We are so excited about our impending wedding season we have decided kick it off with our Venue Showcase series, where we will periodically showcase exceptional venues on our blog! We know that there are so many fantastic venues for you to choose from. We want to help you by highlighting the best wedding venues of the Gulf Coast!
-CASEY CAMPBELL | UNIVERSITY OF WEST FLORIDA HISTORIC TRUST
What makes Old Christ Church unique or special?
“The history! Just think of all of the people who have been married in the church through the years, going back to the early 1800s. Couples getting married in present day get to be a part of that history.”
What is the history of Old Christ Church?
“It’s hard to give a brief history of the church because it’s been around for so long. It was built in 1832 and is one of the oldest surviving church buildings in Florida, serving the Pensacola community as an Episcopal Church, public library and museum. The building was also occupied by federal troops during the Civil War. Today, it is a public museum and is a stop on the guided tour of Historic Pensacola Village. We also host concerts and lectures for various community groups throughout the year.”
Do you have venue tips for future brides?
“The best tip is in regards to booking. The church is highly sought after for wedding ceremonies, so I encourage everyone to be flexible on their selected date. Consider Friday and Sunday weddings because there will be more days open and more options for ceremony times. Certain holiday weekends work great for Sunday weddings—you’ll most likely get an extra day with out of town guests and they’ll still have a day to rest or travel after the wedding.”
What is your favorite wedding memory at Old Christ Church?
“We limit decorations in the church, so it really comes down to the couples. My favorite weddings always have a lot of laughter—including during the ceremony—and my favorite couples are the ones who will let me stay in the church for their first look!”
How can brides connect with the Museum of Commerce?
“A phone call is best if a couple has a set date they need to check for availability before scheduling an in person church visit.”