We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Marlaina Morris. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Marlaina below.

Hi Marlaina, thanks for joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

It all started when my husband asked me to paint a Pokémon on a pair of shoes for him. He loved them so much he posted to all his social media platforms and everyone went crazy for them! I started getting calls and messages requesting to paint more from all over the country. I offer a unique aspect to painting shoes, though there are so many other amazing artists out there, I make all my shoes one of a kind. No stencils, duplicates, or airbrushing. All painting are hand drawn and painted one of a kind even if they are on the same themes as others. Each customer has their pair as the only one of its kind in that design in the world!

Marlaina, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I have always had a gravitation towards art of all kinds, even as a child. Its all I ever wanted to do and be. I have also worked around shoes for many years at Zappos/ Amazon where I learned how to market, refurbish, and identify shoe brands. One day it just clicked and I haven’t looked back. I love painting shoes and I am proud of each an every creation I paint. All are very special to me as I cater to unique characteristics of the Customer to incorporate their individual likes and ideas to make a one of a kind item personalized for them.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Social media and word of mouth is the best source to gain new clients. Keeping social platforms relevant, updated, and interactive helps the audiences see exactly what I have to offer and also have easy access to contact me directly from many sources.

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My reputation has been upheld by my continued and consistent support for the customer, standards, prices, and products. I stand behind my artwork and guarantee it fully.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://sites.google.com/view/walkingartllc/home
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/walkingartllc?igsh=bjRqdjkydmVzY2pi
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/689372945571270/?ref=share&mibextid=NSMWBT
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@marlainamorris?si=5IBn8C-XqNxjSBt3