The wedding planning process is unique for each couple, and the Wright-Patterson chaplains help create a personalized, meaningful occasion. First, a couple must contact the Chapel to request a day and facility for their wedding.
Whether a base chaplain is performing the ceremony or the couple uses an outside officiant, the couple may reserve base chapel. Couples interested in holding their ceremony at the Kittyhawk Chapel or the Prairies Chapel can seat more than 100 guests. If the couple would prefer a less traditional setting, they may choose to get married at a different location, such as Bass Lake, providing they get proper authorization.
After scheduling their big day and reserving a space, couples can request one of the eight base chaplains, two base priests or an off-base officiant to perform the ceremony.
The final step is hiring one of the Chapel’s approved, qualified wedding coordinators, who will assist with the planning details. Every couple must hire a coordinator, but this is the only expense that the Chapel asks couples to cover. This requirement ensures that the ceremony goes as planned and that Chapel guidelines are respected.
The Chapel requires all couples to participate in premarital counseling if a base chaplain is officiating their wedding ceremony.
“Chaplains require this counseling because they want to ensure those that they are marrying are in the best possible position for their marriage to succeed,” said Master Sgt. Jeffery Bell, religious affairs superintendent.
“It allows couples the opportunity to communicate more effectively and explore topics within a supportive environment that they might otherwise find difficult to discuss,” Bell continued. “Premarital counseling also draws people’s attention to weaknesses in their relationship and anticipates future problems that could undermine their relationship so they are prepared if and when these arise.”
As the big day approaches, the bridal party can gather in the chapel for a rehearsal in preparation for the ceremony, which may last up to three hours. Wedding ceremonies are typically held on Saturdays in courtesy of the wedding coordinators’ schedules.
The Chapel staff recommend that couples contact them at least three months in advance to ensure facility access.
For more information about weddings on base, contact the Chapel at 937-257-7427.
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