If you’ve ever admired the magnificent stained glass windows, iconic red doors, or charming English-style garden, you might have wondered what it takes to host a ceremony at Heinz Chapel.
Nestled in the heart of Pittsburgh’s Oakland neighborhood, this stunning landmark welcomes all couples looking to celebrate their love – whether through a wedding, vow renewal, or a photoshoot – in one of its breathtaking spaces. Heinz Chapel is open to couples of all faiths, interfaith traditions, backgrounds, and LGBTQ+ orientations, encouraging each to incorporate their unique beliefs and customs. And no, you don’t have to be affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh to say “I do” here!
While the Chapel offers a timeless, traditional setting, it has also embraced modern conveniences to make ceremonies even more personalized. Recent updates include expanded musical selections, allowing couples to request their favorite songs performed by the Chapel’s on-site organist.
For those seeking a beautiful yet simplified wedding experience, Heinz Chapel also hosts an annual Simply Styled Ceremony on the Sunday of Labor Day – a mini-wedding package that offers all the elegance of the space without the extensive planning or higher price tag.
Here’s everything you need to know about hosting your wedding or engagement shoot at Heinz Chapel.
Plan Your Dream Ceremony
Heinz Chapel offers timeless elegance and modern amenities for your wedding day. Reservations are accepted anywhere from two months to two years in advance, giving you flexibility in planning. Every ceremony includes two dedicated coordinators and a skilled organist to ensure a seamless experience. The only thing you need to provide is your officiant (unless you’re planning a self-uniting ceremony), allowing you to personalize your ceremony to reflect your beliefs and traditions. Plus, a rehearsal is included to help everything run smoothly on your big day.
A Chapel for Everyone: Welcoming All Faiths, Backgrounds, & Orientations
Whether you’re planning a civil, religious, or self-uniting ceremony, Heinz Chapel warmly welcomes all couples to celebrate their love. Couples of all faiths, denominations, interfaith traditions, and orientations are encouraged to create a ceremony that reflects their unique beliefs and backgrounds.
And if you’re wondering – no, you don’t have to be affiliated with the University of Pittsburgh to book your wedding here! However, alumni, students, staff, and active or retired military members do receive a special discount.
Enhance Your Ceremony With Music
Heinz Chapel has recently updated its music guidelines to offer even more flexibility for your ceremony. Recorded music is now welcome within the Chapel, allowing you to choose the soundtrack that best represents your love story. Additionally, the Chapel’s skilled organists now accept requests for a wide range of music – from sacred liturgical pieces and Catholic mass selections to modern hits like Coldplay.
Book A Simply Styled Ceremony
For couples looking for an effortless wedding experience, Heinz Chapel offers its annual Simply Styled Ceremony, an all-inclusive mini-wedding package. This option is perfect for those with a smaller budget who want to minimize planning time. The intimate two-hour package can accommodate up to 50 guests and includes everything you need for a beautiful ceremony: an officiant, flowers, ceremony music, photography, and even a champagne toast on the lawn. And for a delicious touch, you’ll have the choice between a traditional Pittsburgh cookie table or an artisan charcuterie board.
Book Your Engagement Shoot or Vow Renewal
Enchanted by the Chapel’s indoor and outdoor beauty? Heinz Chapel offers flexible hourly space rentals for engagement shoots or vow renewals. Its stunning English-style garden and picturesque outdoor fountain create the perfect backdrop for your first look, portraits, or even an elopement ceremony.
Enjoy Modern Conveniences For Your Celebration
Heinz Chapel combines tradition with modern conveniences, offering a customizable ceremony experience for up to 400 guests. The Chapel provides weekly wedding venue tours, with reservations easily made on their website, as well as virtual tours for out-of-town couples.
The Chapel is fully ADA accessible, ensuring comfort for all guests, and features climate control, an updated sound system, and dedicated waiting areas for both sides of your wedding party. Plus, nearby reserved parking is available for your guests, making it even easier to celebrate your big day.
