DSM Girls Club Builds Community for Women in Des Moines
Moving to a new place can feel isolating, but for Kristen Falatea, relocating from Utah to Greater Des Moines (DSM) became an opportunity to build the kind of community that makes a place feel like home. Before it had a name, or over a thousand members, it started with a simple desire for connection and girlhood, one that would eventually grow into the DSM Girls Club.
When Kristen moved to DSM, she began posting on social media. Whether she was trying a new coffee shop or exploring a local boutique, she documented each experience and quickly saw people responding to her posts. After several gained traction, Kristen shared that she was new to the area and looking for friends. “I had so many people wanting to hang out,” she said. “It was breakfast, lunch dinner – then I realized all these girls wanted more friends. Why don’t I host a group event?” That idea became the DSM Girls Club.
For the first event, Kristen created a simple form for anyone interested and fully expected about 20 responses. Instead, more than 500 women filled out the form. The response made it clear: she wasn’t alone in wanting community. After researching the best ways to communicate with large groups, Kristen created a GroupMe. Following several successful events, she later launched an Instagram account called “DSM Girls Club.” Within a week, the account had 600 followers and kept climbing. “With each event, I saw more and more traction,” Kristen explained.
With the rapid growth on social media, Kristen decided to slow down and evaluate the kind of space and experience she wanted to create for the women attending the events. “I want the women attending to know that there’s a seat for them and everybody at the table,” Kristen said. “The whole goal is for you to come to the event and leave feeling like you’re part of a community.”
That intention shows up in the variety of events the DSM Girls Club hosts. From karaoke at a dive bar to ice-skating in Downtown Des Moines, Kristen makes an effort to offer activities that reflect different interests, personalities and life stages. The DSM Girls Club welcomes women of all ages and backgrounds, creating spaces for genuine and authentic connection in settings that feel approachable and fun.
Many of these events are made possible with the help of local businesses. Whether providing a venue, collaborating on an event or helping spread the word, local partners have played a role in supporting the club and the community it continues to build.
For women looking for connection in the region, the DSM Girls Club offers an easy place to start. Some arrive alone, others with a friend, but many leave having made at least one new connection. Kristen has watched friendships, and even entire friend groups, form in real time. “I love seeing friend groups come from the club,” she said. “It’s so rewarding to see.”
With at least one event every month, Kristen has created more than a club; it’s a space rooted in community, girlhood and fun. “Sometimes when I go to events, I kind of want to cry,” Kristen said. “It’s just so special to see that I wasn’t the only one who felt alone.”
Looking to get involved with the DSM Girls Club? Join by following the Instagram or GroupMe.
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