Meet Matt: The Hands-On Force Behind Prairie Lane Vintage Rentals

Hi, I’m Matt — co-owner of Prairie Lane Vintage Rentals alongside my wife, Nicole.

If there’s something to build, install, load, or problem-solve, I’m your guy. Whether it’s constructing custom backdrops, installing dance floors, or figuring out how to perfectly pack a full event into the van, I genuinely enjoy the challenge that comes with bringing each setup to life.

Before Prairie Lane, I spent over 15 years in the event industry as a DJ — an experience that shaped how I approach every event today. I’ve seen firsthand how important flow, timing, and thoughtful details are to the overall guest experience. That perspective carries into everything I do, from arriving on time and placing rentals with intention to making sure end-of-night pickups are smooth and efficient.

Behind the scenes, my focus is simple: make things work seamlessly so you don’t have to think about it.

When I’m not on-site or working in the warehouse, life is just as full. I teach elementary computer classes, spend time riding motorcycles, browse antique stores, and never pass up the opportunity for an impromptu Blink-182 singalong. And if there’s time left in the day, you’ll probably find me out on the golf course.

Prairie Lane is a true team effort, and I take pride in being part of the work that helps bring each event together from the ground up.

What drew you to the event industry?

I’ve always loved being part of a celebration. More often than not, you’ll find me on the dance floor—singing along and showing off a few of my best moves. There’s something special about the energy a well-planned event creates and the way it allows people to truly live in the moment. 

What’s one behind the scene detail clients might not realize goes into your work?

Figuring out the logistics of how to make their visions come to life. Things like how to get a backdrop on the roof, how to complete a ceiling install, etc. Every event is different which is part of the fun!

What is one moment from the early days of the business that still makes you laugh?

When we used my in-laws party barn as our warehouse for meetings.  Every time they wanted to host a party we would have to haul our items to a storage unit and then move them back after the event.  It always seemed there was a meeting set up for the day after the party so it was a lot of moving items out and then right back the next day. 

What’s one piece you are especially proud of?

The Ring for a Drink wall.  It is a fun and interactive wall that is a big hit at events!  I thought Nicole and Rebecca were crazy for making me build it but it turned out really cool!

What is one thing Nicole brings to PL that you couldn’t do without?

Her knowledge!  She truly knows all aspects of the business. Upcoming events, current bookings, inquiries, payroll, incoming shipments, what’s trending, the next steps to growing the business and the list goes on and on.  She is the heart and soul of PLVR!