Chapel Services
Mount Auburn’s two historic chapels are available for a wide range of private functions from memorial services and celebrations of life to receptions following a service or burial. In addition to indoor events, the lawn outside Bigelow Chapel along with Asa Gray Garden and Hazel Dell, just a short walk from Story Chapel, are warm-weather options for outdoor ceremonies and receptions.
Our rental fees vary based on the day of the week and the duration of use, ensuring that you have the flexibility to create a personalized event that fits your budget and preferences. Rental periods are designed to encompass all aspects of your event, including client access prior to the start time and catering setup and breakdown if your event includes a reception.
If you are seeking additional information or would like to schedule, please contact our Family Services office at 617-607-1929 or familyservices@mountauburn.org.
Are you looking to book a non-memorial service (e.g. wedding, corporate event)? Click here.
Our Chapels
Bigelow Chapel
Built in 1847, this chapel was designed by and named for one of our founders, Dr. Jacob Bigelow. A magnificent addition known as the Gathering Wing opened in 2018. This inviting space is perfect for gatherings and intimate receptions with food and beverages. Bigelow Lawn is available seasonally to host a ceremony or reception outdoors.
Story Chapel
Completed in 1898, a 15th century English countryside-style chapel designed by Willard Sears, who designed the home and museum of Isabella Stewart Gardner, Story Chapel houses a historic Hook & Hastings organ, ideal for including live music in a service.
Hourly Rental Rates
There is a two-hour minimum rental period for each venue.
- Bigelow Chapel - $600 per hour
- Historic Chapel – Seating Capacity up to 60 guests
- Gathering Wing – Seating Capacity up to 40 guests
- Bigelow Lawn - $800 per hour
- Accommodates up to 120 guests
- Story Chapel - $600 per hour
- Seating Capacity up to 120 guests
- Hazel Dell - $800 per hour
- Accommodates up to 120 guests
- Asa Gray Garden - $800 per hour
- Accommodates up to 120 guests
- Weekend Fee - $1,000
- A flat fee of $1,000 will be applied to your hourly reservation for events scheduled on Saturday or Sunday.
Receptions
The Bigelow Chapel Gathering Wing allows for intimate receptions to accompany your memorial service with full-service and drop-off catering options. Bigelow Chapel Lawn is available seasonally to host large full-service receptions with the rental of a Sperry Tent. Use of Bigelow Lawn without a tent will require the additional rental of one of our chapels to be used in case of inclement weather.
Story Chapel can host a drop-off style catered reception that will be set up in the side aisle next to the ceremony space. Additional outdoor ceremonies can take place in Asa Gray Garden and Hazel Dell which are both walking distance from Story Chapel. Indoor facilities for you and your guests will be available in Story Chapel with the booking of either of those spaces.
Our dedicated Family Services Team is available to discuss reception layouts, logistics, and venue options, ensuring that every detail is tailored to your preferences.
All food and beverages must be provided by one of our approved caterers listed below.
Approved Caterers
- Ovenbird Cafe
- phone: 617-489-5007
- Johnny Burke Catering
- phone: 617-312-1408
- Baker's Best
- phone: 617-332-4588
- The Catered Affair
- phone: 781-982-9333
Chapel Services and Receptions Brochure
For additional information about our pricing, offerings, and contact information for recommended musicians, florists, and officiants, please refer to our comprehensive Chapel Services and Receptions brochure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I contact the cemetery?
Assign one person as the main contact for questions regarding the event. All contact should be conducted by the main contact person or a Funeral Director. Inquiries can be made by email, familyservices@mountauburn.org, or phone 617-607-1929.
Can I come in for a site visit?
Site visits are available by appointment only. Please contact familyservices@mountauburn.org to make an appointment.
Can I bring music to play during the event?
Yes, both chapels can support smart devices to play music. If you are interested in having music played during the event, please contact our events office to coordinate playlists and the specifics of what you are envisioning. All music requests must be received at least 24 hours prior to the service.
Can live music be performed in the chapels?
Yes, you are welcome to hire musicians to perform in either chapel. Please note that only Story Chapel is equipped with a pipe organ. See the Music page of our Chapel Services & Receptions brochure for a complete list of recommended musicians.
How does MAC accommodate guests with accessibility needs?
Both chapels are handicap accessible. Limited handicap parking is reserved in front of the chapel. You may also encourage guests to be dropped off at entrance if they have difficulties walking. Assisted listening devices are available by request.
When is payment due?
An initial deposit is required for events scheduled more than six weeks in advance, with final payment due no later than one week prior to the event. For reservations made within one week of the event date, full payment is required at the time of booking.
When can I arrive to set up?
Please let our staff know when you plan to arrive to setup for your service. Please note that you will be billed for all time spent in the chapel, whether for setup, guest arrival, or the actual event.
When should guests arrive?
We ask that guests plan to arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before the service. Our staff will be at the main gate entrance on Mount Auburn Street to direct your family and guests to the chapel.
Where do guests park?
Staff will instruct guests where to park. Please keep all wheels of vehicles on the pavement. Parking nearest the chapel is reserved for drop-off handicap parking only. Do not block any roads, ramps or entry ways.
When can I have flowers delivered?
Floral arrangements must be delivered the day of the service. Please have them delivered directly to the chapel.
Can I play a slideshow or video?
Yes, our events team can work with you in advance to prepare for a slideshow and video to play during your service or reception hosted in one of our chapels. Please request this service at least 48 hours in advance of your service.
Do you livestream?
Yes, livestreaming is available in our historic chapels. Following the livestream, a recording of the service will become available via weblink and digital download. A video recording-only option is also available in lieu of a livestream. See the Audiovisual Services page of our Chapel Services & Receptions brochure for additional information and pricing.
Can I bring food?
No, food and beverages must be provided by an approved caterer during a reception.
Are there microphones?
Yes, each chapel has a lectern and microphone set up. We have wireless microphones available for speakers unable to access the lectern.
Can I bring candles?
No, no open flames are allowed. Altar candles will be provided by Mount Auburn by request.
Who will be onsite for the day of service?
There will be a venue manager at the chapel during the setup, service, and clean up. They will assist with directing guests, answering questions, and troubleshooting. Security staff will be at the gate to greet and direct guests. If there is a burial, our staff will lead guests to grave and assist with the burial.
How will Bigelow Chapel be set up when I arrive for a Chapel Service?
Rows of chairs will be arranged to accommodate up to 60 guests with an aisle down the center. Complimentary tissue packets and pitchers of water will be put out for guests. 2
How will Story Chapel be set up when I arrive for a Chapel Service?
The entire chapel can accommodate up to 120 guests with chairs set up on the main floor and in the balcony. The balcony is only accessible by stairs. Additional standing room is available in the chapel side aisle. There will be a podium placed in the naïve for your officiant and guests to use during your service. Complimentary tissue packets and pitchers of water will be put out for guests.
Can I reserve seats?
Yes, chairs can be designated “reserved” for immediate family and speakers.
Where can I place guest books and photos?
A guest book and photos can be set up in lobby of each chapel. Easels are available. Do not hang any items in the chapel unless approved by staff. 5