We had the good fortune of connecting with Heather Johnson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Heather, the decisions we make often shape our story in profound ways. What was one of the most difficult decisions you’ve had to make?
Trusting & Believing God. I know some may say that’s easy. But, when you don’t know what’s ahead, can’t see where you’re going or if you’ll succeed or fail; I’d say trusting God was the most difficult but best thing I could have ever done for myself. One thing I’ve learned about having faith is He will never steer you wrong, He’s always there giving you direction (if you’re listening) and THERE IS ABSOLUTELY NO FAILURE IN HIM!!!
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I can remember a time when I first started selling shoes and decided to open a shoe store. I was one of the first, if not the first woman in my city to do so and that was a great accomplishment! I was young and full of fire about me stepping out and doing what I was told was a waste of time. I had a passion for this arena of fashion and I didn’t allow anything or anyone to stop that. I have always been a plus size curvy woman and that set me a part. So, when I started my business it was to give us curvy women and women period a sense of confidence that some lacked. Fashion and beauty can change your life in a positive way if you let it. The challenges for me are current. Lessons come to mold and shape us and the best lesson i’ve learned with this journey is to not give up!!! No matter if I sold a $1 worth of merchandise. Trying to stay unique in a world where everyone wants to be popular and noticed. We started this business in 2009 and to still be here says a lot about the growth and consistency of our brand. I come from a small town, but I’ve always had big dreams and greater aspirations in life. I never let where I was from or what I saw hinder me from seeing further and going farther to pursue my goals. Strut isn’t just a shoe store it is a way of life for me. It’s an attitude, a look, a walk, a stance and it can be much more. We’ve expanded what we offer our customers with the growing times and it has served us well. We look forward to what this year will bring.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I had a guest visiting we would definitely; depending on the season attend a sports game. The places we would dine would consist of The Cheesecake Factory, Big Dave’s Cheese steaks (the line is crazy but the wait is worth it), Maggiono’s at Perimeter Mall and while we are there check out the shopping there. I love cigars so I’d surely take them to King’s Cigars on Virginia Ave. Just to add a little razzle dazzle for them visiting we’d check out The Trap Museum. Most people don’t know I love music and arts. Most of my friends do and if it were someone who was visiting I am sure we would find ourselves at Apache’. The food, atmosphere and people are everything! Kinda hard to say where and what we’d be doing because the city is filled with so many perks and events and at any given time you’ll find something to satisfy your need for entertainment.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to every friend, family member, customer or follower who has ever encouraged me in my endeavor. Being a business owner is not easy but having positive support and encouragement makes it all worth it. If I had to single anyone out it would be my parents. I lost them both last year. My mother in August from cancer and my father In September from a broken heart. 40 years of marriage they were the guideline for me on how to love, care for and treat others. My life as I knew it in all it’s facets and transitions is a direct reflection of the love, continued support and the great wisdom they gave me through the years…. Because of them I was able to face challenges and overcome obstacles that might have otherwise overwhelmed me. They taught me a lot and I’ve held on to those lessons. I miss them terribly but i’d like to think I am making them proud by continuing to work hard and strive to be better.
Website: www.shopstrutshoetique.com
Instagram: @strutshoetiqueatlanta
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/strutshoetiqueatlanta
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpiw92tUAiGmojlIePpBreg
Other: email info@shopstrutshoetique.com
Image Credits
PBS Photography and Media Scarlette Wimberly Creative Director Sheldon G.Horton (Pictured In Action Shots BTS) Charlie Hill Henderson (Not Pictured) Models Justice McGill Jeffrey Boges To’waun Sharp