If the walls of pretty Chapman Chapel could talk, they would
tell dreamy tales of countless brides who stood under a dramatic archway in a
halo of light cast by a golden stained-glass backdrop. Each one walked down the
aisle to meet her groom at the handcrafted oak altar, where they exchanged vows
beneath ornate stained-glass windows inlaid with the words “Faith – Hope –
Love.”
Couples come from all over Orange County and the surrounding
areas to be married in this unique, inspiring location, which is easily
accessible by freeway. Built in 1909 and set in the Old Towne historic district
of Orange, the ivy-covered chapel stands tall today as a fixture from a bygone
era. With its Victorian details, magnificent stained-glass windows and classic
bell tower and steeple, it’s a venue sure to appeal to couples who love
storybook architecture and respect tradition. In recognition of its popularity,
it was listed among the “Best Local Places to Get Married” in the Orange County
Register’s 13th annual “Best of Orange County” Guide.
Couples getting married here enjoy the use of several
private dressing rooms outfitted with antique furnishings. Brides will appreciate
the calming influence of the serene courtyard, with its gurgling cherub
fountain, flowers, garden benches, ivy-covered arches and handmade
stepping-stones inscribed with inspirational messages. Here, they can sip tea
with their bridesmaids under a shaded gazebo, surrounded by lush gardens and
serenaded by chirping birds. The picturesque grounds also provide many lovely
settings for photography.
Before the familiar chords of the wedding march fill the
chapel, guests take their places in classically carved wooden pews set off from
the center aisle with decorative candelabras. More candelabras throughout add
to the romantic atmosphere. When the bride appears, softly lit under the
ivy-laced archway at the entrance, the photographer can capture the beauty of
the moment in this most timeless of ceremonial settings.