Today we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Davidson.
Hi Stephanie, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I received a degree in graphic design in 2007 from George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia and quickly moved back to my hometown, Belton, Missouri. I went to work as a graphic designer for a small, family-owned toy company. In 2010, I took a design position with a local startup seeking to build a presence within the gifting industry. We designed, engineered, and pitched to major retailers and brands with the goal of expanding their gift card business through our innovative packaging solutions. This was an amazing time and where the idea of creating a gift shop started to circulate. I had the opportunity to work with major retail buyers, study consumer and design trends, conduct focus groups, and learn how to build a successful product line. The startup sold in 2019, and I migrated with it. I continue to drive development of unique and memorable gift packaging solutions — skills I think translate to what my mom and I have created with Lucky Shoe Gifts and Goods.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The parts of the process that most scared me (setting up an LLC, getting a business license, building inspections) turned out to be the easiest and most straightforward steps. City staff was kind, helpful, flexible, and genuinly seemed to care about my goals and opening timeline.
I knew transforming the space could be the wildcard. However much time your contractor quotes, save yourself the headache and double it. We were on a tight timeline to be open for a local festival and we just barely squeaked in. I am still playing with the layout and fixtures but am coming to the realization that it may just be a “living,” evolving space.
The outside of the building was oddly challenging. I started by reaching out to signage companies thinking that an external sign was most urgent. I was having a hard time finding creative signage, so I turned my attention to replacing our old awning. I found a fabric that inspired me and then was able to build a look to complement the new awning. I still don’t have an external sign, but I do have a larger than life horseshoe mural that marks our spot on Main Street.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
Lucky Shoe Gifts and Goods opened at 323 Main Street in Belton, Missouri at the end of May. We are a boutique gift shop in the heart of Belton with a little something for everyone. We carry gifts for the most common occasions and all the people who celebrate them. Our items range in price from $2.50 – $275, and each purchase is “wrapped” in a gift bag with tissue and ready to gift! Shopping with kiddos? We have a coloring station where they can create while you browse. Need a greeting card? We have those, too. It’s so rare that we have time to make multiple stops; it’s important to me that we have everything you need for a gift (or yourself).
This store is really a love letter to my friends and family. They are the reasons I carry the items I do. I feel like I’m shopping for the people I love and I think that translates. I love hearing, “Oh, you know who would love that?” as people work their ways around the store. People come in, they smile, they giggle. That feels good! I want this to be a place that people keep bookmarked in their minds.
How do you define success?
For me, success is freedom. I have been fortunate in my career, and it’s given me the freedom to do many things, including opening Lucky Shoe Gifts and Goods. I’m busier than ever, but I’m happy to be part of the good things happening in Downtown Belton. It feels like a dream come true.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lucky_shoe_gifts_and_goods/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61589908187962
