Chapel History

An Historic Treasure

Since 1942 it has been one memorable day after another at the legendary Little Church of the West and what better backdrop for your eventful day than the luxurious glamor of Las Vegas, “The Entertainment Capital of the World”.

The Little Church of the West has played a major role in the evolution of the city’s image and has been the scene of more celebrity marriages than any other wedding chapel in the world. Betty Grable, Judy Garland, Mickey Rooney, Dudley Moore, Cindy Crawford & Richard Gere, Angelina Jolie & Billy Bob Thornton, and even Elvis Presley (well, sort of…he and Ann Margaret recited their vows in the movie”Viva Las Vegas”, filmed here at the Little Church of the West) have all walked down our aisle to exchange vows.

Originally built as part of the Last Frontier Hotel located on an isolated stretch of highway that would one day become the famous Las Vegas”Strip”, the Little Church of the West upholds the heritage of Las Vegas with its unique architecture. It’s a freestanding replica of an old west mining town church. With an exterior of cedar and an interior of California redwood, the chapel looks much the same today as when it was first built. It speaks of the early days of Las Vegas when its business district consisted of only the first three blocks of Fremont Street. As the town grew with the population boom caused by the construction of near by Hoover Dam, Fremont Street began to pulsate with wall-to-wall casinos. As first class resorts began to dot the desert skyline and big name entertainment lit up the beckoning marquis, the stage was set for the Little Church of the West to take its place in the annals of Las Vegas history.

Attesting to its historical significance, the Little Church is listed on the National Registry of Historical Places, the only such place on the “Strip” with this honor. One of the requirements for inclusion is that the structure retains its original integrity. “It hasn’t changed,” says current owner Greg Smith. “I mean, there’s been some painting and re-carpeting but the pews in there are believed to be the ones built with the chapel in 1942.” The four Victorian lamps that light the chapel are believed to be from 19th-century railroad cars but have since been converted from gas to electric. In 2007, the Little Church of the West celebrated its 65th anniversary and remains the oldest existing structure on the Las Vegas “Strip”.

How did this quaint little wedding chapel stand the test of time and all the facelifts of the Las Vegas Strip? Simply put, it moved — 3 times to be exact. The chapel first moved from its original location on the north side of the Last Frontier Hotel to the south side in 1954. In 1978, it was moved onto the grounds of the Hacienda Hotel to accommodate the building of the Fashion Show Mall and in 1996, the chapel was moved to its current location on the corner of Russell Road and Las Vegas Blvd to accommodate the building of the Mandalay Bay Hotel & Casino. Smith says the chapel has been popular because of its historical significance and its unique appearance. “There’s a lot of mystique about the chapel”.

The wedding chapel business flourished because of easy marriage laws. Unlike other places, Nevada did not require a waiting period and there were no requirements for blood tests. Today, those particular reasons for traveling to Nevada to get married have become less significant as laws in other states have changed, but Smith says those reasons remain significant for people from such countries as Germany which has strict laws governing marriage, adding that last year people from 22 countries were married here.

For Americans, however, getting married in Las Vegas remains hassle-free, inexpensive, and something to remember.

FAQ

How do we make reservations for our wedding?

You can either call the chapel at 800-821-2452 or 702-739-7971 between 8am and 12am Pacific Time, daily, or you may make reservations on our web site – all information is secure and encrypted. All online reservations require full, non-refundable payment and confirmation is made by a follow-up email or phone call.

How much is the deposit?

If you wish to pay a deposit, half the package price is required which is non-refundable and you must call to arrange this with one of our wedding consultants.

Is my deposit refundable?

Your deposit is a guarantee, which holds the chapel for your ceremony. Once scheduled, ALL payment is non-refundable. If, however, you should wish to reschedule, we will do our best to accommodate your needs, provided the rescheduled time is available. If you wish to leave your rescheduled date/time open, we can accommodate that as well – your deposit amount will remain on account and will be applied upon your rescheduling. All on-line reservations require non-refundable payment in full to secure the reservation.

How much is the minister’s fee?

The minister’s fee is not included in any of the wedding or vow renewal packages and is required. The fee is $60-$100, as specified with each package, payable to the Minister (cash only).

Where do we obtain a marriage license?

