A COBBLERS STORY
It all started 39 years ago…
I learned the practical experience of shoe designing from the age of 16 years old whilst I was living in the Caribbean, working in a local shoe repair shop as an apprenticeship in my local community.
I then extended my knowledge in the shoe industry and went to work for a shoe factory, where I gained further full expertise and practical experience.
Designing shoes, moulding, stitching shoe uppers, and general shoe repairs since then has always been my passion even before I moved to the UK.
Upon arrival to the UK, I worked for various shoe repair shops in and around London for a few more years’, and I developed a strong reputation of someone who delivered great workmanship.
However, at the back of my mind, I had always wanted to open my own business and become my own boss, and to develop and expand my career and talents.
One night whilst out with friends, we got into a discussion about finding an appropriate name for my business, and one of my friends came up with the name ‘cobblers’ which referenced the old tradition in the trade.
I started to visualise a nest of shoes, and I instantly put the two thoughts together, and that’s how my business name ‘Cobblers Nest’ came to light.
overview of Achievements SINCE THEN
In 1993, I opened my own shoe business called Cobblers Nest in London Bridge,
I have designed and handmade shoes for various costume artists and singing performers.
Held several customer’s shoe exhibitions for a number of companies including the Royal Bank of Scotland.
Provide made to measure shoe design services to people with disabilities who are looking for better choice and comfort.
Extended my services to customers who are house bound.
In 2005 I gained a 10 years Certificate of Achievement for Continuous Growth from the London Borough of Southwark.
I am also a Practice Teacher training young people and students in practical shoes design.
The BBC has also used Cobblers Nest to film a series documentary called the ‘Interceptor’.
In summary, I would like to continue to support the public providing a specialist, traditional expert service in handmade shoes made to a high standard. I love being able to reaching out to people nationally and around the world.
I am a Cobbler, I am a perfectionist and good at what I do best, and I would like to pass on these skills that I have acquired over the years to others who want to promote, not a dying old cobblers trade and share my skills with the community that can last the test if time and thrive in the fashion industry.