I have photographed a full wedding at Princeton, a ceremony at the chapel, engagement sessions on campus, and a family session on the grounds. Princeton is one of my favorite places to photograph in New Jersey, and I return whenever I can. The chapel is one of the most extraordinary ceremony spaces I have ever photographed in. The campus itself, Nassau Hall, Cannon Green, Prospect Gardens, the FitzRandolph Gate, the ivy and the stone and the light through the trees, is genuinely beautiful in every season.
About the Princeton University Chapel
The Princeton University Chapel requires a Princeton connection. Current students, alumni, current or retired staff or faculty, and their children or grandchildren are eligible. No weddings in May or December. Saturday times are noon, 1 pm, or 3 pm. Sunday weddings available in June, July, and August only. Reservations no more than two years in advance. The chapel fee is $2,500 and includes use of the chapel and sound system, a sound engineer, an organist, a wedding monitor, and a sexton. The chapel is not air-conditioned. The aisle is extraordinarily long, and the vaulted Gothic ceilings and intricate stained glass windows make for ceremony photographs unlike any other venue in New Jersey.
Reception Options
The Nassau Inn on Palmer Square is the primary nearby option for both getting ready and receptions. The Prince William Ballroom has rich wood paneling and crystal chandeliers. The Nassau Inn is a short walk from the chapel and the main campus.
Prospect House and Garden, formerly the residence of Princeton’s presidents, is available for outdoor ceremonies and receptions. The lush gardens and flowering beds are private and quiet.
Many couples use the Princeton chapel for the ceremony only and hold their reception at a nearby New Jersey venue. Rat’s Restaurant at the Grounds for Sculpture in Hamilton is a popular combination. Park Chateau Estate is another frequent pairing.
Photography at Princeton University
The chapel interior for ceremony coverage is extraordinary. The light through the stained glass, the length of the aisle, the scale of the vaulted ceiling, and the intricate wood carvings. I have photographed ceremonies here multiple times, and it never ceases to be impressive.
Outside the chapel, the campus provides portrait locations in every direction. Nassau Hall, the oldest building on campus, has its ivy-covered walls and imposing columns. Cannon Green at the heart of campus. The FitzRandolph Gate at the main entrance. Prospect Gardens, with its flowering beds and quiet pathways. The tree-lined walkways and Gothic architecture throughout. Palmer Square in downtown Princeton, just steps from campus, offers a more relaxed urban feel.
Note: there are places on campus that photography is not allowed, so bear that in mind when choosing locations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Princeton University Weddings
Who can get married at the Princeton University Chapel?
Current Princeton students, alumni, current or retired staff or faculty, and children or grandchildren of any of the above. The chapel is not available to the general public.
When is the Princeton University Chapel available for weddings?
Saturdays at noon, 1 pm, or 3 pm. Sunday weddings only in June, July, and August. No weddings in May or December. Reservations up to two years in advance.
How much does it cost to get married at the Princeton University Chapel?
As of writing this, the standard fee is $2,500, which includes the chapel and sound system, a sound engineer, an organist, a wedding monitor, and a sexton. An additional $500 fee applies if you use the Dean or Associate Dean as officiant. Outside officiants are permitted.
Is the Princeton University Chapel air-conditioned?
No. Plan accordingly for summer weddings.
What are the best portrait locations at Princeton University?
Nassau Hall, with its ivy-covered walls and columns. Cannon Green at the heart of campus. Prospect Gardens for floral and garden portraits. The FitzRandolph Gate at the main entrance. The Gothic archways and tree-lined walkways throughout campus. And Palmer Square in downtown Princeton, for portraits with a different character.
Do you photograph weddings and engagement sessions at Princeton University?
Yes. I have photographed here multiple times and would photograph here again without hesitation. If your wedding or engagement session is at Princeton, I would love to hear about it.
