Steppers Kicks Celebrates its One-Year Anniversary with Ribbon-Cutting!
On August 3, 2024, