Meet Shoe Talk's Nicola Stevens who knows how to combine style and comfort when it comes to good footwear. Her store in Browns Bay is one of two and her knowledge goes back as far as the cradle.
When and why you did you start this business?
I was born into the industry! My parents have always been in the footwear trade. I started this business back in 2007 after I had the chance to go to a shoe fair in the USA. I had spent my 20s without fashionable shoes as I had wide feet. At this fair I discovered footwear that was wider fitting and my excitement at the idea meant that I came back and launched a website for the business called Twinklefeet.co.nz – I was ahead of the game, though as at this point, online shopping wasn’t really a thing in New Zealand. I then opened my first Shoe Talk Ltd store in Henderson in 2011 and my second store in Browns Bay in 2017.
How would you describe what is special and unique about it?
The special and unique thing about Shoe Talk Ltd is that we stock footwear that fits Kiwi feet – we do more than one width. The footwear also comes with many comfort features, even the high heels. It is footwear that is designed correctly, footwear that when you put it on also puts a smile on your face as well.
What gives you the greatest buzz?
Matching people up with footwear that they like and that fits especially if they haven’t had this experience before.
What is your number one tip for anyone starting a business?
Have a good support network and that getting established won’t happen overnight. However, always keep putting one foot in front of the other and keep positive.
What do you love about Browns Bay village?
I love that we have the beach close by and the other store owners are so nice as are the lovely people who come into my store.
Tell us what’s happening in store during September.
Moving towards spring! New season footwear has started to arrive so come and see what we have.
Please sum up your business in one sentence.
Great product and old-fashioned service – we truly do talk shoes.
