By Mackenzie Prince 

As school bells ring, wedding bells chime at the University of Maryland’s Memorial Chapel, serving as a ceremonial pillar for many couples in the area. 

The Memorial Chapel was first created by four UMD students in 1952, hoping to host inter-denominational services. The chapel currently hosts 14 chaplaincies and identifies as an interfaith space where people of all religions can practice their faith, according to the Memorial Chapel’s website. 

Since its creation, the Memorial Chapel has served as a venue for events ranging from initiations to commencements and funerals. However, one occasion stands out above the rest: weddings. 

Through open houses, venue website forums and the Memorial Chapel’s website, those interested can contact a representative.  

“A lot of people like that we offer such a big space, and because we are interfaith, we can also be secular,” said Kaitlin Watcher, the chapel’s senior event manager. “People want that church setting, but don’t want to be affiliated with any particular faith.”

Watcher, who has worked at the chapel since June 2022, said that although the chapel gives UMD alums a discounted price, people within the local community are highly motivated to take advantage of the opportunities the chapel offers.

“I would say there is a half-split balance [between alumni and community customers],” Wachter said. “We usually have at least two weddings per weekend, sometimes more, sometimes less.” 

Luckily for consumers, the Memorial Chapel has two venues: the main chapel and the garden chapel. The main chapel debuts a dramatic entranceway and a 100-foot aisle. The garden chapel hosts a cozier, more intimate experience, with brown pews and trees at the altar.  

One of the attributes that Wachter highlighted is the staff’s involvement in the “big day.”

“We are very involved in the process,” Wachter said. “Sometimes, we have to step in as assistant coordinators, and we have to direct people in the right place or open the door for the bride.”

Tina Robinson, a Montgomery County resident, married her wife, Jacqueline Brooks, this past summer and instantly knew the Memorial Chapel was the location they wanted. 

“We looked at several places throughout [the process],” Robinson said. “Once we saw the garden and how beautiful it was, we decided to stick with that.”  

Brooks added that the chapel’s staff were very friendly.  

“There was attention to detail,” Brooks said. “They were very professional, very courteous, and very helpful.”

When asked if they would recommend the Memorial Chapel to other couples, Robinson’s answer was quick: “Absolutely.”

“We felt at home,” Robinson said. “They listened [to us], they explained everything, and provided us that day before at the chapel to work out any kinks.”

Throughout the years, the UMD Memorial Chapel has served as a place for love and community to thrive. While reflecting on her personal experience, Wachter explained how she wouldn’t trade her job for anything. 

“I love it,” Wachter said. “[The couple] planned this day for who knows how long and you get to be part of making that magic happen.”

Featured Image: A couple marries inside the the University of Maryland’s Memorial Chapel. The venue serves alums and community members. Photo provided by Kaitlin Watcher.