This week we got to know Shandi Schwartz from Strut Footwear & Apparel. Locally owned and operated, Strut boasts an exceptional collection of European made, sophisticated, fashion-forward footwear for the professional and fashion-conscious woman. 

Strut Footwear also gives back to the Kelowna community, and is very proud to support COBSS, The Central Okanagan Bursary, and Scholarship Society. COBSS is a non-profit organization of volunteers from the Central Okanagan area who are dedicated to providing financial assistance to our Grade 12 graduates in order that they may further their post-secondary education.

As one of our 2021 Business Excellence Awards Finalists in the Small Business category (winner to be announced March 30), we were excited to get some insights from Shandi!

What is something you wish you knew when you first began?
I honestly wish I had known how much fun the shoe business is - I would have made the career move 20 years ago. The people I have met through the store are some of the most wonderful, intelligent and caring individuals on the planet. The creative side of the business is also a much larger part of the puzzle than I originally anticipated. From designing footwear and curating unique collections each season, to
implementing innovative marketing strategies, to keeping the store feeling fresh and new, the creative
juices are always flowing.

What is something people might not know about your business? 

We are turning 5 years old on March 1! We opened our doors back in 2017 and since then, there are thousands of Strut shoes out there turning heads! We have also got an online store which has become a popular way to shop; we now have customers from all over Canada and the US. For our locals who like to shop in-store, we are all about exceptional customer service; you will not meet a more friendly, helpful and genuine staff........oh and let's not forget we have the BEST shoe selection!

What are you looking forward to/planning for the future? 
First and foremost, we want to continue to cultivate meaningful relationships with our customers. We are more than just a great shoe store; we are a place where people feel connected and valued. We are also working hard to grow our online presence; I want Strut to be a household name.

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