I’m a total summer girl. You probably know this if you’ve been around me in any capacity. With the job I have (photographer!) and how important lighting is, and how GLORIOUS summer light is here in Iowa, well… it’d be hard to not love summer months. ;) Once early June hits, I’m ready to hit the water and stay up late (and wake up with the sun). Pour me an iced coffee in the morning and a cold drink at night… and it’s hard to complain! (Until the mosquitos come around, then I may complain a little bit!😅)

In a metro the size of DSM, there’s unlimited opportunities for warm-weather fun! The city has offerings for both parents and kids, 20-somethings and retirees. Both the city residents, and visitors form out of state, enjoy summer days and nights in this sweet city. I constantly remark on how Des Moines is the perfect size— the attractions of a major metropolis with the traffic of small town midwest! I think we’re one of the most slept on secrets of the central plains… and I’m not too made about it. ;)

◉ watch the sunset at Saylorville Beach
◉ plan a cute picnic with friends!
◉ make s’mores in our backyard
◉ watch iCubs fireworks from the Iowa State Capitol hill
◉ go to a concert!
◉ rent a boat & have a boat party with friends
◉ plan an open invite park hang
◉ pool day with the kids
◉ Make my favorite peach dessert
◉ plan one summer styled shoot
◉ Downtown Des Moines Farmer’s Market
◉ go to Adventureland
◉ mini-golf night with friends
◉ walk to Snookie’s for Ice Cream
◉ drive in movie theatre!
◉ stargaze (maybe at Ledges State park?)
◉ visit the Iowa State Fair
◉ buy and ride and bike!
◉ henna tattoos
◉ hammocking with friends and a good book!
◉ drinks at Lua Brewing