Meet-a-Mom, Diane Fotino
What’s your favorite family activity in the Hinsdale, Western Springs, La Grange, Clarendon Hills Area?
I love to dine & stroll around downtown LaGrange. There are so many great places to eat and shop. Don’t forget to finish the evening off with ice cream from Tate’s Old Fashioned Ice Cream and enjoy it by the fountain!
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
2 daughters: Violet – 11, Demi – 9
How long have you lived in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area? What made you decide to live here?
We lived in LaGrange Park for 10 years and have been in LaGrange for almost 3 years. I love this area because of the community events, great schools, and most of all, the PEOPLE! LaGrange and the neighboring towns have that small-town community feel yet close proximity to the city.
Where’s your favorite place to eat and/or shop in the Hinsdale/WS/La Grange/CH Area?
Prasino in LaGrange is my FAVORITE! My daughters and I also frequently enjoy Santiago’s for great Mexican and Sushi Ukai for fantastic sushi.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
People might be surprised to know that I grew up dancing at the business I currently own, Impact Dance Studio. I bought the studio when I was 21 years old and have owned it for 20 years.
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you through parenthood?
My parents, in-laws, siblings & friends have all and still all help me out all the time with my children. It truly does take a village!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I am the owner and artistic director of Impact Dance Studio with locations in downtown LaGrange and Countryside. I am also the member of the LaGrange & Western Springs Business Associations.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
The LaGrange and neighboring communities have truly been the cornerstone of Impact Dance Studio. The support we’ve received over the years from the parents and students is overwhelming. Being in business for 33 years, we are so fortunate to now have our student’s children coming to dance with us. That is truly such a thrill for me!