Wedding Rentals Frequently Asked Questions

Fast facts about the Cook-DeWitt Center Auditorium:

Holds 236 people in 12 rows of chairs on 2 sides of aisle with 10 rows per side (6 seats in front row, west side)

Aisle is 47 ½ feet long, 5 feet 6 ½ inches wide

Stage is 49' x 17'

What instruments are available?

Piano and Organ (pianist and/or organist not provided)

Organ info: Rueter Opus 2142, 1991, two manuals, 32 ranks

What kind of decorations can be used?

No tape or confetti may be used in any manner in the building. Decorations may be used as long as they are removed/cleaned up after the event.

Where does the bride get ready?

The Green Room

Where does the groom get ready?

The Conference Room

Are podiums/pedestals available?

Yes - 2 podiums, 2 pedestals (12.5" x 12.5" x 36" for unity candle and/or flowers) 

What kind of sound equipment is available?

Microphones (floor, podium, and lavalier), iPod/MP3 hookup, CD player, etc.

These items are included in the rental price of the Cook-DeWitt Center

Do we have to provide our own officiant?

Yes, the customer is responsible for providing the officiant.

Can we bring in snacks for before our wedding?

Food prepared by the wedding party may be brought into the Cook-DeWitt Center as long as it is removed when the event is over.

No catered items are allowed unless the wedding party uses Grand Valley State University's contracted catering services Laker Food Compay.

The wedding party is responsible for removing everything brought in and for the cleanup. A $50 fee will be assessed if there is lack of compliance.

Will staff be there from Grand Valley?

Yes, event staff will be onsite for the rehearsal and the wedding to assist with any questions. The event staff is also responsible for running any audio/visual requested for the event.

Where can I park for my event in the Cook-DeWitt Center?

There is free parking after 6:30 p.m. on Fridays and all weekend in the metered lot on the south side of the Kirkhof Center and in Lot G and Lot H. You may drop guests off and load/unload decorations at the door of Cook-DeWitt.  Parking is prohibited at the Cook-DeWitt Center and surrounding area. Tickets will be issued if vehicles are left unattended.

If you require a parking option prior to 6:30 p.m. on a Friday, please coordinate with Event Services by calling 331-2350.


We are located within the Office of Student Life. Events Services is a department of the Division of Student Affairs of Grand Valley State University.



Page last modified May 2, 2025