Lake Merritt United Methodist Church

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Oakland Wedding Venue
1330 Lakeshore Avenue
Oakland, CA 94606
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Contact: Facilities Administrator
Phone: 510/465-4793
www.lakemerrittumc.org
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Why We Like This Place

Are you and your fiancé Buddhist? Jewish? Nondenominational Christian? Are you an interfaith couple, or a couple with no defined spiritual persuasion? Perhaps you’re a lesbian or gay couple. If so, you’ve come to the right place, because the Lake Merritt United Methodist Church invites any and all of you to celebrate your wedding or holy union ceremony. “We are an open and welcoming congregation,” their literature declares, and the church truly reflects a relaxed, progressive philosophy (despite their no-alcohol policy). After all, there aren’t many religious establishments that allow you to hire the officiant of your choice to conduct your ceremony. It’s spirituality for the new millennium!

Built in 1991, this contemporary church takes advantage of its scenic location overlooking the lovely Lake Merritt. A grand staircase trimmed in marble leads up to the main entrance, and brides often decorate the banisters with flowers or tulle. At the top of the stairs, there’s also a spacious outdoor terrace that’s a fun place for pre-event mingling or for serving refreshments during the social hour. From here, guests can watch the resident geese (and sometimes adorable goslings!) playing along the lakeshore, and greet the bride after she makes her arrival in a stylish limo, vintage auto or even a horse and carriage.

Just inside the entryway, the foyer leads to the Worship Center, where the atmosphere is bright and airy, thanks to a wall of floor-to-ceiling and clerestory windows that curves outward as if to embrace the lake below. In the evening hours, a circular inset ceiling dotted with small lights creates the illusion of a star-filled sky. The rest of the décor is simple—oak-trimmed walls, hunter green chairs and carpet, and a low altar. In contrast, behind the altar is a stunning work of art: a triptych of mosaic murals, commissioned from the studio of Louis Tiffany in 1923. The panels, called the Te Deum Laudamus, were a gift from a church in Los Angeles, where they were originally displayed. The flow of light in the Worship Center illuminates the outstanding beauty of the panels, composed of two million pieces of iridescent glass. Whether you’re moved by the portrayals of the Biblical characters, or just appreciate the amazing detail of opalescent flowers, vines and blue skies, you’ll likely experience the breathtaking power of Tiffany’s masterpiece. The chairs and the altar are portable, so you can stage your ceremony in front of either the Tiffany Panels or the windows facing the lake; both backdrops inspire an exalted spiritual connection. Another mood enhancer is music, and the church has both a grand piano and a pipe organ; if you like, the staff will help you locate a qualified organist.

The Franklin Stark Room next door has a high ceiling and a row of tall windows looking out to a small courtyard that gives receptions an expansive feeling. Missing the view from the Worship Center? Simply slide back the movable wall that separates the Stark Room and the Worship Center, and voila! Guests dine and dance while admiring views of the lake and the Tiffany panels. There’s a treat for the kiddies, too—a playground in the courtyard that will keep them occupied for hours, so nothing will disturb your own enjoyment of the day.

Capacity

Fees & Deposits

For weddings and receptions a $500 refundable security deposit plus 50% of the total rental fee are required to secure your reservation. The balance is due 60 days prior to the event. Rental fees range $1,050–1,750 depending on space rented and guest count. Discounted wedding and reception package is available.

Other events or meetings require a $250 refundable security deposit. Nonprofit rates are available.

Availability

Year-round, daily, 9am–11pm, excluding Sunday mornings and early afternoons. Amplified music ends by 10pm. Facilities must be empty by 11pm.

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