After
years of ‘sole’ searching, pursuing any number of
careers or jobs from secretary to stockbroker, then caterer and
international marketing representative of pocket sized strobes,
also designing a line of plush toys, in September 1993 I stumbled
upon the concept of the shoe shine at a Trade only show in the
U.S. This came at a time when I had finally concluded that owning
my own business was the way to go, having recently completed
career counseling at Toronto’s
service agency “Times Change for Women” (the services of which
I will remain eternally grateful). I was ripe for ideas, and the shoe shine
was one that was suggested by a fellow exhibitor at the show. But initially
this idea didn’t register
with me as the way to go. After all, I thought it beneath me given some of
the great strides I had made in life since starting to work full time at age
17, also coupled with international business travel and the perks that go with
it, not to mention
the fact that I was approaching my 40th birthday. Can you imagine a 40 year
old female and former stock broker shining shoes? Well, as the saying goes – never
say never!
Since registering Penny Loafers Shoe Shine Company in September 1994 upon my
return from training in the U.S. (incorporated in 2003), this remains the only
business model of its type in Canada. Not only is it unique as the only chain
of stand-alone shoe shine kiosks in Canada, also operating what I believe is
the oldest shoe shine parlour in the country, and are sponsored to serve at
special events in Toronto and beyond, but also for such claims as having a
weekly feature in a national newspaper. As well, I also avail myself as a public
speaker, telling a story that is guaranteed to inspire and inform, and is sure
to entertain, because we’re in the ‘Feel Good’ business.
So take a bit of time to review our press for more of the story, including
my 2003 Globe & Mail ‘coming-out’ interview when I declared
myself Mayor
of The PATH; Toronto’s underground city.
Throughout the years I have actively supported any number of children’s
and women’s charities, often supported by the wonderful operators of
Penny Loafers Shoe Shine Company Inc.®, who in January 2003 donated all
proceeds from one week of shining to World Vision’s Tsunami Relief fund.
I was doubly appreciative of the support for our mutual efforts from our First
Canadian Place landlord at the time, O&Y Properties.
OUR
SHOESHINE ‘VALETS’
In addition to the quality of workmanship and level of service provided at
Penny Loafers – Fairmont Royal York, First Canadian Place, and the Toronto
Dominion Centre, and
at special events, we are also known for the stellar cast of Valets who serve.
All are
part-time; the gentlemen are new. (In order to work at Penny Loafers, individuals
must
be pursuing their own business or career, or attending school, or perhaps getting
back
on their feet, and into the workplace.)
Current Valets
Andrew – talented actor and musician
Brad – attending U of T with ambitions
of joining the RCMP, and more
Cathy – professor of journalism,
and former radio news anchor at the CNN
affiliate in NY
Erin – actor, and a big fan of Andrew’s
(his lovely wife)
Jenny – busy award-winning actor who has
performed for Royalty
Justine – recent university graduate pursuing
a career in event planning
Lynn – masseuse and reflexologist
(Jenny’s cousin)
Nanci – producer and media marketing
consultant (on contract at CBC)
Penny – create jobs, pursue new
business development and public speaking
Rhoda – masseuse, providing on-site
relaxation massage at special events,
e.g. golf tournaments
Sara – yet another busy actor
Therese – professional photographer
Veronica – freelance stage manager, and
part-time stage manager at Second City
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