University of Notre Dame Wedding Planning Guide
Quick Links: Planning Your Notre Dame Wedding
There’s something so special about a University of Notre Dame wedding, especially for couples who have a personal connection to the campus. From the beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart to celebrating with family and friends at one of Notre Dame’s reception venues, there’s so much to love about getting married here!
As a Northern Indiana wedding photographer with over 10 years of experience, I’ve gotten to know Notre Dame’s campus incredibly well. I live just 15 minutes away and have photographed multiple weddings here, along with countless engagements, proposals, and senior sessions. As a Catholic myself, I also understand the significance of a Catholic wedding ceremony and the traditions and meaningful moments that deserve to be documented.
In this University of Notre Dame wedding planning guide, I’m sharing everything you need to know about ceremony locations, reception venues, booking requirements, my favorite photo spots, and tips for planning your day!
Last updated: October 2026
Who Can Get Married at Notre Dame?
Before you start planning your Notre Dame wedding, it’s important to know that the university has specific eligibility requirements for couples hoping to get married in the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Lady Chapel, or Log Chapel.
To get married in one of Notre Dame’s three ceremony locations, at least one person in the couple must be Catholic and meet one of the following requirements:
- Be a current University of Notre Dame student
- Be a Notre Dame alum
- Have been an active member of Sacred Heart Parish for at least two years before scheduling your wedding
- Be a current full-time Notre Dame faculty or staff member who has worked at the university for at least five years
What if you don’t meet these requirements? You can still host your wedding at Notre Dame! The university’s reception venues are available to couples regardless of their alumni status or connection to the school.
If you’re hoping to have your ceremony in the Basilica, I recommend looking into the reservation process early. Wedding dates are competitive, and Notre Dame doesn’t host ceremonies during home football weekends or certain major university events. I’ll walk you through the ceremony locations and booking process below!
Wedding Ceremony Locations at Notre Dame
One of the most exciting parts of planning a University of Notre Dame wedding is choosing where you’ll have your ceremony! Notre Dame has three designated ceremony locations, each with a different setting.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart Weddings
Guest capacity: 800
If you’ve ever stepped inside the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, you know just how breathtaking it is! It has soaring ceilings and colorful stained-glass windows with intricate details throughout the church. It’s truly one of the most beautiful places to get married in Northern Indiana.
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart was consecrated in 1888 and has become one of Notre Dame’s most sought-after wedding ceremony locations. For couples who attended the university, getting married here can be such a special way to return to the place that holds so many memories.
I’ve had the opportunity to photograph multiple Basilica weddings, and I love how beautiful this space is in person and how it photographs. The architecture creates such a timeless backdrop for the ceremony, and the surrounding campus gives us so many opportunities for wedding party photos and portraits afterward.
Lady Chapel Weddings at Notre Dame
Guest capacity: 60
Located within the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Lady Chapel has a more intimate setting for couples who want to exchange vows surrounded by their closest family and friends. With room for up to 60 guests, it’s a great option for a smaller Catholic wedding while still celebrating in one of Notre Dame’s most meaningful spaces.
Log Chapel Weddings at Notre Dame
Guest capacity: 35
For couples planning an intimate wedding ceremony, Notre Dame’s Log Chapel has a different atmosphere from the Basilica. It’s tucked away near St. Mary’s Lake, and this small wooden chapel has a rustic, historic feel that’s perfect for a small ceremony surrounded by your loved ones. There’s seating for up to 35 guests, so it’s the smallest of Notre Dame’s designated wedding ceremony locations.
You can find more information about all three locations on the university’s official Basilica wedding website.
How to Book a Notre Dame Wedding Ceremony
If you’re dreaming of getting married at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, I recommend making your ceremony reservation one of your first wedding planning priorities! University of Notre Dame weddings are very popular, and securing your preferred date can be competitive.
The university uses a two-year rolling reservation calendar, meaning dates become available two years in advance. You can check available dates and times online before completing the wedding reservation request form.
Couples can only submit one request form, and wedding dates are non-transferable. The Basilica Office typically responds within two business days, but your wedding date isn’t officially confirmed until your reservation is complete and payment has been received.
