FAQs

Question

What should I wear?

Answer

Dress code is business casual. Ladies go for knee length dresses, skirts with a nice blouse and tailored jumpsuits, or better. Gentlemen, wear nice slacks with a button down shirt, or better. We’re excited to share that we’ve hired a second photographer who will be available before the ceremony to take special photos of couples and families. It means so much to us to have beautiful portraits of the people we love most and we hope you’ll take advantage of the opportunity! Feel free to arrive ready for the camera.

Question

When and how should I RSVP

Answer

Please RSVP by May 18th, 2026. You can RSVP on the home page of this website.

Question

Is the venue wheelchair accessable?

Answer

Yes

Question

What will the weather be like this time of year?

Answer

Iowa summers can be frustratingly random, but plan on it being warm. We still get random showers and thunderstorms during June. Our June highs are usually around 85F, with lows around 60F. Humidity is high. With good weather, our ceremony will be outside, but we've considered your comfort. The deck is covered and has ceiling fans. The location is on a small lake which should provide decent breeze and we'll have water, sunscreen and bug spray available! If we have unfavorable weather we will have the ceremony inside.

Question

How do I get to the event and how is parking?

Answer

Both the ceremony and reception are at Embassy Club West. 520 Market St West Des Moines, IA 50266 Parking is free and abundant in the front of the building. The building is a shared space. Please enter the building and turn left.

Question

Can I bring my children?

Answer

We would love to have your children join us! We ask that you make sure you include them in your RSVP so we can have an accurate count. We offer a children's menu in the event your little ones don't share our particular taste pallet. Our venue is NOT childproof and on a small lake so children will need to be closely watched.

Question

Can I bring a plus one?

Answer

Probably! Check your invitation and/or your RSVP online. Or if you are unsure contact us.

Question

Do you have a hotel block?

Answer

No, but we have listed the hotels that are with in 1 mile from the venue. Some of these hotels share a parking lot with the venue.

Question

Will dinner be served at the reception? What kind of food will you have? What about the Bar?

Answer

We are big foodies. In addition to appetizers during cocktail hour, you'll be served a sit down meal. Your dinner options: Beef: Twin 4-oz Beef Tenderloin Medallions with a demi glaze Chicken: Chicken Piccata with Lemon Sauce Salmon: Salmon Filet with Lemon Sauce Vegetarian: Roasted Stuffed Red Bell Pepper with Pesto Kids: Mac and Cheese, Chicken Tenders, Fruit Salads: A Spinach Salad with Warm Bacon Crumbles Sides: Glazed Carrots and Potato Dauphinoise If you have a food allergy please let us know! OPEN BAR

Question

Am I allowed to take photos at your wedding? Can I post them on social media?

Answer

We ask that you refrain from taking photos during the ceremony. Please try to keep any photos flash free so they don't interfere with our photographers. We are unplugged from social media and probably wouldn't see your wonderful images! Tag Lee or Jodie Martinsen on FB for best chances!

Question

Are you registered

Answer

Short answer: No We are celebrating 20 years in 2026. All we need is for you to join us, celebrate love with us and enjoy yourself.

Question

I still have questions!

Answer

You can contact Alesha (5152010778) or Jodie (2109066333). We are both night owls so you'll have better luck contacting us after noon.