In our latest Beeji Banter, LA local, Annie Marder (@labananita)shares her current musings, what drew her to hand-dyeing and her approach to creative practise as a busy Mum and partner.
Tell us a bit about yourself, what you do, and what life looks like for you right now.
I’m Annie! I live in LA with my husband two kids and chocolate lab Goose. We are BUSY over here - toddler, baby, opening a new restaurant in like two weeks (my husband owns another one too- they’re called Marvin / Marvito come say hi if you are in the city). I stay home with the kids so it’s pretty full on while trying to grow my little shop!
How did @labananita begin — and what drew you to hand-dyeing?
I used to be a “professional tie dyer” for a brand called Los Angeles apparel. I worked in a dye house and it was so so fun, then I got pregnant and knew I couldn’t do that work anymore. I knew I wanted to stay at home with kids but I also knew that I wanted to have a cute little brand that connect me with the outside world and release my creativity! I had ruminated long enough, then when I was 7 months pregnant with my second thought it’s as good as time as ever to release Labananita into the world.
As for dyeing, it all started about 7 years ago in my apartment. I had tie dyed before but for some reason that time there was this little voice in my head that said "oh oh there’s so much to explore here". I love dye as a medium for colour and pattern and clothes as a canvas because I love clothes! It’s so fun to take something and change it with dye - I see tie dye as an American folk, and love being able to create in my own way into that tradition!
How has motherhood shaped the way you approach your work?
I love the boundaries that motherhood as drawn for me. Before I had kids I would get lost in my process or couldn’t like get to an end point. With kids, you don’t have that endless time and expansion in front of you. Those limits and condiments focus my attention and only allow me to do what I absolutely must do. It also makes me feel so much less attached to putting it out there, I have my kids to be precious with- everything else it just a fun bonus.
What’s bringing you joy right now? (big or small!)
The restaurant that is about to open (LOL - it’s been two loooong years)!! And getting back into reading lately! I got a red light reading light and it’s changed the game for me.
What's one of your current obsessions — podcast / snack / scent / show?
Currently reading Agony and Ecstasy by Irving Stone so having a Michelangelo renaissance art moment. Loving Mamala organics snacks - my friend Rebecca is the founder so I’ve gotten to sample them before they launch next month. Can’t wait to get my hands on more! Essential for postpartum and busy moms!
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Follow Annie @labananita
and find her at www.LaBananita.com