Category: Featured

The Essential Guide to Getting Married in Iowa

Post author By Dave Makin
Post date September 10, 2024

Getting married in Iowa is a significant milestone that many couples cherish. The Hawkeye State offers a blend of rustic charm and modern amenities, making it a fantastic choice for couples looking to tie the knot. Whether you’re planning a grand wedding ceremony or an intimate elopement, this guide will provide everything you need to know about getting married in Iowa, including legal requirements, venue options, and planning tips.

How to Get Legally Married in Iowa?

What are the requirements for an Iowa marriage license?

To get legally married in Iowa, couples must obtain a marriage license in Iowa. The requirements for this license include being at least 18 years old, though individuals aged 16 or 17 can marry with parental consent. Both parties must present valid identification, such as a driver’s license or passport, at the county registrar’s office. Additionally, there are no residency requirements, so even out-of-state couples can apply for a marriage license in Iowa. It’s essential to know that if either party has previously been married, they must provide the date of the divorce or the death of their former spouse.

Where can I apply for an Iowa marriage license?

Couples can apply for a marriage license at any county registrar’s office in Iowa. It’s advisable to contact the specific office you plan to visit in advance to confirm their hours and any additional documentation you may need. In larger cities such as Des Moines and Cedar Rapids, there are multiple offices available, providing convenience for Iowa couples. When you arrive at the office, the application process is straightforward and typically takes less than an hour. Once you have submitted your application, you can obtain your Iowa marriage license on the same day.

Is there a waiting period for getting married in Iowa?

Iowa has no waiting period for couples who wish to get married. After you receive your marriage license, you can get married immediately. This is particularly beneficial for couples who are eager to tie the knot without unnecessary delays. However, the marriage license is only valid for 6 months, so make sure to schedule your wedding date accordingly. This flexibility allows couples to choose the perfect time for their wedding ceremony, whether it be during the popular summer wedding season or a more serene winter date.

What You Need to Know About Iowa Wedding Venues

What are the best outdoor wedding venues in Iowa?

Iowa boasts a variety of stunning outdoor wedding venues that provide a picturesque backdrop for your special day. From lush gardens to serene lakesides, the options are plentiful. Venues such as the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden and the Rustic Barn in eastern Iowa are ideal for couples who dream of an outdoor wedding surrounded by nature. These venues not only offer beautiful scenery but also have experienced wedding vendors who can assist with planning and logistics to ensure a seamless wedding day.

How to choose the perfect wedding venue in Iowa?

Choosing the perfect wedding venue in Iowa requires careful consideration of your style, budget, and guest list. Start by defining the atmosphere you want for your wedding; whether it’s a rustic barn, a chic urban space in Iowa City, or a traditional banquet hall, understanding your vision will help narrow down your choices. Additionally, consider the amenities offered by each venue, such as on-site accommodations, catering services, and parking options. It’s also wise to visit multiple venues to get a feel for the space and how it aligns with your wedding planning goals.

Are there popular wedding venues in Des Moines and Cedar Rapids?

Des Moines and Cedar Rapids are home to many popular wedding venues that cater to various tastes and preferences. In Des Moines, couples often choose venues like the Temple for Performing Arts or the Iowa State Historical Building, both of which provide unique settings for a wedding ceremony and reception. Cedar Rapids features venues such as the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art and the historic Brucemore estate, which offer beautiful indoor and outdoor options. Each venue typically has a team of experienced wedding vendors who can help you navigate the planning process, ensuring a memorable celebration.

How to Plan Your Wedding Day in Iowa?

What are the most popular months for weddings in Iowa?

In Iowa, the wedding season peaks during the late spring and summer months, particularly from May to September. This timeframe offers the best weather for outdoor weddings and is favored by couples looking to celebrate in the sunshine. However, each month has its unique charm; for example, fall weddings in October can take advantage of the stunning autumn foliage, while winter weddings in December can create a magical atmosphere with holiday decorations. When choosing your wedding date, consider the season that aligns with your vision and the type of experience you want for your guests.

