Small Wedding Chapel Near Charlottesville, VA
Cute, Rustic Venue Located 1.5 Hours Outside Charlottesville
Salem Chapel and Events Venue is a small, rustic wedding venue. It’s the perfect location for an intimate wedding of up to 120 people with space for both the ceremony and the reception.
Located in Rice, Virginia, it’s an easy drive south from Charlottesville (only about an hour and a half). The remote location provides a uniquely romantic setting you’ll never forget.

Fitting the Virginia Countryside Aesthetic
Salem Chapel is a traditional country chapel. It follows the traditional wedding ceremony venue style. Its high ceilings and original pews have created a timeless ceremonial setting for over a hundred years.
A Long History, Refurbished for Modern Amenities
Salem Chapel was named after the Hebrew word for peace, “Shalom” (or Salem) when it was originally built in 1884. It’s possible that the name was chosen at the end of the Civil War after the battle of Sailor’s Creek. For local Virginians, this chapel was a centerpiece in their community’s culture. They gathered in its sacred space to hear the Gospel preached.
In recent years, this historic building needed refurbishing so that it could continue to stand proud for future generations. Our additions gave the space a fluid and open feel that harmonizes with the chapel’s rustic style.


Make History in a Historic County Chapel
A wedding is full of history. Marriage is as old as time itself. The history is celebrated in timeless traditions such as using a mother’s or grandmother’s wedding gown or a wedding band with a family heirloom diamond.
Our historic chapel setting provides the backdrop for a timeless wedding.
In the time since Charlottesville was founded in 1762, Virginian couples have walked the steps you are walking now. They found small, romantic chapels to express their commitment to a marriage that would last a lifetime. They came to places like Salem Chapel to celebrate a relationship that would impact generations.
We’re honored to be the type of small wedding venue that celebrates its history and helps couples come together to write a history of their own.
I absolutely love this intimate chapel! It is so convenient to the Farmville area and is the perfect venue for any special occasion.
If you are planning your wedding, a birthday party, or even a baby/bridal shower you’ve got to check out Salem Chapel! You won’t regret it.
- Olivia Rumsey | Farmville