TWU Little Chapel-in-the-Woods receives historic architecture award

Feb. 5, 2021 — DENTON — At only 90 feet long and 42 feet wide, the Little Chapel-in-the-Woods at Texas Woman’s University is small but mighty--and resilient. That resiliency was recently recognized when AIA Dallas honored the Chapel with its Historic Architecture Award.

Now in its second year, the award recognizes buildings and structures that have had a significant impact and influence on architectural, cultural and related aspects of Texas’ built environment.

According to Katie Hitt, AD EX managing director at AIA Dallas, structures recognized in this category must be at least 75 years old with minimal modifications and used for its intended purpose. 

Built in 1939 and designed by renowned Texas architect O’Neil Ford to be a place of reflection for students, the Little Chapel quickly became a favorite venue for couples to exchange their wedding vows, and that still resonates today. 

In a typical year, the Chapel averages between 115 to 120 weddings. However, 2020 was not a typical year, and there were only 74 weddings with more than half of those occurring between September and December. 

According to Brittany Jasper, Little Chapel-in-the-Woods Coordinator, the TWU team assisted more than 50 clients navigate postponements and has worked diligently to help everyone feel safe, special and comfortable. 

“We were temporarily closed in April and May 2020, which is peak wedding season, but we reopened in June 2020 and have hosted weddings every month since then,” she said. 

In addition to requiring face coverings, providing additional sanitation and removing benches to reduce capacity from 110 guests to a maximum of 50 if they are part of the same households, the Chapel has also embraced technology to help wedding parties share their big day with even more family and friends. 

“We are currently booking weddings and receptions out into 2022 but are already getting inquiries about 2023 and 2024,” said Jasper.

For additional information on booking and rates, contact Brittany Jasper at bjasper1@twu.edu  or call 940-898-3516.

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Media Contact

Amy M. Evans
Director of Communications
Student Life
214-449-9757
aevans18@twu.edu

Page last updated 11:00 AM, March 14, 2024