How to create a wedding day timeline in Iowa?

Creating a wedding day timeline is crucial for ensuring that everything runs smoothly on your special day. Start by outlining key events, such as the ceremony, cocktail hour, and reception. Allocate sufficient time for each segment, keeping in mind the travel time between locations, if applicable. For instance, if you’re planning a wedding in Des Moines, factor in time for photographs at local attractions. It’s also essential to communicate this timeline with your wedding vendors, such as the photographer and catering staff, so everyone is on the same page. This organization will help alleviate stress and allow you to enjoy every moment of your wedding day.

What should you include in your Iowa wedding checklist?

An Iowa wedding checklist is an invaluable tool for keeping your wedding planning organized. Start by listing out all essential tasks, including booking your venue, hiring vendors, sending out invitations, and securing your Iowa marriage license. Additionally, consider items like attire for the bride and groom, transportation arrangements, and décor details that reflect your personal style. Checklists can also include timelines for when tasks should be completed, ensuring that you stay on track as your wedding date approaches. Remember to allow time for unexpected changes or needs that may arise along the way.

Exploring Elopement Options in Iowa

What is the best way to elope in Iowa?

If you’re considering eloping in Iowa, there are several beautiful and intimate options available. Many couples choose to elope in scenic locations such as the Loess Hills or along the banks of the Mississippi River. To elope in Iowa, first secure your marriage license at a local county registrar’s office, as mentioned earlier. Next, select a meaningful location for your ceremony, whether it’s a quiet park, a picturesque overlook, or a charming venue that reflects your relationship. Lastly, consider hiring a wedding vendor who specializes in elopements to help plan the details and capture your special moments.

How to find an elopement photographer and videographer in Iowa?

Finding the right elopement photographer and videographer in Iowa is crucial for preserving the memories of your special day. Start by researching local professionals who specialize in elopements and have experience capturing intimate ceremonies. Look through their portfolios to find a style that resonates with you, whether it’s candid, artistic, or classic. Many Iowa couples also rely on recommendations from friends or wedding vendor networks to find reputable photographers. Once you’ve narrowed down your options, schedule consultations to discuss your vision and ensure that they understand what you want for your elopement.

What are unique elopement spots in Iowa?

Iowa is dotted with unique elopement spots that offer breathtaking backdrops for your wedding ceremony. The Bridges of Madison County are iconic locations perfect for couples looking for a romantic and picturesque setting. Additionally, the scenic views from the Iowa Great Lakes or the tranquil environment of Ledges State Park can create unforgettable memories. For a more urban feel, consider eloping in downtown Des Moines, where you can find modern architecture and vibrant street art. Each location provides a distinct atmosphere, making it easy to find the perfect spot that reflects your love story.

Understanding Iowa Marriage Laws

What are the key marriage laws you need to know in Iowa?

Understanding Iowa marriage laws is essential for couples wishing to get married in the state. As previously mentioned, both parties must be at least 18 years old, or 16 with parental consent, and must apply for a marriage license. Iowa does not require blood tests or waiting periods, making the process relatively straightforward. Additionally, it’s important to know that Iowa recognizes same-sex marriage, ensuring that all couples have the right to marry. Familiarizing yourself with these laws will help you navigate the legal aspects of your wedding planning.

How do marriage laws differ for elopements in Iowa?

Marriage laws for elopements in Iowa are generally the same as for traditional weddings; however, some nuances may apply. When you elope in Iowa, you still need to secure your marriage license and meet the same identification requirements. One key difference is that elopements often involve fewer vendors and a more streamlined planning process, allowing couples to focus on the intimacy of their special day. Additionally, elopements may provide more flexibility in terms of location and timing, which can enhance the overall experience.

What is everything you need to know about getting married in Iowa?

Getting married in Iowa is a memorable experience filled with joy and excitement. From understanding the requirements for obtaining an Iowa marriage license to exploring beautiful wedding venues and planning your wedding day, it’s essential to be well-informed. Whether you’re considering a grand celebration or an intimate elopement, Iowa offers numerous options that cater to every couple’s desires. Remember to adhere to the marriage laws, create a detailed checklist, and enjoy the planning process. With the right knowledge and preparation, you can create the wedding of your dreams in the heart of Iowa.

For everything for your special day, there’s Baqara.

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Planning for Rain on Your Wedding Day

Post author By Clint Webster
Post date October 1, 2022

the bride and groom in the rain

Isn’t it ironic…. Rain on your Wedding Day? Just a little too ironic. You Ms. Wizard cannot change the forecast, nor can you alter the weather during your wedding day. But what you can do is understand your options and discuss this with your vendors ahead of time. Experienced vendors have already discussed this with you and let you know what all of the “Plan B’s” are, but you don’t always know if your wedding vendor is who they advertise.

Therefore, here is a list of options for you if your outdoor
wedding does not go as planned:

1) Have an indoor space on reserve and make the decision to move it. Sometimes it just doesn’t matter how long you stare at the radar, that rain just won’t stop. A lot of the decision comes
down to timing though. Some venues require a decision to be made days before on an indoor vs outdoor wedding due to setup of chairs and spaces. Therefore, this needs to be discussed with
your venue in advance to determine available spaces, requirements, and flexibility.

2) Wait out the storm and make a last-minute decision. Some venues can audible quickly and can wait until the last minute for a decision to be made on an outdoor wedding. If things are moved indoor last minute, guests will most likely sit at their tables during the ceremony and the ceremony may be held on the dance floor, in front of the head table, in an open space available in a larger venue, etc. If things can happen outside last minute because there is a break in the weather, staff will need time to dry off chairs, set any décor or floral, and ensure a safe, non-slick walk path for guests.

3) Move your ceremony time. Maybe there is a break in the weather at 7:00pm and it will continue to rain through the scheduled ceremony time of 5:00pm. An experienced and easy-
going wedding coordinator can arrange this with the DJ, photographer, and caterer by doing a“soon to be Mr. and Mrs.” grand entrance and go right into dinner. Then you might be able to go from dinner and drinks to a ceremony, followed by speeches and special dances. This takes coordination but it can be done and everything feels planned and accounted for, regardless what some vendors may thing of the idea. Working outside of the norms does tend to freak some people out so just make sure you trust your coordinator fully.

4) Buy 200 cheap umbrellas and let’s do this thang!!!

Regardless the situation with weather, keep calm and enjoy the day. Rain happens and all you can do is go with the flow at that point. No stress drinking, no yelling, and no crying over Mother Nature. She is an unpredictable force regardless of what those overpaid weather-men tell us.

For everything weddings and irony, call us today!

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VENUE….ENDO

Post author By Clint Webster
Post date April 18, 2022

“Hi, my name is [insert name]. Welcome to my wedding venue. Congratulations on your engagement. Let me show you around and let me know if you have questions. We seat [select number] people, we include [set-up, cleaning, tables, moral support, etc], and we cost [insert ridiculous dollar amount that includes 4 walls and a roof] for a Saturday.”

Have you heard that same ol’ song and dance before? Welcome to a wedding venue tour you first time, naive engaged couple. Be prepared to receive a sub-par sales pitch and a pamphlet with pretty pictures of someone else’s wedding. You want to know a secret though? Searching for the “right” wedding venue is like searching for a place to eat in a town you have never visited in which you are so hungry that you are choosing which of your arms you will start nibbling on first. Regardless of where you finally choose, you feel like it is the right choice because of your stomach’s desire to satisfy it’s craving. You won’t ever know if there was a better place because you are leaving town the next day and your goal was achieved. Your objective, if you so choose, is to pick a wedding venue that checks all of the boxes that are most important to you. But, do you even know what boxes to check since this is the first time you have been engaged? Mission Impossible. Let me give you some tidbits of advice on how to choose the right wedding venue.

