Jackson Free Press

Cute bag, slinky dress, funky shoes. Girls know we need them, and we know one of the best places to find them is at the Shoe Bar at Pieces. This boutique exemplifies what makes Fondren so unique: a specific style that is a mix of classic and alternative.

When did your business first open, and how did it arrive at this location?
I actually opened up in 1993 on Lakeland Drive (as Designer's Shoe Palace). There were no stores on Lakeland, but there was a lot of traffic. I saw this as a perfect opportunity to open up my own shoe store. Designer's Shoe Palace generated a lot of business, but as the years passed, Lakeland became overpopulated with stores. Getting lost in the shuffle was not an option, so we packed up and moved to the Fondren District on Memorial Day weekend 2007.

How has your business changed over the years?
Well, when we moved onto Mitchell Avenue, I really wanted to reinvent my store. I wanted to create a true boutique instead of a large shoe store. I kept what we were known for, a unique selection of eye-catching shoes, but I also wanted to incorporate other accessories like jewelry and handbags. The name has also changed to Shoe Bar at Pieces.

Since you've moved, has that changed your customer base?
In a way it has. Most of our customers are women who want something fun and different. We cater to women that aren't mall shoppers. With a lot of department stores today, everything is cut from the same cookie cutter; we have items that break that mold. They know when they walk in that they are not going to buy their typical mall finds.

How has the Fondren District changed since you've been here and how has that affected your business?
We were the first business to move into this neighborhood, but lately there have been new additions to the Fondren District. There have also been two house renovations on Mitchell Avenue. The construction of new stores and restaurants has been ongoing in hopes of creating a very active shopping community. I'm not really a social butterfly, but I am very active in supporting my fellow Fondren businesses.

What is something that you really pride yourself on about your business?
As you look around the store, it is very inviting. The employees are helpful and are just as fashion-forward as the store. Our effort to treat our customers with high regard is very important to me. Even if you don't leave the store with a package that day, you still get a thank you and an invitation back. When you walk in, you're not hounded down because we want your money. Having my customers happy and excited about what they are leaving with makes (us) just as happy to sell it to (them).

What is your favorite pair of shoes?
I don't have one favorite pair of shoes but more like 100 favorite pairs of shoes. Shoes are the first things I buy when I'm shopping for a new outfit. When a hot trendy shoe is in my sight, I get them. It doesn't matter if I have anything in my closet to wear with them, I will keep shopping around until I do. I believe that you can update any outfit with a fabulous pair of shoes.