a private page for couples confirmed at Rockefeller or Bond Chapels

Congratulations! We’re honored to host your wedding at the University of Chicago. This guide walks you through what to expect from now through your ceremony day. It’s designed as a practical roadmap and reference point. For policy-related questions (decor, music rules, accessibility, etc.), please reach out to your wedding coordinator.

Step 1: Initial Meeting with Your Wedding Coordinator

Now that your date is confirmed, your first step is to schedule a brief introductory meeting with your assigned wedding coordinator. This virtual session is a great time to:

• Get to know the team
• Walk through the planning timeline
• Ask early questions about vendors, photography, or logistics
• Clarify anything you’re unsure about

We’re here to make your planning process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Choose and Coordinate with Your Officiant

You are responsible for selecting and coordinating with your officiant, who must be legally authorized to perform weddings in Illinois.

We do not collect your marriage license or require documentation, but please ensure your officiant:

• Understands the ceremony time window
• Is available for the Friday rehearsal
• Is familiar with any readings, rituals, or procession details

Need help? See the list of campus Spiritual Life Advisors as a resource.

Step 3: Music Planning Meeting

1-3 months before your ceremony, your wedding coordinator will help schedule a meeting with University Organist Tom Weisflog. This meeting can be in person, by phone, or Zoom.

Together, you’ll:
– Select organ music for your ceremony
– Coordinate optional carillon music before and after the ceremony
– Discuss integration of any live musicians you are bringing

Contact Tom: weisflog@uchicago.edu

Step 4: Vendor Coordination & Space Logistics

About 4–6 weeks prior to your wedding, your coordinator will reach out to confirm final details, including:
– Vendor names, arrival plans, and contact info
– Any additional musicians
– Room preferences and assignments
– Ceremony layout preferences (seating, aisle, etc.)
– Final schedule review

If you’re using a formal printed ceremony program, please email a digital copy to weddings@uchicago.edu between 14 and 7 days ahead of your wedding. This helps us prepare locally and archive your ceremony.

All vendor activity must take place within your 3-hour reservation window, including deliveries, setup, and tear-down.

Step 5: Final Payment

The remaining balance is due approximately 30 days prior to your ceremony. You’ll receive an invoice with instructions for submitting payment via:

• ACH transfer
• Wire transfer
• Check

Step 6: Friday Rehearsal

All weddings include a one-hour Friday rehearsal, led by your officiant. Your wedding coordinator will be onsite.

Rehearsal times are scheduled for 4:30 PM, 5:00 PM, or 6:00 PM on the Friday immediately before your wedding. Your assigned slot is based on ceremony time and availability. Your coordinator will confirm your slot about a month prior.

Your officiant and full wedding party (especially readers, parents, and processional participants) should attend if possible. This rehearsal is your opportunity to finalize processional order, cue music, practice any rituals, and walk through the general flow of the ceremony.

Note: The chapel organist and carillonist do not attend the rehearsal.

Step 7: Ceremony Day

On your wedding day, you’ll have access to the Chapel for a three-hour window:

12 PM ceremony: Access from 10:45 AM – 1:45 PM
4 PM ceremony: Access from 2:45 PM – 5:45 PM

During this time, you may:

• Use up to two designated gathering rooms
• Bring in and set up your decor and personal items
• Take photos inside and around the Chapel
• Welcome guests and hold your ceremony
• Have all vendor activity, including setup and breakdown, take place within this scheduled time

Your assigned wedding coordinator will be on-site throughout your reservation time.