1) PRIORITIZE THE PRIZE

Is the visual appearance #1 or is the service #1? Of course you want both to be amazing but set one above the other. If the appearance is at the top of your list, is the ceremony or the reception more important? If you are more focused on how the ceremony looks and feels, judge your venue on those marks first and foremost. If the reception space and the party pad check your first box, pay special attention to the proximity of the dance floor to the bar, look close at the head table and backdrop, and see if there is a fun patio for guests to be outside.

If service is #1, then figure out what the venue offers that will make your wedding day smooth and easy so you can relax and enjoy the time with your fiancé, family and friends. Ask the following questions:

Do they set up and tear down?
Do they clean or do they charge additional cleaning fee?
Does the venue include planning and/or day-of-coordinating?
Do tables, chairs, linens, decorations, etc. come with the rental or are they separate?
Is the venue open catering or do you have to go through a specific caterer?
What time can you show up and what time do all guests have to leave?

2) I NOW PRONOUCE, INSIDE OR OUTSIDE

Do you want to have your wedding ceremony at the same place as the reception or are you having a church wedding? If you want to do the same location, does your venue have an indoor space or outdoor? If outdoor, is it paved or covered just incase of rain? If it is indoor, is it a separate space from the reception or will the space need to be flipped? Rain even the day before can have a huge impact on the ceremony space if it is grass. You don’t need all of your bridesmaids heals deep in mud.

3) LAY OFF, I’M STARVING

Does the venue require you to use their catering or their preferred caterer or is it open catering? This has a huge impact on the overall price for your wedding. Many venues that require you to use their food services or their preferred food vendor have higher food charges per person. Slightly counterintuitive but I will cover this in a separate blog post.

4) DRINK A LITTLE DRINK

Does the venue have a liquor license? If so, do they require a minimum dollar spent on alcohol? Are bartenders included in your rental price? Also, it seems like a given, but be sure you know what alcohol is available for your guests. Not all licenses include liquor and not all venues include variety. If you are expecting to be able to get a nice whiskey but the venue only caries Black Velvet, there isn’t much you can do about it the day of your wedding (this is in no way a bash on the classic BV). Serving alcohol to 200-300 people is a chore so be sure your venue is confident and versed in selling alcohol and has the setup and staff to be efficient.

Finally, DO NOT SETTLE. If you need to visit 6-10 venues before one checks all of your boxes, then do so. Do not rush this process. As mentioned previously, you will never know if there was a better venue for you out there. So be sure to do your homework, visit the venues, and judge the venue on all merits of your big day. The venue tour better be the best tour you have ever been given as your wedding day should be one of the best days of your life.

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ALL OF MY FRIENDS ARE BOOZERS

Post author By Clint Webster
Post date April 18, 2022

You know the old saying; “You can lead a drunk to water, but you can’t get him to drink it… or maybe it’s a horse.” Either way, moral of the story is whoever came up with that saying definitely did not use this as a proverb to describe a wedding crowd. A wedding is a celebration of a marriage between two individuals. Alcohol is a source of courage in physically expressing your excitement for that marriage through incoherent dance. If you have never been to a “dry wedding” before, they are nice but they do miss that tingling sensation in your frontal cortex that tells you anything is possible tonight.

When it comes to your wedding day, what you spend on your guests in terms of complimentary refreshments should be up to you. Now in some venues, this is not the case as they do require a certain minimum spent at the bar and it is part of their contract. This is a way to guarantee additional revenue per wedding for the venue owner. At the end of the day, it is something that you have to consider when booking a venue.

