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What’s better than bomb lighting and the perfect background? I was lucky enough to get to experience Iowa’s first-ever “Selfie Station” located inside of Merle Hay Mall under Flix Brewhouse. Selfie Station is an interactive venue that offers ring lights, 12 rooms with different backgrounds and interactive props. Ring lights are circular lights that have space in the middle, specifically for a phone or camera. Selfie Station also offers many colorful backdrops for you and your friends that can help create picture-perfect moments. A ticket buys you one hour. Selfie Station also allows their customers to rent the venue out for a private event.

Selfie Station is extremely popular, and people have traveled hours to see what the hype is about. Previous reviews claim that a group drove four hours to check out Selfie Station. The owner, Ashley Wilkerson, explained how they get most of their room ideas from Instagram users, other selfie museums and Pinterest.

“I thought most rooms were extremely well thought out and creative,”

Kami Wheelock

I was able to explore all 12 rooms with over 20 different backdrops and photo options. My favorite setup was the “Milkshakes and Dreams” room; it had neon purple lights and fake milkshake props to pose with and a wall of old-school records. Another one of my favorite rooms had a pool full of mini clear plastic balls in a swimming pool and a neon pink “POOLSIDE” sign. It makes the picture more interactive and fun when you are able to add a matching prop. There were plenty of other rooms that involved props, such as a bright yellow room that had fake leaves scattered around and a room that was filled from head to toe with giant multi-colored slinkies. An employee at Selfie Station said that they try to change up the rooms seasonally.

“I thought it was really cool, and they used the space really well with what they have, considering they are just a pop up,” said Kyla Fitzsimmons, who got to enjoy the Selfie Station in mid-July. “I would for sure go again if they have the opportunity to change up the rooms so I can take new selfies.”

Kami Wheelock, a Grand View University student, snapped her most recent Instagram posts at Selfie Station.

“I thought most rooms were extremely well thought out and creative,” Wheelock said. “Each section had a different vibe, and that was fun to try and match. I thought the prices were fair for something so new and so different to Des Moines.” Wheelock said. “I’m curious to see how the one getting built in Kansas City will end up looking.”

Overall, Selfie Station is a great place to visit for a fun mini getaway.