Little Mouse on the Prairie

Basic Information

Business Name: Little Mouse on the Prairie
Website: http://littlemouseontheprairie.ca
Established: 2012

Questions answered by: Tiffany Tilley

Social Media

About Them

Can you please fully explain your business or product line?

Since 2012, Little Mouse on the Prairie has been creating expressive designs, starting with jewelry and expanding into apparel. Our pieces are as unique as the modern prairie resident and there’s sure to be something for everyone. From one-of-a-kind vibrant earrings to simple and elegant pendants to comfortable clothing – we’ve got you covered! 

In 2017, we launched Prairie Moto; our apparel line celebrating the motorcycle shop/community of the same name.

With the Winnipeg local maker community continuing to grow, what is the most important thing you’d like potential customers of your company to know?

Our styles flex and grow, so there’s always something new and different. Sometimes, we have one-of-a-kind items for people who want to wear something no one else has.

What inspired you to start your business?

While living in Melbourne, Australia (2010/11), I visited the Victoria Street Night Market. Before seeing some of the vendors there, the thought that I could share things that I had created had never occurred to me. I had grown up going to small-town craft sales, but this was something completely different, so when I got home to Canada, I registered my business name and got to work.

What was the biggest struggle you’ve had to overcome?

My biggest struggles are always just with myself. I live with chronic physical illness, as well as mental health challenges like anxiety. As my health has changed over the years, I’ve had trouble adjusting the expectations I have for myself and how much I can accomplish. My partner joined the business a few years ago and while learning to let someone help me was really difficult at first, it has led to some of our best ideas!

What has been your biggest success as a maker?

It’s difficult to single one thing out! Thinking of the first time I sold out of a product in that first year of business (at the Morden Corn and Apple Festival) will always make me smile. Being featured in the Winnipeg Free Press felt great, too.

Anytime I see someone post a photo wearing something they bought from me, it feels like such a huge thing. Like, wow! They could have worn anything and they chose us!

Do you have any advice that you would pass on to someone hoping to start up their own business or product line?

Make something that you’d buy yourself and can get excited about. If there’s no love or passion put into your business, then what’s the point?

Please share any upcoming events (virtual for the time being, of course) as well as the best place(s) for people to purchase your product!

We’re very excited to be featured at some great local businesses including BrewT Locals, Moto49, The Locals, and Made Here. We’re also featured at Sadler’s Creekside Greenhouse in Souris. 

For online shopping, we’re doing a sale on our website this month with hopes to get back to markets in late 2021 or 2022!