Medicap Pharmacy keeps Urbandale running with neighborly pharmacy care, easy vaccines, and a surprisingly solid selection of wellness…
8170 Douglas Ave (Urbandale)
“Medicap Pharmacy keeps Urbandale running with neighborly pharmacy care, easy vaccines, and a surprisingly solid selection of wellness goodies and self-care finds that save you a separate errand. The kicker is their 24/7 pickup kiosk, so refills happen on your schedule, not theirs.”
Turn About Memories CBD & Boutique keeps it simple with CBD lotions that actually feel good and a Certificate of Analysis posted so you…
7611 Douglas Ave Ste 25 (Urbandale)
“Turn About Memories CBD & Boutique keeps it simple with CBD lotions that actually feel good and a Certificate of Analysis posted so you know what you’re getting. Bonus points for the unexpected Wine Slushy Mix, which turns backyard hangouts into tiny celebrations when Iowa humidity shows up.”
Oak and Ember leans into zero waste living with tallow balms, a magnesium option, and body soaps that leave skin feeling clean and calm.…
4900 Lyndale Dr (Des Moines)
“Oak and Ember leans into zero waste living with tallow balms, a magnesium option, and body soaps that leave skin feeling clean and calm. They also stock handsome teak cutting boards, making it an easy local pick around Ankeny when you want a thoughtful gift that’s actually useful.”
Whether you need a last-minute hostess gift, a little bling, or you just want to browse pretty things and call it self-care, Cottage By the…
3800 Merle Hay Rd (Des Moines)
“Whether you need a last-minute hostess gift, a little bling, or you just want to browse pretty things and call it self-care, Cottage By the Creek has unique home accents, kids’ gifts, pretty jewelry, gourmet treats, Christmas ornaments, artful tabletop touches and garden-friendly finds.”
By Wysteria makes artisan soap and candles that make your bathroom feel fancy without trying too hard. Find them at the Downtown Des Moines…
1208 42nd St (Des Moines)
“By Wysteria makes artisan soap and candles that make your bathroom feel fancy without trying too hard. Find them at the Downtown Des Moines Farmers' Market or through the Iowa Food Cooperative, and keep an eye on workshops and private events.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 19, 2026
Whether it's a wedding or a corporate shindig, Bella Flora Event Design brings full service planning, custom florals, rentals, luxury…
3100 Justin Dr A Suite A (Urbandale)
“Whether it's a wedding or a corporate shindig, Bella Flora Event Design brings full service planning, custom florals, rentals, luxury linens, draping, and distinctive décor together into one cohesive vision.”
Styled. by JJ Boutique nails the casual, boho, and chic vibe with statement pieces, cocktail looks, and staples in women’s sizes XS to 3XL,…
8805 Chambery Blvd Ste 350 (Johnston)
“Styled. by JJ Boutique nails the casual, boho, and chic vibe with statement pieces, cocktail looks, and staples in women’s sizes XS to 3XL, plus accessories. Female-owned by Johnston mom Julia Bradshaw since 2018, they also carry Sweet Water Decor gifts and you can browse in person at Eleven101 Collective in Clive.”
Rally House Clive is the no-hassle spot to snag fan-worthy gifts and apparel for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Iowa State Cyclones, and pretty much…
8807 University Ave (Clive)
“Rally House Clive is the no-hassle spot to snag fan-worthy gifts and apparel for the Iowa Hawkeyes, Iowa State Cyclones, and pretty much every pro team you argue about on Sundays. Jerseys, hats, tees, and novelty stuff that actually gets used, so your next birthday gift doesn't feel like homework.”
APN African Marketplace brings authentic African heritage to your closet with statement clothing plus shoes, accessories, and home accents,…
3015 Merle Hay Rd #9 (Des Moines)
“APN African Marketplace brings authentic African heritage to your closet with statement clothing plus shoes, accessories, and home accents, curated by a Des Moines team. Great for when your neutrals feel sleepy, and you want color, craftsmanship, and pieces that actually start conversations.”