Available Notre Dame Wedding Dates & Ceremony Times
Notre Dame offers weddings at specific times on Fridays and Saturdays:
- Saturdays (year-round): 9:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, and 3:00 PM
- Fridays (June and July): 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM
Keep in mind that Notre Dame doesn’t schedule wedding ceremonies on home football weekends or during certain major university events. If you have a specific date in mind, I recommend checking the official wedding availability calendar before booking your other vendors.
How Much Does a Notre Dame Wedding Ceremony Cost?
Wedding ceremony reservation fees vary depending on the chapel, season, and ceremony time. Here’s a breakdown of Notre Dame’s current pricing:
| Ceremony Location & Time | Reservation Fee |
|---|---|
| Basilica or Lady Chapel: December–February, any available time | $750 |
| Basilica or Lady Chapel: March–November, 9:00 AM | $750 |
| Basilica or Lady Chapel: March–November, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, or 3:00 PM | $1,000 |
| Basilica or Lady Chapel: June–July Fridays, 1:00 PM or 3:00 PM | $750 |
| Log Chapel: Year-round, any available time | $500 |
These reservation fees are non-refundable and don’t include the officiating priest or musicians. Notre Dame also suggests a $250 stipend for the priest, with separate fees for musicians. For Basilica weddings, an organist and cantor are required, currently costing $250 each.
You can review the latest fees and reservation information on the Basilica’s official wedding website.
What Happens After You Reserve Your Ceremony?
Once your wedding date is confirmed, there are a few more steps to prepare for your Catholic ceremony. You’ll need to arrange for a priest or deacon to officiate, complete marriage preparation, and submit the required Church paperwork.
The University of Notre Dame also provides a wedding coordinator to assist with your ceremony and rehearsal. However, there are several important planning deadlines, so I recommend reviewing the university’s wedding planning timeline and guidelines early in the process.
And don’t forget about your reception! Whether you’re celebrating at the Morris Inn or another beautiful location on campus, coordinating both reservations early will help everything come together.
Notre Dame Wedding Reception Venues
Once you’ve secured your ceremony location, it’s time to think about where you’ll celebrate! One of the best things about planning a University of Notre Dame wedding is having several beautiful reception venues right on campus. Think elegant hotel ballrooms to spaces overlooking Notre Dame Stadium, there’s something for different wedding sizes and styles. Below are some of the venues worth considering.
| Venue | Capacity | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Smith Ballroom, Morris Inn | 264 | Classic weddings and convenient lodging |
| Private Dining Rooms, Morris Inn | 100 | Intimate wedding receptions |
| Downes Club, Corbett Family Hall | 252 | Stadium-connected celebrations |
| Dahnke Ballroom, Duncan Student Center | 462 | Large weddings and campus views |
| Foley’s, O’Neill Hall | 150 | Smaller receptions and unique dining spaces |
Maximum published guest capacities. Actual capacities may vary depending on seating arrangements, dance floors, and entertainment setup.
Morris Inn: Smith Ballroom
Guest capacity: Up to 264 guests with a DJ or 254 with a band
Located right in the heart of campus, the Smith Ballroom at Morris Inn is a stunning option for couples who want a classic, elegant wedding reception. The ballroom has such timeless details and nearly 5,000 square feet of space, with an adjoining pre-function area for additional room. One of the biggest conveniences is that Morris Inn is also a hotel, making it easy for out-of-town guests to stay right on campus without traveling to another location after the wedding.
I’ve had the opportunity to photograph a wedding reception at Morris Inn, and I love that couples can enjoy their entire wedding day surrounded by the places that make Notre Dame so special.
Morris Inn: Private Dining Rooms
Guest capacity: 50–100 guests
If you’re planning a smaller, more intimate Notre Dame wedding reception, the Private Dining Room at Morris Inn is another beautiful option! It’s located just down the hall from the hotel lobby, and this 1,900-square-foot space has an elegant setting for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, and post-wedding brunches.
