Becki Coakley’s love affair with shoes started when she was four and shopping with her mother, aunt, and siblings at a Navy Exchange in Charleston. She ran to the shoe department, saw the most beautiful pair of shoes, and the rest is footwear history. Today, the luxury shoe designer creates a sumptuous collection – an homage to her mother, all made in Italy, and worthy of praise!

What was your inspiration for, or to whom do you owe your inspiration, for starting your women’s shoe line?

My inspiration came from my mother. She gave me the spark to start out on my own. We both shared a tremendous love and passion for shoes and style, so when she passed, I wanted to honor and pay homage to her in a big way. My zeal and dream to start this business became my revelation. With every pair of shoes…. my logo incorporates…… my mother’s initial of her first name- three horizontal lines for my siblings and I, and inclusive of my name on the bottom of the logo as the youngest child. En masse, I carry a little bit of her in every shoe, that is made and worn.

What would you describe as your greatest business challenges to date?

I would say financial aid. I started out solely funding my dream out of pocket, without any investors. My brand is constructed in Italy, of quality, and I wanted nothing but the best construction and material I could fund on my own.

What advice quote would you offer to emerging designers that want to be successful in the fashion industry?

Keep going. You’re going to endure challenges. What you don’t know- there’s always someone that does know. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Keep forward moving on your dreams. It can happen and will happen, if you persevere.

IG: @beckicoakleyshoes

www.beckicoakley.com