The Prelude Venue — SWEET STORY PHOTOGRAPHY

While driving through the rural countryside of southern Iowa, you may not notice anything special aside from the beauty surrounding you, but if you turn the corner on an unsuspecting gravel road, you will stumble across a true gem of a wedding venue nestled among the trees.

The Prelude, located in New Virginia, Iowa, is a gorgeous space that beautifully caters to couples to make one of the most important days of their lives absolutely spectacular. Walking into The Prelude is like being transported to Old World Europe in the best of ways. From the moody yet classic interior, the rich color palette, and the decadence that you become immersed in, it's a venue like I have not seen before in the state. With seating for up to 165, the venue boasts many amenities including indoor and outdoor spaces for ceremonies, separate getting ready spaces for the wedding party, linens and chair covers, open catering for a multitude of options, and a host couple that is so very kind and attentive to their clients.

I had the pleasure of receiving a personal tour from Ashley, and I was blown away at the vision that created the space you see, but also at the continued vision that she and Nathanael have to further enhance the grounds and provide even better service for years to come. While the grounds and the hall are gorgeous, my favorite space was the pergola. Surrounded by Iowa timber and sprinkled with café lights, I envision the most gorgeous bridal portraits and ceremonies in this beautifully manicured outdoor area. Night portraits would also be truly breathtaking.