Planning a wedding at Bailey Farms Barn & Venue? Whether you’re dreaming of a rustic countryside ceremony or an elegant barn reception, understanding the full cost breakdown of a Bailey Farms Barn & Venue wedding is essential. This guide explores all you need to know about pricing, packages, and how to make the most of your budget at this charming Iowa venue.
About Bailey Farms Barn & Venue
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is a picturesque wedding destination nestled in New Virginia, Iowa. Perfect for couples seeking a blend of rural charm and modern elegance, the venue features a beautiful barn, open fields, and multiple ceremony spaces. The facility is tailored for memorable events, combining natural beauty with practical amenities.
With a capacity of up to 225 guests, Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is ideal for both intimate gatherings and large-scale celebrations. It has earned a solid reputation for excellence and was recently honored with the WeddingWire Couples Choice Awards in 2024 and 2025, showcasing its consistent service quality and client satisfaction.
Whether you’re planning a spring wedding with blooming wildflowers or a cozy fall event under golden leaves, Bailey Farms offers the flexibility and atmosphere to create a truly unique experience.
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue Information Table
| Venue Name | Bailey Farms Barn & Venue |
|---|---|
| Location | 7919 G 76 HWY New Virginia, IA, 50210 |
| Call | 5152180706 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | baileyfarmsbarnandvenue.com |
| – | |
| Price | Starting at $6,700 per event |
| Capacity | Up to 225 guests |
| Awards | WeddingWire Couples Choice Awards 2024–2025 |
| Facilities | – Ceremony Area – Private Bridal Suites – Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Spaces – Dressing Room – Reception Area – Wireless Internet |
Location: A Peaceful Iowa Retreat
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is located just outside the hustle of Des Moines, Iowa, offering serene surroundings in New Virginia. Its rural location provides a peaceful and intimate setting without compromising accessibility. Guests traveling from out of town will find the venue approximately 40 minutes from the Des Moines International Airport, making it a convenient yet secluded wedding destination.
The countryside backdrop enhances every photo opportunity while offering privacy for couples and guests to celebrate without distractions. Ample parking, nearby lodging, and the tranquility of the farm setting make it an excellent choice for rustic wedding enthusiasts.
Factors Influencing Bailey Farms Barn & Venue Weddings Cost
Understanding what contributes to the final cost of a wedding at Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is essential for couples aiming to plan within a budget. While the base rate starts at $6,700, your total expenses can fluctuate significantly based on several key factors. From the season to your guest list and vendor choices, here are the primary elements that influence how much you’ll ultimately spend on your dream day.
1. Season and Time of Year
Like most wedding venues, Bailey Farms experiences peak pricing during the traditional wedding season, which typically runs from May through October. During these months, you can expect higher rates due to increased demand, especially for weekend dates. Spring and autumn weddings are especially popular thanks to the venue’s scenic rural landscape and pleasant weather.
If you’re looking to cut costs, consider scheduling your wedding during the off-season months like November through April. Not only are these months less busy, but some vendors also offer discounted packages during these periods, making it an ideal time for couples looking to save without compromising on elegance.
2. Day of the Week
Weekend weddings are the most popular—but also the most expensive. Friday, Saturday, and even Sunday events at Bailey Farms often come with a premium due to high demand. However, weekday weddings (Monday through Thursday) offer a cost-effective alternative for budget-conscious couples.
By choosing a weekday celebration, you might secure better deals from both the venue and your vendors. Plus, weekday weddings often allow more flexibility in setup and breakdown times, giving you a more relaxed planning experience.
3. Guest Count
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue can accommodate up to 225 guests, making it suitable for both small, intimate ceremonies and large celebrations. However, it’s important to note that your guest count directly impacts your overall cost.
More guests mean higher catering bills, additional table and chair rentals, and more extensive decoration needs. Invitations, favors, and even parking logistics all scale with your guest list. If you’re looking to stay within a certain budget, trimming the guest list can be one of the most effective strategies.
4. Choice of Vendors and Services
One of the benefits of Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is that couples have the freedom to bring in their own vendors. However, the vendors you choose—whether for catering, photography, entertainment, or floral arrangements—can significantly impact your wedding budget.
Some couples opt for high-end photographers, custom-designed cakes, or live bands, all of which add premium costs. Others may find budget-friendly vendors who still provide excellent service. Whether you hire a wedding planner or go the DIY route will also affect how much you spend.