I also had the opportunity to photograph Georgi and Lia’s wedding reception here after their ceremony at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart! It’s a beautiful option for couples who want to celebrate with their closest family and friends while keeping everything right on Notre Dame’s campus.
Duncan Student Center: Dahnke Ballroom
Guest capacity: Up to 462 guests
For couples planning a larger Notre Dame wedding reception, Dahnke Ballroom at Duncan Student Center is definitely worth considering! It’s located on the seventh floor, and this 10,000-square-foot ballroom has floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking some of Notre Dame’s most iconic landmarks, including the Golden Dome, Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and Notre Dame Stadium!
I’ve had the opportunity to photograph a wedding reception here, and I love how much natural light fills the space! With the soaring windows, warm architectural details, and spacious dance floor, it’s a beautiful setting for celebrating with family and friends!
Corbett Family Hall: Downes Club
Guest capacity: Up to 252 guests with a DJ or 242 with a band
If Notre Dame football holds a special place in your heart, the Downes Club at Corbett Family Hall is definitely worth looking into! Downes Club is on the seventh floor of Corbett Family Hall, and this 5,300-square-foot ballroom is part of the Notre Dame Stadium complex. It’s a great way to incorporate your connection to Fighting Irish traditions into your reception while still having a beautiful space for dinner and dancing.
O’Neill Hall: Foley’s
Guest capacity: Up to 150 guests
Located on the south side of Notre Dame Stadium, Foley’s at O’Neill Hall is another option for couples who want a reception that feels connected to the university’s history and traditions. This space includes three distinct areas: Chef’s Dining, Main Dining, and Joe’s Bar. It has room for up to 150 guests, has a different atmosphere from a traditional ballroom, and still keeps your reception right on campus.
More Notre Dame Wedding Reception Venues to Consider
Notre Dame also has several other reception spaces worth checking out, especially if you’re planning a smaller wedding or want to incorporate the university’s athletic traditions into your wedding day!
- Seven on 9 at Corbett Family Hall: An intimate event space overlooking Notre Dame Stadium, ideal for smaller wedding receptions.
- Eck Visitors Center Atrium: Has vaulted ceilings, beautiful architectural details, and campus views, with room for up to 75 wedding guests.
- Club Naimoli at Joyce Center: A spacious reception venue overlooking Notre Dame’s basketball arena, perfect for couples who love Fighting Irish athletics.
- O’Brien’s at Compton Family Ice Arena: An Irish pub-inspired space with a balcony overlooking the ice arena, with a more relaxed setting for wedding celebrations.
You can see all nine locations through Notre Dame’s official wedding reception venue directory and contact the hospitality team for current availability, pricing, and catering requirements.
Wedding Weekend Celebrations at Rohr’s
Located inside Morris Inn, Rohr’s is another great place to incorporate into your Notre Dame wedding weekend! It has a warm atmosphere and connections to university traditions, so it’s worth considering for a rehearsal dinner or gathering with loved ones.
I’ve photographed two couples who incorporated Rohr’s into their wedding in different ways. Georgi and Lia hosted their rehearsal dinner here before their wedding. And during Katy and George’s cocktail hour, they slipped away for a drink at the very same table where they had their first date. How sweet is that?!
If you’re interested in hosting a gathering here, I recommend contacting Rohr’s about group reservations and private dining availability.
Off-Campus Wedding Reception Venues
While there are plenty of beautiful reception venues right on Notre Dame’s campus, you can absolutely celebrate somewhere else in South Bend after your ceremony! I’ve photographed Notre Dame weddings with receptions both on and off campus, and there are some wonderful options nearby.
One example is The Brick, a modern, industrial-style wedding venue along the St. Joseph River in South Bend. It has exposed brick, beautiful windows, and flexible spaces. It’s a great option for couples who want something a little different from a traditional ballroom. I photographed John and Molly’s wedding at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, followed by their reception at The Brick, which are the photos you’ll see below.
Other South Bend reception venues worth considering include the historic Palais Royale and The Armory, with both having a distinctive setting for wedding receptions that would pair well with a Notre Dame wedding ceremony.
Whether you choose a reception on campus or somewhere nearby, I recommend planning enough time between your ceremony and reception for travel, wedding portraits, and breathing room!
