Vegas-Style Wedding Chapel On Its Way

He's got the 'do.'

He's got the moves.

And pretty soon Elvis will have his stage - and altar.

Come November, Spring Hill will see the launch of a Las Vegas-style wedding chapel. Promoters are promising a rockin' party, complete with a performance of "Chapel of Love" by the original artists The Dixie Cups.

"It's just spectacular," said Chris John, aka The King, who has performed everywhere from the community stage in High Point to the MGM Grand in Vegas.

The idea of bringing a bit of Sin City to Spring Hill was launched when John met businessman Michael Salerno. While John brings his talent to the table, Salerno is providing his Spin City parlor for the chapel and his West Coast Deli for the reception.

Their slogan: "What happens in Vegas ... happens in Spring Hill."

To drum up some business for their grand opening Nov. 1, the duo is holding a contest to find a couple worthy of a free ceremony. Folks interested in participating are asked to submit an essay of up to 250 words by Aug. 31.

If they win, the couple will be treated to the wedding (or vow renewal) of their choice at the newly renovated chapel in the Winchester South Plaza on U.S. 19, just south of Northcliffe Boulevard. The "Las Vegas Chapel of Love" as it's properly known, will seat about 50 people.

John has three Elvis acts. The '56 Elvis is the fresh-faced pelvis-twister most popular in Vegas.

He has also '68 Elvis in black leather and the '73 Elvis in a sparkly jump suit - the most requested for weddings. He also does other impressions to suit a customer's wishes.

Typically, he will perform two to three songs, usually "Viva Las Vegas" and "Can't Help Falling in Love," before the notary public conducts the ceremony.

The bride and groom will next travel from the chapel by pink Cadillac to the Outlet Mall about a mile south on U.S. 19. An outside garden with trellises and a gazebo will function for pictures and hors d'oeuvres; a banquet hall with room for about 300 will host the reception.

The business partners are confident their chapel will be a success because it offers something unique to the area. In these tough economic times, flying to Las Vegas for a vacation is becoming less of an option, John said.

Besides, "people need something fun to do," he said.

Hernando County's tourism director, Sue Rupe, was excited about the potential behind the chapel to draw visitors to the area.

It would be a great addition to the honeymoon and wedding guide to the county, she said.

"I think it's a great idea," she said.

For more information on how to win a free ceremony at the Las Vegas Chapel of Love, contact Chris John at: 352-258-6716