Additionally, some vendors may charge extra travel or setup fees, especially if they’re not local to the New Virginia area. Booking professionals who are familiar with the venue can help ensure smooth coordination and potentially lower costs.
5. Length of Event and Booking Duration
The length of time you reserve the venue also plays a crucial role in pricing. A full-day rental is standard, but if you’re planning a weekend celebration—including a rehearsal dinner the night before and brunch the day after—you may need to book the venue for multiple days.
Extended bookings not only raise venue costs but may also lead to increased charges from your vendors. However, this format can be worth the investment if you want a more immersive and relaxed celebration with your guests.
6. Décor and Design Vision
Rustic barn venues like Bailey Farms offer a natural beauty that needs very little enhancement. However, many couples still choose to personalize their wedding with elaborate floral designs, custom lighting, drapery, vintage furniture rentals, or specialty installations like photo booths or fire pits.
While these additions elevate the visual appeal of your wedding, they also add up quickly. On the flip side, embracing the simplicity and raw elegance of the barn can help you save significantly. Think wildflower centerpieces, mason jar candles, and soft string lights to keep costs down while still making an aesthetic impact.
7. Amenities and Add-Ons
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue includes many valuable amenities in its base price, such as indoor and outdoor ceremony areas, private bridal suites, a reception hall, dressing rooms, and wireless internet. However, any add-ons beyond what’s included—such as valet parking, shuttle services, or luxury restrooms—will come at an extra charge.
It’s essential to clarify with the venue coordinator what is included in your package and what can be added for an additional fee. This ensures that your budget covers everything you envision and helps avoid last-minute surprises.
Breakdown of Bailey Farms Barn & Venue Expenses
To get a clearer picture of the potential costs, here’s a breakdown of average wedding expenses when hosting an event at Bailey Farms Barn & Venue.
| Category | Estimated Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $6,700–$9,500 | Based on day of week and season |
| Catering (per guest) | $30–$90 | Based on menu selection and service style |
| Photography | $2,000–$4,000 | Includes engagement and full wedding day coverage |
| Videography | $1,500–$3,000 | Optional, for ceremony and highlights coverage |
| Florals & Décor | $1,500–$5,000+ | Custom arrangements, arches, centerpieces |
| DJ or Band | $1,000–$3,000 | Entertainment for reception and ceremony |
| Wedding Planner | $1,500–$4,000 | Partial or full planning and coordination |
| Cake & Desserts | $400–$1,000 | Varies by size and vendor |
| Attire | $1,000–$4,000 | Includes wedding dress, tuxedo, accessories |
| Hair & Makeup | $300–$800 | Per person or package deals |
| Rentals (Chairs, Linens) | $500–$2,000 | If not included with venue |
| Miscellaneous | $500–$1,500 | Tips, transportation, gifts, emergency kits |
Tips for Budgeting and Saving on Bailey Farms Barn & Venue Weddings
Planning a wedding is a thrilling experience, but managing costs can quickly become overwhelming. Fortunately, Bailey Farms Barn & Venue offers plenty of flexibility and opportunities to keep your expenses under control while still delivering a stunning and unforgettable celebration. Here are some practical, creative, and proven ways to stretch your wedding budget without sacrificing your dream.
1. Choose an Off-Peak Season or Weekday Wedding
One of the easiest ways to cut wedding venue costs is to think outside the traditional Saturday ceremony box. Weekday weddings—especially Monday through Thursday—are typically more affordable, with lower rental fees and vendor discounts.
In addition, consider planning your wedding during the off-season, such as early spring or late fall. While summer and autumn Saturdays are the most popular (and expensive) times to get married, off-peak dates offer greater availability, flexibility, and reduced pricing for venues and service providers.
This approach is especially useful for couples open to non-traditional timelines and those wanting to secure top-tier vendors at better rates.
2. Keep the Guest List Intimate
While Bailey Farms can host up to 225 guests, that doesn’t mean you have to fill every seat. Reducing your guest count can significantly lower your overall budget across multiple categories, including catering, rentals, table settings, and even invitation printing.
A smaller guest list often creates a more personal and relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to truly connect with your closest friends and family. It also means you can spend more per guest if desired—enhancing the overall experience with gourmet meals, signature drinks, or upscale favors.
3. Prioritize Your Spending
Decide early in your planning process what truly matters to you as a couple. Is it the photographer who will capture timeless memories? The live band that will keep the dance floor alive? Or the floral design that transforms the barn into a romantic wonderland?