Booking Your Notre Dame Wedding Reception
Notre Dame’s reception venues are managed separately from Basilica wedding ceremonies, so you’ll need to coordinate both reservations if you’re planning to have your wedding entirely on campus.
Catering requirements also vary by venue. For example, Morris Inn’s Smith Ballroom requires Three Leaf Catering, while other campus venues work with Notre Dame Hospitality’s approved catering partners. Food and beverage minimums may apply.
For current availability, packages, and pricing, you can contact Notre Dame Hospitality directly or call 574-631-1400.
Best Notre Dame Wedding Photo Locations
One of my favorite things about photographing weddings at Notre Dame is how many beautiful photo locations there are throughout campus! You have historic architecture, beautiful landscaping, and iconic landmarks. There’s really no shortage of opportunities for wedding portraits.
And because I live just 15 minutes away and regularly photograph weddings, engagements, proposals, and senior sessions here, I’ve gotten to know the campus very well. Sometimes it feels like my second home. I love helping couples choose locations that photograph beautifully while also incorporating places that hold special meaning from their time at Notre Dame.
Here are a few locations worth considering for your Notre Dame wedding photos!
The Golden Dome & Main Building
You can’t talk about Notre Dame wedding photos without mentioning the Golden Dome! It’s one of the most recognizable landmarks on campus and a beautiful backdrop for both wedding party photos and bride and groom portraits. I really love incorporating the surrounding architecture and steps into photos, from the entire wedding party to portraits of just the two of you.
Basilica of the Sacred Heart
If you’re getting married in the Basilica, you’ll already have one of Notre Dame’s most beautiful landmarks as the backdrop for your ceremony! The grand architecture and detailed exterior make it a beautiful location for wedding portraits, and I love that couples can capture photos here that will always remind them of where they exchanged their vows.
Campus Steps & Historic Archways
Notre Dame has so many beautiful architectural details beyond the Golden Dome and Basilica! I love capturing the grand stone staircases to the historic archways and covered walkways. There’s so many opportunities for timeless wedding portraits around campus.
One location I especially love is the staircase at Bond Hall, where I photographed some of Georgi and Lia’s wedding portraits. The tall columns and beautiful stone steps create such an elegant backdrop! I also love exploring the nearby archways for a little more variety in your wedding gallery.
The Vine-Covered Pergola
One of my favorite spots for Notre Dame wedding photos is the beautiful vine-covered pergola near the Engineering building! It has stone columns, lush greenery, and seasonal flowers, making it such a romantic spot for portraits. I just love how the greenery frames everything and gives us that softer, garden-inspired look that’s a little different from Notre Dame’s more recognizable landmarks.
The Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes
For couples who want to incorporate another meaningful Notre Dame landmark into their wedding portraits, the Grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes is worth considering. It’s such a beautiful area of campus that offers a more intimate setting. I really love it for couples who have a personal or spiritual connection to the Grotto. Not only The Grotto itself, but the flower lined pathway leading up to The Grotto as well. It’s also a beautiful place to visit together during your wedding weekend.
Saint Joseph’s Lake & the Surrounding Campus
If you’re looking for greenery and a more natural setting, the areas surrounding Notre Dame’s lakes offer a beautiful contrast to the university’s architecture. There’s the trees, walking paths, and beautiful waterfront views. These areas can be perfect for couples who want a little more variety in their wedding portraits.
Of course, we don’t have to visit every location! I love working with my couples to choose a few meaningful spots that fit naturally into their wedding day timeline, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the day without feeling rushed.
I actually photographed Kellen and Caroline’s surprise Notre Dame proposal at Saint Joseph’s Lake, followed by portraits near the Grotto and Golden Dome! It’s one of my favorite examples of how many beautiful and meaningful photo locations we can incorporate without leaving campus.
Notre Dame Stadium Wedding Photos
For couples who have always dreamed of wedding photos on the Notre Dame football field, this is definitely something worth asking about! The university has previously offered special stadium photography experiences, including access to the famous “Play Like a Champion Today” sign and the field itself.
