak times for cost savings and increased availability.
- Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to clarify any doubts about the process or policies. The Heinz Chapel staff is the best!
- Explore Other Services: The chapel offers additional services like rehearsal space and parking, which may incur additional costs.
By understanding the rental options, reservation process, and additional considerations, you can confidently embark on your journey to securing your dream wedding at the iconic Heinz Chapel. Remember, with careful planning and a touch of flexibility, you can turn your vision into a reality within budget, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
For further details and inquiries, visit the Heinz Chapel website: https://www.heinzchapel.pitt.edu/weddings
Happy planning!
