Rental Guidelines

Reservations/Deposit

United Theological Seminary will hold the date for an event in the Bigelow Chapel for 30 days with no deposit required. After 30 days, a non-refundable deposit is required to hold the space and the date. All rentals require a signed Space Rental Agreement.

Food & Beverage Service

Food and beverages are prohibited in all areas of the Bigelow Chapel including the narthex, sanctuary, and processional. The Context Café is available for receptions. We offer an on-site licensed caterer. A licensed bartender or caterer with appropriate licensure is required for any alcoholic beverage service.

Alcohol & Smoking

Smoking and alcohol consumption are prohibited in the Bigelow Chapel as well as in all of the buildings and on the grounds at United. Exceptions may be possible in the instance of a bartender or caterer, provided by the client, being sufficiently licensed to serve alcohol beverages.

Photographs

Photographs may be taken in Bigelow Chapel within the confines of the four-hour timeframe specified in the rental contract. Photographs may also be taken on the Bigelow Chapel lawn and, for receptions, in the Context Café. Photographs are prohibited in all other seminary buildings.

Set Up/Take Down/Decorations

United is responsible for set up and take down in the Bigelow Chapel, excluding decorations or other items brought by the client. Clean up beyond normal wear and tear will be charged to the client. All decorations must be freestanding. For weddings/holy unions, throwing rice, birdseed, confetti, flower petals (fake petals are allowed), or similar items is prohibited. We suggest ringing bells or blowing bubbles as an alternative.