However, access is restricted and isn’t guaranteed. If this is something you’d love to incorporate into your wedding day, I recommend contacting Notre Dame Hospitality early to ask about current availability, eligibility, and approval requirements.
Meaningful Places Around Notre Dame’s Campus
Some of the best Notre Dame wedding photo locations aren’t necessarily the most recognizable spots. They’re the places that mean something to you! Maybe it’s the residence hall you lived in, a building where you spent countless hours studying, or somewhere you made some of your favorite college memories.
I always love incorporating locations that have a personal connection to my couples. Whether it’s a familiar campus building or a spot filled with memories, these photos can make your wedding gallery feel even more meaningful!
And meaningful campus photos aren’t just for your wedding day! I’ve also photographed engagement sessions at Notre Dame, including Emily and Adrian’s ‘University of Notre Dame & Saint Mary’s College Engagement Photos‘, where we revisited the campuses that played such an important role in their story.
Planning your own University of Notre Dame wedding? I’d love to hear all about it and help you capture your day at a place that means so much to you!
Planning Your Notre Dame Wedding Day
As you can see, there’s so many beautiful places to celebrate and take photos around Notre Dame, and a little planning can go a long way! From coordinating your ceremony and reception to making time for portraits around campus, there are a few things I always recommend keeping in mind.
Having photographed multiple weddings here, I know how important it is to build a timeline that allows you to enjoy your day without feeling like you’re constantly rushing from one location to another.
Building Your Notre Dame Wedding Timeline
One of the biggest things to consider when planning your timeline is your ceremony time. Notre Dame has specific wedding time slots, and couples are allotted two hours inside the Basilica, beginning 30 minutes before their ceremony.
For example, if your ceremony begins at 3:00 PM, you’ll have access to the Basilica beginning at 2:30 PM and must leave by 4:30 PM. That window includes your ceremony and any photographs taken inside the church.
This is why I love planning wedding portraits around the ceremony rather than trying to squeeze everything into one small window. Depending on your plans, we can incorporate a first look, wedding party photos, and portraits at your favorite campus locations before or after the ceremony. If you have your heart set on photos at the Golden Dome, Basilica, or somewhere meaningful from your time at Notre Dame, we’ll want to account for the time it takes to move between locations.
And don’t worry about figuring everything out yourself! I work closely with my couples to create a photography timeline that allows plenty of time for portraits while still enjoying the celebration. You can also take a look at my sample Notre Dame wedding day timeline to see how everything can come together!
Basilica Wedding Ceremony & Photography Rules
The Basilica of the Sacred Heart is such a meaningful place for a Catholic wedding, and there are a few important guidelines to keep in mind when planning your ceremony. From photography to decorations and traditions, these rules help preserve the sacredness of the space.
According to Notre Dame’s official Basilica wedding guidelines, here’s what you should know:
- Photography: Flash isn’t permitted during the ceremony, except during the opening and closing processions. Photographers also cannot enter the sanctuary, choir loft, or sacristy.
- Decorations: Aisle runners, additional arches, and candles along the pews or aisles aren’t permitted. Any floral arrangements must be handled by a professional florist.
- Wedding exits: Flower petals, rice, confetti, bubbles, and birdseed aren’t allowed inside or outside the Basilica.
- Catholic traditions: Unity candles, personalized vows, and secular readings aren’t permitted. However, approved Catholic cultural traditions may be incorporated.
- Music: Ceremony music must be appropriate for a Catholic liturgy and follow the Basilica’s music guidelines.
- Additional restrictions: Photography and video vendors cannot enter more than 30 minutes before the ceremony, and drones are prohibited anywhere on campus.
As a Catholic myself, I understand how meaningful these traditions are and how important it is to document your ceremony while respecting the church’s guidelines. Having photographed multiple Basilica weddings, I know how to work within these restrictions while capturing the moments that matter most!
Parking & Transportation for Your Notre Dame Wedding
Notre Dame’s campus is beautiful, but it’s also pretty large! If you’re planning portraits at multiple locations or have guests traveling between your ceremony and reception, it’s worth thinking about transportation early.
