When you think of an Iowa wedding day, most people visualize corn, beer, party buses, mason jars, cowboy boots, hay bales… the list goes on. Little does the whole world know that Iowa actually has some gorgeous venues and spaces that can feel like a European summer in the heart of the Midwest. If you’re hoping your wedding day can feel more romantic, soft, upscale yet laid back, The Prelude venue in New Virginia, Iowa just outside of the Des Moines metro, is a gorgeous spot to keep in mind. Between the roses, the courtyard, the checkered floors, art work, statues, spiral staircases, and so on, you’ll feel like you’re starring in your own Jane Austen inspired moment.

If you’re looking for a smaller venue in the Midwest, I’d strongly encourage checking out the MN Landscape Arboretum! There were so many nooks on the grounds of the arboretum — it was photo heaven! One fun spot of note in the indoor greenhouse area. We took a few of their couples portraits in here and it was soooooo gorgeous and added some easy variety to their gallery.

Ellie + Peyton’s Iowa Summer Backyard Tent Wedding Day

Mya + Tanner’s Modern Iowa Fall Wedding Day