Gala Affair — Planning the Perfect Iowa Party

Twinkling lights, a stylish atmosphere, gourmet food — all critical ingredients for an unforgettable gala. Of course, that kind of elegance doesn’t just happen. It takes long months of planning, coordination, and about 10,000 decisions. If you’re looking for inspiration for your next gala, we’d like to suggest you consider some of these Iowa venues and service providers. You’ll see why we think they’re the cream of the crop.

Works of Art

Elegance abounds in spaces created to celebrate and incorporate the arts. Located in Davenport, the Figge Art Museum offers four unique spaces ideal for galas or benefits. The luminous glass building overlooks the Mississippi River for an urban chic atmosphere. The Grand Lobby accommodates 400 and has an open floor plan, with high ceilings, terrazzo flooring, a contemporary lounge, and terrace with striking river views. Dining Room and Bar is an intimate gathering space for up to 100 guests, while the John Deere Auditorium at the Figge features state-of-the-art AV equipment and custom Italian leather seating.

The Waterloo Center for the Arts in Waterloo offers beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for all occasions. Some of these include The Rotary Room which accommodates 25, overlooks the river and features built-in counter space with projector available. The Rotary-Lichty Rooftop welcomes 125 guests and overlooks the river and The Riverside Sculpture Plaza is an outdoor space for up to 150 located near the Schoitz River Rooms along the Cedar River.

Multiple event spaces are available at the State Historical Museum of Iowa in Des Moines located in the trendy Historic East Village neighborhood. The iconic building accommodates up to 500 guests in the sky-lit atrium. The Café & Café Terrace provides stunning views of the State Capitol and downtown Des Moines, as does the Grand Terrace for up to 500 guests.

Join the Club

Golf and country clubs welcome guests to posh surroundings, mouthwatering menus, and polished professional service. Ames Golf & Country Club in Ames offers event space with exquisite views of the golf course. Up to 250 guests can gather in the modern Greenview Room with walk out deck that overlooks the course. The Club Room accommodates 60 for a more intimate gathering.

Something Special

Unique venues welcome guests to posh surroundings, mouthwatering menus, and polished professional service. Iowa Events Center in Des Moines offers spacious event space and an in-house catering team. Level 1: Hy-Vee Hall features 14,400 square feet of space with 7300 square feet of pre-function space. Level 2: Hy-Vee Hall consists of 150,000 square feet of event space with 16,400 square feet of pre-function space. The Community Choice Credit Union Convention Center offers your group an elegant cloud ceiling with colorful LED accent lighting and twinkle lights to create a lovely ambiance.

The Atrium at Prairie Lake Park is located in the technology hub of Cedar Falls. With an industrial-style feel, beautiful scenery and a customizable approach for gatherings, it has become a much sought-after venue in the area. With 2000 square feet of intimate space, the Atrium can accommodate up to 175 guests.

Hotel Julien Dubuque in Dubuque is an elegant boutique hotel that marries modern amenities with historic charm in the heart of the Old Main District. Several event spaces at the hotel include the Grande Ballroom, where elegance and style emerge for up to 230 guests. Fleur de Lis is adjacent to the Grand Ballroom and Atrium and features grand windows that overlook historic Main Street. River Room & River Terrace offer a unique, modern setting and are suitable for up to 160 guests.

Catering to Your Every Need

Choosing a caterer can be one of the most important tasks you undertake when planning your gala. You’ll make a lasting impression with guests when you choose Catering DSM. Their talented chefs prepare inspired cuisine infused with fresh ingredients. Choose your mouthwatering meal from a wide-ranging menu, including such treats as Crispy Duck Breast or Blackened Salmon.

Innovative and creative, Food with Flair will help you design the perfect menu for your gathering. From buffets and to plated entrees, every creation is prepared with passion and imagination. Choose Sautéed Chicken Breast, Classic Lasagna Bolognese,  or Manicotti. So many wonderful choices, you’ll wish you could order them all.

All the Trimmings

First impressions are so important. When your guests arrive at your event, you want them to look around the space and say, “Wow!” not “ho-hum.” The pros at Spielman’s, know exactly what you need to make your party a smash hit. Choose from tables, draping, centerpieces, décor, votives, place settings, tents, stages, and so much more!