Meet Todd Hewitt | Founder- Last Ditch Design

We had the good fortune of connecting with Todd Hewitt and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Todd, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?

Proudly, I have had a lucrative career full of steppingstones in the furniture industry that have allowed me incredible opportunities to develop. I have always felt I was moving in the direction of something bigger for myself, doing what I love. 

However, during these stages when the passion would begin to wane, with comfort setting in, I would begin to feel much more like I was just in a job rather than on the continued pursuit for my own meaning or purpose. 

With the weight of time beginning to feel heavy on my shoulders, I knew that if I truly wanted to share with the world what I was capable of both creatively and physically the time was now or never. This was my “last ditch” opportunity to act.

It was time to find a more meaningful way to bring joy back into my life. Taking the path of change that will provide me the opportunity to be my true self. I know what I am good at and want to make beautiful objects first for myself and second for others.

This is the time to share what I love with a world that I hope can see, support, and trust the quality of what I am creating. I truly hope my work can connect with and bring delight to those who do choose to take this journey with Last Ditch

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?

I was studying graphic design when I took my first job building furniture over 25 years ago. I immediately fell in love with the hands-on aspects, resulting in such a sense of joy and excitement to see the work become tangible.

Now, I can reflect on and pull from all the opportunities that I have had to work in so many different roles. From fabrication, production management, engineering, product development, accounting, and operations. 

Each of these steps presented their own unique sets of challenges or opportunities as I look at them as it has helped guide me to where I am now.

Of course, I am still learning but I can with confidence know that I am giving my best to develop lasting relationships that are built on trust by providing thoughtful products that are unique, well-crafted, and built to the highest standard.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Ha-ha… I am in bed by 9:30 with a cup of tea and my two cats. Let’s say we go back time in a bit and here is what I would say.

For music I would check out Sofitel on Sunday nights, and “Jazz Eclectic” at Barlis on Tuesdays. Industry nights are the best for live music in LA. I love the Hollywood Cemetery for outdoor movies, that generally gets added to the list of funtivities.

For food there are so many great spots. Osteria LaBuca, Oste, Mother Wolf and Grandmaster Recorders never miss.

Beyond that I am kind of dull as a trip advisor. A good walk or two around the trail at the Hollywood reservoir followed up by the best breakfast burrito from the Oaks Gourmet Cafe would also be suggested.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?

I am so fortunate to have the opportunity to work out of the wonderful shop collective, LA Woodshop. This school/makers collective is a great source of inspiration and support as there are a vast range of skills, backgrounds and intentions throughout the member and owners’ group.

As a maker, without the shop and the resources it provides I would continue to face large hurdles in terms of my ability to bring this new collection to fruition.

It Is also a great experience for those looking to get their feet wet in the world of hand craft and woodworking. The range of classes really provides all ranges of skill sets and the teaching staff are top notch.

https://lawoodshop.com

Website: https://lastditchdesign.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lastditchdesign/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/todd-hewitt-9bb18640/