Shoemaker's House - Shoes, Luggage And So Much More

Each week 'Town and Country - Manchester Patch' plans to highlight and have a litte fun with a local business. Have a business Patch should visit? Post it in the comments below!

Shoemaker's House at 14533 Manchester Road is a lot more than you might expect. The locally owned shop not only offers a shoe and luggage repair service, which is somewhat hard to find these days, but it also offers an extensive luggage, briefcase and handbag selection.

"From the  level to the high end. we've got bags guaranteed for life," owner Walter Schnaare tells Town and Country - Manchester Patch.

He said the shop has been in business since 1969 and at its Manchester location since 1982. 

Have you ever stopped into Shoemaker's House off Manchester Road? Its rather unique. Not only are Schnaare and his staff execptionally friendly and knowledgable, but if you have a few minutes, take a look around. You will see some of the exotic skins they use to create some of their bags and belts.

"Something that's captured interest in the last year is exotic stuff, like alligator belts, ostrich belts and wallets and crocodile custom handbags," Schnaare tells Patch.

Much of their merchandise is custom made and done in house after the materials are shipped in from other countries.

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In addition to the new exotic stock, Shoemaker's also offers many brands of luggage including Samsonite, Briggs and Riley, Ricardo and Travelpro. You'll also find Bosca leather wallets and a variety of briefcases.

The shop also offers some hard to find specialty services, including leather couch refinishing.

"I don't know anyone who does that," Schnaare said. "We have specialty dyes for that."

PATCH Q & A (with Store Owner Walter Schnaare):

Patch Question: What's been your greatest challenge?

Answer: It was scary when all the businesses moved out of Ballwin (about three years ago). That was of concern to me a little bit, but now they're coming back. 

Patch Question: What keeps you up at night?

Answer: Not really too much. I don't know the answer to that question.

Patch Question: Tell be about a unique experience as the owner of this business.

Answer: We did a Harley Davidson seat in two-toned crocodile (see photo in photo section of this article.)