Nov. 4, 2021

A new event barn on the east side of Sioux Falls offers a picturesque setting overlooking the Big Sioux River.

Riverview Barn opened in late August along Highway 42 and has been hosting weddings, other gatherings and even a concert.

“It’s got gorgeous views from everywhere,” said Pam Hedman, a retired speech pathologist who owns the venue with her husband, Bryan, an attorney.

“The barn was really my husband’s idea,” she said. “I think it fits well into that setting.”

Along with the river, there are views of cornfields, pastures and an old railroad trestle.

It’s a post and beam barn made by Nebraska-based Legacy Post & Beam.

Inside, the soaring main space includes room for 330 people, along with a bar, a warming kitchen for caterers, a groom’s den and restrooms.

The loft includes the bridal suite and a smaller seating area overlooking the main floor.

Guests can be seated at round or rectangular tables on wooden cross back chairs, and Riverview provides four wooden farm tables to hold guest books, cakes or other items.

There’s a space on the east side of the barn for outdoor ceremonies, with room to seat up to 340 guests on white chairs.

“We wanted to do things a little more to help brides’ budgets,” Hedman said. “We do a flat rate. Our price is our price.”

The Hedmans have four children, all of whom are married.

“We found when we were looking for an event space, it was very difficult to find a space in Sioux Falls, and that’s what led us to the journey.”

In addition to full days for weddings, Riverview Barn can be rented by the hour for other gatherings.

“South Dakota Public Broadcasting did a concert with Fiddles & Friends,” Hedman said. “We did a surprise birthday party here. Also we do graduations, holidays, anniversaries.”

Bookings for weddings next year have been busy.

“June through mid-November, all Saturdays are booked,” she said. Many Fridays are still available, and a few weddings even have been booked for Sundays.

While the Hedmans are new to the event business, they are enjoying it, she said.

“This has been a wonderful experience,” Hedman said. “The brides we get to know are amazing. We get to form a bond with their family and friends. It’s sad to see them go.”