After being trained in shoemaking in a fashion footwear factory, Jodie Morrison decided to make one-off footwear and interact with the wearer. With great determination and innovation, Jodie transformed her talent for shoemaking into a unique niche and started her own business, Steppin’ Out. Since 1979, Steppin’ Out has been providing handmade shoes and unique footwear for film, theatre and opera. Steppin’ Out also provides master classes and courses in shoemaking, which has been a recent diversification to the business. Jodie’s commitment to teamwork reflects positively in her business.
“I work with my team and we also work towards a final goal in a larger group.”
Jodie enjoys seeing the final outcome in productions, encouraging her staff members to watch the production. She also enjoys the culture of the trade.
“It is great to be able to be working in a very old trade, there is always something more to learn. It is always fabulous to see the performers working in Steppin’ Out footwear.”
Jodie wishes she knew these gems of knowledge before she started her business:
- Have capital. “Although if I had waited until I had money, I may never have started. Remember, you’re taking a risk so you need to weigh out the risks.”
- It is really important to keep records of what you make. “I have made so many pairs of shoes and have very few photographs.”
- Don’t charge less just because you are starting out.
Jodie recommends you develop your skills before starting a business. She highlights that skills are different for all businesses, but whatever you are going in to, if there is an association to join, join it and you will have instant connections and information.
Jodie Morrison’s advice for starting a business:
- Perseverance brings rewards.
- It isn’t how much time you work, but how efficiently you work.
- Filing is important.
