(June 21, 2012)

Alumni wed in Brown Memorial Chapel

SHREVEPORT, LA — With bridal season in full swing this June, Centenary's Brown Memorial Chapel has already hosted three weddings. In all, the Chapel has been home to over fourteen weddings this past year. Many of the ceremonies that have taken place are those of alumni, who return to their alma mater to say their vows.

Saige and Chris Solomon
Saige and Chris Solomon

"From my very first convocation in the Fall of 2001, I have always wanted to get married in Brown Chapel because of the beauty of the building," said Saige Wilhite Solomon '05, Centenary's Director of Alumni and Family Relations, who wed Chris Solomon on November 19, 2012. "It was very special to get married at my alma mater and place of work because it felt like 'home' to me."

Built in 1955, the College chapel was erected through the generosity of the late Paul M. Brown, Jr., Chairman Emeritus of the Board of Trustees, and his brother, Colonel S. Perry Brown, a life member of the Board, in honor of their parents. The Chapel was renovated and rededicated in January 2003.

"The Brown family connection to the chapel made it a special place to hold our wedding," said Chris Brown '01, Archivist of the College, who wed alumna Sarah Smith '06 on May 15, 2012. "The ceremony was beautiful, our friends and family were complimentary, and the support staff helped things run smoothly. The entire experience was amazing and has been the best day of our lives!"

Catherine Cabaniss and Jack Smart
Catherine Cabaniss and Jack Smart

Centenary has also been the site of many engagements. Most recently, Catherine Cabaniss '00, who holds a degree in political science, was surprised June 20 on the steps of the Frost School of Business by her boyfriend Jack Smart. The building held sentimental value to the newly engaged couple as it is the site of their first meeting.

Brown Memorial Chapel features vaulted ceilings with seating for approximately 600 guests. Couples can schedule use of the Chapel for both rehearsal and ceremony. For more information on renting Brown Chapel or other Centenary facilities, please contact Conference and Event Coordinator Amy Loe at 318.869.5778 or aloe@centenary.edu.