If you’ve spent any amount of time around Glass & Grace, you know we absolutely love a Catholic wedding. We have done every type of wedding you can imagine, and love it all, but Catholic weddings can sometimes be particularly hard to navigate– so here is a guide!
As a Catholic bride myself and someone who has planned and coordinated countless weddings throughout the Dayton area, there is just something incredibly special about witnessing a couple receive the Sacrament of Marriage surrounded by their family, friends, and faith community. Some of our favorite wedding days begin beneath soaring church ceilings, historic stained glass windows, and the beautiful traditions of the Catholic Church.
One of the questions I get asked most often is, “Which Catholic churches in Dayton allow weddings?” So I put together this guide featuring some of our favorite churches throughout Dayton, Kettering, Centerville, Beavercreek, and beyond.
A quick note: every parish has different requirements regarding parish membership, marriage preparation, and scheduling. Always contact the parish directly as early as possible—many churches recommend beginning the process at least six to twelve months before your wedding date. All parishes in the archdiocese require marriage preparation, a retreat, and meetings with your priest/deacon.
1. St. Charles Borromeo
This church will always hold a special place in my heart because it’s where I got married and grew up. The sanctuary is bright, timeless, and beautifully designed for a more modern Catholic ceremony. The large altar and classic architecture photograph beautifully, and the parish staff is incredibly experienced with weddings.
Great for: Modern Catholic weddings, large guest counts, beautiful natural light
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met.
Inquire: Contact the parish office at 937-434-6081.
2. St. Albert the Great Catholic Church
One of the most recognizable churches in the Oakwood and Kettering area, St. Albert’s offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a stunning sanctuary. We love how intimate ceremonies feel here while still accommodating larger guest lists.
Great for: Classic church weddings, Oakwood/ Kettering couples, elegant ceremonies. It is near many venues.
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met.
Inquire: 937-293-1191.
3. St. Francis of Assisi Roman Catholic Church
This is my parish and I LOVEEEE it! Located in Centerville, St. Francis features beautiful architecture, a spacious sanctuary, and one of the most active parish communities in the region. The wedding preparation process is thorough and faith-centered.
Great for: Large weddings, modern parish communities, Centerville couples
Parishioner required? Contact the parish directly regarding eligibility and preparation requirements.
Inquire: 937-345-0101 or visit the parish marriage page.
4. Church of the Incarnation
Incarnation has a beautiful contemporary sanctuary with excellent lighting and a welcoming atmosphere. It’s part of the Our Lady of Light Family of Parishes and has become increasingly popular with engaged couples.
Great for: Contemporary church architecture, Centerville weddings
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met. You must contact the parish office at least 9 months before your wedding date.
Inquire: 937-345-0101.
5. St. Mary Catholic Church
If you love historic churches, St. Mary is one of Dayton’s hidden gems. The stained glass, traditional architecture, and historic character create a truly timeless setting. One major benefit is that the parish publicly states that couples do not need to be parishioners to marry there, provided Catholic requirements are met.
Great for: Historic architecture, downtown weddings, classic Catholic beauty
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met. Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-256-5633.
6. Emmanuel Catholic Church
Located downtown, Emmanuel is one of the most architecturally stunning churches in Dayton. The Gothic details and historic charm make every ceremony feel incredibly sacred and grand.
Great for: Historic downtown weddings, dramatic architecture, timeless photography
Parishioner required? From Their Site: “The bride or groom must be a registered member of Emmanuel for at least 1 year or the (grand)son/(grand)daughter of a parishioner who has been registered for at least 1 year before a wedding date may be scheduled.” Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-228-2013.
7. St. Joseph Catholic Church
Right in the heart of downtown Dayton, St. Joseph offers incredible historic character and beautiful liturgical traditions. It pairs especially well with downtown reception venues.
Great for: Downtown Dayton weddings, historic architecture
Parishioner required? From Their Site: “The bride or groom must be a registered member of St. Joseph for at least 1 year or the (grand)son/(grand)daughter of a parishioner who has been registered for at least 1 year before a wedding date may be scheduled.” Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-228-9272.
8. Holy Trinity Church
Holy Trinity is one of Dayton’s most beautiful historic churches. The stunning stained glass and rich architectural details make it a dream for couples wanting an old-world Catholic wedding aesthetic.
Great for: Historic church lovers, traditional Catholic ceremonies
Parishioner required? From the Website: “The bride or groom must be a registered member of Holy Trinity or the (grand)son/(grand)daughter of a registered parishioner before a wedding date may be scheduled. Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-228-1223.
9. Holy Angels Church
Located near the University of Dayton, Holy Angels is beloved for its warm community and beautiful sanctuary. It feels elegant without being overwhelming and photographs beautifully year-round.
Great for: University of Dayton alumni, intimate-to-medium guest counts
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met. Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-229-5911.
10. Chapel of the Immaculate Conception
For many Dayton alumni, this chapel is the dream. Located on the University of Dayton campus, it combines collegiate history with Catholic tradition. The university has specific policies regarding who may marry there.
Great for: UD alumni, classic collegiate charm
Parishioner required? From their website: “Only current students, alumni, and current faculty, staff, and administrators, including their immediate family members, may be married in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.” Contact the office for current policies at least 9 months before wedding date.
Inquire: Through University of Dayton Campus Ministry
11. Saint Luke Catholic Church
One of Beavercreek’s most popular Catholic parishes, St. Luke offers a beautiful sanctuary, active parish life, and plenty of space for larger weddings.
Great for: Beavercreek couples, large guest lists
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met. Contact the parish office for current policies at least 6 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-426-1733.
12. Ascension Catholic Church
Ascension combines traditional Catholic beauty with a welcoming parish atmosphere. It’s a wonderful option for Kettering-area couples.
Great for: East Dayton and Kettering weddings
Parishioner required? No. The parish states that non-parishioners may marry there if Catholic requirements are met. Contact the parish office for current policies at least 6 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-253-5171.
14. St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Parish
Located in Springboro, St. Mary’s has become a favorite for couples wanting a traditional Catholic ceremony in a growing community. The church offers beautiful grounds and a welcoming atmosphere.
Great for: South Dayton and Springboro weddings
Parishioner required? Contact the parish office for current policies at least 6 months before wedding date.
Inquire: 937-557-1711.
After coordinating so many Catholic weddings throughout Dayton, one thing remains true: the church you choose becomes part of your marriage story forever.
Whether you’re drawn to the historic beauty of downtown churches, the grandeur of a cathedral-like sanctuary, or the parish where you grew up attending Mass, there is truly a Catholic church in Dayton for every couple.
And if you’re looking for a wedding planner who understands Catholic timelines, liturgical traditions, Nuptial Masses, family dynamics, and everything in between, we’d be honored to walk alongside you.
At Glass & Grace, Catholic weddings aren’t just something we do—they’re some of our absolute favorites.
With love,
Marie Harris
Lead Planner, Glass & Grace Events
