Sunday, July 3, 2016

AN AMERICAN CRAFTSMAN

ANSLEY’S VLAD DJOURAEV     

     “I approach every person as a friend not a customer,” said a smiling Vlad Djouraev, owner of Ansley Shoe Repair.

     That qualifies him as a friend to locals and celebrities galore. (Psst, a famous person cannot walk in broken heels, either.)

     On the walls of this cobbler’s shop there are photographs to prove he’s gotten close-up and personal with the shoes, handbags, luggage, and saddles to some legitimately big celebrities.

     “Dolly Parton, Def Leopard, Lady Antebellum,” a new customer was speaking aloud the names while looking at the framed pics. “Beyoncé, Charles Barkley, Gene Simmons…I’m impressed.”

     The shop has also done repairs for some of the biggest movie producers, artists, and business leaders. There is another roll call of politicians that trust him. 

     Vlad makes some small talk and thanks the customer. He treats the new client as if he had
 known him forever. 

     As the man leaves, a bell jingles at the entrance. “I always look at a problem from a customer's perspective,” said Vlad. “Honesty is crucial for repeat business.”
 
     That is sound advice that was passed along in a life-long apprenticeship. Ansley Shoe Repair is about to celebrate their 15th year in business. Vlad’s father Sam Djouraev held the laces to the shop back then.

     But they both learned the skill from Sam’s beloved father in Russia.  One of Vlad's uncles has been working on the large family tree, a rich story of courage which winds through Europe.

     “We moved here because it is a terrific place to raise a family,” said Vlad. “Atlanta is a great city all around.”

     Now that he’s holder of the leather hole punch, Vlad is concentrating on his business model... which includes smiling a lot.

     “People appreciate my work and that is priceless,” he said. “I like what I do, I like working with people, and a little humor goes a long way.”   

     Ansley Shoe Repair specializes in leather goods, and Vlad loves a challenge. Stop-in today and meet him at Ansley Mall 404-885-1171 or email ansleyshoe@hotmail.com

-- -Ray Macon

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