photo by steed media service

Understanding how to market your business is a key factor in how successful that business will be. Nicole Jones, founder of Sensual Steps Shoe Salon, knew that in order to get her name out to the people, she had to think outside the box. “We have a pink lavishly wrapped Hummer,” she explains. Her trademark vehicle travels all over the city, bringing the Sensual Steps experience home for many Chicagoans. “We roll out the ‘pink carpet’ in front of people’s homes,” she says with a laugh.

Established two and a half years ago, Sensual Steps was one of the first businesses to open in the Bronzeville community’s Cottage Grove corridor. “When you walk into our doors, it’s as if you’re on Rodeo Drive,” shares Jones. “It’s extremely beautiful — from the hardwood floors, to the very plush chairs. We dress in pink shoes and doctor’s outfits with pink stethoscopes, [and] we have a wonderful café station right there when they walk [through] the door.”

Jones is passionate about bringing a high level of fashion and sophistication to both her shop and her community. She has worked hard to build her brand, and received a tremendous boost from the Urban League’s Project Next program. “I am a Next One candidate and this has been the most phenomenal experience of my life,” she says. “I was applying for help to grow my business, [and] I filled out all of the information for Project Next. Two-hundred and fifty businesses [applied], but I spoke from my heart and I was one of the blessed 16 businesses to get into this program.” –todd williams


For more information, visit www.sensualstepsinc.com.

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