Stepping In Style: A Seattle Sneakerhead Story

Known for its rainy streets, iconic Space Needle, and grunge era, one business is putting Seattle on the map in the Sneakerhead scene. Takiyah Ward, is the proud owner of  The Re-Sole 206.  Challenging societal norms and redefining entrepreneurship, her thriving Seattle shoe business is breaking down stereotypes. Through The Re-Sol 206, Takiyah inspires customers and community. Operating out of the heart of the Central District, The Re-Sole 206, serves as more than just a shoe restoration and customization shop; it’s a community hub offering training sessions, internships, jobs, and a space for gatherings. With The Re-Sole 206, what began as Takiyah’s personal dream, has become a place of hope with limitless opportunity. 

Following Passion To Find Success 

Driven by her love for art and design, Takiyah pursued a degree in Architecture, mastering drafting and design skills. Once home however, Takiyah quickly realized she wanted more than the traditional 9-5 grind. Driven by both her entrepreneurial spirit and artistic aspirations, she launched her first business, T-Dub Customs, in 2016. However, due to the unforeseen issues with the Covid-19 pandemic, Takiyah was forced to find a different avenue towards success.

 “I just knew I needed to get out of the 9-5 mundanity of life because it was draining me; you know, all of my joy, so I took that leap” 

Determined to succeed, she ventured into the shoe restoration and customization business. Takiyah admits that she, “didn’t know the first thing about starting a business.” Working with close friend Audrey Boo, Takiyah was able to connect with Business Impact NW for additional support and guidance. This led to a long-lasting relationship with Business Impact NW. This partnership proved instrumental, providing Takiyah with personalized guidance, one-on-one training, and opportunities that led to being a showcased business at Celebrating Dreams and an IMPACT Pitch 2023 Winner. 

Business Impact NW Footprint 

Celebrating Dreams, an annual event held by Business Impact NW, spotlights the impactful accomplishments of small businesses, while celebrating growth, diversity, and the innovation of the small business community in Washington. At this event, Takiyah took the offer to auction custom sneakers and network with fellow entrepreneurs. This exposure not only showcased her craftsmanship, but also paved the way for collaborations, including participation in IMPACT Pitch 2023. 

“That personal connection is really what makes them stand out” 

Impact Pitch, an annual pitch competition for small businesses who commit to bettering their local communities, provides a platform to share fresh and innovative ideas with a wider audience. As a participant, she went through a rigorous 5-month long intensive program. Takiyah worked with business coaches to build business plans, a business model, and fine tune her business pitch. This led to her winning in the Idea/Start-up Business Category.

Takiyah states, “From way back, they’ve always been with me, checked in, offered coaching, and assistance in some shape or form, throughout my journey: 6-8 years now.” Takiyah continues, “Anytime I had a question, needed anything, or was confused, I always knew I could call somebody there. I feel like Business Impact NW has been such a great asset, and to be able to talk to a person versus a machine or computer, that personal connection is really what makes them stand out”.  Takiyah’s long-term collaboration with Business Impact NW underscores the invaluable support that is provided to small businesses. 

Lighting the Fire 

Concerned with funding and marketing, Takiyah felt uncertain about pitching her idea and promoting her product with confidence. Working with her Coach, she learned effective product marketing strategies and gained confidence in presenting herself to investors and customers. “Through all the preparation, working with Devra, I like how it was broken down to various steps that you could keep track of, what you were doing, how you were doing, and how you were progressing,” Takiyah explains.

“It really just lit the fire, and you just so happen to have a business plan at the end of this.” 

Channeling her passion and energy, The Re-Sole 206 has emerged as a thriving enterprise within the Seattle Sneakerhead community. With deep roots in the local scene, Takiyah’s connection to the community led her to be commissioned to design and paint a mural at a local park, further  solidifying relationships within the area. The Re-Sole 206 was selected to create custom sneakers for a charity auction hosted by Seattle Seahawks Quarterback, Geno Smith. This marked an amazing achieving for the small business owner. Giving back remains the core of Takiyah’s successful business.

The Future and Sustainability

The Re-Sole 206 stands out in Seattle’s Sneakerhead community as the city’s premier sneaker dry cleaner. Offering cleaning, restorations, and customizations, Takiyah’s business caters to enthusiasts seeking quality service. The Re-Sole 206 is at the forefront of sustainability efforts, setting a standard for eco-friendly sneaker industries. 

Takiyah’s vision extends beyond business success; she aims to reduce the sneaker industry’s environmental impact, while fostering local economic growth. The Re-Sole 206 offers restoration training classes and internship-to-hire programs, contributing to job creation and community. As a gathering place for locals, Takiyah takes pride in the role her business plays in fostering connections.  

 Takiyah inspires others with her journey. Through The Re-Sole 206, she not only finds personal success but also drives tangible ecological change.  By promoting renewable resources and sustainability practices, Takiyah paves the way for a brighter future for sneakerheads everywhere.

Interested in participating in this year’s Celebrating Dreams? For more information click here.

To learn more about participating in IMPACT Pitch 2024, click here.