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The Prelude
5 ★★★★★ 29 Google reviews · Barn wedding venue in New Virginia, Iowa
Plan your tour
- Phone (515) 443-7846
- Website thepreludexii.com — most venues book tours right on their site
The setting
“When my husband and I first set out to find a wedding venue, we had to wade through pages and pages of barns and other faux-rustic venues before we stumbled upon The Prelude.”
“Stepping into The Prelude truly felt like entering a romantic 1920s-style ballroom—an exquisite blend of sophistication and intimacy.”
“Inside, the space exudes timeless elegance, adorned with refined details—from the chandelier to the striking artwork.”
“(Admittedly, being from western Pennslyvania, I didn't realize Iowa had rolling hills 😊).”
Amenities couples mention
“The venue also provides both a bridal suite and a groom’s suite, which gave our entire wedding party a comfortable and elegant space to prepare for the day.”
“The outdoor pergola area was equally enchanting—gorgeous during the ceremony and absolutely magical under the evening string lights.”
“(Admittedly, being from western Pennslyvania, I didn't realize Iowa had rolling hills 😊).”
What couples say again and again
“Great communication, beautiful venue, Ashley and Nathaniel are the sweetest, and our guests have not stopped talking about how unique and stunning it is.”
“The owners are wonderful to work with and the venue feels like a destination wedding.”
“They helped make set up and tear down as stress-free as possible and I could not have imagine and more wonderful venue to make my wedding day feel truly unique.”
“The venue also provides both a bridal suite and a groom’s suite, which gave our entire wedding party a comfortable and elegant space to prepare for the day.”
From the reviews
Geoff and I had the absolute privilege of getting married at the Prelude. I found them on Instagram and fell in love with what they are building in New Virginia. When we toured in 2022, the addition and bridal suites weren’t finished, but Ashley and Nathaniel’s vision for the space and passion really sold us.
We hosted my son's wedding at the Prelude and the entire experience could not have gone better. The venue is breathtaking! The view from The Prelude makes one feel like they're enjoying a Tuscan Vista. It was a wonderful backdrop for their art deco inspired theme.
Recently had the opportunity to bartend an event here. The Prelude is the most beautiful and unique event venue I've seen! Nestled just north of New Virginia, it offers breathtaking scenic views that make for an unforgettable setting.
If I could give more than five stars to this venue, I absolutely would—without hesitation. Nathanael and Ashley are not only incredibly gracious hosts, but also genuinely kind and caring people. Their warmth, attentiveness, and calm demeanor were invaluable throughout our entire wedding day.
Getting married at The Prelude
The Prelude comes up for weddings — confirmed on their own site. Two things make the tour worth the drive. First, see it at the time of day you'd actually get married — a barn that glows at golden hour can feel very different at noon, and you'll want to walk the path your guests take from parking to ceremony to reception. Second, bring your real questions: the rain plan (where does the ceremony move?), the catering and bar policy, the music curfew, and exactly what's included with the rental — tables, chairs, setup, and teardown are where quotes quietly diverge. Popular dates at barn venues book 12–18 months out, so if the tour feels right, ask what's open in your season before you leave.
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