OUR MAKERS
Sevilla Smith runs a bit differently than we are typically used to as consumers.
The traditional model of a central production space makes sense financially and productivity wise for almost all businesses. But I found that the flexibility of where, and when, I worked had profound effects on my personal life, especially after having a child. This business was a chance for me to change, not only my own work life balance, but to affect this balance on everyone who made shoes for Sevilla Smith.
So without hesitation, I made sure to set us up as quickly as possible where people could work wherever, and when, they chose. Some of our shoemakers love and need to work from home so the can alleviate child care costs, or just to have the luxury of wearing pajamas while working. Others prefer the companionship that comes with shared workspaces. Every workspace is set up with full sets of our Sevilla Smith shoe lasts but each has it's own unique personality.
Here's a little peak at the makers and spaces behind Sevilla Smith.....
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Faye, Founder/Designer/Shoemaker: Barcelona and Philadelphia
I learned to make shoes by a chance encounter in the streets of Barcelona and started Sevilla Smith with the idea of making shoes that I, myself, found ideal and fitting for my life. I design and make while trying to address everything from aesthetics to how our shoes smell. The ability to travel is critical in my life and the comfort and aesthetic flexibility comes to the forefront.
Workspace: Currently, we are working out of my apartment. In Philadelphia, I work in the 4th floor attic of my early 1800's row home, right next to my son's bedroom.
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Marta, Shoemaker: Valencia, Spain
Workspace: Marta makes out of her spare bedroom in her beachside Valencia home
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Nicole, Shoemaker: Barcelona, Spain
Workspace: Nicole comes to my apartment in Barcelona to work
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Ramiro, Bag Maker: Barcelona, Spain
I met Ramiro thru a mutual leather source. He is the person who puts together and sews the components of our bags before it is hand molded. He is always thorough and after years of working with mega corporations, knows all the ins and outs of production while still staying a true artisan.
Workspace: Ramiro makes out of his bustling workshop in Barcelona.
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Fossey, Anna and Keiko: Brooklyn, New York
Keiko has been an essential part of Sevilla Smith since the beginning. She works with Fossey who is our point person for getting our shoes to our US customers.
Workspace: Keiko and Fossey work out of their shoe space in Brooklyn where they teach students the craft of shoemaking.
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