Shoe Repair

         

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Interview with Katherine Mills, Owner of Mills Shoe Repair in Boulder, Colorado

1. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and how you got started in the shoe repair business?

Hi, I'm Katherine Mills, and I'm the owner of Mills Shoe Repair in Boulder, Colorado. I got started in this business about 15 years ago, after my father taught me the craft. He was a cobbler himself, and he passed down his knowledge and passion to me.

2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced when starting your business?

There were a few challenges I faced at the beginning, but I think the biggest one was trying to get customers to come to my store. Being a small, independent shoe repair shop, it was hard to compete with bigger companies. But I never got discouraged and kept working harder to make my business a success.

3. What do you think sets your shoe repair shop apart from others in the area?

I believe that what sets my shop apart from others is my experience and the quality of my work. I have been doing this for a long time, and I have developed a reputation for doing excellent work. I always use high-quality materials and take my time to make sure everything is perfect.

4. How did you hear about Shopify and what made you decide to use it for your business?

I first heard about Shopify from a friend who owns a similar business. He was using it, and he recommended it to me. After doing some research, I realized that Shopify was exactly what my business needed. It allows me to sell my products online while managing everything in one place.

5. How has Shopify helped your business grow?

Since I started using Shopify, I've seen a significant increase in sales. It has allowed me to reach customers outside of Boulder who would never have known about my store otherwise. Shopify has made it so much easier for me to manage my inventory and interact with my customers.

6. Can you tell us about a time when you faced a challenge that you thought might be insurmountable, but you were able to overcome it?

A few years ago, we had a massive flood here in Boulder. Our store was completely underwater, and I thought for sure it would be the end of my business. However, I didn't give up. I rebuilt the store from scratch, and with the help of my wonderful customers, I was able to get back on my feet.

7. Looking back, what advice would you give to someone who is just starting in the shoe repair business?

My advice to anyone starting out in this business would be to never give up. It can be tough, but with hard work and determination, you can make it a success. Don't be afraid to try new things, like Shopify, and always put your customers first.

         

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