Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin Hildreth.
Kristin, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I opened the store back in 1999….. I loved Birkenstock footwear and was fortunate to be able to open a store with my business partner and mentor Curt Munson. I worked for Curt at his athletic store in Lansing, Michigan while I was in graduate school. That’s where I fell in love with both retail and Birkenstock. Birkenstock sandals were sold at Curt’s athletic store because so many runners and athletes had foot and ankle issues. It was a great feeling to sell someone a product which helped them feel and move better. And so Complete Birkenstock was born! It’s been 18 years now and I can honestly say that I truly love what I do.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I feel generally fortunate that the business has gone as well as it has. That doesn’t mean it’s been perfect… When 9/11 happened, we had only been open for 2 years. That event shifted the American culture in a significant way. But the biggest struggle was the recession and financial crisis which began in 2008. All retailers were hit hard at that time, and we were no exception. That challenging time lasted for almost 5 years. But we came through it – a bit bruised and battered, but also wiser and more efficient.
So, as you know, we’re impressed with Complete Birkenstock – tell our readers more, for example what you’re most proud of as a company and what sets you apart from others.
We specialize in Birkenstock footwear – shoes, clogs and sandals. I think we’re the largest retailer of Birkenstock in the Midwest. While we do carry a few other brands in our store, I think customers appreciate that we specialize in one thing and try to do it very well. We know pretty much everything there is to know about Birkenstock, and it’s nice to be able to share that knowledge with our customers. Having a great staff is a big help too… our team has been together for a long time, and customers like seeing friendly and familiar faces in our store.
So, what’s next? Any big plans?
Honestly, we’ve considered opening another location off and on over the years. Customers have always asked if we will expand. But I think we’re just going to continue what we’re doing and try to keep doing it well. I think it’s easy to be lured into thinking that “bigger is better”. But that’s not always the case. I love what I do now and feel fortunate to have a store that I enjoy coming to every day.
Contact Info:
- Address: Edens Plaza
3232 Lake Avenue
Wilmette, IL 60091 - Website: www.completebirkenstock.com
- Phone: 847-251-7130
- Email: shop@completebirkenstock.com
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Complete-Birkenstock-169013149810744/
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/complete-birkenstock-wilmette
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