By identifying your top priorities, you can allocate more of your budget to those areas and cut back on less important elements. For example, you might choose a buffet instead of a plated dinner to save on catering, freeing up funds for a custom wedding dress or stunning videography.
Being strategic with your budget helps ensure you get the most value out of every dollar spent.
4. DIY Where It Makes Sense
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue is the perfect backdrop for creative DIY projects thanks to its rustic and natural charm. Handmade signage, simple centerpieces with mason jars, or a family-baked dessert table can add personal flair while reducing expenses.
Recruit crafty friends or family to help you make decorations, build custom arches, or create your own wedding favors. Pinterest, Etsy, and YouTube are treasure troves of ideas and tutorials that can help you bring your vision to life without the hefty price tag of professional styling.
However, choose your DIY battles wisely. Tasks like flower arrangements or setting up décor on the wedding day can become stressful if not properly managed or delegated.
5. Work With Local Vendors
Hiring local vendors familiar with Bailey Farms Barn & Venue can save you both time and money. These professionals often know the layout of the venue, what works best with the space, and how to troubleshoot potential issues quickly and efficiently.
In addition, you’ll avoid travel fees, lodging costs, or minimum-hour requirements that may be applied by out-of-town vendors. Many local vendors may also offer bundled service packages or preferred pricing for clients getting married at Bailey Farms, giving you even more bang for your buck.
Ask the venue coordinator for a recommended vendor list to start your search with trusted professionals who know the space inside and out.
6. Book Vendors Early and Look for Packages
The earlier you secure your vendors, the better your chances of locking in favorable rates—especially if you’re planning a wedding during a popular season. Early booking also gives you more time to compare quotes, negotiate terms, and find vendors that fit both your vision and your budget.
Many wedding professionals offer package deals that include multiple services. For example, some photographers also offer video coverage, or DJs may provide lighting and MC services. Choosing packages not only simplifies planning but can also result in significant cost savings compared to hiring each service separately.
7. Use the Venue’s Natural Beauty
One of the biggest advantages of Bailey Farms is its built-in aesthetic charm. From the warm wooden barn interior to the wide-open Iowa countryside, the venue already provides a beautiful and romantic backdrop. This means you can spend less on décor and still have a breathtaking event.
Consider minimalistic design touches that complement the space rather than compete with it. Think string lights, eucalyptus garlands, vintage barrels, or soft fabric drapery. These subtle enhancements go a long way without needing an elaborate or expensive setup.
You can also let nature set the stage by timing your wedding with seasonal blooms or golden-hour sunsets for picture-perfect moments.
8. Consider All-Inclusive or Partial Planning Services
While hiring a full-service wedding planner may seem like a big expense, it can actually save money in the long run. Planners often have access to vendor discounts, package deals, and years of experience negotiating contracts and navigating unexpected costs.
If a full planner isn’t in your budget, consider a day-of coordinator or partial planning package. These services still provide support with scheduling, logistics, and vendor management—helping everything run smoothly and allowing you to focus on enjoying your big day.
Budget Estimate Summary
Here’s a sample summary budget for a mid-range wedding of 150 guests at Bailey Farms Barn & Venue. This is just an estimate; actual costs may vary based on preferences and packages.
| Category | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Venue Rental | $7,500 |
| Catering | $9,000 |
| Photography | $2,800 |
| Florals & Décor | $3,000 |
| Entertainment (DJ) | $1,500 |
| Attire | $2,500 |
| Hair & Makeup | $600 |
| Rentals | $1,200 |
| Cake & Desserts | $700 |
| Wedding Planner | $2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $1,000 |
| Total Estimated Cost | $31,800 |
This gives you a solid foundation to plan and customize your wedding experience within your financial comfort zone.
Final Thoughts
Bailey Farms Barn & Venue stands out as a stunning wedding location in Iowa, offering a blend of rustic elegance and modern amenities. With thoughtful budgeting and strategic planning, couples can host their dream wedding without unnecessary financial stress.
From the scenic surroundings to the accommodating event spaces, Bailey Farms offers the kind of personalized charm that transforms wedding dreams into unforgettable realities. Whether you’re going big or keeping it intimate, knowing the cost breakdown in advance is the first step toward a beautifully executed celebration.
For more information or to schedule a tour, visit baileyfarmsbarnandvenue.com or contact them directly at 515-218-0706.