Expanded Events - Professional Event and Wedding Planning

Reserve your Date

Our first step is to ensure that we have your desired date and time available. In order to secure your date we require a signed contract and an initial payment of $500.00. The final balance is due two-weeks prior to your wedding date. Once the contract and initial payment is received, you’ll receive your Wedding Planning Packet that’s loaded with helpful information, work sheet and check lists. Your personal Wedding Coordinator will be in contact with you about a month before your wedding to go over all the details.

Contact Kelly Butler of Expanded Events at 949-215-1839 or at kellypbutler@sbcglobal.net

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the maximum occupancy at the Good Shepherd Chapel?

The Chapel can hold a maximum of 135 guests, however there are only 108 chairs in the Chapel. You can rent additional chairs from an outside rental company if you desire. When determining if the Good Shepherd Chapel will suit your needs, make sure to subtract the number in the wedding party as these guests won’t need chairs.

Does the Good Shepherd Chapel have set ceremony times?

There are no set times or days for ceremonies. Depending on availability, Wedding Ceremonies can be performed any day of the week. For your three-hour block of time on the day of, we recommend that you allow for one-and-a-half hour set up, a half hour ceremony, and one hour for photos and clean up. It's important to note that during the school year, parking may be limited on weekdays.

Can we use our own vendors? (musicians, minister, florist, etc.)

Absolutely! We do have some rules, but for the most part it’s no problem.

Is the Chapel Air Conditioned?

No. The Chapel does not have central air conditioning – but it really isn’t necessary. Even on the hottest of days, with the doors open and the ceiling fans on it is quite pleasant.

Does the Chapel have a Sound System or CD Player?

No. The Chapel does not have a sound system. The acoustics in the Chapel are great and you won’t need amplification for your minister or musicians. If you choose to use recorded music, you can set up your boom-box or stereo in the alcove next to the piano and your “DJ” can sit in that alcove and run the controls.

Are there any discounts available?

Qualifying Concordia University staff, alumni and current students are eligible for a discounted price.

Do we have to pay for parking?

Parking is free.

Are there any other fees or obligations when renting the Chapel?

Yes. Each client is responsible to purchase a "per-use" liability insurance policy. You will receive detailed instruction about how and where to obtain this with your planning packet. The additional fee is around $150.00 to $200.00 depending on your guest count.

Are there any specific decoration rules or limitations?

1. Candles are permitted in the Chapel, however, all flames (with the exception of your Unity Candle) must be covered with a glass hurricane, glass votive or similar that is at least one inch higher than the tip of the flame. Unity Candles must have a drip-plate to catch melting wax. The on-site Coordinator reserves the right to extinguish any candles or flames that may be deemed dangerous.

2. Décor/Flowers: No real flower petals are to be thrown or placed on the floor either inside or outside the Chapel. Flower-girl baskets should be filled with silk flowers petals.

3. All décor, flower arrangements, candles, etc. are to be delivered to the Chapel within the client’s three-hour event window and all items are to be removed from Chapel at the completion of event. Any items left at the chapel will be thrown away.

4. Use of fog Machine, fire works and/or sparklers is not permitted inside or outside the Chapel.

5. In order to maintain the appearance of the chapel and its furniture, no flowers, ribbons, fabric, signs, wreaths, etc. may be attached to any walls, floors, chairs, furniture, alter, windows or ceiling with pins, nails, staples, tape, glue or any other substances. A minimum cleaning fee of $250.00 will be charged if this rule is not followed.

6. Aisle runners are not permitted in the Chapel.

7. The traditional throwing of rice, confetti, flower petals and/or the blowing of bubbles is not permitted inside or outside of the Chapel. A minimum cleaning fee of $250.00 will be charged as needed.

8. All décor and any personal items need to be delivered and removed within your three-hour rental time. Any décor not removed will be thrown away. A minimum cleaning fee of $250.00 will be charged for any excessive trash removal/clean up.

9. The Chapel can provide the following items at not additional charge: A six-foot table with white overlay for gifts/guest book/programs. Bone-white organza aisle swags. Two white, 3-foot-high, plaster column pedestals. Wooden Podium. Wooden kneeling bench. Two brass/wood Candleobras.

Are there any other rules we should know about?

1. Smoking is not permitted in the Chapel, however is allowable in the Chapel Patio Area. The Client will be charged with a minimum cleaning fee of $250.00 if there is an excessive amount of cigarette butts in the Patio areas.

2. Alcohol and or Drugs are not permitted whatsoever inside the Chapel or on/in any adjoining grounds.

3. Consumption of food or beverage is not permitted in the Chapel, however is allowable in the Chapel patio area. Only the Universities Caterer, Bon Appetite, may provide food. Client is financially responsible for all set up needs, trash cans and trash removal.

What is the relationship between Expanded Events and Concordia University?

Concordia University has elected to contract with Expanded Events, and independent third-party Event Planning Company, who sub-leases the Chapel and handles all of the administrative and coordination aspects of the wedding program.

Why do we need an on-site Wedding Coordinator?

Your on-site Wedding Coordinator is an essential component to having a stress-free and smooth wedding ceremony. From an operational aspect, your Coordinator will ensure that the Chapel is open and operable on the day of your wedding. She will make sure that the lighting and equipment you’ve requested is set up and in working order. She will orchestrate your Christian Wedding Rehearsal and Ceremony. She will also greet and direct your vendors as they arrive (musicians, minister, photographer, florist, etc.) and make sure they have everything they need. Your coordinator will also greet your wedding party and immediate family as they arrive and distribute boutonnieres and corsages as well as set up limited décor.

What is required to book our Wedding at the Good Shepherd Chapel?

Can we hold our reception on the grounds surrounding the Good Shepherd Chapel?

You certainly can! The grounds and patio are a perfect setting for an intimate reception. Bon Appetite Catering, the exclusive caterer for Concordia University and Expanded Events will work with you on your plans. All Receptions need to take place during day-light hours, have limited amplification (Music and PA system) and no alcohol can be served on the University Property.