There are many ways that you can gift your guests with the nectar of the Gods. Below are some options when it comes to complimentary alcohol at a wedding:

Open Bar: You as the wedding couple pay for your guests all night long, or at least for a certain length of time. Keep in mind here that even though the guests are your family and friends, they have been waiting for you to buy them a never ending bar tab for the entire time you have known each other. In other words, this will rack up your tab with the venue in a hurry as there are no holds barred in this drunk fest.
Cash Bar: Your guests pay for what they want to drink. This is a very cost effective option as it is no additional cost to you. Double check with you venue on if this is allowable though. One slight caveat though; your family and friends may see you as a cheap ass and bounce to the next party earlier than expected. This is your wedding, but this is their celebration (at least in their selfish little minds).
Happy Hour / Time Limit: Open Bar until a certain time and then it is cash from there. Keep in mind though that a time limit is just a deadline with a loophole. The loophole being see how much alcohol ones body can sustain until time is up. Do not use this as a method to anticipate what your alcohol bill will be as your friends and family may surprise you.
Prepaid Kegs, Cases of Wine or Selected Dollar Limit: You as the couple let your wedding know how much alcohol or how much money you are willing to give out to your guests. Once this is amount is drank, it is a cash bar through the rest of the night. This is a great give and take when it comes to your gift to your guests. After so much alcohol that you paid for, most of your drinkers will not care if they have to pay to keep that buzz going and will carry out the party regardless their bank accounts. I’m sure all venues will allow you to add on during the night of your wedding but at least you know what to expect in terms of a bar bill.

Those are the main categories you can expect. Now some venues may offer tickets you can give out, some may offer items by the bottle or by the case or keg but for the most part, the above categories round out the ways to booze or not to booze.

When you visit with your venues and talk about alcohol service, be sure you know and understand their requirements. Some venues allow you to bring in your own alcohol, some venues only have 5 cheap liquors to choose from, some only carry keg beer and no craft options, and some charge extra for bartenders. Not all wedding venues are equal when it comes to serving refreshments so be sure to ask about all of the details. The biggest thing you have to ask yourself though is if you think doing the “Cha Cha Slide” is more fun with alcohol or sugar water. You be the judge.

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MO MONEY DOESN’T MEAN MO SERVICE

Post author By Clint Webster
Post date April 6, 2022

“If you want me to take a dump in a box, and mark it guaranteed I will… I’ve got spare time”. – Tommy Boy

A wise man once asked a wise question: “How do you know the guaranteed fairy isn’t some crazy glue sniffer?” – Tommy Boy…. again. Now lets dial down the abstract and get to the point. In product lines and advertising, a product is only as good as those that create it. A good marketer can sell you a bill of goods but they could also only be interested in their bottom line; which is making the sale.

When choosing your wedding vendors, take special care in not getting caught up in the “guarantees” of the service. One such “guarantee” is in the form of an assumption. That being the higher the price, the better the service. A $500 DJ and a $2,500 DJ should both make you question their value. What is the difference between a $1,500 photographer and a $3,500 photographer? Most likely experience. What’s the difference between a $3,500 photographer and a $8,000 photographer? An ego? Now I’m not saying this is the case across the board. I’m just saying that one needs to be sure to see a wedding vendor through a lens of value, service, product, and QUALITY. Not just quality.

As a newly engaged couple, you of course want the wedding of you dreams. So you look for all of the right vendors that best fit your personality and have the exact place, skill, and product possible. The only problem is that, most of the time, this is the only time you have ever planned a wedding. You have no comparison and therefore, have no basis for quality. You rely on what the vendors tell you and rely on your instinct. Instinctually, we believe that a $20,000 price tag on a venue surpasses a $8,000 venue. But by stripping away the layers, you see that the services, the staff, and the product all are better at the latter.

