favorite iowa wedding venues

so the love of your life popped the big question and the two of you are officially engaged? or maybe you’re hopeful your honey is going to propose this holiday season? either way, you decided you want a “wow” wedding, but prefer to keep it local to iowa? this guide is tailored just for you!

i have been a wedding photographer for over five years now, and i’ve been living in iowa for four of those years. i’ve seen and photographed countless venues and with that knowledge, i’ve complied my favorite wedding venues that feature gorgeous photo opportunities.

  • THE TEA ROOM - DES MOINES

  • THE OUTING CLUB - DAVENPORT

  • MILLWORK BALLROOM - DUBUQUE

  • DERBY GRANGE - DUBUQUE

  • RAPID CREEK CIDERY - IOWA CITY


THE TEA ROOM - DES MOINES, IOWA

this stunning venue not only has amazing architecture accented with gorgeous windows (and amazing natural light!), but also balconies over the downtown des moines area. the combination of these features makes for amazing photo opportunities and an all around unique wedding experience.

venue website > click here


THE OUTING CLUB - DAVENPORT, IOWA

beautiful, bold white pillars featured on this historic building make a statement in wedding photos. this venue is both elegant and simple with a gorgeous bridal “getting ready” room, chandeliers throughout, and a statement staircase.

venue website > click here


MILLWORK BALLROOM - DUBUQUE, IOWA

with stunning warehouse style windows and accent brick walls, this venue is a show stopper through and through. located in the millwork district, there are plenty of great photo ops in a close proximity to the building.

venue website > click here


DERBY GRANGE - DUBUQUE, IOWA

an intimate, barn-style venue with oppurtunities for moody, romantic ceremony visuals. at sunset, the light outside of this venue is straight from a dream. located just on the outskirts of dubuque, it’s a beautiful venue for ceremonies and small receptions.

venue website > click here


RAPID CREEK CIDERY - IOWA CITY, IOWA

located just outside of the iowa city area and next to an apple orchard, this venue is so cute. the nearby greenery makes for beautiful wedding images at rapid creek. gorgeous dark wood and cement floors throughout photograph so well in natural light.

venue website > click here