Weddings @ FCC Riverside

We’re here for you!

We are thrilled that you are considering First Congregational Church as the venue for your wedding. We welcome couples of all backgrounds and offer wedding ceremonies without any membership requirements.

A wedding is a celebration of a beautiful gift—the gift of love. It is the gift of finding someone who will walk with you through life's highs and lows, who will stand by you in your best moments and support you even when you are at your most challenging. Such love is a gift from God, and it is fitting to gather in a church sanctuary to seek God’s blessing as you begin this new chapter of your lives together.

At First Congregational Church, we are committed to making your wedding day beautiful and unforgettable. We hope the following information helps you plan for this very special occasion.

Getting Started

Planning your wedding at First Congregational Church begins with a meeting with our wedding team, who will guide you through the various options available.

If you'd like to learn more about our church, we invite you to join us for our Sunday morning worship service at 10:00 a.m.

Our Pastor at FCC

Our Senior Pastor, Rev. Kristen Nelson, will meet with you to discuss your wedding and help personalize your ceremony. With over 28 years of experience as an ordained pastor, Rev. Nelson has officiated hundreds of weddings and is dedicated to making your ceremony meaningful and sacred. She will work with you and your family to incorporate your faith, traditions, and any special requests, ensuring that your wedding is uniquely yours.

Music

Our Music Director will meet with you to discuss your music preferences for the ceremony. The church is equipped with a beautiful organ and grand piano, offering a rich musical experience for your special day.

Photography

You are welcome to hire both a photographer and a videographer to capture your ceremony.

Rehearsal

A rehearsal will be scheduled with the wedding party prior to the ceremony to ensure everything runs smoothly on your big day.

Fees

The basic ceremony fee covers the following services:

• Our Minister
• Our Organist, Pianist, or Music Director
• Our Wedding Coordinator
• Bridal and Groom’s Suites
• Our Custodians
• Carillon bell pealing after the ceremony
• Two candelabras with white candles and/or unity candles
• 1-hour wedding rehearsal
• Use of the main floor for up to 3.5 hours (prior to, during, and after the ceremony)

The fees are the same regardless of the services used. To secure your date and time, a $400 deposit is required, which will be applied toward your total wedding cost. Additionally, a $100 damage deposit is due at the time of booking and will be refunded after the ceremony, provided there is no damage. The balance of the fees is due 60 days prior to your ceremony and is non-refundable. A premium may be applied for holiday weekends.

Optional Services

For an additional fee, the following options are available:

• Aisle Candles
• Flag Removal from Sanctuary
• Reception Hall Package: Use of the downstairs Fellowship Hall for receptions (max. capacity 200 people). The fee covers 5 hours of use, with a refundable damage deposit required.
  • Setup and takedown of tables and chairs is the responsibility of the vendor or client.
  • If alcohol (beer and wine only) will be served, an additional refundable damage deposit may apply.

Please refer to our downloadable brochure for complete pricing details.