Long before you reach the 'final walkthrough stage,' with your event venue, you'll experience the 'daydreaming of the perfect wedding phase.'
There is no shortage of stunning wedding venues here in Iowa, and we feel blessed to be working in such a lovestruck state! From industrial-chic event spaces to charming farmhouses surrounded by lush fields, there's something for every taste and budget.
Over the years, we've been fortunate to work in some of the most stunning wedding venues across the Hawkeye state. However, these 5 spaces have stood out as the cream of the crop—and today, we're here to share them with you!
These are the 5 best wedding venues in Iowa-
Rollins Mansion
Des Moines, Iowa
Suppose you're looking for a venue with old-world style and timeless architecture for a classical wedding... In that case, Rollins Mansion is the place for you!
Whimsical and romantic, this venue feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle but only a few minutes from the Des Moines International Airport. This beautiful English-inspired mansion, with its towering stained-glass windows, flood each room with light and make for dramatic, jaw-dropping wedding portraits. The bridal quarters beside the estate provide a comfortable place to prepare for the big day; the updated kitchen space is the perfect hub for your caterer.
Choose from an assortment of rooms that suit everything from intimate ceremonies to 200-person banquets at Rollins Mansion. The courtyard, featuring a bubbling fountain and impeccable landscaping, is ideal for outdoor ceremonies and portraits. However, this venue is also ideal for fall and winter events inside the Tudor-style mansion!
Harpor’s Vineyard
New Virginia, Iowa
Luxury lovers take note: Harpor's Vineyard is one of Iowa's most posh wedding venues, known for its inclusive packages that include transportation to and from the event, an open bar for guests, and overnight accommodation. Despite its tranquil surroundings, Harpor's Vineyard is a quick 35-minute drive from the DSM Airport.
House Harpor's, the Vineyard's lodging, sleeps up to 20 guests and offers sunset brunches, a jacuzzi, a full movie theater, and tons of social media-friendly space to capture the fun. Since Harpor's is tucked away in the lovely Iowa countryside, many brides opt to stay overnight at the venue's on-site accommodation.
Harpor's truly captures the beauty of Iowa. The scenery here was made for outdoor ceremonies, and the arch in front of the vineyard is a favored portrait spot, ideal for floral artistry; a courtyard and covered reception area ensure your event never has to move indoors, so you can party under the stars all night long! Two bars prevent long lines and keep the dance moves flowing—have we mentioned that your rental includes unlimited alcohol?
The River Center
Des Moines, Iowa
In the heart of downtown Des Moines lies the perfect industrial-chic wedding venue for couples who can't get enough of the big city.
Easily accessible and close to lots of lodging and amenities, The River Center has a massive indoor space that accommodates over 600 people, so there's no need to trim down your guest list! Brick walls and moody wooden beams complement the staircase at the center. Two stories of enormous square tables provide plentiful seating and plenty of room to get creative with floral pieces; an elevator makes second-floor seating easy for everyone.
Another unique feature of this venue is the historic trolley bus parked out front. You can rent the trolley for the day and pose for unique vintage-inspired wedding portraits!
1868 Farmhouse
Boone, Iowa
Bursting with rustic charm, the 1868 Farmhouse is one of our absolute favorite wedding venues in Iowa. We're incredibly proud of the work we've done here!
One of the oldest farmhouses in Boone County, the 1868 Farmhouse was constructed and named after the year it was completed. With its historical magnetism and picturesque country landscape, the 1868's brick courtyard, wrap-around porch, and 3 outdoor ceremony spaces make the perfect backdrop for any country wedding.
The beautiful countryside surrounding the property awaits your outdoor ceremony—and it's impossible to say whether the open fields or aged farmhouse make a more gorgeous backdrop! The venue's 6,000-square-foot reception space can accommodate up to 300 guests seated at custom-built farm tables or at the eye-catching Grain Bin Bar.
Newly renovated, the bunkhouse is the perfect cozy sleepover spot for the bride and her 'maids to crash before the wedding. A separate bride and groom's suite provides ample room for getting ready.
The Chateau
Cambridge, Iowa
The Chateau is 21 acres of enchanting vineyards and gardens with customizable packages as unique as your love story.
Full of natural light, the Main Banquet Room can host up to 250 guests. The Cocktail Room, with its cozy floor-to-ceiling stone fireplace, is perfect for socializing. Outdoor lovers adore the gazebo, complete with a paved aisle and vineyard as a backdrop.
Two event coordinators are available to make your big day as stress-free as possible. And when we say The Chateau does it all, we mean it: From setup and event items such as chairs, tables, and linens, to cuisine crafted by the in-house chefs, food service, and clean-up. Alternatively, you can hire licensed contractors to serve and bartend; always discuss this long before the final venue walkthrough.
Feeling inspired yet?
With so many fabulous Iowa wedding venues to choose from, we hope you've found the venue of your dreams among our favorites!
There's a reason why Iowa brides choose Lavender Blue as their florist- we want to help you transform these spaces to be even more uniquely YOU! Give us the 411 on your special day, and we'll be in touch.