For Basilica weddings, guests can park in the Grotto or St. Liam’s lots when space is available, with additional parking in the Lake Lot. Accessible parking is also available in designated areas. I recommend sharing Notre Dame’s official campus map with your guests ahead of time, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the university.
If you’re hosting your reception on campus, I’d also recommend asking Notre Dame Hospitality about golf cart transportation, which the university has offered for weddings in the past. Availability isn’t guaranteed, but it could be a helpful option for getting around campus! You might also consider arranging a shuttle, especially during the summer heat or colder months.
Keep in mind that buses and limousines have specific campus entry and drop-off requirements, and you’ll need to notify your Basilica wedding coordinator about planned transportation at least two weeks before the wedding.
And don’t forget to consider the time of year! Campus events, student activity, and changing weather can all influence your plans. Building a little flexibility into your timeline makes it easier to enjoy your day without feeling rushed.
Sample Notre Dame Wedding Day Timeline
Wondering what a University of Notre Dame wedding might actually look like? Here’s an example based on a real wedding I photographed, with a 1:00 PM ceremony at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and a reception at Morris Inn!
Every wedding timeline will look a little different depending on your ceremony time, reception location, and whether you’re planning a first look. I always work with my couples to create a photography timeline that makes room for the moments that matter most without feeling rushed.
Example: 1:00 PM Basilica Ceremony & Morris Inn Reception
- 12:00 PM: Getting ready, wedding details, and final touches at Morris Inn
- 12:20 PM: First look with a parent
- 12:40 PM: Arrive at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- 1:00 PM: Catholic wedding ceremony begins
- 2:00 PM: Ceremony ends, followed by immediate family photos at the altar
- 2:30 PM: Extended family portraits at the Main Building steps
- 2:45 PM: Wedding party photos around God Quad
- 3:15 PM: Bride and groom portraits at the Grotto, Law School archway, and surrounding campus
- 4:00 PM: Cocktail hour begins
- 5:00 PM: Grand entrance, cake cutting, and first dance
- 5:15 PM: Toasts, blessing, and dinner
- 6:30 PM: Parent dances, followed by open dancing
- 8:00 PM: Photography coverage ends
This sample includes eight hours of scheduled photography coverage. Your wedding day may look different depending on your ceremony time, photography package, and personal plans.
Notre Dame Wedding Ideas & Personal Touches
For so many couples, getting married at Notre Dame is about celebrating a place filled with memories, friendships, and traditions! One of my favorite things about photographing weddings here is seeing how couples incorporate their connection to the university through thoughtful details and favors.
If you’re looking for ways to personalize your Notre Dame wedding, here are a few ideas:
- Wedding colors: Incorporate Notre Dame’s navy, gold, or green into your flowers, stationery, or décor.
- Personalized favors: Include Notre Dame-inspired keepsakes or nods to your favorite campus traditions.
- Meaningful portraits: Take wedding photos where you first met, got engaged, or made special memories together.
- Fighting Irish traditions: Incorporate a little Notre Dame spirit through music, decorations, or meaningful wedding details. I’ve even photographed a couple who included bagpipers in their celebration!
- Wedding weekend celebrations: Plan a rehearsal dinner or welcome gathering to share your favorite places with loved ones.
Sometimes, it’s the smallest details that tell the most about your story, and those are always some of my favorite things to photograph!
And if you’re planning a Catholic wedding, one of my past Notre Dame brides, Katy, wrote a beautiful three-part series called The Meantime of Catholic Wedding Planning. She shares reflections on keeping faith at the heart of wedding planning, and I love being able to share her perspective!
Real Notre Dame Weddings I’ve Photographed
One of my favorite things about photographing University of Notre Dame weddings is seeing how each couple makes their day their own! Here are a few beautiful wedding days I’ve had the honor of documenting on and around campus.
Katy & George | June 14, 2025
Katy and George’s wedding was filled with thoughtful details that reflected their Catholic faith and connection to both Saint Mary’s College and Notre Dame. After their ceremony at the Holy Spirit Chapel at Saint Mary’s, we took portraits around both campuses before celebrating with family and friends at the Smith Ballroom inside Morris Inn. One of my favorite moments was when they stopped at Rohr’s for a drink at the very same table where they had their first date!
