Every couple hopes for their wedding day to be perfect in every way. Here at Fox Island United Church of Christ those dreams can come true. On beautiful wooded Fox Island, near Gig Harbor, you will find a church totally accommodating to your wedding needs. Our elegant sanctuary has picture windows that face west, with stunning views of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. If you desire an outdoor wedding, we have lovely grounds. Your reception can be held either inside in our spacious vaulted-ceiling reception area, or outside with the skies as your canopy. As an open and affirming church we welcome all couples, because love is what matters. Let us help you begin your marriage journey here at Fox Island United Church of Christ.
When the weather allows for outdoor weddings in 2021, we will be following all Washington State rules regarding Covid-19 for whatever phase we are in. We want to assure everyone’s safety.
Contact Information
Here at Fox Island United Church of Christ (FIUCC) we are committed to helping you plan your perfect wedding. We hope these answers are comprehensive but we can answer other questions you may have. Sharon Gregory is our Wedding Manager. She can be reached at s.easonsgreetings@comcast.net or 253-677-0814. The church office number is 253-549-2420.
Frequently Asked Questions for Weddings
What is the church’s seating capacity?
The sanctuary will seat up to 250 guests.
What parking is available?
We have a large parking lot with easy access to the sanctuary.
What is the rental rate for Weddings?
For a wedding ceremony only, the total fee is $2400.00 with a time allowance of 6 hours. All preparations need to be done within this time frame, including rehearsal, deliveries, set-up, decorating, photography session, and clean up the day of the wedding. This price includes a payment of $250.00 for the FIUCC Wedding Facilitator. Our Wedding Facilitator will manage your wedding and reception as a church representative. They will be on site for the duration of the wedding and reception should you decide to have both. They will supervise the set up and clean up after the event with the volunteers supplied by the wedding party. Other details and planning of your wedding will be your responsibility or that of a Wedding Planner should you choose to hire one. The $2400.00 also includes a $150.00 fee for our Church Custodian who will provide services before and after the wedding.
For a wedding ceremony AND a reception, the fee is $2800.00. This additional $400.00 covers the Facility rental which includes the Gathering Area (seats 80 guests), Fireside Room (seats 80 guests), Outdoor Patio (seats 96 guests) and Kitchen. It also includes Wedding Facilitator fees and Custodial fees. If you have a reception here, you have an additional 4 hours totaling 10 hours for the whole event. Receptions must be cleaned up and all parties out of the building by 10:00 pm.
Are there other required fees?
$500.00 for a Security/Damage Deposit. This deposit does not apply to the facility rental fee. The deposit will be cashed upon receipt and will then hold the date for the event. It will be refunded per terms and conditions of the Wedding Contract upon approval of the Wedding Facilitator. The building, grounds, furniture, appliances, landscaping or other appurtenances must be left clean and undamaged. If not, you will forfeit your deposit and be responsible for any replacement/repair costs above the $500.00 amount.
Wedding Liability Insurance. The Wedding Party is responsible for purchasing this insurance. Event insurance policies are available through www.wedsafe.com.
Is there a space provided for outdoor weddings and receptions?
Yes. We have a beautifully landscaped grassy area on our lower property with a panoramic view of Puget Sound and the Olympic Mountains. We can provide outside seating for 170 guests in that area. The outdoor patio area on the upper level also has an amazing view. This area seats 96 guests.
What other services are available?
Optional Services include the following:
$200.00 for our UCC Pianist/Organist Meredith Shanley.
$350.00 TBD who shall officiate the wedding ceremony.
$125.00 for Indoor Ceremony Sound Technician
$225.00 for Outdoor Ceremony Sound Technician
May the couple provide their own minister/officiate, musician, florist, photographer, etc.?
We highly recommend our pastor Janet Matthews, but you may use an officiate of your choosing by letting the Wedding Manager, or the Wedding Facilitator know. Our organist is the only person authorized to use the organ. Our piano is available. The couple may use other musicians of their choice, or pre-recorded music. The couple is responsible for selecting and paying for their own florist, photographer, and musicians.
What is the policy on candles and decorating in general?
Please talk with our Wedding Facilitator regarding the use of decorations. We do not allow rice, bird seed or confetti to be used. For safety reasons, only dripless metal-sheathed candles may be used.
Can the church provide food for the reception?
Any food for the reception must be catered by a company of the couples’ choosing. Our kitchen is available for refrigeration, making coffee and tea, and food warming only.
Is Alcohol allowed at the reception?
Yes. A banquet permit through the state must be obtained through https://lcb.wa.gov/licensing/banquet-permits. Note:The church only allows Wine and Beer.
Are there dressing rooms available for the wedding party?
Yes. We have two rooms available. There is a lovely bridal room in the church office with a restroom available. The other room is the choir room located next to the sanctuary.
Are the church facilities available for initial tours and follow-up visits?
Yes. You may arrange to meet with Sharon Gregory, Wedding Manager, anytime, by appointment at s.easonsgreetings@comcast.net or 253-677-0814.
Where is FIUCC located?
756 Sixth Avenue, Fox Island, WA 98333. Fox Island is across the Narrows Bridge and a short drive from Gig Harbor. Once you cross the Fox Island Bridge, continue on Island Boulevard for 1.9 miles. The church is on the right and the driveway is located beyond our tennis courts.