Purple Moon's Magical Emporium is a trusted local stop for metaphysical supplies right here in DSM. It’s the kind of place you wander,…
3427 Merle Hay Rd (Des Moines)
“Purple Moon's Magical Emporium is a trusted local stop for metaphysical supplies right here in DSM. It’s the kind of place you wander, compare vibes, and leave with tools that actually fit your practice... or at least make your bookshelf look a lot more intentional.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 20, 2026
Hy-Vee Grocery Store has the produce, meat, seafood, and fresh bakery treats you want, plus deli meals when cooking energy is at a historic…
5750 Merle Hay Rd (Johnston)
“Hy-Vee Grocery Store has the produce, meat, seafood, and fresh bakery treats you want, plus deli meals when cooking energy is at a historic low. Friendly service, real savings, pharmacy care, and easy pickup or delivery make it a reliable go-to for Ankeny weeknights and weekend stock-ups.”
Whether you're refreshing work-to-weekend outfits or just want a top that somehow goes with everything, Purple Poppy Boutique - Johnston…
5800 Merle Hay Rd Ste 6 (Johnston)
“Whether you're refreshing work-to-weekend outfits or just want a top that somehow goes with everything, Purple Poppy Boutique - Johnston nails it with comfortable, versatile pieces, shoes, and accessories, plus genuine one-on-one styling that makes shopping oddly fun… and surprisingly empowering.”
Whether you need a just-because pick-me-up, wedding florals that actually feel like you, or a sympathy bouquet that says the right thing,…
3801 Ingersoll Ave (Des Moines)
“Whether you need a just-because pick-me-up, wedding florals that actually feel like you, or a sympathy bouquet that says the right thing, Boesen The Florist - Ingersoll Ave crafts tasteful arrangements and offers local delivery, with Designer’s Choice and Signature Collection options that always land just right.”
Whether you forgot a birthday, need sympathy notes, or want to snag this year's Keepsake Ornaments, Becky's Hallmark Shop nails the…
Westridge Shopping Center, 10201 University Ave Ste B4 (Clive)
“Whether you forgot a birthday, need sympathy notes, or want to snag this year's Keepsake Ornaments, Becky's Hallmark Shop nails the little-things-that-mean-a-lot. Shelves are packed with clever cards, quality wrap, and giftable favorites from Disney, Star Wars, and Willow Tree... all ready for last-minute heroes.”
From expertly curated gift boxes and picnic-ready baskets to a subscribe-and-snack Cheese Club, The Cheese Shop nails the weeknight spread…
833 42nd St b (Des Moines)
“From expertly curated gift boxes and picnic-ready baskets to a subscribe-and-snack Cheese Club, The Cheese Shop nails the weeknight spread and the last-minute party save, with friendly mongers, artisan meats, chocolate, and a nudge toward Cheese Bar’s cast-iron mac if you decide to make a night of it.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 12, 2026
Since 1977, Tandem Brick Gallery has been the Ingersoll go-to for custom picture framing and not-your-average presents, with local-art…
2722 Ingersoll Ave (Des Moines)
“Since 1977, Tandem Brick Gallery has been the Ingersoll go-to for custom picture framing and not-your-average presents, with local-art finds, leather handbags, bright Starlightz, baby gifts, and cards for every occasion. Family-owned, quality materials, expert framers... the sort of place you actually enjoy browsing.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 28, 2026
Whether your old jeans are hanging by a thread or you just want a better weekend uniform, swing by Levi’s Outlet Store nearby this week.…
739 Bass Pro Dr NW Suite 538 (Altoona)
“Whether your old jeans are hanging by a thread or you just want a better weekend uniform, swing by Levi’s Outlet Store nearby this week. Try 501 Original, 511 Slim, Ribcage, plus XX Chino and Baggy Dad, and let their in-store stylist fine-tune the fit.”
