The Wedding Chapel

A Part of History and Community

Located in the heart of the historic district of Claremore, the chapel was constructed before statehood in 1891, titled as The First Methodist Episcopal Church. The original sale documents were signed by the final Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, W.C. Rogers. The chapel maintained its role as an active church throughout most of the 20th century. It became The Wedding Chapel in 1993 with owner, Mattie Fleming.

The following owner, Spencer Sutton, kept the spirit of the chapel thriving through the better part of the first two decades of this century, by performing hundreds, if not thousands of weddings during his career as an officiant! He also diligently maintained the structure of the chapel: preventing it from falling into disrepair, such that it has continued to be a proud representation of the small collection of historical buildings within the community of Claremore.

The current owner, Ria Smith, purchased the chapel in 2020 and is concentrating her efforts toward updating the chapel to reflect the wedding dreams of a new generation of brides, as well as continuing efforts to showcase the beauty and charm of the chapel as a historical reflection of the values of our community.

The Wedding Chapel continues to shine: its original stained glass windows, its unique 18-foot carved, wooden vaulted ceiling, antique pews, and hardwood floors contribute a sense of timelessness to the weddings held each week, and hopefully will continue to bless the couples who choose to marry there for many years to come.

Facility Features

The Grounds include an area of grass under two large red oak trees, suitable for the bridal party and guests to visit in the fresh air, and for children to have a safe space to run and play.

The Bride’s Dressing Room features large mirrors and vintage styling in a special on-site room, designated specifically for the bride to prepare for the wedding.

The Sanctuary provides ample seating for guests in an authentic, historic church setting with antique wooden pews, stained glass, and a cathedral ceiling. The atmosphere is made complete with a backdrop of greenery and white flowers, and soft candlelight.

The Receiving Room invites the bridal party members to relax together and visit informally, while waiting for the wedding.

The Reception Room provides serving tables for food for guests, ample seating, and white linens: a thoroughly enjoyable dining experience in glowing candlelight.

The Patio offers an open air extension of the reception and receiving areas, adding space for dining and gathering in nice weather, as well as room for a few rocking chairs, and access assistance made possible by the handicap ramp on the north side.