A. Hamilton Reid Chapel, one of Samford University’s most symbolic buildings, is the perfect indoor location for couples to convey their love and commitment to one another. Rich in history and tradition, Reid Chapel was modeled in the image of the first Baptist church built in the Americas. Students at Samford experience many memorable events in this revered chapel, ranging from weekly convocation services to the Hanging of the Green. Reid Chapel has also served as a scenic backdrop for numerous University celebrations, ceremonies, and musical events located on Samford’s campus. Be a part of Samford University’s history as you start your life together in Reid Chapel.

*Due to a high usage schedule, drop in tours of Reid Chapel are not permitted. Tours of Reid Chapel must be scheduled through the Office of Event Management. Please call 205-726-2355 to make your appointment. We look forward to showing you the beautifully renovated Reid Chapel!

FAQ

Where is Reid Chapel located?

Reid Chapel is located on the Samford University campus, at 800 Lakeshore Drive in Homewood, AL 35229. The Samford University campus is centrally located and can easily be accessed from Interstate 65 or Highways 31 and 280. Reid Chapel is located on the east side of campus, in front of Propst Hall.

How do I book Reid Chapel for my wedding?

To book Reid Chapel, please submit a wedding inquiry request using the menu option Request the Chapel.

What if I don’t have any connections to Samford University?

Only those who qualify with the official Samford connection can reserve the chapel for a wedding ceremony.

Will a wedding director be provided for my wedding?

Yes. It is required for all weddings on campus that the Samford wedding director is utilized for each event.

Can I choose my own minister?

Yes. Samford does not require that you use the university minister for your wedding ceremony. However, he may be available to perform your ceremony if you desire.

How many months in advance may I book my wedding on campus?

All ceremonies are booked no earlier than one year in advance. No exceptions.

How many guests can Reid Chapel accommodate?

Reid Chapel can comfortably seat 550 guests—350 on the floor and 200 in the balcony.

What if I want to propose in Reid Chapel?

Please email weddings@samford.edu for availability and times.

How do I set up a tour to visit Reid Chapel?

Please email weddings@samford.edu for chapel availability and times.

Policies and Procedures

Audio & Music

The sound technician provides service an hour before the wedding and throughout the ceremony. The sound technician can be scheduled to attend the rehearsal for an additional fee. The fee is paid directly to the technician on the day of the event. A lapel microphone is provided for the ministers and wireless microphones are provided for readers and soloists. The bride and groom are typically not provided microphones. If you wish to have the organ played as part of your ceremony, the instrument must be played by a Samford-approved organist. A list of approved organists can be received by submitting a request to weddings@samford.edu.

Wedding Photography

Flash photography is not allowed during the wedding ceremony. Flash may be used during pre-event sessions and after the ceremony has ended, when all members of the wedding party have exited the stage. Photographers and videographers are allowed in the balcony, vestibule and the exterior aisles.

Photography and Video Site Requests

All engagement and bridal picture sessions scheduled anytime other than the wedding day must be booked with the office of event management prior to the session. Any unapproved photo sessions on campus will be asked to leave.

Flowers and Decorations

Aisle runners and flower petals are not allowed. All candles and flowers are to be placed behind the privacy wall in the choir loft area, but no arrangements are allowed to be placed on the piano, organ or stained-glass windows. All candles must be dripless. Florists may not use any form of adhesive (tack, glue, nails, staples) when decorating the chapel.

Wedding Party

The wedding party consists of the bride, groom, minister and other participants and is limited to a total of 25 people. Samford University does not assign officiates to wedding ceremonies on campus. However, if you wish to inquire about using the university minister for your ceremony, please contact the university minister’s office at 205-726-2825

Wedding Parking

Wedding parking is available in the Ingalls/Russell (40 & 41 on the campus map) parking lot adjacent to the chapel. Please follow the wedding signs on campus to locate parking.

Accessibility

Handicap parking is conveniently located next to Reid Chapel in the side parking lot at Brooks Hall (45 on the campus map). Ramp access is available on the front left side of Burns Hall main entrance to accesses the side entrance of Reid Chapel.