Hotel Fort Des Moines Wedding Band for Events
Trusted by wedding planners, corporate planners, and luxury event producers nationwide since 2009.
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
Stand-alone receptions and full wedding celebrations are available at Hotel Fort Des Moines. 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
Whether you're planning a ceremony, a full reception, or a corporate event at Hotel Fort Des Moines, choose your path below and 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. 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?
Guest capacity varies by space, since the hotel offers everything from intimate rooms to the larger Grand Ballroom. 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?
Rental fees generally include use of the selected event space for a designated rental period, along with hotel event staff, coordination support, and standard banquet setup. 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. 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?
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
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.
Lost Wax is a trusted Des Moines wedding band and corporate event band, delivering high-energy live music that perfectly complements the timeless and upscale atmosphere of Hotel Fort Des Moines. Whether you're planning a romantic wedding reception or a polished corporate gala, our band provides customizable setlists, professional MC services, and a seamless event flow from start to finish.
With premium sound and lighting production and extensive experience performing at top venues throughout Des Moines and Central Iowa, Lost Wax ensures your event at Hotel Fort Des Moines is engaging, elevated, and completely stress-free. From sophisticated cocktail hour ambiance to packed dance floors in the ballroom, we create a high-energy entertainment experience your guests will remember long after the night ends.
Building on our tailored approach, Lost Wax Band delivers a personalized performance experience as a trusted Des Moines wedding band for Hotel Fort Des Moines, working closely with couples and planners to match the venue’s historic elegance and vibrant downtown energy. Whether you prefer timeless classics, modern hits, or a dynamic mashup-style performance, we keep the celebration flowing seamlessly from the first song to the final encore.
See Why Planners at Hotel Fort Des Moines Choose Lost Wax for Luxury Events
