Ashley Morken
Interview by Ashley Morken, Unglued
Photos courtesy of Diane Lanoue
Hang out this month with Diane Lanoue from Little Ditty who hails from lakes country in Minnesota.
Tell us a bit about yourself:
I’m from good ol’ Waubun, Minn. I met my high school sweetheart there and decided I wanted to annoy him forever, so we did that thing where you get married and have kids.
I do work outside of Little Ditty! I work at our local Detroit Lakes Community and Cultural Center where I hang out with kiddos. I also work at Beautiful Junque and get a taste of a brick and mortar boutique business. Plus, I’m always trying to keep up with my twin five-year-olds. Life is busy.
What do you make under Little Ditty?
Most people know me for my small snarky signs that are known to give you a good laugh. Customizable magnet signs have been a hot item for me. Last year, I launched my card/print line, which has been really fun to share. Plus, I’m hoping to launch a new release here come May, so stay tuned for that.
What is one of your most favorite items you have made?
I’ve been loving my customizable magnets. I just love seeing what people choose to put on them and love that I’m helping share that inside joke to their friends and family. It’s been super rewarding seeing those blossom.
What is your snarkiest saying you’ve used so far?!
I love the reactions from people when they read my “Bootycall: A shout from the bathroom letting you know it’s time to go wipe someone’s butt.”
What are your most essential tools?
1. Coffee pot
2. Silhouette Cameo
3. Vinyl weeding pen (best thing ever).
How has your business evolved over the years since the beginning?
Oh man. I really didn’t know what I was expecting when I started this business. I just went on a whim and decided to go big or go home and went for it. I started with any custom order I could get until I found my niche and went from there. Now I get to spread laughter all over the United States. So rewarding!
What is a word that best describes you?
Awkwardlyawesome. Can that be a word?
What advice would you have given yourself five years ago?
SELF CARE. It’s so easy to get lost in our everyday life and trying to please everyone and fulfill orders, but we all need to take a breather and give ourselves some self-love to refuel.
Where can people find your work this summer?
This summer, I’m going to be taking it easy to hang out with my babies before they head off to kindergarten. Downtown Fargo Street Fair is on my calendar and I’m going to be selling in a few local shops (Unglued & Beautiful Junque!).
What is your favorite thing about living around lakes country?
The peace-fullness of country life. It’s good for the soul.
Find Little Ditty
etsy.com/shop/littledittysigns
instagram.com/littledittysigns
