WORSHIP >

Weddings

Congratulations on your engagement!

Host the perfect wedding ceremony at the historic First UMC Elgin,
located in the heart of beautiful downtown Elgin, Illinois.


We thank you for your interest in First UMC Elgin. Our beautiful, historic church, located in the heart of downtown Elgin, is a lovely site for your service. Our Pastor and staff are here to help ensure your wedding is a unique and memorable worship experience


Eligibility and Requirements

Premarital Counseling Is Required
Marriage is a lifelong commitment and requires a solid commitment to each other and God. We want to ensure that your marriage starts strong. As such, premarital counseling is required. Rev. Dr. Felicia LaBoy will meet with you and your future spouse to complete a premarital inventory and discuss any concerns or issues you might have before getting married. This is also an excellent time for her to hear your unique love story!

Christian Ceremony
As a Christian church, all weddings held at First UMC Elgin must be performed by a licensed Christian minister. Your ceremony may include a non-ordained speaker, but a licensed minister must officiate the service, vows, and sign the license. Those who have received online marriage ordinations are not licensed to perform marriage ceremonies at First UMC Elgin.

Marriage License
Kane County requires all couples wishing to be married to obtain a marriage license. Please visit the Kane County Clerk's Office at least one day before your wedding. More information about the license can be found here on the Clerk's website.


The Church

First UMC Elgin is a stunning 100-year-old Gothic-style church located in the heart of downtown Elgin, Illinois. The church features beautiful stained-glass windows throughout. We are only a few blocks from the picturesque Fox River and Riverwalk - perfect for photo opportunities! Several reception venues are within walking distance of the church, and free parking is available and plentiful. Metra and Pace stations are also a few blocks away.

The Pierce Chapel
For an intimate service, the Pierce Chapel, located on the main floor of First UMC Elgin, can accommodate up to 30 guests and features stained-glass windows and a small altar.

The Sanctuary
The gorgeous, two-level Sanctuary can accommodate up to 500 guests. The Sanctuary features stunning stained-glass windows on both levels, an elevated Chancel area for your ceremony, and comfortable seating. Two aisles allow brides to enter on one side and the newly married couple to exit on the other. 

Bridal Suite
A complete bridal suite is located on the lower level of First UMC Elgin and provides a small, intimate area for the bride to get ready and find a little quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of the big day. 

Room for the Groom
Several rooms are available throughout the church for the groom and his attendants. These rooms are located on the main and second floors of the church, so there is no chance of the groom seeing the bride before the service.

Photo Opportunities
There are many areas throughout the church available for photos. Several of our couples have taken pictures in the Holman Parlor and on the second-floor balcony of the Sanctuary. 

Reception Area
The lower level of First UMC Elgin is available for wedding receptions and includes a full kitchen, stage, and seating area for up to 500 guests. More information about this area and restrictions can be found here.


Availability 

First UMC Elgin is available for weddings on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the year. Only one wedding is held each weekend. Rehearsals are held the evening before your service, usually just before the rehearsal dinner. Rehearsals typically last one hour.


Cost

The cost of a wedding at First UMC Elgin includes set-up, utility costs, an on-site, day-of-service Wedding Coordinator, and clergy. Several additional items are available, including candles for the Chapel/Sanctuary, an Accompanist, and an Audio Engineer. A full breakdown of costs can be found here.


Contact Us

To tour the church or learn more about our wedding services, please contact Amy in the church office at 847.741.0038 or fumcelgin216@gmail.com.