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COUPLE OPENS KICKS SHOES
“My husband Tom and I had talked about opening a shoe store for many years. Having a successful career at Nordstrom made it a difficult dream to realize. However in 2010, Nordstrom made a big change in their organization; they would be taking the buying structure national. There would no longer be regional buy teams, as all purchasing would be done out of Seattle. We knew we weren't going to move, and my husband said "now is the time." It was hard to argue. It definitely felt like it was time to play our hand!
Naperville is our home! Tom and I have been in the shoe industry for a lot of years. We wanted to bring that combined expertise to the community in which we live and raise a family. The Naperville community is loyal and dynamic and it's a perfect environment to support a family shoe store. The physical location had been a spot Tom had been eyeing, and when a suitable space opened up, we started our pursuit.
We've received a very positive reception! Our customers love that we're "locals," and we're always told how friendly we are. Must be that good ole "Minnesota nice," as Tom and I both grew up in the Cities.
In looking at the Naperville retail landscape we wanted to enhance what was already in place. To fit harmoniously into the neighborhood, we wanted to offer something that wasn't already in the mix. Our shoes are fun, flirty and fashionable, and in many cases, comfortable too. We're doing our best to give our community the popular items that are all the buzz, but also give them some unique items they don't see everywhere. The Miz Mooz brand has a lot to do with that, and we have the largest assortment in the midwest. Back to school has started and TOMS is on everyone's hit list! We have a pretty impressive assortment.
Tom and I have a combined shoe experience of around 45 years. So basically we know a lot about shoes, and know a ton of people in the industry.