COVID-19 Information
We are pleased to announce that scheduling for weddings in Snidow Chapel has resumed, beginning with Fall 2021 dates.
Keep in mind that all external events, including weddings, must follow the University’s health policies at the time of the event. This could include, but is not limited to, mandates on vaccination requirements, mask-wearing, socially-distanced seating, and restrictions on location capacity. Learn more about the University’s current plan for the Fall 2021 semester. Currently, all visitors to campus must wear a mask at all times when inside any campus facility.
While the Spiritual Life Center staff understands your desire to plan, we cannot predict what restrictions may look like given the pandemic in our community. Please be prepared to follow policy changes as they are released, and be prepared to enforce restrictions with your guests.
Snidow Chapel at the University of Lynchburg is available for weddings on a limited basis.
The sanctuary can hold more than 400 persons and was extensively renovated in 1996 (new pews), 2009 (new windows), 2011 (bathroom additions), and again in 2016 (organ and chancel).
At the front of the chapel hangs “Saving Grace,” a two-sided art quilt made for University of Lynchburg by artist Jill Jensen.
Please keep in mind that University of Lynchburg is a private, non-profit organization whose primary mission is to operate as an educational institution. Be aware that construction projects on campus can be going on at any time of the year, especially during the summer months.
How to Reserve the Chapel
First, review the information on this page. Then contact Christie Rapp ’83, administrative assistant in the Chaplain’s Office, to check date availability. You may reach her at 434.544.8348 or by email at rapp@lynchburg.edu.
Scheduling is dependent on availability and the campus calendar of events, and is at the discretion of University personnel.
Cost and Payment Information
The basic fee is $600 for non-affiliated persons, and $300 for affiliated persons. This fee covers the entire day of the wedding and the evening prior for the rehearsal.
Affiliated means that either the bride or groom are students, employees, or graduates of the University of Lynchburg, or that one or more of their parents are graduates or employees of the University.
Security Deposit
In addition to the basic fee, all parties scheduling a wedding are required to pay a $500 refundable security deposit.
The security deposit ensures that proper care is taken of our facility. Once the wedding is complete, an inspection will be made. If all is in order, a full refund of the $500 security deposit will be made.
Infractions which would cause the deposit to be forfeited are listed in the contract documentation. They include fire marshal infractions, improper use of candles, excessive trash left in the building, unauthorized use of sound system, etc.
Payment of the fee and security deposit must be made in full three months prior to the date reserved.
Sound System
Snidow Chapel houses a comprehensive sound system. Should you choose to use our sound system, you will be responsible for contacting our chapel coordinator to make arrangements.
Officiant
Any certified officiant may perform your wedding in Snidow Chapel.
If you would like one of the University chaplains to conduct your wedding, you must contact him/her directly. Contracting for one of the chaplains is dependent on his/her availability for the date requested as well as for prior, required pre-marital counseling sessions. Cost information should be obtained directly from the chaplains.
Music
Snidow Chapel houses a pipe organ and a grand piano. In order to use the organ, you must hire an organist from our provided list of approved organists and pay him/her directly.
Receptions
Occasionally University facilities are utilized for wedding receptions. The Hall Campus Center Ballroom (which has a separate fee) is the usual location, and in order to have the reception anywhere on campus, Dining Services must provide catering services. No outside caterers are allowed.
No dates are available for wedding receptions while school is in session. Reservation dates for wedding receptions are limited in the months of May through August.
Weddings at Cloverlea
Another University-affiliated wedding resource, the Cloverlea Farmhouse and Memorial Gardens, is situated on the southern side of the beautiful property of Claytor Nature Center in Bedford, Virginia. The picturesque plantation-style farmhouse and grounds offer a stunning panoramic view of the Peaks of Otter and Blue Ridge Mountains, with a reflecting pool and various plants and flowers. It is available to rent for special events and is a popular wedding venue. For more information, visit the websites linked above, or email cloverlea@lynchburg.edu.
