A Mom’s Guide: Shop Local in Des Moines on Small Business Saturday

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You like coffee, but the idea of a latte with an extra shot of caffeine doesn’t sound good at 3 a.m. Sleep sounds better.

You like hanging out with and meeting other moms, but the idea of trampling one to score the last Elsa doll isn’t your idea of a good time.

You like getting a good deal and buying great gifts, but the thought of being elbow to elbow with other shoppers and waiting in line for hours is not how you like to do your shopping.

If any of these sounds like you—or if you’re like me—then shopping on Black Friday is probably not your thing.

If you like the idea of taking your time on a Saturday, perusing quaint, funky, and creative shops to find that perfect unique gift for your friend or family member, then Small Business Saturday is your day to shop.

As a counterpart to Black Friday and Cyber Monday, Small Business Saturday encourages supporting businesses that are small and local. (Fun fact: Did you know the concept came about from an American Express marketing campaign in 2010? You could say it was successful.)

If you’re not familiar with Des Moines’ local shopping scene, let me help you get started:

East Village

A Mom's Guide: Shop Local in Des Moines on Small Business SaturdayLocated on the east side of the Des Moines river near the Iowa State Capitol, the East Village has a lot of history, culture, and character, in addition to great shopping and dining experiences.

The area offers over 90 shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Check out a full map to navigate the Village.

Some fun gift ideas to consider: a gift certificate to one of the many spas and salons (have you heard about Blo yet?), apparel from a unique shop like Raygun, or crafty, creative gifts from Ephemera or Stitch.


A Mom's Guide: Shop Local in Des Moines on Small Business Saturday

Valley Junction

Valley Junction is a fun shopping district in south-central Des Moines that boasts more than 150 shops, restaurants, and services—and is the largest collection of independent, local businesses in Des Moines. The area also has a lot of history and charm that spans more than a century.

Whether you’re shopping for Grandma or your foodie friend, you won’t be short of options. From the Antique Mall to Wines of Iowa to the Heart of Iowa Marketplace, you’re sure to find something for everyone on your list.


The Shops at Roosevelt

A Mom's Guide: Shop Local in Des Moines on Small Business SaturdayLocated just north of Interstate 235 near Roosevelt High School, the shops at Roosevelt offer some great gift ideas for your family and friends this holiday season.

After purchasing something tasty from Vom Fass for your foodie friend, visit Swell Shop for Baby for that mommy-to-be. Check out the WORN store for great consignment clothing finds and Elements Ltd. if you’re looking for a nice jewelry gift. The Des Moines Playhouse offers tickets as gifts, or consider signing up for a painting class at Pinot’s Palette. There is so much fun to discover in this area.


A Mom's Guide: Shop Local in Des Moines on Small Business SaturdayWest Glen Town Center

Located on Des Moines’ west side, West Glen Town Center offers a fun, upbeat scene with shopping, food, entertainment, and nightlife.

From Bella Boutique for fashion finds to Salon de Vallon and Cali Nails for hair and nails, you can find a great gift for the girlfriend on your list—or even for yourself! Make sure to end your day of shopping by winding down at dinner or with a night cap at a great local restaurant or bar like Cabaret West Glen. You’ll need it after a long day of shopping!

What about you? What are your favorite places to shop local around Des Moines?


About Kristin Schaaf

Kristin Schaaf headshotKristin Schaaf is a blessed wife to her husband David and first-time momma to her daughter Hannah, embracing the ups and downs of motherhood and the joys and challenges each day brings. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends, writing, baking, and being involved in her church. Kristin shares her heart and experiences as a mother through letters to her daughter on her blog, Dear Baby with Love.

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