The Clark County Marriage Bureau is open from 8am to 12am, 7 days a week and all holidays. The marriage bureau is in the regional justice center building located at 201 East Clark Avenue on the corner of 3rd and Clark in downtown Las Vegas. Both the bride and groom must be present and have valid photo identification (driver’s license, passport or military id). The cost is $60 and only cash is accepted, they do not accept credit cards. No blood test is required, there is no waiting period, and previous divorce papers are not required. You MUST obtain the license before the wedding ceremony. Click Here for more information.

How long prior to the ceremony should we arrive?

Please arrive no less than 15 minutes prior to the ceremony. Please check in at the office behind the chapel with your Nevada marriage license.

Do you offer vow renewals and what is required?

Yes, please view our vow renewal packages. You do not need to obtain another marriage license if you are already married we will have you fill out an affidavit when you check in at the chapel.

How many guests can we have?

Our chapel seats up to 50 people. Maximum capacity is 75.

Can we have a bridal party?

You are welcome to have a bridal party if your package so indicates. Refer to your package details for specific information.

Can we purchase flowers for our wedding attendants?

Yes, all additional flowers must be ordered in advance. Boutonnieres, bouquets, rose presentations and corsages are available for the wedding attendants.

How long does a ceremony last?

You are here for about 20 minutes.

What if we don’t have a witness?

Don’t worry, we can provide a witness.

May we have a Unity Candle?

Regrettably, due to the historic nature of the chapel’s antique wooden structure, we cannot allow open flames.

What type of music is supplied?

For the packages that include music, traditional wedding music will be played. Refer to your package details for more information.

Is the chapel air conditioned?

Yes, the chapel is air conditioned for your comfort.

Are there additional photos available besides the ones included in the package?

Yes, additional photo packages are available. Purchasing additional photo packages will give you more photos to choose from and will increase the amount enlargements.

May guests take pictures?

Yes, but only if your package specifies it. Pictures may be taken during the ceremony from their seat only, but not during our professional photo shoot after the ceremony.

When do we receive our photos?

Photos are mailed in about 4-6 weeks.

How many photos do we get in our package?

Your wedding package will specify what photos are included. Additional photography services are available. Click here for more information.

Is the Webcam LIVE?

For security reasons we do not offer webcam broadcasts as the ceremony happens. The wedding video is available for viewing approximately 20 minutes after the ceremony concludes.

How do I watch the Webcam?

Click on the Webcam link to the left and enter the wedding date, the groom’s last name, and the bride’s maiden last name. There is no additional fee to view the wedding and you may view as often as you wish for 30 days after the ceremony. The webcam is not included in any package and must be purchased by the bride and groom.

When do we receive our DVD?

If you ordered one, your DVD video will be given to you directly after the ceremony.

How should we dress?

We do not have a dress code; you are welcome to dress formal or casual. We do ask that you do wear clothes however – No birthday suits!

Is there a place for us to dress?

Yes, a dressing room MAY be available, for the bride only, to change, unless otherwise indicated in your package. We ask that if you need to dress here that you come ready and just use the room to slip on your dress. Please arrive about a half an hour before your ceremony. We do not reserve this room for any package other than “Forever True”.

Do you offer dress and tux rental?

We generally suggest www.tuxandgown.com.

Do you have a salon for hair and make up recommendations?

Our wedding consultants are happy to make suggestions.

Can someone walk the bride down the aisle?

Yes, traditionally by her father or another member of the bridal party, if you wish.

Can we write our own vows?

Our ministers perform a beautiful ceremony, however you may include your own vows that you read to each other. You are welcome to watch a sample ceremony click on chapel webcam.

Do you offer ceremonies in other languages besides English?

Spanish & French speaking ministers are available. This is based upon specific availability and must be requested at the time of your reservation.

Do you offer transportation?

We offer limousine service for couples that purchase the “Forever True”, Marry Me”, or “Lucky in Love” packages only (this may not be available on holidays or “unique” dates). Our limousine seats 6 passengers. Service is for pick up, wait, and return only, from your hotel on the Las Vegas Strip and generally lasts about 1 hour (gratuity not included). This service MUST be requested at the time of your reservation. If you do not purchase one of these packages we suggest making your return transportation arrangements from the chapel before the wedding.

Do you have receptions?

We do not have the facilities for receptions. Our wedding consultants are happy to make suggestions.

Policies and pricing are subject to change without notice.