The first step to finding the perfect spot is figuring out whether or not you want to have it indoors or outdoors. Once you've gotten that established, it's time to go shopping! Drive around and visit a few key spots, or get online and see what you can find in your area. If you're planning this Des Moines wedding from a distance, the internet is your best resource. Don't stop until you've made a list of at least 5 prospective Des Moines reception venues.
Once you have the list together, next is contacting each one in order to inquire about size, accommodations, location, and cost. The reception site should be large enough for your wedding party size, and should be located in a somewhat convenient area. If you're expecting a lot of out-of-town guests, picking a place nearby the airport and hotel is always a great idea. Cost is also an important determining factor when looking for a key place. How much is the cost for renting out the area for a few hours? At this point you should know exactly how much you'll be able to spend on the reception portion of the wedding.
Other important factors:
- Does the reception site have a bar area with complete bar services?
- Will they be able to supply chairs, tables, linens?
- If I have to find external vendors, will they coordinate with them on the day of the wedding?
- How is the lighting during the day? During the evening?
- How big is the dance floor?
- Can you bring in vendors (photographers, caterers, florists) prior to the wedding so that they can see what they have to work with?
- Is there a kitchen area or space for the caterers?
- Is there on-site refrigeration? (flowers, cake, ice sculptures)
Make sure that you're 100% happy with your reception venue choice. There are plenty of beautiful spots in Des Moines that would make for a great wedding, so don't get hung up on a place that's out of your reach. Take your time, be open-minded, and have fun. This is one of the best parts of the wedding planning, so do it together as a couple. For more information on fantastic reception venues, check out the resources below.
Des Moines Reception Sites
Park Place Event Centre (319-277-1255; www.barmuda.com)
This is a great place to throw an Iowa wedding. Just a short drive away from Des Moines, Park Place caters to the elegant reception gathering. The multi-mullion dollar building is decked out with marble flooring, columns, high-quality furniture, and a massive art collection. The Ballroom looks out over acres of beautiful manicured landscaping from floor-to-ceiling windows. If you're interested, call in as soon as possible so that you can reserve the site for your special day.
Copper Creek Golf Course (515-554-7766; www.golfcoppercreek.com)
The clubhouse can accommodate well over 400 guests. They offer an optional seating indoor and outdoors, as well as a bar service and catered meal. They require that you use their staff for all of your wedding needs – so if you were set on bringing in outside vendors you may need to reconsider your reception venue! You can reserve your date with only a $500 deposit, so make sure that you call in well in advance and book your wedding day. For more information, email suzanna@golfcoppercreek.com.