And just like that… we close the chapter on 2021 as another year flies by. As I reflect on the past 12 months, it’s been a year of growth, both personally and professionally for me. First and foremost, I excitedly took a big leap of faith, resigning from my full time position as Director of Community Relations at Boca magazine to 100% focus on Protect My Shoes.
In addition to adding new shoe stuffers and shoe bags in a myriad of prints, our line of stylish shoe care essentials grew with several new products. Inspired by my newborn (at the time), we introduced the Baby Collection to preserve baby’s first shoes. We also launched a collection of Boot Shapers with our touch of luxe details, perfect for keeping boots beautifully stored upright.
It was also the year of collaborations at Protect My Shoes and something we plan on doing more of in 2022 thanks to the love and support you have shown us. We started off by collaborating with the premier wedding venue, The Addison, on a ‘something blue’ custom bridal pair of lace adorned shoe stuffers for their brides.
As for the major collaboration we dropped in November, we loved every moment of the creative process with renowned fashion-inspired artist, Sew Sketchy. The Protect My Shoes x Sew Sketchy was a match made in fashion heaven, combining art with our signature product for our customers’ daily use and enjoyment. This was also Sew Sketchy’s first ever product collaboration so we are humbled by the opportunity to work with the artist.
We are now working on more limited-edition shoe stuffer collections and new products which we can’t wait to share with you.
Many may not know this, but we work with brands on creating private label versions of our patented shoe stuffers. This year saw growth in that aspect of our business with some high-end brand partnerships and we will continue to work hard on expanding that side of the business. Since it’s private label, we do keep that list of clientele confidential. It’s hush hush…;)
For us at Protect My Shoes, one of our core values is to give back to the community. Aside from always being willing to donate raffle and auction items for fundraising events, we continue our Giving Back initiative to support female-led cancer research through the American Cancer Society’s ResearcHERS campaign. Not only am I a ResearcHERS Ambassador, but we donate 10% of all online sale proceeds to this important cause. This effort will continue in 2022 and we hope to raise even more funds. So remember, when you shop Protect My Shoes, you’re giving back.
On the personal side of things, my boys are growing, thriving and keeping up with them is hard work! Guillaume is now 7 and Gianluca is 13 months. When I’m not working, writing for Boca magazine as their Style contributor, or volunteering, it’s time spent at the rink for hockey practice, power walks with the little one in his stroller, car line at school, and simply the best moments with the family. In 2022, I’m going to try even harder to be present for those sweet times.
A fun fact from this past year, I picked up golf (or at least trying), which I never thought I would, thanks to a handful of girlfriends and my fiancé who can’t ever get enough play time. I must admit I see what makes the game attractive yet so frustrating. Lol!
I’m sure I’m forgetting key moments that will come to me later, but I write this post feeling grateful, blessed, and thankful. We could not do any of this without our family, friends, customers, followers, and brand partners. Thank you for your constant love and support.
Wishing you an amazing year ahead filled with love, laughter, success, happiness and health.
Cheers to 2022!
Xoxo,
Olivia