Wedding Venue Common Questions

  • White Knot Barn is conveniently located just outside Des Moines, Iowa, surrounded by the scenic rural landscape of Central Iowa. Our venue is easily accessible from West Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, Grimes, Urbandale, Altoona, and other nearby cities—making it a perfect choice for couples searching for a wedding venue near Des Moines or across the Des Moines metro area.ext goes here

  • While we specialize in weddings, White Knot Barn is a versatile event venue that also hosts engagement parties, bridal showers, rehearsal dinners, anniversary celebrations, corporate gatherings, school fundraisers, and charity events.

  • White Knot Barn can comfortably accommodate events ranging from intimate weddings to large celebrations of up to 300 guest. Whether you're planning a cozy ceremony or a grand reception, our flexible indoor and outdoor spaces can be very flexible to any event needs.

  • Yes! White Knot Barn offers beautiful indoor and outdoor ceremony locations. Our outdoor ceremony area features classic wooden benches overlooking a peaceful pond, creating a naturally romantic setting in the Iowa countryside. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, our indoor space with is always available as a backup.

  • Yes! Included in your event rental all tables and chairs are included, and our team handles the full setup before your event and takedown after—so you don’t have to worry about lifting anything heavy. Whether it's a ceremony or reception, we ensure everything is arranged to the floor plan just as planned. It’s one of the many ways White Knot Barn does to help with a stress-free experience.

  • Yes! White Knot Barn offers ample onsite parking designed to accommodate not only cars but also large buses and hotel shuttles. The parking lot features easy access and drive-around capabilities, ensuring smooth arrival and departure for all your guests. This thoughtful design is a huge deal when hosting a large number of guests. Both parking lots are fully lighted for nigh time events.

  • Yes! Our barn offers separate, private bride and groom suites that are spacious, comfortable, and climate-controlled. Each suite is equipped with lighted mirrors and comfortable chairs, providing the perfect environment for getting ready, relaxing, and capturing special moments before the ceremony.

  • Absolutely! You’re welcome to bring your preferred vendors—including caterers, photographers, florists, DJs, and more. We believe in an open vendor policy that gives couples and event planners the freedom to choose vendors that best fit their vision and needs. Please note, however, that all alcohol must be purchased through the venue to comply with licensing regulations. This policy helps us maintain a safe and enjoyable environment for all guests.

  • White Knot Barn is wheelchair accessible. The venue includes accessible restrooms, handicap parking on both sides of the building, and a sidewalk connecting the barn to the outdoor ceremony area—ensuring guests with mobility needs can comfortably participate in every special moment. We strive to provide an inclusive and welcoming experience,

  • Yes, we hold our own liquor license, all alcohol must be purchased through the venue. We offer a variety of bar packages to choose from, tailored to fit your guest list and preferences. A bartender is provided to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration. This policy helps us maintain a professional and responsible environment

  • Absolutely! We encourage couples to personalize the Event Venue to fit their unique style and wedding vision. You’re welcome to bring your own decorations, floral arrangements, lighting, and other decor. We just ask that you let us know in advance if you have any special requirements or need assistance with setup.

Wedding Venue Booking Questions

  • We strongly encourage couples to schedule a private tour of White Knot Barn before booking. Seeing the space in person gives you a true feel for our venue barn and everything we offer. We're just outside Des Moines by 20 minutes and easily accessible from nearby cities like Ankeny, Grimes, Wakuee, and West Des Moines.

  • We recommend booking as early as possible to secure your preferred date, especially for popular wedding seasons. Many couples reserve their dates 12 to 18 months in advance. Early booking helps ensure availability for your special day.

  • To officially book White Knot Barn, please contact us to check availability for your preferred date. Once confirmed, we’ll provide a contract outlining all details, including rental terms, payment schedule, and venue policies. A signed contract and initial deposit are required to secure your date.

  • To secure your date, a deposit is required at the time of booking. The deposit amount and payment schedule are outlined in your contract and typically involve an initial deposit followed by scheduled payments leading up to the event. We strive to offer flexible payment options to accommodate your planning needs.

  • We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation and rescheduling policies depend on the terms outlined in your contract. We recommend reviewing your agreement carefully and contacting us directly if you have any questions or need to make changes.

  • White Knot Barn accepts a variety of payment methods for your convenience, including Cash, Check, Credit / Debit cards and electronic bank transfers. Please note that debit and credit card payments are subject to a processing fee. We strive to make the payment process easy and flexible to accommodate all bookings. If you have any special payment requests, please let us know — we’re happy to help!

  • We make payments simple by splitting the total cost into three installments. The initial deposit secures your event date, and the remaining balance is due is split into two equal payments. These payments typically happen at 180 days and 120 days before you event date. This straightforward payment schedule helps couples plan their budget with ease. Cash discounts are offered.

  • Of course. If you decide to add bar service, extend your rental hours, or include additional amenities, we can update your agreement. Just let us know as your event evolves!

  • We do offer discounted pricing for weekday events (Monday–Thursday) and for certain off-peak months. If you’re planning a more intimate wedding or a non-traditional date, let us know and we’ll find a package that works for you.