Natischa Harvey was inspired to create her own shoes after her high school basketball team was forced to wear plain white sneakers when she was a sophomore. Upset with the lack of style, she soon began to design her own sneakers and later designed high heels once her basketball playing days were over. Now the owner of Fever Shoes, Harvey is on pace to take the sneaker and shoe game to a new level. She discusses her love for shoes and taking ownership in the fashion industry. –amir shaw
When did you decide to turn your love for shoes into a business?
I started in 2004 with three boutiques. I had a store in Albany, Ga., Cumberland Mall (Atlanta) and Shannon Mall (Atlanta). I continued to design shoes while running the stores, but I needed a manufacturer. I eventually flew to China last April and there were factories on every block. I eventually found a manufacturer to produce the shoes.
How did you create buzz for your shoe company?
I began to do shoe shows and the demand eventually increased. The Amanda is the number one seller for the high heels line, and The Angel is the No. 1 selling sneaker. We are now selling the shoes in Florida, New York, Connecticut, Trinidad, Bahamas, Texas and Ohio.
What has been the most difficult part about owning a shoe company?
There are not many black-owned shoe companies, so when I go into meetings it’s hard for people to look past my color. When I do presentations for a potential buyer, I have to go above and beyond. A lot of buyers won’t buy from me so I have to have diverse sales reps. I’ve learned that if the buyer sees me at my booth, they won’t buy.That’s the reality of being a black American.
What advice would you give to other individuals who are looking to start their own shoe company?
It’s difficult and a lot people get frustrated and stop. Nobody wants to give you information, so you have to learn a lot on your own. … You have to remain determined and persevere. There will be obstacles with anything you do.
