Weddings

Wedding Chapels in Southwest Missouri

If you’re still on the hunt for a spot to say “I Do”, don’t fret: southwest Missouri is home to a handful of beautiful chapels that can provide the perfect setting for your big day.

By Savannah Waszczuk | Photos by Defined Image Photography, Jim Mayfield, Owens Photography; courtesy University Heights, BellTower Wedding Chapel

Dec 2014

1.The Chapel at University Heights
1010 S. National Avenue, Springfield, 417-862-0789, uhbc.org
Price: $1,200
Number of Guests: As many as 300
Why We Love It: Originally used as the main sanctuary at University Heights Baptist Church, this chapel is a beautiful spot to hold a classic, gorgeous ceremony. Stained glass windows give the chapel a traditional look, and wood floors and pews add plenty of charm. While the main floor holds 200 guests comfortably, there’s also a balcony that can hold roughly 100 more people. The spot has a convenient downtown location with ample parking, and it’s open to non-members. And the best part? Full-time students are given a 20-percent discount. 

2. Stone Chapel
Located on the Drury University campus at 900 N. Benton Ave., Springfield, 417-873-7200, drury.edu/weddings
Price: Starts at $900
Number of Guests: As many as 400
Why We Love It: While Drury alumni might have a few special reasons for wanting to get married at Stone Chapel, the timeless venue provides a perfect backdrop for anyone’s wedding day. Dating back to 1880, the venue itself is a sight to behold. It has gorgeous high ceilings, stained glass windows and wood pews and floors, and the exterior stone structure provides a grand entrance. Guests will enjoy a variety of features and amenities, including dressing rooms for the bride and groom and a pipe organ that’s more than 100 years old. 

3. Heritage Chapel & Reception Venue
105 South St., Willard, 417-619-3468, heritagechapel.net
Price: $800 for the chapel only, with additional prices for reception space
Number of Guests: As many as 200
Why We Love It: Originally built in 1887, Heritage Chapel & Reception Venue has undergone extensive renovations to create a one-of-a-kind venue. The original hardwood floors and pews give the space a kind of quiet charm, and simple chandeliers and lightly colored walls make the space a perfect muted backdrop for any wedding. A second story provides additional seating, and a large courtyard offers the perfect area for outdoor weddings or receptions.

Editors note: Since the initial publication of this article, BellTower Wedding Chapel has closed.

4. BellTower Wedding Chapel
206 E. Elm St., Ozark, 417-725-9054
Prices: $500 for the chapel only, $950 for chapel and dressing rooms, additional price for reception venue
Number of Guests: As many as 175
Why We Love It: Located in Ozark, this sweet little chapel features original cathedral-style windows with massive rosette inlays. Dramatic chandeliers hang from the ceiling and cast a soft romantic glow on the intimate chapel. The wood pews provide seating for as many as 175 guests. While the space was remodeled in 2006, it still features many antique elements that give it its vintage charm. A flowy white fabric provides a muted backdrop at the front of the venue. Various colors can be added to fit your wedding’s theme. 

5. Chapel of the Ozarks
Located at Top of the Rock, 150 Top of the Rock Rd., Ridgedale, topoftherock.com
Price: Price varies, call 417-339-5159
Number of Guests: 180
Why We Love It: The Chapel of the Ozarks is nestled at the edge of Ridgedale’s newly opened Top of the Rock property, and it’s surrounded by breathtaking views of the Ozark Mountains and Table Rock Lake. Constructed by craftsmen to salute iconic country churches, the picturesque space features arched windows, a copper roof and a steeple with a bell tower. It’s three stories tall and boasts antique pine wood entry doors, 23-foot vaulted ceilings and beautiful floor-to-ceiling windows. There’s also a balcony that’s ideal for a string quartet or a soloist.