The Prelude

Raw space venue

The venue will provide just the space. You’ll bring in your own caterer and vendors.

Full wedding (ceremony and reception) pricing

Starting at $6,500

Guest capacity

Up to 165 seated guests

About this venue

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.

Seated guest capacity

  • 75-165

Venue type

  • Ballrooms, Banquet Halls
  • Historic Estates, Mansions
  • Parks, Gardens

Venue setting

  • Indoor
  • Outdoor
20632 35th Ave, New Virginia, IA 50210

Our event spaces

The Hall

A romantic dream from a vanished age.

Our Hall is perfect for a warm and moody classic wedding. Black, white, and gold give our space a look of elegance and class while still feeling warm, inviting, and whimsical. Our 3,000 square foot Hall seats 175 people between our main floor and our mezzanine accessed by our 2 gold spiral staircases. Centered in the Hall above our checker patterned dance floor is a large gold and crystal chandelier for a magical first dance.

Guest capacity

Up to 175 Seated

Up to 175 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Wedding shower

Guests often feel this space is

“Warm and cozy”

Included in this room:

Dimmers for total lighting manipulation - Sound System - Tables, table clothes, chairs, and chair covers for 175 guests.

Room cost

5500

The Pergola

A whimsical courtyard beneath a pergola and twinkling lights for the perfect outdoor garden ceremony.

The perfect place for an outdoor garden wedding. Bordered by hedge trees, large, puffy white headed hydrangeas in flower beds, and a 5 foot fountain all thoughtfully placed in symmetry beneath the pergolas twinkling lights.

Guest capacity

Up to 175 Seated

Up to 175 Standing

Square footage

21,000

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Elopement, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Wedding shower, Engagement party

Guests often feel this space is

“Warm and cozy”

The Hall

A romantic dream from a vanished age.

Our Hall is perfect for a warm and moody classic wedding. Black, white, and gold give our space a look of elegance and class while still feeling warm, inviting, and whimsical. Our 3,000 square foot Hall seats 175 people between our main floor and our mezzanine accessed by our 2 gold spiral staircases. Centered in the Hall above our checker patterned dance floor is a large gold and crystal chandelier for a magical first dance.

Guest capacity

Up to 175 Seated

Up to 175 Standing

Ideal for

Wedding ceremony, Wedding reception, Rehearsal dinner, Wedding shower

Guests often feel this space is

“Warm and cozy”

Included in this room:

Dimmers for total lighting manipulation - Sound System - Tables, table clothes, chairs, and chair covers for 175 guests.

Room cost

5500

Available services that can be provided by The Prelude

Services & amenities

  • Clean up
  • Dance floor
  • Dressing room / Bridal Suite
  • Event staff
  • Liability insurance
  • On-site accommodations
  • Set up
  • Wheelchair accessible

Transportation & access

  • Self parking - free
  • Wheelchair accessible

Reviews

Write a review

5.0 out of 5

3 reviews

Write a review

  • Wedding Venue

    •Verified review
    •Terracotta Events•Feb 4, 2022

    We highly recommend The Prelude for any couple who is looking for something different for their wedding venue. With their black & white marble flooring, gold pillars and a vintage chandelier hanging from their high ceilings giving the space a glow. Its the perfect space for your dream wedding!

  • Exceeded Expectations

    •Verified review
    •Kathleen & P.•Feb 4, 2022

    We hosted my son's wedding at the Prelude and the entire experience could not have gone better. The venue is breathtaking! The view from The Prelude makes one feel like they're enjoying a Tuscan Vista. It was a wonderful backdrop for their art deco inspired theme. Ashley and Nathanael are the most attentive, detail oriented, and helpful hosts. Once the family and wedding party arrived, everyone was able to relax and enjoy the experience as Ashley and Nathanael ensured everything went smoothly. I would recommend The Prelude to any couple, or anyone searching for a venue for their special event.

  • You have to experience this dream!!!

    •Verified review
    •Kylie McMurray•Feb 3, 2022

    Ah!! The Prelude is the dreamiest venue! Not only are both Ashley and Nathanael two of the nicest and sweetest people you’ll ever meet, they have also created the most unique and intimate space for you to celebrate love! The Mini Mansion is everything you dream of to get ready in on your wedding day if you choose to, and The Hall and The Pergola will leave you speechless (as well as all of your guests). You will not regret celebrating your big wedding day, a family reunion, or whatever gathering it may be at The Prelude! You’ll feel right at home the second you arrive!

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