Des Moines Mom Movers & Shakers is an annual series celebrating local moms who are thinking outside the box and making a difference in the community through the businesses they own, organizations they are involved in, and the work they do. Check out the rest of the series and read profiles from previous years here.
Blair Lakis started making sensory playdough kids for her kids during Covid. She started her business, Little Hands Dough Co in 2023.
Tell us a little bit about yourself and your family.
My name is Blair, and I am the owner of Little Hands Dough Co. I have been married to my husband, Matt, for nearly 10 years, and we have three children, Cora (7), Cohen (5), and Colter (3). Being a wife and mom are my biggest joys; however, in my free time I love baking, gardening, reading, and being in nature. The outdoors and sunshine are truly my happy place. While I love nurturing all of the things, I’ve also been known to enjoy a good glass of red wine and some trash television.
What do you consider the biggest challenge of motherhood to be? Biggest joy?
I would say the biggest challenge in motherhood for me is trying to be everything to everyone, all the time. It’s a big task and the weight is heavy. Sometimes it feels like juggling a million things but not doing any of them particularly well. We are our own biggest critics so I am trying to give myself a break here and there and remind myself that I am human and can only do so much, and that’s ok.
My biggest joy is watching my kids’ close-knit bond strengthen over the years. They are all 2 years apart (almost to the date!) and while they fight like cats and dogs most days, there’s not a doubt in my mind that they will be the best of friends for life.
How did you start Little Hands Dough Co? What was your inspiration?
I started making sensory playdough kids for my kids during Covid – we all needed something to keep busy (thanks quarantine)! I continued making them seasonally, and after seeing how much they benefited from the hands-on play, I knew I was onto something. I have a vivid memory of my three kids’ hands strewn all over the table playing and creating, and it was like a lightbulb moment. I will be forever thankful that a few close friends and my husband pushed me to take the leap and Little Hands Dough Co was officially born in November of 2023. Inspired by my kids and hoping to make an impact on so many more families.
What’s the best part about being your own boss?
The flexibility is truly unmatched. Knowing that I am the one in charge of my own success is also wildly freeing. I can trial and error different ideas and pivot when needed without worrying about what anyone else thinks.
What’s the hardest part about running your own business?
Finding and maintaining balance seems to be a reoccurring struggle. I am still very green in terms of entrepreneurship. I am learning so much along the way regarding what works and what doesn’t, not only for myself professionally, but also for my family and kids as well. I am so eager to grow my business but constantly find myself conflicted on when to keep going and when to check things at the door.
What advice do you have for moms who want to start a business?
“Do it. Go for it. Follow that little dream of yours.” I wish I had done it sooner, but I kept coming up with excuses. Shoo that voice in your head telling you that you aren’t creative enough, smart enough, don’t have enough time, all of it. You are worthy of following your passion and all the pieces will fall into place!
What do you wish you knew when you started?
I wish I realized how much work and sweat equity went into starting a business from scratch. If I knew what I know now, I would go back in time and support some of the other local small businesses out there more. Now I have such a different perspective on how important that piece of the puzzle is. You can hustle day in and day out but without the support of others you get nowhere. Whether that be purchasing products, discussing my business with a friend, “liking” or “sharing” a social media post, etc. I am eternally grateful for my incredible support system!
What do you love about raising a family in Des Moines?
I love how Des Moines is big and small at the same time. It has something for just about everyone and SO much more to offer than meets the eye. When you really dig in and become involved in the community you realize how many different events and kid’s activities are out there! I love how kind and friendly everyone is and how safe it feels to raise a young family.
Quick Takes:
Favorite local restaurant – Clyde’s Fine Diner – The burgers are phenomenal!
Best place to take kids – Wills Family Orchard in Adel. It’s a small family operation tucked away in the country, and they have organic apples, pumpkin picking, and a kids play area.
Favorite summer activity – Every year we take our kids to see the sunflowers when they bloom out at Badger Creek State Park. It is one of our favorite traditions and so beautiful!
How/where do you relax? – Sitting out on the deck with my husband Matt and a glass of wine in hand on a calm evening. Bonus points if there is no wind, no humidity, and no bugs. *chef’s kiss*
If your life had a hashtag, what would it be? – #trustyourself #familyfirst #wineandcheeseyesplease #taketheleap
Connect with Little Hands Dough Co.
Know a Des Moines mom we should feature? Let us know! Email [email protected] with details and we will be in touch.