When dinner plans fall flat or your desk needs a mood boost this week, The Wild Orchid whips up custom floral designs, lush orchids and…
2415 Ingersoll Ave (Des Moines)
“When dinner plans fall flat or your desk needs a mood boost this week, The Wild Orchid whips up custom floral designs, lush orchids and terrariums, chic hat box arrangements, and gift baskets loaded with wine and spa goodies, cookies, cupcakes, chocolates, and strawberries.”
Domestica is a Des Moines gift shop for when you need something that feels picked-just-for-them, with a mix of home and art pieces, clever…
Mainframe Arts, 900 Keosauqua Way Studio 300 (Des Moines)
“Domestica is a Des Moines gift shop for when you need something that feels picked-just-for-them, with a mix of home and art pieces, clever cards, jewelry, and other fun stuff, plus print-on-demand goodies. Perfect for last-minute birthdays or a self-treat when Tuesdays are being Mondays.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 21, 2026
AllSpice Culinarium is the kind of local spot that fixes boring dinners fast, with walls of spices, flavorful salts and peppers, rubs and…
400 E Locust St Unit 5 (Des Moines)
“AllSpice Culinarium is the kind of local spot that fixes boring dinners fast, with walls of spices, flavorful salts and peppers, rubs and blends, baking must-haves, plus good oils and vinegars. Their handy recipe collection makes weeknight experiments way less risky... and the gift sets save you from last-minute panic.”
Blank Park Zoo Gift Shop is the spot for playful take-home finds that keep the animal magic going long after your visit. Even better, a…
7401 SW 9th St (Des Moines)
“Blank Park Zoo Gift Shop is the spot for playful take-home finds that keep the animal magic going long after your visit. Even better, a portion of every dollar supports wildlife conservation, so your impulse buy basically counts as doing good.”
Wildflower is the local go-to for arrangements that feel custom, unique, and a little bit wow, whether it's a Tuesday pick me up or a…
2718 Ingersoll Ave (Des Moines)
“Wildflower is the local go-to for arrangements that feel custom, unique, and a little bit wow, whether it's a Tuesday pick me up or a milestone moment. Count on same-day delivery around Des Moines, floral subscriptions and classes, plus full wedding and event design with thoughtful, curated style.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 14, 2026
Patti Sue's Boutique curates wearable-cute tops, dresses, and the Judy Blue denim everyone obsesses over, with comfy stretch and flattering…
550 36th Ave SW Ste D (Altoona)
“Patti Sue's Boutique curates wearable-cute tops, dresses, and the Judy Blue denim everyone obsesses over, with comfy stretch and flattering fits in sizes S-3X. Make it your quick win this week for looking pulled together between soccer practice and a Target run.”
Boesen The Florist makes moments mean more with boutique floral designs, a solid Designer’s Choice when you want their artistry, and green…
3422 Beaver Ave (Des Moines)
“Boesen The Florist makes moments mean more with boutique floral designs, a solid Designer’s Choice when you want their artistry, and green or flowering plants that actually thrive. They deliver across the metro, so you can upgrade your space or save the day without leaving the living room.”
As much as we love sweatshirts, sometimes you need a handbag with presence. Michael Kors Outlet in Altoona stocks the brand’s signature…
739 Bass Pro Dr NW Ste 565 (Altoona)
“As much as we love sweatshirts, sometimes you need a handbag with presence. Michael Kors Outlet in Altoona stocks the brand’s signature handbags, watches, shoes, and ready-to-wear for women and men, with new arrivals and familiar favorites that make a quick wardrobe refresh almost too easy.”
Where The Child Things Are stocks a curated mix of kidswear from preemie through youth, plus shoes, toys, and even vintage books. Bonus for…
2785 100th St (Urbandale)
“Where The Child Things Are stocks a curated mix of kidswear from preemie through youth, plus shoes, toys, and even vintage books. Bonus for local parents, you can sell back those outgrown piles, and their Athleta Girl lineup brings like-new performance pieces for school, sports, and, let's be honest, mud puddles.”
