While the pandemic has forced many couples around the world to postpone their weddings, in the United States a wave of mobile chapels are hitting the roads to replace churches, temples and town halls.
Caravans and even tiny houses, in the form of miniature places of worship, are literally taking to the road to go to the lovers for a celebration of their union. There’s no need to travel anymore since the church comes directly to your door.
“One time, a couple saw us coming down the turnpike, my phone went off and they said, ‘We saw your chapel and we’d love to have you marry us’,” Bil Malbon, the owner of Tiny Chapel Weddings in Ashland, Virginia, said.
Malbon notes that since the pandemic, his services have become even more coveted as couples have looked for creative ways to reduce the number of guests. In his mobile chapel, Malbon can accommodate a maximum of 20 people.
Couples interested in a mobile wedding, whether it’s a traditional religious ceremony or a party, have many options open to them. The bonus is unforgettable photos that would make any wedding planner green with envy.
He offers several “chapel to go” packages. The first starts at US$650 (RM2,750) for a two-hour slot within an almost 100km radius around Richmond. The second one extends the perimeter to the state of Virginia for US$1,200. Finally, for US$1,600, Tiny Chapel Weddings will travel anywhere in the US.
Pop-up weddings
Other mini-chapels have also positioned themselves to serve this niche market, such as Flora Pop’s adorable little message trailer. The company claims to be the first to offer “pop-up” weddings in the desert, on a rooftop, or even in the street.
Meanwhile, the “Best Wedding Chapel” was recognised as the fastest in the world by the Guinness Book of World Records. The 1942 American LaFrance fire truck was given a US$100,000 makeover as part of the US television show “Trick My Truck”, and the chapel now has stained glass windows, an altar, two wooden pews and even an organ.
For those who still aren’t convinced by these mobile union sites, head to Seattle where a shipping container painted in pink hosts ceremonies performed by Elvis himself… almost. Because when you get married in the US, it’s for better or for worse, but with style.