Today we’d like to introduce you to Bryan Berkey.
Hi Bryan, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I started my journey into the Shoe Repair Industry when I was at a time of transition in career options. I had been a massage therapist for 17 years when one of my clients, Chris from Hillsdale Shoe Repair, was going in for a shoulder surgery and asked if I would be interested in appreciating with her as she recovered, I found the work to be a natural fit as I have always been an artist and creative thinker. The craftsman legacy was something I embraced as I went on to apprentice under Donny Myers, an industry stalwart, whom won the bronze cup (3rd in the world) at the International level of SSIA competition. My apprenticeship with him was very detailed and raised my skill and experience to the next level of craftsmanship. I opened Top Shelf Shoe Repair last October and am going on my 1st year as a small business owner and operator.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
There are things to be learned all along the way such as which order of operations would work best for a small business starting out. Obviously the education in the chosen field is paramount but that is the tie that binds the business. I have a good handle on all of the repairs, and the creative marketing was fun, signs, logos, business cards. But I’ve needed help along the way from experts in there respected fields. I would say priority is to do everything right from the beginning, following state laws and guidelines. Speak with an accountant 1st, not last. Get a start on looking for the perfect location, it makes a big difference if your customers can find you easily. I work with a growing start-up company called getCoblr.com, who run my P.O.S. system and the shop would not be running as smoothly without them.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
We do all shoe/boot repairs from luxury brands to western and work boots. As well as, leather work of all kinds, jacket and zipper repair, handbags, etc. I appreciate the customer interactions at the counter, for they are taking the time to bring a beloved item into the shop for repair. I will discuss what to expect and let them choose from the in stock inventory to meet their needs. If I can’t get the item back to factory specs, I will suggest a creative alternative and we can have fun customizing any item. I like to say “Good customer service leads to repeat customers.”
What’s next?
I undertook this endeavor with the plan to do this for the next 25 years until retirement and have told my sons there is a future in the business for them as they see fit.
Pricing:
- $65 for Topy Leather sole protection
- $50 for heel replacement
- $38 for Dowel heel on a high heel
- $200 for full rebuild
- $75 leather half sole replacement
Contact Info:
- Website: https://TopShelfShoeRepair.com
