Sacred Heart Tampa Wedding Venue: Planner’s Expert Guide

It’s no secret that we love ceremonies at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa, Florida. This absolutely gorgeous venue is perfect for any couple looking for a grand and elegant place to say “I do.” A Sacred Heart Tampa wedding is always stunning, with a backdrop of classic architecture, and granite and marble details. 

After planning several ceremonies at Sacred Heart, we’re familiar with the venue’s requirements, layout, and decor rules. Here are Tampa wedding planner Alexa Kritis’ expert tips for this jaw-dropping ceremony site.

About Sacred Heart Catholic Church

Located in downtown Tampa, Florida, Sacred Heart is a classic, Romanesque-style Catholic church. The current building opened in 1905 and replaced a smaller frame church built in the same spot in 1859. 

The church accommodates up to 600 guests, giving couples the flexibility to host a wedding ceremony of any size. Because of the set mass schedule, there are certain times weddings take place at the church—11 a.m., 2 p.m., and 7 p.m. This means you might have a gap between your ceremony or reception, or a later reception time. Our Tampa wedding planners can help you create a timeline that works for you and your guests.  

Parking for guests is available via street parking (free on weekends) or a nearby garage. Couples sometimes rent city parking meters in front of the church or a parking garage for their guests’ convenience. 

Sacred Heart Tampa wedding ceremony space

Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa is easily one of the most breathtaking venues for a wedding ceremony, inside and out. The granite and white marble exterior, dark wood doors, and detailed columns make a beautiful backdrop for photos. 

But the real star of the show is the striking details inside—towering domed ceilings, intricate archways, grand columns, and gold accents. Seventy stained glass windows tell a series of biblical stories, and also let in lots of natural light during the day. 

Why do you love working at this venue?

The biggest draw of this church is its beauty. Who could resist the architecture and historic details of this stunning space? It’s a gorgeous backdrop for any wedding ceremony. Because of its gorgeous details, couples need minimal decorations, which saves both time and money. 

Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa has set guidelines (see more on that below), but everything is straightforward and easy to understand. Requirements are thoroughly explained so there are no surprises leading up to your wedding day. 

Are there any decor restrictions at Sacred Heart?

Before you start planning how (and if) you want to decorate the church, take note of the items not permitted here: aisle candles of any kind, aisle runners, and garland draped from pew to pew. Bows must be attached to pews with elastic only (no plastic clips, wire, staples, tape, or tacks).

Florists may set up an hour prior to your ceremony. Flower arrangements are only permitted on the back altar or on either side of the tabernacle. In lieu of fresh flowers, couples may use Sacred Heart’s silk arrangements. 

Some couples don’t add any decor at all and let the venue shine on its own. If you’re getting married around certain holidays—Christmas, Easter, the Feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, and others—take advantage of the decorations put up by the church. 

Are there any requirements to get married at Sacred Heart Tampa, FL?

You or your spouse should be of the Catholic faith to get married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church. While you don’t have to be a member of Sacred Heart to get married there, you will need permission from your pastor to marry at another parish. 

Or you have the option to register with Sacred Heart as a member before your wedding. You must be registered and an active member of the church for at least a year before inquiring about wedding dates. 

Couples are encouraged to book with Sacred Heart no later than 6 months before their wedding date, but ideally 12-18 months beforehand. This way you have plenty of time to complete the required marriage preparations. To find out more, take a look at Sacred Heart’s FAQ page. 

Sacred Heart wedding ceremony cost

Expect to budget a minimum of $1,500 to get married at Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Tampa. This includes the ceremony site, 1-hour rehearsal, and an on-site coordinator.

To add an organist, singer, and/or cantor is $400, bringing you to a total cost of $1,900. Please keep in mind that this cost does not include wedding planning services, invitations, photography, flowers, and other outside vendors.

Which Tampa wedding reception sites do you recommend? 

There are several fantastic wedding reception venues in Tampa, FL that pair well with a ceremony at Sacred Heart. Here are a few of our favorite places to continue your celebration. 

• The Tampa EDITION at 500 Channelside Drive
• Tampa Museum of Art at 120 W Gasparilla Plaza
• Oxford Exchange at 420 W Kennedy Boulevard
• Armature Works at 1910 N. Ola Avenue
• JW Marriott at 510 Water Street

Each of these venues are close to the church and an easy trek for guests.

Interested in booking your Tampa wedding ceremony at Sacred Heart Catholic Church? We can help! Contact Alexa Kritis Events for wedding planning and design.

Sacred Heart Tampa wedding details

• Location: Downtown Tampa, Florida
• Address: 509 N. Florida Avenue, Tampa, FL 33602 
• Phone: 813-229-1595
• Website: sacredheartfla.org
• Capacity: Up to 600
• Events: Ceremony, wedding rehearsal
• Amenities available: Ceremony site, 1-hour rehearsal, on-site coordinator, organist, singer, and cantor