& what to look for in the future host of your wedding day

When I was planning my wedding a little less than two years ago, I remember being 10+ pages deep in the Google search & a bit surprised that there were so many options for venues in Iowa! Now as a wedding photographer in Des Moines, I want to save couples from feeling that decision overload & help you sort out all the mysteries of wedding planning! I’ll be sharing some of my favorite Central Iowa venues that are within an hour from Des Moines. Trust me when I say you will know when you find the place that speaks to you; go on allll the tours, ask lots of questions, & try to honestly picture your wedding day in each space. Stay until the end of this post for more tips on how to choose the right venue!

Wedding guests watch a bride and groom hold their outdoor ceremony in front of a grand historic stone building.

Historic Venues



Let's start with some tried & true historic venues. You can't go wrong with the charm these old buildings have - they'll always create that classy ambiance! Most of the time, you don't even have to worry about having much decor when the venues themselves have so much character & inspiring architecture to look at.


Blurred motion shot of a bride in a white gown holding a bouquet walking hand in hand with her groom up a wood-paneled staircase.
Bride and groom embrace on the sidewalk in front of the historic Hotel Fort Des Moines entrance on their wedding day.
A bride and groom share a kiss under the Surety Hotel entrance canopy as her veil blows and she holds a white bouquet.
Newlyweds share a romantic moment inside a vintage wood-paneled elevator with a checkered tile floor.
Wedding couple stands in front of a historic brick and stone manor house with leaded windows beneath a large tree.

Modern Farmhouse Venues



Though it sounds contradictory, this type of venue is for you if you want that cozy farmhouse vibe with a bright interior and chic accents! I love the way these venues have taken the traditional barn concept and elevated it with so many thoughtful design touches. Most of these can accommodate a larger party as well! Keep reading for my take on why having plenty of space is important when looking for your dream wedding venue.


Bride in a flowing white gown holds her groom's hand as they walk across a grassy lawn toward a white barn venue.
Elegant reception tablescape with white roses, floating candles and wooden chairs beneath modern chandeliers in a spacious hall.
Bride and groom in a tan suit embrace on a white-railed outdoor terrace, the bride holding a pink and white bouquet.

Urban Venues



This last set of venues leans into the industrial + urban aesthetic. Each of these are uniquely their own but with common elements like exposed brick, concrete floors, and cozy string lights. The convenience of these venues is a huge advantage because they're in central settings, so you have proximity to hotels, bars, + anything else you could need! This also means it's easier to hop around if your ceremony is town but not at the same venue as the reception, or if you want to go to an alternative location for portraits.


Groom lifts and kisses the bride in a lace gown as bridesmaids in dusty blue dresses and groomsmen cheer outside a brick venue.
Black and white portrait of a bride and groom standing close under a dramatic modern pergola with clouds overhead.
Bride in a short white dress with fringe hem kisses the groom's cheek against a teal paneled wall at a wedding reception.

How to Choose your Wedding Venue


You should consider all of the factors below before you book your dream wedding venue:


Accessibility. Is there parking close by? Is it confusing to find the location of the venue? If there isn't lodging at the venue, where can guests stay?

Space. Are there getting ready rooms? How many bathrooms? What about lounge seating, the bar area, the size of the dance floor? Where would food & desserts go?

Inclusions. What decor do they offer? Is there on-site catering? Rehearsal dinner rental? Set up & tear down? When does the party have to end?

Backups. If it’s raining, where will you have the ceremony / reception site? Are there still good photo spots with plenty of lighting indoors?

Reviews. What are other couples saying about the venue team & their experience?


I hope this guide helped you narrow down your list of Iowa wedding venues. Planning a celebration this big isn't easy, but so worth it! You'll hear from vendors that *every* year is a popular one for weddings, but just know that you don't have to rush into anything. Take your time + make sure whatever place you choose to get married at feels like the right fit for you.


Once you've set your date & picked a venue, reach out to me through my contact form to schedule a call or coffee date! I would love to talk about your wedding photography goals & how I'd be able to serve you on your big day.


Chat soon! - Ilderina