Locally owned and thoughtfully curated by Tami, Maria Vincent Boutique nails that timeless-with-a-modern-twist vibe, with women's clothing,…
1631 SW Main St Ste 101 (Ankeny)
“Locally owned and thoughtfully curated by Tami, Maria Vincent Boutique nails that timeless-with-a-modern-twist vibe, with women's clothing, accessories, and small gifting finds that feel elevated and easy.”
Sip N Burn Liquors keeps Ankeny stocked with a curated mix of bourbon, whiskey, craft beer, and wine, plus occasional rare bottle drops.…
1200 NW 36th St Ste 101 (Ankeny)
“Sip N Burn Liquors keeps Ankeny stocked with a curated mix of bourbon, whiskey, craft beer, and wine, plus occasional rare bottle drops. Pop in for tasting events, custom gift sets, even bottle engraving... a local, community-focused spot where the shelves surprise you weekly.”
Sassy's is a West Des Moines boutique established in 2016 that locals rave about for plenty of stylish picks and accessories, plus friendly…
136 5th St (West Des Moines)
“Sassy's is a West Des Moines boutique established in 2016 that locals rave about for plenty of stylish picks and accessories, plus friendly help that makes shopping actually fun. When you want something that feels a little fresh without trekking far, this spot delivers.”
Whether you need a closet refresh or a last-minute outfit, Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction nails multi-generational style with…
114 5th St W (West Des Moines)
“Whether you need a closet refresh or a last-minute outfit, Cindy's Boutique in Valley Junction nails multi-generational style with personalized styling, fun Girls Get-Together shopping nights, and a purple door vibe locals love. New arrivals drop daily, plus rewards, a VIP Text Club, and easy local pickup or shipping.”
May Eleven is the East Village boutique spinning up new arrivals of wearable-trendy pieces, from Free People tops and PISTOLA denim to…
350 E Locust St Ste 103 (Des Moines)
“May Eleven is the East Village boutique spinning up new arrivals of wearable-trendy pieces, from Free People tops and PISTOLA denim to Steve Madden shoes, plus jewelry that actually completes the outfit. Peek the crochet set or the IOWA Reversible Sweatshirt, then treat yourself this week.”
Tulip Bloom Boutique is run by sisters who mix trendy, size-inclusive women’s fashion with stylish home accents and giftable finds, all…
138 5th St (West Des Moines)
“Tulip Bloom Boutique is run by sisters who mix trendy, size-inclusive women’s fashion with stylish home accents and giftable finds, all thoughtfully curated in Historic Valley Junction. Expect brands like Jodifl and Pretty Simple bags that support type 1 diabetes research and advocacy...”
Hy-Vee Grocery Store keeps Ankeny kitchens humming with crisp produce, fresh bakery, deli go-tos, a legit sushi bar, and meat and seafood…
410 N Ankeny Blvd (Ankeny)
“Hy-Vee Grocery Store keeps Ankeny kitchens humming with crisp produce, fresh bakery, deli go-tos, a legit sushi bar, and meat and seafood that actually look dinner-worthy. Order pickup or delivery, or just wander the aisles and let the meal ideas find you.”
Since 1912, Graziano Brothers has been the go-to for legendary fresh Italian sausage, stacked deli "sangwiches" like the sausage grinder,…
1601 S Union St (Des Moines)
“Since 1912, Graziano Brothers has been the go-to for legendary fresh Italian sausage, stacked deli "sangwiches" like the sausage grinder, and shelves of oils, tomato products, pastas, breads, cheeses, and meats. Stop in this week when your pantry needs a glow-up and your lunch needs a hug.”
From the Des Moines newsletter, September 25, 2026
Venus Moon Studio & Shop is part boutique, part creative clubhouse serving up curated local goods, vintage finds, and mystical treasures,…
6563 University Ave (Windsor Heights)
“Venus Moon Studio & Shop is part boutique, part creative clubhouse serving up curated local goods, vintage finds, and mystical treasures, plus workshops, craft nights, and open studio time. Supplies and kits are ready when inspiration hits, and owner Nicole also offers bridal makeup and cosmetic tattooing.”
