We were lucky to catch up with Meghan Burns recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Meghan thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. We’d love to go back in time and hear the story of how you came up with the name of your brand?

When I had the idea to open my business, the most challenging issue I faced was coming up with a name for it. I spent months trying to come up with something unique, but nothing was sticking out to me. One morning while enjoying a cup of coffee with my mom, she said “why don’t you call it “With An H”? since my name is Meghan, with an h. The lightbulb went off right here, and we laughed because we thought it was funny, yet so fitting since my name ism 9/10 commonly misspelled. As for the logo, my mom ended up grabbing a napkin and making a rough sketch of it. She was the mastermind behind it all! So I owe it to all to her. From there, the name and the logo was born, and it stuck! I wanted something personal yet unique. Sometimes people are confused by it, but personally I think it draws attention, leading them to want to know more, and why!

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Meghan and and I am a shoe customizer based out of Philadelphia, Pa. For my entire life, fashion has been something I have always gravitated towards, using it as a tool to express my individual and unique style. I went to school for marketing and earned my degree in 2021. Out of college, I really had no clue how I wanted to apply myself to the world. What I did know was that I did not want to work a 9-5, or, work for someone else. I have always been a huge DIY person. In college, I actually owned a custom clothing business, making custom clothing pieces for groups / individuals around campus. I think this is what fueled my fire to turn entrepreneurship into a career. When I purchased my machine, I had no clue how to use it, and had never even sewn in my life. Knowing I had all the knowledge from college to start my own business, I spent almost a year teaching myself how to use my machine / customize shoes through countless trial and error. After about a year, With An H was born! What sets my work apart from others is the fact that my service is completely custom. I work with every client on a personal level to upgrade their shoes uniquely. It is a personal experience like no other. Another factor that makes my work special is that every pair made by hand, using a manual machine / tools. There is no motor on my machine. It is hand crank, and every stitch is precisely done with hand-eye coordination. I am most proud of the growth of my business and skills. When I first started, I was primarily upgrading client’s sneakers. Now, I offer customization towards any and all types of shoes such as boots, clogs, the list goes on! Aside from material application, I also am skilled in painting and leather burning, which have been skills I have cultivated over the last three years customizing shoes. I am always learning and evolving! I am proud that my art allows me to create unique finished products for my clients to enjoy. I am also proud to be apart of sentimental projects for clients to tell their stories.

How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?

I paid for my machine when I really could not afford it. When first starting my business, I was working part-time as a nanny for a family I had worked for several years. This job was flexible and allowed me to remain financially stable and grow my business. I worked on my business in the morning, while nannying the other half of the day. I am a child at heart, and working with children is such a rewarding job for me. I am so grateful I had the privilege to do so!

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Honestly, word of mouth! Majority of my new clients are all from word of mouth. For instance, someone is wearing their upgrade shoes, and has someone ask them where they got them. Ta-da! A new client is born. I actually had one client tell me that their dentist was wearing their customized shoes, and that is how they discovered my work. My art is unique enough to spark a conversation, leading to new clients

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shopwithanh.com
• Instagram: @with__an_h