Planning a wedding is such an exciting time, but it can also feel a little overwhelming! Whether you’re dreaming of a chic downtown celebration or a rustic countryside vibe, Des Moines, Iowa, has so much to offer. From stunning Des Moines venues to talented vendors, this city is full of hidden gems that are perfect for your big day. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about planning your Des Moines wedding, from choosing the right venue to finding the perfect photographer. So, grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive into your Iowa wedding planning journey, because your dream wedding in Des Moines is closer than you think!

What You Can Expect From This Iowa Wedding Planning Guide for Des Moines Brides

• Des Moines wedding venues
• Top local Des Moines wedding vendors
• Des Moines wedding timeline tips
• Seasonal & weather considerations

Top Des Moines Wedding Venues

Before diving into the details of how to plan your perfect Des Moines wedding, let’s start with one of the most important decisions: choosing the right venue! Des Moines has an amazing mix of venues that can fit any couple’s style. My biggest tips for any future Des Moines brides are to (1), choose a venue that has as much natural light as possible. If your venue is outdoors, perfect! If your venue is indoors, make sure there are many windows or large open doors present! And (2), if you’re getting married inside a church or chapel, try to choose one with minimal features and bright, neutral/white walls! This will create that effortless elegance/timelessness, and keep YOU as the focal point of the images!

Check out some of my favorite Des Moines wedding venues below!

Willow on Grand

Willow on Grand in Des Moines is a super breathtaking venue that perfectly blends classic charm with elegance. The grand ballroom’s chandeliers and hardwood floors create a warm and inviting atmosphere for your ceremony and reception! Plus, the outdoor garden area offers a super romantic setting for your vows or cocktail hour.

Iris Aisle

Iris Aisle in Winterset, Iowa, is a hidden gem that has all the rustic charm and timeless elegance you need. With stunning landscapes, this venue offers a cozy and intimate setting for your wedding. The beautifully restored barn, with its wooden beams and twinkling lights, creates a romantic and warm ambiance that’s unforgettable!

Little Lights on the Lane

Another one of the best Des Moines Iowa wedding venues is Little Lights on the Lane in Iowa City. This is a charming venue that feels like a fairytale come to life! With its enchanting outdoor setting, it’s perfect for couples dreaming of a romantic and whimsical wedding. The venue’s lush gardens and twinkling string lights create an atmosphere that’s both intimate and magical. Inside, you’ll find a cozy, elegantly designed space that adds a touch of sophistication to your wedding day. 

The Tea Room

The Tea Room in Des Moines has such a unique setting for a wedding. This venue boasts a classic charm with its vintage decor and an intimate atmosphere. The intricate chandeliers and elegant furnishings provide a graceful backdrop that highlights your big moments.

Top Des Moines Iowa Wedding Vendors

This city is home to some of the most talented wedding vendors who will help turn your dream day into a reality. From stunning florists and talented wedding planners to top-notch photographers and DJs, Des Moines has an abundance of options for every couple’s vision and budget. Some standout vendors include Magnolia Floral for the prettiest floral arrangements, White Willow Events for planning and coordinating your big day, and Marissa Williams for any hairstyle you need.

For the full list of top wedding vendors in Des Moines, head over to this blog post where I dive deeper into each vendor’s specialty and why they come highly recommended for your wedding day! Trust me, these pros will make your wedding planning process a breeze!

Seasonal and Weather Considerations

Choosing the perfect time of year for your Iowa wedding is one of the most exciting parts of planning! Whether you’re envisioning a spring celebration surrounded by colorful blooms, a summer evening full of that golden-hour magic, or a cozy fall wedding with stunning foliage, Des Moines has it all! Each season brings its own charm, and honestly, you can’t go wrong. Think about the kind of vibe you want — do you want the warmth of summer, the crispness of fall, or the freshness of spring? The weather, scenery, and perks of each season can really set the mood for your big day.

Want to dive deeper into the best seasons to tie the knot in Iowa? Check out the full post for all the details! I’m sharing everything you need to know to pick the perfect time to say “I do” and make your wedding day even more magical.

Des Moines Wedding Timeline Tips

When planning your Des Moines wedding timeline, it’s important to make sure you’ve left plenty of time for each part of the day to unfold without feeling rushed. A well-organized schedule helps you enjoy every moment, especially those special ones like the first look, couple portraits, and dancing the night away! Here’s a sample timeline to guide you:

2:00 PM
Getting Ready, Hair, Makeup, Dress (First Looks with Bridesmaids/Parents)
Detail Shots

3:15 PM
First Look
Romantics (Couple Photos)

3:45 PM
Bridal Party Photos

4:30 PM
Family Photos

5:00 PM
Pre-Ceremony Hide-Away

5:30 PM
Ceremony

6:00 PM
Cocktail Hour

6:30 PM
Reception
Dinner
First Dances
Cake Cutting
Open Dancing

Sunset Photos (1 hour before sundown)

10:00 PM
Send-Off

This timeline balances time for relaxed moments, photos, and a smooth flow between events. Feel free to adjust based on your personal preferences and the specific needs of your day, but this should give you a great starting point for a memorable and stress-free celebration!

Let’s Make Your Iowa Wedding Planning Stress-Free and Fun!

Iowa wedding planning can feel like a whirlwind, but don’t worry! I’m here to help every step of the way! As your Des Moines wedding photographer, I provide all my brides with a super detailed breakdown of each moment of the day and all the things you should think about when planning, including the little details that can sometimes get overlooked. After years of experience, I’ve picked up plenty of tips and tricks to help make your day run smoothly and ensure you get the photos you’ve always dreamed of!

You can learn all about me here. If you’re ready to take that next step and book your photographer, inquire now! I’m so excited to be a part of your journey and help with the wedding planning process in any way I can! Until then, find more detailed Des Moines Iowa wedding planning guides on the blog.

Brooklyn G Photography | Des Moines Iowa Wedding Photographer