Business Details
32 Years
experience
Your Dream Wedding Venue in Sycamore, IL
Chapel in the Pines has been a cornerstone of Midwest wedding celebrations since 1994, offering couples a unique blend of rustic charm and modern convenience. Founded by Howard and Donna Petersen as a 30th-anniversary gift from Howard to Donna, our venue has evolved into a beloved destination for over 3,000 weddings. Our 7-acre estate features a handcrafted Victorian chapel, vintage reception hall, and picturesque outdoor spaces designed to create timeless memories. We specialize in all-inclusive packages for ceremonies and receptions accommodating 2-150 guests, with flexible options for intimate elopements or grand celebrations. Our family-owned operation maintains a commitment to personalized service, combining decades of experience with a passion for creating unforgettable wedding experiences.The chapel, built entirely from reclaimed materials by Howard Petersen, remains a testament to enduring love and craftsmanship. We provide year-round event spaces with climate-controlled interiors and backup plans for unpredictable Midwest weather. Our services include customizable packages with amenities like photo booths, lighting systems, and commemorative brick installations. Located in Sycamore, Illinois, we serve couples from across the Chicago-land area and beyond. Our team prioritizes simplicity and affordability while maintaining high standards of quality and customer satisfaction.
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Reception Venues
Elopement Packages
Photo Booth Rental
Customized Bricks
Details
- Year established: 1994
Highlights and features
- 30+ years of wedding experience with 3,000+ successful events
- All-inclusive packages simplify wedding planning process
- Flexible indoor/outdoor ceremony spaces with weather backup
- Picturesque 7-acre estate with multiple photo opportunities
- Family-owned business with personal owner involvement
What people say
Beautiful country estate
Flexible ceremony spaces
Stress-free planning
Picturesque photo opportunities
Family-owned charm
Services
Wedding Ceremonies
Host your wedding ceremony in our handcrafted Victorian chapel or garden gazebo. Climate-controlled indoor space accommodates 100+ guests with authentic church pews and sound system. Outdoor gazebo includes chairs and setup. Packages include music and microphone options.
Reception Venues
Celebrate your reception in our vintage-inspired banquet hall seating 150 guests. Features chandeliers, lighting enhancements, bar packages, and photo booth rentals. Configurable layout with fire pit and lighting system options for customized celebrations.
Elopement Packages
Private ceremonies for 0-20 guests with flexible a la carte options. Includes essential amenities while allowing complete customization. Perfect for couples seeking simplicity without sacrificing quality or atmosphere.
Photo Booth Rental
Add fun to your celebration with our photo booth rental service. Includes props, backdrop options, and digital copies of all photos. Available as add-on to all wedding packages.
Customized Bricks
Commemorate your wedding day with personalized bricks in our pathway. Features engraved names and dates. Included in select packages or available as standalone keepsake option.
People
Howard Petersen
Founder
Built the chapel as a 30th-anniversary gift for his wife Donna. Self-taught constructor using reclaimed materials. Actively involved in venue operations for 30+ years.
Donna Petersen
Co-Founder
Inspired the chapel's creation and vision. Maintains active involvement in business operations. Celebrated 61 years of marriage with Howard while running the venue together.
Questions
What wedding packages do you offer?
We provide elopement packages for 0-20 guests, ceremony-only for 25-150 guests, and all-inclusive reception packages with customizable options.
Are outdoor weddings guaranteed?
Our garden gazebo and Victorian chapel offer both outdoor and indoor options. Final decision can be made day-of with chapel available as backup.
What makes your venue unique?
Our family-built chapel, 7-acre estate with multiple photo locations, and personalized brick commemoration create distinctive wedding experiences.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend contacting us 6-12 months ahead, though availability varies by season and package type.
Can I tour the venue?
Contact us for appointment-based tours. Virtual options available through our video tour and photo galleries.
Reviews (5)
Kimberly Carter
Oct 30, 2021
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This place was beautiful! I would definitely recommend an outside wedding here! The places is super cute and you can get a brick with your names and date!
Valarie Brown
Oct 21, 2021
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Jeff and his team are amazing! Really enjoyed having my wedding there and it was a perfect day in a perfect venu!
Amanda Torres
Jul 31, 2021
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Absolutely breathtaking! Josue and I had our wedding here on July 1st 2021 and it was so beautiful. The grounds are amazing. Jeffery and Howard were so helpful and made everything simple for our small wedding. It was a dream come true for us. Thank you!
Marilyn Torres
May 31, 2021
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Absolutely lovely and serene! My brother and his wife had a cute simple little ceremony and we loved it. Had I not been married already, I'd definitely want to marry here for sure!
Matt K.
Jan 18, 2021
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Beautiful venue for an outdoor wedding with a backdrop of their gazebo. Nighttime is more beautiful with the LED string lights they have along pathways or in outdoor seating areas. Inside the staff was very professional and willing to help with the smallest detail or question. I'd recommend this location to anyone needing a spot.
