Select a question to read the answer.
Do I need to be a member of 15th Ave Christian Church to get married there?
No. We open our church to non-members as well as members and their families.
Can I bring my own pastor?
Yes, if you have your own family pastor or friend who is licensed in the State of Illinois. Your minister is required to contact our church's pastor for approval and planning purposes.
Can I use my own musician?
Yes, you may use your own musician. However, our Director of Music has first right of refusal.
What is a wedding host?
A wedding host is a member of the congregation who assists with the needs of the wedding party and families. They help ensure the ceremony moves smoothly and on time. The number of hosts is based on the size of your wedding party. See the Policies and Facility Guidelines for more.
How many people does the Chapel hold?
The Chapel seats 25 people comfortably.
How many people does the Sanctuary hold?
The Sanctuary seats 225.
Do I have a time restriction on my day?
We will work with you to make sure you have the time you need to prepare for and enjoy your day. The Fellowship Hall rental is for a maximum of three hours, with doors closing no later than 9:30 p.m. The wedding rehearsal is not to exceed 45 minutes.
Can we do the setup and cleanup ourselves instead of using the custodian?
No. Setup and cleanup are handled by the custodian so everything can be put back in place for church on Sunday morning. All weddings are required to pay the custodial fee. There is an additional $50.00 fee if the wedding is over a holiday weekend (New Year's, Valentine's Day, Palm Sunday, Easter, Memorial Day, July 4th, Labor Day, Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas).
Can I decorate with candles?
We have candelabras you may use, along with a Unity Candle stand. We ask that you supply your own dripless candles.
Are there any dates typically unavailable?
We prefer to avoid holiday weekends. Weekends around Easter and Christmas are busy times, so those dates can be harder to reserve. The earlier you reserve your date, the better.
Can my photographer use flash during the ceremony?
Once the bride and groom are on the chancel, our pastor prefers no flash photography. Some pastors are fine with it, so check with the pastor who will officiate.
Do you offer pre-marital counseling?
All couples getting married by our pastor are required to participate in pre-marital counseling and to plan the ceremony portion of their day with the pastor.
Do we need to get our marriage license?
Yes. You are responsible for getting your own marriage license from the county clerk. Bring it to the rehearsal and give it to the pastor, who will make sure it is signed, copied, and mailed in before it is due back to the county clerk.
If we have our reception at the church, do you allow DJs?
Unfortunately, our current electrical situation does not support the equipment a DJ would bring. We do have a small PA system in the basement available for your use.
Ready for the next step? Download the wedding application, or call the church office to check available dates.
Download the wedding application (PDF) Call the church office: (309) 786-6925