Throop Unitarian Universalist Church
An English Gothic Revival sanctuary in Pasadena with soaring stained glass by Charles J. Connick — an inclusive, interfaith-friendly church founded by Caltech’s founder.
An English Gothic Revival landmark near South Lake Avenue
Founded in 1886 by Amos G. Throop — Pasadena’s mayor and the founder of Caltech — the congregation moved into its current building at Los Robles and Del Mar in 1923, designed by architect Frederick Kennedy, Jr. in the English Gothic Revival style. Fourteen historic arched stained-glass windows fill the sanctuary; eleven, including the grand west-facing window, were crafted by celebrated Boston glass artist Charles J. Connick, often compared to the windows at Chartres Cathedral.
Originally a Universalist congregation, Throop merged with the Unitarian denomination in 1961 and today describes itself as open to all faiths and LGBTQ-friendly. Throop Hall, the reception space, has maple floors, high ceilings, and three sets of glass doors opening onto a lit outdoor patio — letting a full sanctuary ceremony and reception happen in one location.
Working with Throop’s in-house events team
We’ve photographed weddings here alongside coordinators like Fantastical Adventures by Jill, working directly with Throop’s own events staff on the day-of schedule. On-site parking is limited, though on-street parking nearby is plentiful — something we build into our timeline so vendor access doesn’t compete with guest arrivals.
Good to know before you book
- On-site parking is limited; on-street parking nearby is plentiful
- Sanctuary ceremony and Throop Hall reception can both be booked together
- Open to all faiths and LGBTQ-friendly ceremonies
- An Events Coordinator manages bookings directly with the church
Where we like to shoot
- The sanctuary’s Gothic stained glass, especially the west-facing window
- Throop Hall’s maple floors and glass doors onto the patio
- The processional beneath the vaulted Gothic Revival ceiling
- Portraits on the lit outdoor patio after sunset
What couples and guests notice about Throop Unitarian Universalist Church
The Gothic stained glass and vaulted ceilings are called a historic, striking backdrop, even by photographers who’ve shot many churches.
Throop’s own couples describe the team’s attention to detail and calm presence as making the day feel effortless.
On-site parking is limited, so plan for guests to use nearby street parking.