Some words of advice to all of the newly engaged couples when it comes to filtering your vendors:

Meet all vendors in person. Only exception I have personally is with a select few caterers that multiple friends and family members have given high marks on. Use your first instincts and look for those vendors that sound, entertaining, and energetic. Just being nice doesn’t cut it in a crowded field of professionals.
Do online research for average prices in each of the vendor fields you have interest in. Budget for the mid-high end of the average. Discard the outliers on the low and high end.
Other than marrying the love of your life and enjoying your wedding day, what are your wedding day priorities? In other words, what is most important when weighing your budget constraints:
1. Venue services
2. Photographer style
3. DJ/MC personality
4. Florist creativity
5. Caterers food quality
6. Videographer style

One last note for you wedding couples, don’t feel like you have to over extend yourself to have a great day. Talk with a wedding professional you trust to set you on the right path. Research, research, research before making a decision on your vendors. If you are looking for more advice or want to see what a service-focused wedding venue really looks like, check out Baqara Reclaimed. As with all of our articles, I hope this serves as an informational and hopeful outlook on your wedding planning needs.

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DO I NEED A WEDDING PLANNER?

Post author By Clint Webster
Post date March 16, 2022

Do you need a chef to prepare a top grade beef sirloin? Do you need a romantic horse and carriage ride with wine and cheese pairings on a date night? Do you need a long handled sponge to get those hard to reach spots in the shower? Not really, but, one leaves you with a charred taste in your mouth, the second leaves you with a night out to the local IHOP and the the third just leaves you with a dirty back. What I’m trying to say is that you may be able to get by without a wedding planner but the experience is going to be so much smoother and enjoyable with one.

Wedding planners provide so much knowledge when it comes the wedding world. There is one thing you must understand first though. Planning a wedding and booking vendors is not like going to a restaurant. A restaurant you can try once, maybe try again, go to another and compare against the first, etc. You only have one shot with your wedding and you hope that all goes well. A wedding planner is the perfect mediator to merge those scenarios.

A wedding planner can help steer you in the right direction when it comes to choosing vendors, they can help you with colors and decorations, they can provide you with a day of timeline, and some provide day-of-coordinating services where they let your wedding party know where to go, where to stand, and when it will all happen. Imagine a wedding planner as a puppet master and the wedding day as the marionette. A wedding planner that is on their game and keeps a close eye on the timeline and the vendors can avoid any awkward moments, any missed opportunities and can stop something from happening before it happens.

A wedding without a wedding planner is a roll of the dice. The wedding party might not know where to stand during the ceremony, the guests might not know where cards and gifts go, the desserts might be put out too early, and the DJ might be out of sync with the photographers. If a wedding couple hires a wedding planner, they will have been working with the planner for the better part of a year and maybe more. The wedding planner knows:

The day of timeline
The fine details and unique aspects that the couple wants to incorporate into their day
The vendors that are hired and how to coordinate each of the vendors so all of the events of the day flow smoothly
If something is out of place or not right based on the wants and needs of the wedding couple

A wedding planner is an invaluable piece of the equation when it comes to a perfect wedding day. Either before or after you have your venue booked, put some serious thought into hiring a wedding planner. Finding the right wedding planner for you will ensure your wedding day is perfect. Some wedding venues actually provide this as a service as well so be on the lookout for that option. To learn more about having the perfect wedding day, check out the Baqara Wedding Blog.

A wedding planner can help steer you in the right direction when it comes to choosing vendors, they can help you with colors and decorations, they can provide you with a day of timeline, and some provide day-of coordinating services where they let your wedding party know where to go, where to stand, and when it will all happen. Imagine a wedding planner as a puppet master and the wedding day as the marionette. A wedding planner that is on their game and keeps a close eye on the timeline and the vendors can avoid any awkward moments, any missed opportunities and can stop something from happening before it happens.

The day of timeline

The fine details and unique aspects that the couple wants to incorporate into their day

The vendors that are hired and how to coordinate each of the vendors so all of the events of the day flow smoothly

If something is out of place or not right based on the wants and needs of the wedding couple

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