HYPERLOCAL NEWS HUB BY THE UNIVERSITY OF MEMPHIS DEPARTMENT OF JOURNALISM
New Shoes on The Block
By Christy Mister/Micromemphis Reporter
December 12, 2011
There's a new business on the block in the Cooper-Young community. Shoenista's,
a women's shoe store held its grand opening November 26, 2011 and business has been constant since.
"Business has been good. The Cooper-Young area has really embraced us. We want a steady stream of regular customers that we can cater to, " said Toni Hayes, owner of Shoenista's.
Hayes said she considered all of the elements that were ideal to her when it came to shopping for shoes which are, affordability, good selection, style, and great customer service, then developed a "shopping fantasy."
"I decided to make my shoe fantasy a shoe reality that I could share with others. That's how Shoenista's was created,' said Hayes.
This will be the first shoe store in Cooper-Young, and the owners believe it should be a perfect fit for the community.
" I think our boutique in the Cooper-Young area is great. The neighborhood has so much versatility and I love the feel of the area," said Hayes.
Hayes also added that with the store centrally located in the middle of the city, it is easily accessible. She has also made it convenient for women who want to shop in the Bartlett, Raleigh, and Wolfchase area.
"Women can find our shoes in the Cajama Salon and Boutique located at 6018 Stage Road. They carry our shoes exclusively. So you can find our shoes in two locations," said Hayes.
Cajama Salon and Boutique is owned by the sister of Hayes, Joye Hillman.
"Our clients range from 18 to 50 years of age. All of our customers have one thing in common, they LOVE shoes," said Hayes.
Shoe parties are also available at Shoenista's. What's a shoe party?
"Anyone can schedule a shoe party on Friday or Saturday nights. We close the door to host your private party for five or more of your friends," said Hayes.
Drinks and a finger foods are served while you shop and enjoy the company of your friends. Hayes compares it to a girls' night in a dream shoe closet.
Shoenista's plan on participating in the Cooper Young Night Out offering specials, discounts, and refreshments for the customers on every first Thursday in each month as well.
Hayes sees her business as another great place in Memphis where women can buy shoes.
"I patron(ize) other small businesses that sell women's shoes that I guess others would consider as competition but I see them as other women in business simply trying to succeed just like I am," Hayes said.
You can find Shoenista's on Facebook and Twitter.
They are located at 2294 Young Avenue.
There's a new business on the block in the Cooper-Young community. Shoenista's,
a women's shoe store held its grand opening November 26, 2011 and business has been constant since.
"Business has been good. The Cooper-Young area has really embraced us. We want a steady stream of regular customers that we can cater to, " said Toni Hayes, owner of Shoenista's.
Hayes said she considered all of the elements that were ideal to her when it came to shopping for shoes which are, affordability, good selection, style, and great customer service, then developed a "shopping fantasy."
"I decided to make my shoe fantasy a shoe reality that I could share with others. That's how Shoenista's was created,' said Hayes.
This will be the first shoe store in Cooper-Young, and the owners believe it should be a perfect fit for the community.
" I think our boutique in the Cooper-Young area is great. The neighborhood has so much versatility and I love the feel of the area," said Hayes.
Hayes also added that with the store centrally located in the middle of the city, it is easily accessible. She has also made it convenient for women who want to shop in the Bartlett, Raleigh, and Wolfchase area.
"Women can find our shoes in the Cajama Salon and Boutique located at 6018 Stage Road. They carry our shoes exclusively. So you can find our shoes in two locations," said Hayes.
Cajama Salon and Boutique is owned by the sister of Hayes, Joye Hillman.
"Our clients range from 18 to 50 years of age. All of our customers have one thing in common, they LOVE shoes," said Hayes.
Shoe parties are also available at Shoenista's. What's a shoe party?
"Anyone can schedule a shoe party on Friday or Saturday nights. We close the door to host your private party for five or more of your friends," said Hayes.
Drinks and a finger foods are served while you shop and enjoy the company of your friends. Hayes compares it to a girls' night in a dream shoe closet.
Shoenista's plan on participating in the Cooper Young Night Out offering specials, discounts, and refreshments for the customers on every first Thursday in each month as well.
Hayes sees her business as another great place in Memphis where women can buy shoes.
"I patron(ize) other small businesses that sell women's shoes that I guess others would consider as competition but I see them as other women in business simply trying to succeed just like I am," Hayes said.
You can find Shoenista's on Facebook and Twitter.
They are located at 2294 Young Avenue.
Christy Mister / MicroMemphis Reporter
Christy Mister covers fashion for MicroMemphis.
Send her story ideas here.
Follow her on Twitter @FashionEdytorTN