Most Popular Churches for Catholic Weddings in Waco, TX
Planning your Catholic wedding in Waco? First off—congratulations! If you're anything like most of the couples we photograph, you're probably navigating a whirlwind of Pinterest boards, group texts, and venue tours. But if a Catholic ceremony is part of your love story, the church is more than just a venue—it’s the sacred space where your forever begins.
As Waco wedding photographers, we’ve documented countless Catholic weddings across Central Texas, and we know how much thought and heart goes into choosing the right church. So, we’re sharing some of the most popular Catholic churches in Waco—and sprinkling in stories, tips, and real talk to help you make the best choice for your big day. If you're searching for a Waco wedding photographer who understands both the beauty and the reverence of Catholic weddings, you're in the right place.
What Makes a Great Church for a Catholic Wedding?
Before we dive into our favorite churches, let’s talk about what makes one stand out for weddings:
✨ Spiritual and Personal Connection
If it’s your home parish, or where your family has roots—amazing. But many couples also choose a church that simply feels right the moment they step inside. Don’t overlook that gut feeling.
✨ Beauty and Light
From a photography standpoint, natural light and architectural character make all the difference. Big windows, high ceilings, and ornate details? That’s wedding photo gold.
✨ Ceremony Logistics
Think: seating capacity, parking, how far it is from your reception venue, and whether the church has specific rules about music, décor, or photography.
Royce’s Take: Photography rules vary from one Catholic Church to another. Some can can be rather strict and understandable so; it’s important to maintain the reverence for the service. At one wedding, we were limited to the locations we could photograph from. We made it work (and still got those magical tear-filled vows), but it’s something we always coordinate on, with the church beforehand.
Most Popular Catholic Churches in Waco for Weddings
We can vouch for their beauty, hospitality, and spirit at the churches on our list. Here are the top picks among couples tying the knot in Waco.
St. Louis Catholic Church
Location: 2001 N 25th St, Waco, TX
Vibe: Timeless and traditional with modern touches
St. Louis is one of Waco’s largest and most well-known Catholic churches. The exterior is gorgeous limestone, and the sanctuary has soaring ceilings, wooden beams, and an incredible central aisle.
Michelle’s Tip: The front steps are perfect for a just married potpourri or bubble exit.
Why couples love it:
Strong community ties
Roomy interior (perfect for big families)
Well-lit sanctuary = dreamy ceremony photos
As Waco wedding photographers we have a personal connection with St Louis and would love to e to chat with you about the plans and details of your wedding here.
St. Jerome Catholic Church
Location: 9820 Chapel Rd, Waco, TX
Vibe: Contemporary and bright
With its sleek design and open layout, St. Jerome feels warm and welcoming. It’s ideal for couples who love a modern church feel but still want all the richness of Catholic tradition.
Why couples love it:
Lots of natural light
Easy layout for guests and photographers
Ample space outside for family portraits
Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Location: 2621 Bagby Ave, Waco, TX
Vibe: Historic with Spanish influence
Sacred Heart is cozy, with a lovely mission-style design that adds character to your wedding day. The altar is simple but elegant, and the grounds are great for portraits.
Why couples love it:
Intimate and charming
Conveniently located
Perfect for couples who want a smaller, reverent setting
St. Mary’s Catholic Church
Location: 1401 Washington Ave, Waco, TX
Vibe: Gothic, dramatic, and unforgettable
Let’s just say—if you're looking for wow factor, this is it. St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Waco looks like it’s straight out of a European postcard. Think towering arches, stunning stained glass, and a long aisle that gives you all the drama in the best way.
Royce’s Favorite: The processional is the most anticipated moment for me, especially capturing the groom’s expression when he first see’s his bride coming down the aisle.
Why couples love it:
Iconic and deeply rooted in Waco's Catholic history
Architectural drama = next-level photos
Excellent acoustics for live musicians and choirs
As Waco wedding photographers, this is easily one of the most photogenic churches, with angles and intricate details that make every moment feel like a piece of art.
St. Joseph Catholic Church (Bellmead)
Location: 1011 Boston St, Bellmead, TX
Vibe: Quiet, intimate, and heartfelt
Just outside of Waco, St. Joseph offers a peaceful alternative for couples wanting a more low-key or private ceremony. It’s a hidden gem with a strong community feel and a beautiful sanctuary.
Why couples love it:
Less traffic and easier logistics
Great for tight-knit ceremonies
Flexible and accommodating priest/staff
Tips for Planning Your Catholic Wedding in Waco
✅ Book the Church Early
Popular churches—especially St. Mary’s and St. Louis—fill up fast, sometimes over a year in advance. Lock it in early, especially if your date is near Easter, Christmas, or spring break.
✅ Schedule Marriage Prep Ahead of Time
You’ll likely need to attend pre-marital counseling and submit paperwork through the parish office. Every diocese is a little different, so chat with your priest early in the process.
✅ Decide: With or Without Mass?
If one of you isn’t Catholic, a ceremony without Mass may be simpler and more inclusive. If you both are, the full Nuptial Mass can add deep spiritual meaning.
Photography Tips for Catholic Ceremonies
We’ve photographed dozens of Catholic weddings, and we approach them with reverence and creativity. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
📷 Respect Church Rules
Some churches have strict guidelines—no flash, no movement during certain parts of the Mass, and no shooting past the particular pew. We always check in with your priest beforehand to work within the boundaries while still capturing every special moment.
💡 Lighting Can Be Tricky
Older churches sometimes have dim lighting. Don’t worry—we bring the gear and know-how to make it work. But if lighting is a major concern, ask for a walkthrough before booking.
💞 Let’s Plan Portraits Wisely
Some churches have beautiful grounds, others not so much. If your church doesn’t allow portraits inside, we’ll plan a nearby location for family and couple photos afterward.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Church for You
Your Catholic wedding isn’t just another event—it’s a holy moment, a vow made in sacred space. Whether you go with an iconic sanctuary like St. Louis or a quiet chapel like St. Joseph, what matters most is that it feels true to your relationship and your faith.
If you’re still deciding, we’d love to offer guidance—and of course, help you capture every meaningful detail.
💬 “Royce and Michelle weren’t just our photographers—they helped us feel grounded and present during our ceremony. We couldn’t imagine our wedding without them.” – Emily & Chris
If you're looking for a Waco wedding photographer who knows these churches inside and out, we’d be honored to help you preserve every sacred, joyful moment.
👉 View our Catholic Wedding page
👉 Schedule a consultation with us
We’re Royce & Michelle, and we believe wedding photography should be real, relaxed, and full of love. If you're planning a Catholic wedding in Waco, we’d be honored to help you preserve every sacred, joyful moment. ❤️