What to Know When Planning Your Notre Dame Wedding


Author: Molly Di Carlo

Morris Inn Smith BallroomMorris Inn Smith Ballroom

A Notre Dame Wedding is unlike any other. So, what do couples who are looking to host a wedding on this historic campus need to know? A few tips below:

1. What would be your best advice for a couple looking to have a Notre Dame wedding?

Couples should know what’s special to them about Notre Dame. Were they a science major? Then maybe a reception in Jordan Hall of Science would be their dream. Did they meet at Rohr’s in Morris Inn? If so, wouldn’t it be awesome if they could have their reception there? We’ll work with them to bring their vision to life.

It’s also important for couples to plan early. Our spaces and services fill up quickly, so it’s best for couples to get the conversation going with our specialists as early as possible.

2. What's the difference between having a wedding with VenueND vs. another venue?

Notre Dame’s historic campus, of course. Our team works with couples to help them take full advantage of the unique setting and its possibilities.

3. What makes VenueND's spaces unique? 

No other venue in the area offers views of the University of Notre Dame, or of Notre Dame Stadium. The venues on campus are perfect for those looking to incorporate something special and memorable for their guests. 

4. What is your most popular venue space and why?

Each venue is popular in its own way. Some couples only envision getting married at South Dining Hall because of its beautiful gothic-inspired architecture and its nostalgia. Others love the Smith Ballroom at Morris Inn, and many are interested in the views of Notre Dame Stadium with the Dahnke Ballroom and Downes Club. 

5. When a couple is planning a Notre Dame wedding what is one thing they must know?

It's not just about the wedding. VenueND makes it easy to plan your entire wedding weekend. From guest rooms at the Morris Inn to a rehearsal dinner and farewell brunch, VenueND has you covered. We handle all the details, and make it easy for your guests to experience the entire event.

6. How many spaces are there available through VenueND?

VenueND includes six main spaces available for weddings including Dahnke Ballroom at Duncan Student Center, Downes Club at Corbett Family Hall, Smith Ballroom at Morris Inn, Eck Visitors Center, South Dining Hall and McKenna Hall. There are also a variety of venues for couples looking for a smaller, more intimate wedding reception. They include Seven on 9 at Corbett Family Hall, or the Private Dining Rooms at Morris Inn. 

7.  What are some the highlights of VenueND's spaces?

The new venues surrounding Notre Dame Stadium offer incredible views of campus and the field at Notre Dame Stadium. Each venue on campus is just steps from the Basilica of the Sacred Heart and the "Golden Dome,” making the campus easy to explore for guests.  

8.  What other perks does VenueND offer? (catering, bar services, etc.) 

Besides being located in the center of the historic campus, VenueND offers the availability to book guest rooms at Morris Inn: the only AAA Four Diamond hotel in Indiana, north of Indianapolis. With its 132 traditional rooms and 18 suites, Morris Inn is the perfect place for guests to relax over the wedding weekend.

The couple will also be assigned an Event Specialist who will make sure details like vendor load-in and cleanup are scheduled. The event specialist will also help with floor plans and any additional packages couples would like to add on, like tours of campus, touching the "Play Like a Champion" sign at Notre Dame Stadium, or renting golf carts for easy transportation. 

9. VenueND can hosts events beyond the wedding, what are those other events you host? (farewell brunches, wedding showers, etc.) 

VenueND can find a location to fit almost every need — from welcome receptions and rehearsal dinners in the beautiful South Club at O'Neill Hall, to bachelor parties at the Coore and Crenshaw-designed Warren Golf Course.  Farewell brunches are very popular in the Private Dining Rooms at the Morris Inn because of their cozy feel, and the ease for guests to come down from their room while they spend the weekend enjoying the hotel.  We’re happy to provide ideas to complete the perfect Notre Dame wedding weekend. 

10. If a couple is looking to have the ultimate glamorous, Notre Wedding—what space would you recommend?

The floor-to-ceiling windows in Dahnke Ballroom at Duncan Student Center are hard to beat. With perfect views of the Golden Dome, the Basilica of the Sacred Heart, and Notre Dame Stadium, this 580-seat venue is a great spot for the couple who wants to include everything Notre Dame. 

11. If a couple is looking to have more relaxed, intimate Notre Dame wedding—what space would you recommend? 

For groups of fewer than 30 people, Seven on 9 at Corbett Family Hall offers views of the historic Notre Dame Stadium, and an intimate space to gather — plus an outdoor terrace. 

12.  Lastly, what do couples love most about having weddings at Notre Dame?

Couples love the history and tradition that a wedding on the campus of the University of Notre Dame encompasses. Having a wedding at Notre Dame is special — whether you are a recent graduate, or you just love the Irish.