Read More: A Faithful Notre Dame Wedding
Vendors
- Ceremony: The Holy Spirit Chapel in LeMans Hall at Saint Mary’s College
- Reception: Smith Ballroom in The Morris Inn at The University of Notre Dame
- Photographer: Riley Trott Photography
- DJ: DJ Sticky Boots
- Florist: Country Florist
- HAMU: Beauty-and-Bliss
“Leading up to the wedding, she was beyond helpful with wedding recs, planning, and simply being a good friend. As a couple who is not used to being in front of the camera, she made it so chill, comfortable, and fun.” — Katy S.
Read Katy’s full review on Google.
Georgi & Lia | May 30, 2026
Georgi and Lia’s wedding weekend was a beautiful celebration right on Notre Dame’s campus! They kicked things off with a rehearsal dinner at Rohr’s before exchanging vows at the Basilica of the Sacred Heart. Their reception took place in the private dining room at Morris Inn.
“She knows Notre Dame’s campus so well and knew exactly where to go for the best lighting, scenery, etc and at the same time was open to my ideas! She made us feel comfortable and I just cannot say enough how calming and fun her presence is.”— Lia S.
John & Molly | June 13, 2026
John and Molly had their ceremony inside the beautiful Basilica of the Sacred Heart before celebrating with family and friends at The Brick in downtown South Bend. We also spent time around Notre Dame’s campus capturing wedding party photos at the iconic Golden Dome and portraits of the newlyweds. I love how their day brought together the timeless beauty of Notre Dame with a reception off campus!
Vendors
- Ceremony: Basilica of the Sacred Heart
- Reception: The Brick
- Photographer: Riley Trott Photography
- DOC: Olive & Ivy Co. Events
- Florals: Country Florist
- Dress: Anthropologie Weddings
And once your wedding day is over, those memories deserve to be preserved! If you’ve ever considered turning your favorite wedding photos into something you can hold onto for years to come, you can learn more about my custom heirloom wedding albums and why I love them so much.
University of Notre Dame Wedding FAQs
At least one person must be Catholic and meet Notre Dame’s eligibility requirements to marry in the Basilica, Lady Chapel, or Log Chapel. However, you don’t need to be Catholic to host a wedding reception on campus!
Yes! Eligible current students, qualifying faculty or staff, and longtime Sacred Heart Parish members can also marry at Notre Dame. On-campus reception venues are open to couples regardless of alumni status.
Notre Dame accepts ceremony reservations up to two years in advance through a rolling calendar.
Yes, but Notre Dame doesn’t schedule wedding ceremonies on home football weekends. If you’re planning a fall wedding, check the football schedule and ceremony availability before choosing your date.
Absolutely! The Golden Dome, Basilica exterior, and historic architecture make beautiful backdrops for wedding photos. Some locations have restrictions, but I love helping my couples find meaningful spots that work with their wedding timeline!
Yes. Couples must arrange for an approved priest or deacon to officiate their ceremony. Notre Dame recommends doing this at least nine months in advance. You can find more details in their wedding planning guidelines.
The Morris Inn has convenient accommodations right on campus! You’ll also find plenty of hotels throughout South Bend and Mishawaka.
Meet Riley, Your Notre Dame Wedding Photographer
Hi, I’m Riley! A Northern Indiana wedding photographer with over 10 years of experience capturing love stories and all the meaningful moments that come with them. My approach to wedding photography is warm and focused on documenting genuine connections and the moments you’ll want to remember for years to come.
As a Catholic myself, I understand just how meaningful the traditions and sacred moments of a Catholic wedding ceremony are. And having photographed multiple Notre Dame weddings, I know how to document those moments with care while helping you feel comfortable and present throughout your day.
If you’re planning a University of Notre Dame wedding, I’d love to hear all about your plans and help tell your story through photographs you’ll treasure for a lifetime! You can learn more about me on my about page, or inquire with me below.
