Des Moines Parent Spotlight: Amy Kinney of Let’s Slumber It

Sharing is caring!

Des Moines Parent Spotlight: Amy Kinney of Let’s Slumber It

In this series, we plan to connect with local entrepreneurs who juggle their job of owning a small business with parenting and chat about how they keep all their plates spinning – and what they love most about raising kiddos in Des Moines metro. 

First up is Amy Kinney, who owns Let’s Slumber It, a tent sleepover and luxury picnic business in Des Moines. 

I started following Let’s Slumber It on Facebook last year after seeing a shared post on my feed. Ever since, I’ve been in awe of Amy’s beautiful, whimsical tent creations and love the idea behind the business. She also provides gorgeous picnic tablescapes for kids and adults alike (she does adult sleepovers, too) … so it’s possible I’ve been looking for an excuse to host a party. 

Let’s hear more from Amy. 

Give us a little background on yourself and your family. 

I am a Dyersville, Iowa, native, and my husband is from western Iowa. We moved out of state on an adventure to Dallas, Texas, after graduation from the University of Iowa in 2002. We lived there for 15 years but knew we wanted to raise our children in Iowa for the values, schools, and closeness to family. We moved to Ankeny in 2017 and love it here. We have two kiddos who are 11 and 5. 

Could you give me an overview of your business and why/when you started it? 

Let’s Slumber It was born from an idea my daughter had for a tent sleepover in February 2020. We couldn’t find a sleepover company in the Des Moines metro, so I decided to take it upon myself to start one. She also wanted a unique paleontology/geology theme that was hard to find. It made me realize everyone deserves a celebration unique to their interests, which is why we offer over 50 themes. The idea took off during the summer of 2020 when families wanted a safe way to celebrate special occasions at home during COVID. 

What’s your favorite part of being a small business owner? 

I like setting my own schedule. It gives me a creative outlet for work but still allows me time to be a stay-at-home mom for my kids. I love working with other local businesses to donate to causes like Make-a-Wish and JDRF. I get really excited when a child chooses a tent sleepover two to three years in a row – I get to see them grow up! I also loved being a finalist in the Best of Des Moines event this year.  

How do you juggle your parenting responsibilities with your business responsibilities? 

I only work when my kids are at school during the week and then on weekends, they go on fun adventures with their dad while I work for a bit. I still have plenty of time to spend with my family and never miss any big events! 

What are some of your favorite things to do with your kiddos around the metro? 

We love Jester Park, Spare Time Des Moines, and trying new places to eat. My newest obsession is Cinnaholic in Des Moines.  

What’s your ideal date/parent night or day out?

We do not get a lot of nights out, so I would say sushi and a movie or walk at night sounds great.

What’s your number one parenting tip? 

It’s a tip from my big sister Mollie; Don’t stress happiness as the end all be all to your kids. Being resilient/content with daily life is much better. Some days will be great, some not so great, and some are just days. Find simple joys in them all and you will never go wrong!

Follow Her:

Website: https://www.letsslumberit.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/letsslumberit/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/letsslumberit/

Lindsey Giardino

Lindsey Giardino

Lindsey Giardino is a freelance writer based in the Des Moines metro. She's also a new mom and learning as she goes. When she's not working on her business or watching her little guy explore this big new world, she loves to cook, read and enjoy the outdoors.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *