Where is The Chapel at Rippon Village located?

We are located in the Eastern Panhandle of WV, just minutes from Charles Town, Harpers Ferry, and Martinsburg. We are slightly over an hour from Northern Virginia, Baltimore, and Washington, DC, making our historic chapel an easy destination for couples seeking a peaceful, intimate setting just outside the DMV metro area.

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​How old is the chapel?
The Chapel at Rippon Village is a historic chapel that was built in 1875. The chapel sanctuary remains in tact with all original wood beams, floors, pews, stained glass, hardware and bell.  It has been lovingly restored while preserving its original character.

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Do you still ring the chapel bell?
Yes! We invited all guests to ring the bell. After the wedding ceremonies, couples are invited to ring the chapel bell, a beautiful tradition symbolizing the announcement of the beginning of a new chapter together.

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Is the chapel still used for worship services?
Yes. The chapel continues to serve as a place of Christian worship. Sunday services are held at 9:30 AM, and all are welcome to attend. Maintaining the chapel as a house of worship is an important part of its history and purpose.

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What types of events can be held at the chapel?
Our space is perfect for:

• Micro weddings

• Elopements

• Vow renewals

• Small receptions

• Bridal showers

• Baby showers

• Tea parties

• Family celebrations

• Birthdays

• Anniversaries

• Workshops

• Corporate or Business Events & Parties

 

How many guests can the chapel accommodate?
Our chapel sanctuary can seat up to 100 guests. Our gathering room is designed for intimate events of up to 50 guests. We have grass parking available for up to 40 vehicles.

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Is alcohol allowed at The Chapel at Rippon Village?
No. The Chapel at Rippon Village is strictly an alcohol-free area. We intentionally maintain a peaceful, family-friendly environment where everyone can feel comfortable and fully present for the celebration. If someone asks why there’s no alcohol...feel free to blame us — we don’t mind! We believe meaningful moments, great conversation, and joyful celebrations don’t require alcohol, and we are proud to offer a space that is safe and welcoming for those who choose sobriety.

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Can we decorate the chapel?

Yes, decorating is welcomed and encouraged. The chapel includes access to our decor room inventory. Our chapel has original wooden pews, beautiful wood beams, and stained glass windows that create a naturally elegant setting and backdrop.

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Do you allow open flames or candles?
Open flames are not permitted in the chapel with one exception: a unity candle used as part of the wedding ceremony is allowed. To help create a warm and romantic atmosphere throughout the space, we also offer a large inventory of flameless candles available to use free of charge. These provide a beautiful candlelit look while helping protect the historic chapel.

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What is included with the Gathering Room rental?

• Tables and chairs

• Linens

• Chiavari chairs

• Flexible layout for up to 50 guests

• Trash Removal

• Use of our Decor Inventory

• Large Screen TV & Rolling Cart (upon request)

 

Can the room layout be customized?
Yes. The layout can be arranged to fit your event needs. Sample layouts are available to help you visualize different setup options.

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Do you allow outside vendors?
Yes. you may bring outside vendors, or we can recommend trusted local vendors we frequently work with. All vendors are required to provide proof of business liability insurance.

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Do you offer catering?
Yes. Catering can be provided through Gypsy Soul Catering or other licensed caterers.

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Can food be prepared onsite? 

No. Our facility does not include a commercial kitchen for onsite food preparation. All food must be prepared offsite and brought in ready to serve. Caterers are welcome to use the designated catering room for setup and staging.

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Can we tour the chapel before booking?

Absolutely! We encourage you to schedule a private tour so you can experience the chapel and ask questions about your event. We typically schedule tours on Sunday afternoons after Worship Service but can be flexible if requested.

 

How do we reserve a date?
To reserve your date, please submit an inquiry form and we will get back to you with our availability.  To reserve a date, a signed agreement and deposit are required. Dates are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.

 

How far in advance should we book?
Many events book 3–12 months in advance, but we also accommodate shorter timelines depending on availability. Please submit a inquiry form to check availability.

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Wedding Questions

What is a micro wedding?
A micro wedding has everything that a larger wedding has....just smaller,  with 50 guests or fewer. Many couples choose micro weddings because they allow for a more personal experience and greater attention to the details that matter most.

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Do you offer wedding packages?
Yes. We offer several wedding packages designed to make planning simple and stress-free. Packages may include:

• Use of the historic chapel

• Access to the Gathering Room for reception

• Tables and chairs

• Linens

• Chiavari chairs

• Wedding coordination

• Ceremony rehearsal

• Bell ringing tradition

 

Do you provide an officiant?
Yes. Our ordained ministers can officiate your ceremony if desired, or you are welcome to bring your own officiant.

 

Can we have a rehearsal before our wedding?
Yes. Most wedding packages include a rehearsal prior to your wedding day to ensure everyone understands the ceremony process and timeline.

 

​Do you help coordinate the wedding day?
Yes. We provide complimentary wedding coordination to help ensure your ceremony runs smoothly. We meet with couples ahead of time to understand family dynamics, timelines, and special details.

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Do you offer outdoor space for events?
Yes. We have a small grassy area located behind the Gathering Room that backs up to the neighboring farm, creating a peaceful and scenic setting. This space can be used for mocktail hour, mingling, or a small tented outdoor gathering as part of your event.

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Do you require pre-martial counseling to get married?

Yes. We require couples to complete three premarital coaching sessions with our Ordained Minister before their wedding. These sessions are designed to help couples build a strong foundation for marriage and cover important topics such as communication, expectations, and strengthening your relationship.

Sessions can be completed in person as private couple sessions or through our Couples Connection group setting. For couples who do not live in the area, sessions can also be completed virtually via Zoom. Jefferson County, WV does offer a small discount on the marriage license fee if a couple completes a premarital program.

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