Shannon Maxwell has been working overtime lately. The Hinsdale mom and owner of lolosmithian, featuring handmade boutique baby goods, switched gears during the COVID-19 pandemic and added masks to her shop. You may have seen her items at My Sister Kate in downtown Hinsdale or at a local market. Her three children were not only her inspiration for starting her business, but the moniker, lolosmithian, is an amalgamation of their names— London aka Lolo (15), Smith (12), and Ian (10). Originally from Raleigh, North Carolina, Maxwell has made her way to Virginia, California, New York City, and Russia where she lived and worked in the ballet industry. Although she’s lived across the globe, Maxwell, her husband Max, and their children have called Hinsdale home for more than 10 years. She says, “It’s just a beautiful place to live. It’s a great sense of belonging in this community. I am very thankful to the community for all of its support over the years!” Along with lolosmithian’s unique face masks, Maxwell makes baby gifts, bibs, blankets, and more–all by hand. Here are a few of the creative’s best lasts:

LAST FABRIC FIND THAT INSPIRED YOU TO GET CREATIVE?

I purchased a design made just for me through an amazing company in Durham, North Carolina called Spoonflower. You can design your own fabrics or submit a picture online and have that pattern created. It’s really fun.

LAST PHILANTHROPIC EVENT THAT INSPIRED YOU?

One of my favorite events is Tablescapes by the Hinsdale Auxiliary of Infant Welfare Society. Unfortunately, this year’s event is postponed because of the pandemic, but I love participating as a vendor there amongst some other really fantastic vendors.

LAST MARKET WHERE YOU SHOWED YOUR PRODUCTS?

I was at Firefly Market at the DuPage County Fairgrounds. It’s similar to a mini-Renegade Craft Fair.

LAST FAMILY TRIP THAT YOU’LL CHERISH FOR A LONG TIME?

We went to Charleston, South Carolina and stayed at Bali Bay Resort. It was one of the best vacations we’ve ever had. We saw sea turtles, checked out the downtown area, ate at great restaurants, and the weather was sensational.

LAST PERSON WHO INSPIRED YOU TO TRY SOMETHING DIFFERENT OR NEW?

My kids are constantly inspiring me. I even named my business after them.