prel·ude noun "An introductory performance, action, or event preceding a more important one." The Prelude was dreamed up by a couple who craved a feeling they had only experienced in far off lands and story books - They knew there were others out there who dreamed of running away to places that gave them that whimsical feeling again but couldn't see themselves ever doing it - So they decided to create a place that brought that whimsy and feeling to them - The result is one of the best & most unique venues in Central Iowa, located just 30 minutes south of Des Moines. The Prelude is for authentic people who crave a romantic dream from a vanished age. The Prelude isn't only a place that should be seen - It should be experienced.

Iris Aisle is a Victorian greenhouse that sits amongst our cedar grove in Madison County, Iowa. We built Iris Aisle ourselves, around the idea of creating a sanctuary where nature lovers could come to feel at home and be surrounded by medicinal plants and herbs and all of nature’s wonder, inside and out. Simplicity is our goal here, so we only host events of 75 or fewer people. We knew we wanted this place to be geared toward smaller weddings, because there is no other place in Iowa that does. So many venues want to go big or go home, but that’s not us. Instead, we want to shift the mindset of what this day is truly about, how true connection with those you love the most is deeply important.

We at Bailey Farms Barn & Venue are very detailed oriented with a very casual atmosphere and our goal is that you can say “I truly enjoyed my wedding” not “it went so fast it was over before it started”.

Urban winery and events space located near downtown Des Moines, IA, Modern tasting room offering samples, flights, and by-the-glass, Unique venue for personalized weddings and private events, Specializing in locally grown grapes and innovative new wine styles. Jasper Winery is a beautiful venue for wedding ceremonies, receptions, and rehearsal dinners. Our experienced wedding coordinator will guide you through the planning process to ensure your special day is everything you dreamed It would be!

Salisbury House & Gardens is a wedding venue and museum situated in Des Moines, Iowa. The original owner, Carl Weeks, founded liquid foundation and hypoallergenic makeup, so it is fitting that his 42-room mansion has received a magnificent makeover as a wedding venue and event center. The mansion was built in the 1920s and was inspired by The King's House in Salisbury, England, blending Tudor, Carolean, and Gothic architectural details. Today, to-be-weds can celebrate their romantic nuptials in style at this sophisticated estate. From intimate elopements to large-scale receptions, Salisbury House & Gardens is suitable for events of all styles and sizes. You can say "I do" in front of several beautiful indoor backdrops or outdoors, where tall trees envelope a traditional arbor and manicured garden spaces. Couples can curate their dream reception indoors, outside, or in an elegant marquee.

The Alta House Event Center is a hidden gem conveniently located off I-80 and 37 minutes East of Des Moines. Conveniently located near several hotels within minutes of your venue for your guests, overnight accommodations are also available right on site. We are surrounded by plenty of photo ops, such as our on-site pond, heavily wooded areas, the Thirty-acre park, open fields, and breathtaking sunsets as your backdrop. We have several packages available no matter your budget; we will find the right package for you. The most popular package is our "Wedding Weekend Package," providing full access for 48 hours, allowing you the freedom to host rehearsal, ceremony, reception, and even brunch the following morning, all in one convenient location. Day of Coordinator, Shuttle Bus Services, on-site accommodations, setup/teardown, linens, over 2000 decor options, and more! Our high standard of care is unwavering, and our passion for our couples shows through and through.

Inquiries please reach out to us via email linked to our Memorial Union website below. The Memorial Union is an event and wedding venue located on Iowa State Universities campus. Our style could be described as architectural, dark toned, and historically elegant. Our venue comfortably holds up to 550 guests at banquet style setup with space for a head table, cake tables, buffets, bars, and dance floor. Additionally, our ballroom spaces are designed to be separated or used in combination, which allows us to serve intimate weddings of 50 -150 guests as well. At the Memorial Union, we are committed to offering impeccable customer service through our experienced wedding planning staff, complimentary set-up and tear-down, and our wide array of services to make your day as stress-free as possible.