MMDC sat down with Damien Baker, co-owner of Kickspins and retail tenant of MMDC’s new development BOXLOT.
Can you let us know a little bit about yourself and the “Kicks” side of Kickspins?
Well, I've always been an artist /sneakerhead. I used to get in trouble for drawing in class, on desks and walls. It eventually led to me doing the same but on sneakers, then I decided to move on to restorations. We all have that one pair that we just dont want to let go of. That's one of the main reasons why I decided to give it a try for the first time.
When/how did you get into the sneaker scene, shoe refurbishing, and sneaker customization?
I've been into sneaker culture since middle school. I remember when classmates would bring in the latest Eastbay catalog. The entire class would stop just to look at it and see the what new sneakers were being released. I became interested in customization back in 2007. I was watching a television program that featured a pair of customized "God of War" Nike Dunks. I thought to myself, "I can do that." A friend of mine saw the same program and decided to give me a couple pairs of sneakers to try it out on. I did some free hand designs and people liked them. I learned the process and took it seriously back in 2014. Then moved on to learn the restoration aspect.
Your business model is very unique- 2 stores in one with unique services (shoe refurbishing & customization and music apparel). What inspired this business as well as your partnership with Tonya?
I've known Tonya since 1999. We've both shared a deep love for music and art. I showed her a pair of customs that I was working on for a customer. She admired my work and was very encouraging. She later pitched the idea of "Kickspins" to me and I loved the idea, so we ran with it.
How did this opportunity come about? How has MMDC aided in the process of starting your business?
The opportunity was presented to me by Tonya through MMDC. The MMDC has been supportive in more ways than one, financially, through promotion and events. I'm happy and thankful to be a part of something so special and innovative.
Do you sell any items in store? What can people expect from their experience with your services and your in-store offerings?
Yes, I sell various books about sneakers and the culture, 3-D printed sneaker keychains that range from "Off White Jordans" to "Travis Scott Dunks". I also sell various products for sneaker customization/restoration, ranging from leather paint starter kits, heatguns, shoe cleaners, shoe decreasers and sole cleaners, to restore them back to their original color.
As a new business owner in the District, what is some advice you would give other entrepreneurs looking to establish a brick and mortar in the Medical District?
If the opportunity, love and passion are there, go for it. Know your service, product and customer base. Properly set goals and means to achieve them. You will definitely be supported.
What are your signature/most popular services so far? Any design requests that stand out?
My most popular services have been sneaker restorations and colorway changes. Some sneakers are almost impossible to find again once no longer in stock. Those that are available are highly expensive. Like I said before some people have that special pair that they just dont want to let go of, so they bring them to me. I'm able to remove creases, restore the original color to the sole and or change the colorway all together.
Kickspins is located at 607 Monroe Avenue. You can like and follow them on Facebook and Instagram and contact them at (901) 286-3164