10 Overlooked Details Couples Miss When Planning Their Des Moines, IA Wedding
- Countryside
- 6 days ago
- 3 min read
As owners of Countryside Wedding & Events, we know how easy it is to over look details in your wedding planning. Here we've compiled a list of the top 10 overlooked details most couples miss when planning their Des Moines wedding. For more wedding tips and tricks, follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Tiktok!
1. Weather Contingency Plans
Des Moines, Iowa weather can be unpredictable, especially in spring and fall. Many couples book outdoor wedding venues without a solid backup plan for rain or extreme temperatures. It’s essential to:
Confirm if the venue offers an indoor option or tent rentals.
Arrange for portable heaters or fans depending on the season.
Inform guests about the weather plan in advance.
Failing to prepare for weather changes can disrupt the ceremony and reception, leaving guests uncomfortable.
2. Transportation for Guests and Wedding Party
Couples often overlook transportation logistics beyond their own arrival. Des Moines, Iowa has several popular wedding spots that may be spread out, and parking can be limited. Consider:
Shuttle services between hotels and venues.
Reserved parking spots for elderly or disabled guests.
Coordinating rides for the wedding party to avoid delays.
Organizing transportation reduces stress and ensures everyone arrives on time.
3. Vendor Meal Arrangements
It’s common to forget meals for vendors like photographers, DJs, and coordinators. These professionals spend hours working and need nourishment to stay focused. Couples should:
Include vendor meals in the catering order.
Confirm dietary restrictions with vendors ahead of time.
Set aside a designated area for vendors to eat.
Providing meals shows appreciation and keeps the team energized.
4. Timeline Buffer for Unexpected Delays
Wedding days rarely go exactly as planned. Couples often create tight schedules that leave no room for delays. To avoid rushing:
Add 15-30 minute buffers between key events.
Communicate the timeline clearly to vendors and the wedding party.
Assign someone to keep track of time and adjust as needed.
A flexible timeline helps maintain a calm atmosphere and prevents stress.
5. Guest Comfort and Accessibility
Des Moines venues vary in accessibility and comfort features. Couples sometimes forget to check:
Wheelchair access and restroom accommodations.
Availability of shade, seating, and water stations outdoors.
Clear signage to guide guests around the venue.
Ensuring guest comfort makes the event welcoming for everyone.
6. Marriage License Requirements
Applying for a marriage license in Iowa requires specific steps and timing. Couples often delay this task or misunderstand the rules. Key points include:
Both parties must apply in person at the county recorder’s office.
The license is valid for 60 days after issuance.
There is a 24-hour waiting period before the ceremony.
Starting this process early avoids last-minute legal issues.
7. Backup Power Sources
Power outages are rare but possible. Couples rarely plan for backup electricity, which can disrupt music, lighting, and photography. Consider:
Renting generators for outdoor or remote wedding venues.
Confirming wedding venue backup systems.
Having extra batteries for essential equipment.
This precaution keeps the celebration running smoothly.
8. Post-Ceremony Transportation and Accommodation
After the ceremony, couples may forget to arrange transportation to the reception or hotel. This is especially important if the ceremony and reception are at different locations. Also:
Reserve hotel blocks for out-of-town guests.
Provide clear directions and contact info.
Arrange for late-night transportation options if needed.
Planning these details improves guest experience and reduces confusion.
9. Personal Touches and Keepsakes
Couples often focus on big decorations but overlook small personal touches that make the day memorable. Ideas include:
Customized welcome bags for guests.
A guest book or video message station.
Meaningful favors that reflect the couple’s story.
These elements add warmth and personality to the wedding.
10. Emergency Kit for the Day
Unexpected mishaps happen. Couples rarely prepare an emergency kit with essentials like:
Safety pins, stain remover, and sewing kit.
Pain relievers and allergy medicine.
Extra makeup, hairpins, and breath mints.
Having a kit on hand helps solve minor problems quickly without stress.
Thank you!
We are dedicated to using our platform to support locally owned wedding venues. In every blog we write, we will include 5 to 10 locally owned wedding venues who use their articles to support their colleagues and the wedding industry in ways that are not always recognized but are essential. If you are searching for a wedding venue, please consider a locally owned venue.
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