Hotel Fort Des Moines Wedding Band for Events
Trusted by planners nationwide since 2009, Lost Wax is the Hotel Fort wedding band for weddings and events.
HOTEL FORT DES MOINES WEDDING CEREMONIES
Grand Ballroom, Grand Mezzanine, Walnut Boardroom, Wedgewood Ballroom, Reading Room, and Courtyard
Ceremonies are available in select indoor event spaces at Hotel Fort Des Moines, offering a historic and sophisticated setting in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Originally built in 1919 and thoughtfully restored, this iconic venue features grand ballrooms, elegant architectural details, and modern amenities creating a refined backdrop for weddings and corporate events in Central Iowa.
Lost Wax Band is a premier Des Moines wedding band and corporate event band, delivering high-energy live music that elevates every moment from elegant ceremonies to packed dance floors at Hotel Fort Des Moines.
Included in the Ceremony Fee
- ✓Rental of selected ceremony space (indoor ballroom or designated event areas)
- ✓Access to pre-function or gathering spaces for guests before or after the ceremony
- ✓Hotel event staff and coordination support
- ✓Staging or preparation areas for wedding parties or vendors
Not Included in the Ceremony Fee
- –Décor and specialty installations (subject to hotel approval)
- –Ceremony chairs and furniture rentals beyond standard offerings
- –Live musicians or entertainment (such as wedding bands or DJs)
- –Tenting or weather structures (if applicable for off-site or extended spaces)
- –Reception-related costs (separate rental, catering, staffing, etc.)
Planning Considerations
- Ceremonies are primarily held indoors, ideal for year-round events in Iowa
- Due to the historic nature of the building, layout and setup options may vary by space
- Bridal parties may utilize hotel suites for preparation, though availability should be confirmed in advance
- A professional wedding planner or day-of coordinator is strongly recommended
- Ceremony bookings are often paired with a reception at the hotel
Hotel Fort Des Moines Wedding Receptions
In addition, stand-alone receptions and full wedding celebrations are available at Hotel Fort Des Moines. However, rental fees vary based on selected ballroom, guest count, timing, and event design.
Reception spaces include beautifully restored ballrooms with high ceilings, classic detailing, and flexible layouts that accommodate both large celebrations and more intimate gatherings.
The hotel provides in-house catering and bar service, offering customizable menus designed for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and corporate events.
Included in the Rental Fee
- ✓Use of selected event space for a designated rental period (typically 4–6 hours depending on contract)
- ✓Hotel event staff and coordination support
- ✓Standard banquet setup (based on selected package and space)
- ✓Access to select hotel amenities depending on event design
Not Included in the Rental Fee
- –Food and beverage (customized through Hotel Fort Des Moines catering team)
- –Décor, floral, and specialty production elements
- –Live entertainment (bands, DJs, performers)
- –Specialty rentals such as upgraded linens, chairs, or lounge furniture
- –Enhanced china, glassware, or bar upgrades beyond standard packages
Considerations
- Service charges, taxes, and administrative fees vary based on contract
- Outside wedding cakes may be permitted with prior approval
- Final event layouts and production details must be approved by the hotel’s event team
- Downtown Des Moines location offers convenient access for guests, hotels, and nearby attractions
Pick Your Hotel Fort Des Moines Experience
Planning a ceremony, a full reception or a corporate event at Hotel Fort Des Moines? First, choose your path below. Then Lost Wax will show you the right collection for your celebration.
Our signature live band and packed-dance-floor energy, tailored to your day.
Full-scale production and our largest ensembles for black-tie and marquee celebrations.
Elevated live entertainment for galas, conferences, and premium corporate events.
Venue FAQ
Hotel Fort Des Moines Wedding FAQ
What event spaces at Hotel Fort Des Moines can be used for a wedding ceremony or reception?
Hotel Fort Des Moines offers the Grand Ballroom, Grand Mezzanine, Walnut Boardroom, Wedgewood Ballroom, Reading Room, and Courtyard. Also, couples can host an intimate ceremony, a full reception, or a complete wedding celebration, depending on the space selected.
What is the maximum guest capacity for a wedding at Hotel Fort Des Moines?
In general, guest capacity varies by space, since the hotel offers everything from intimate rooms to the larger Grand Ballroom. Therefore, couples should confirm current capacity for their preferred space directly with the hotel’s events team.
What’s included in Hotel Fort Des Moines’s rental fee?
Generally speaking, rental fees include use of the selected event space for a designated rental period, along with hotel event staff, coordination support, and standard banquet setup. However, catering, beverage service, décor, and entertainment are arranged separately.
Does Hotel Fort Des Moines provide in-house catering, or can we bring outside vendors?
The hotel provides in-house catering and bar service, offering customizable menus designed for weddings, rehearsal dinners, and corporate events. However, outside wedding cakes may be permitted with prior approval.
Is Hotel Fort Des Moines an indoor or outdoor wedding venue?
Ceremonies at Hotel Fort Des Moines are primarily held indoors, which is ideal for year-round events in Iowa. Due to the historic nature of the 1919 building, layout and setup options may vary by space.
How do we contact Hotel Fort Des Moines to book our ceremony or reception?
Finally, reach the hotel’s events team at 515-528-7700, visit 1000 Walnut St, Des Moines, IA 50309, or start online at hiltonhotels.com/desmoines.
The Original Mash-up Party Band Brings the Party To Hotel Fort Des Moines Weddings
Overall, hosting your wedding or corporate event at Hotel Fort Des Moines offers a refined, historic luxury backdrop in the heart of downtown Des Moines. Originally built in 1919 and beautifully restored, this iconic venue blends classic architecture with modern sophistication, featuring grand ballrooms, upscale finishes, and versatile event spaces that create an unforgettable setting for elegant weddings and high-end corporate events.
In short, Lost Wax is a trusted Des Moines wedding band and corporate event band. In fact, planners often call us the go-to Hotel Fort wedding band. Whether you are planning a romantic ceremony, an elegant reception or a refined corporate celebration, we tailor every detail. For example, we offer customizable setlists, professional MC services and a seamless event flow.
In addition, our premium sound and lighting production has thrilled crowds at premier Des Moines-area venues. As a result, your event at Hotel Fort feels elevated, engaging and completely stress-free. Ultimately, from cocktail hour to the final encore, we create an experience your guests will remember.
Above all, we work closely with couples and planners to match the style of Hotel Fort. Of course, whether you want timeless favorites or modern hits, the celebration keeps flowing from the first song to the last.
How Lost Wax Plans Your Event at Hotel Fort
First, we learn about your vision, your guest list and your must-play songs. Next, your band leader builds a timeline with your planner and the Hotel Fort team. Then, on the day of the event, we handle load-in and sound checks early. As a result, everything is ready before your guests arrive.
In addition, our professional MC keeps every announcement on cue, from the grand entrance to the last dance. Meanwhile, the band reads the room and keeps the energy right where you want it. For instance, we can start with elegant dinner music and then turn up the party. Of course, we can also learn a special song for your first dance. Finally, we close the night with a big finish your guests will talk about for years.
Also, we coordinate with your photographer and videographer so they capture every key moment. Likewise, we work with your caterer to time the toasts and dinner sets. Therefore, you can relax and enjoy every minute. Afterward, our crew handles the teardown quickly and quietly.
See Why Planners at Hotel Fort Des Moines Choose Lost Wax for Luxury Events
