Weddings

The beauty of the chapel's stained glass windows and soaring ceiling creates an intimate setting for up to 265 guests, and is perfect for a romantic wedding.

Fees vary depending on the affiliation of the bride, groom or their parents to the University.

A list of ministers associated with the Medical University Pastoral Care office, as well as musicians is available by contacting the Director at 843-792-6775. Costs for their services is not included in the reservation fee. You may also bring your own officiant. 

Reservations and Fees

To reserve a date for your wedding at St. Luke’s Chapel, you must first contact the Chapel Director at 843-792-6775 to confirm availability. If your date is available, you will be sent a wedding packet with a reservation form. A courtesy hold can be placed for up to two weeks.  

Contact the Chapel Director if you have any further questions:

Chapel Director
Elizabeth H. Brown
browneli@musc.edu
843-792-6775

Please refer to the Chapel regulations that outline the rules of use for St. Luke’s Chapel.

Regulations for the Use of St. Luke's Chapel

A sexton will be assigned to oversee your event and assure adherence to the Rules and Regulations for the use of St. Luke's Chapel.

• All events are limited to the block of time reserved. Due to other reservations, early arrivals or late departures cannot be accommodated.
• Please notify your florist of the reserved times for the Chapel. They will have access to the Chapel at the beginning of your reservation time; additional time may be purchased, if necessary. Call the Chapel Director about extending your time. Remember that all decorations must be removed at the end of the reserved time. No hooks, clamps, pins, tape, etc. may be used on the pews or altar rails. Please consider silk cords, tulle, or ribbons.
• The Chapel must be ready for the next occupant, so please leave the Chapel as you found it. Chapel reservations are often "back-to-back", so your cooperation is very important. Please remember to take your trash with you when you leave.
• Food and drink (except for sacramental purposes and water) are not permitted inside the Chapel.
• Flower petals, birdseed or rice may not be strewn inside the Chapel or on the Chapel grounds. Also, bubbles are not allowed inside the chapel.
• An aisle runner may be used, but is not provided. The aisle is approximately 70 feet long and 65 inches wide. There are three steps to the platform.
• Furniture and other items inside the Chapel shall not be moved or removed without prior arrangement with the Chapel Director or the Sexton overseeing the event. This should be discussed prior to the rehearsal.
• The two large altar candlesticks and the seven-branched candelabras (candles furnished) may be used for the event. Candles must be extinguished at the end of the event. Please snuff the candles.
• There is a kneeling bench and also a movable, free-standing small altar that can be used.
• Except for weddings, dressing for events should take place elsewhere.
• Limousine, trolley, bus, van or other transportation should be discussed with the chapel director for parking, drop-off or pick-up instructions. 

FAQ's

What does the fee cover? 

One hour of rehearsal time and a three-hour time period for the ceremony. The ceremony itself should take place one and a half hours into that period. This allows time for the bride and bridesmaids to dress, the florist to decorate the Chapel and time for photographs before the ceremony. The second hour and a half are for the ceremony, additional photographs and the removal of all flowers, decorations and trash that were brought into the Chapel. Also included are the use of the organ, two candelabras, altar candles, a kneeling bench, a movable small altar, a representative from the chapel (Sexton), and 20 parking passes to a nearby garage. 

What does the fee not cover?

A minister, floral arrangements, musicians, photographer, wedding director, printed materials, or cost of guest parking. For a list of organists, musicians, vocalists, and ministers on MUSC's campus, contact the Chapel Director.

Is there an organ or piano?

A beautiful pipe organ built by the Bedient Organ Company was constructed specifically for St. Luke's after Hurricane Hugo destroyed the old organ. The chapel does not have a piano.

Does the Chapel have an organist?

No, but there is a list of available organists (contact the Chapel Director) in the Charleston area. The organ can be played by anyone the bride/groom chooses. Organists not familiar with this organ may require practice time.

When can the organist practice?

Time can be arranged with the Chapel Director for the organist to practice. If this practice time can be scheduled during the regular hours that the Chapel is opened (Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), there isn't a charge. If additional time is required and can be scheduled, there will be a $50/per half hour charge. All scheduling should be arranged by the Chapel Director.

How early can the florist arrive to decorate the Chapel?

The florist can arrive when the reservation begins, usually 1½ hours prior to the ceremony.

When must the flowers and other decorations be removed from the Chapel?

By the end of the reservation time, usually 1 ½ hours after the ceremony begins.

Is there a room for the bride and/or groom to change?

Yes, there is a small bride and groom's room with an attached bathroom.

Are there candles at the altar?

Yes, there are two large candles. Also, there are two candelabras holding seven candles each. Candles are provided. An ornate candle lighter is available. The wedding party is responsible for lighting the candles. 

Does the Chapel have a sound system?

Yes, there are cordless handheld microphones (stands are available) and one cordless lapel microphone. The sound system can accommodate devices with aux outlets.

Can flower petals, birdseed, bubbles, or rice be used inside or outside the Chapel?

No, due to the finish of the interior floors and the request of the grounds department at the university, no flower petals, birdseed, or rice should be used inside or outside. Bubbles may be used outside only, as they leave a stain on the interior floor.

Is parking available?

Parking passes for the wedding party are included in the reservation fee. Guest parking may be arranged with the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) Office of Parking Management 843-792-8771.

Is there an area for a reception?

Unfortunately, an area is not available. Also, food and drink are not permitted in the Chapel (except for ceremonial purposes and water).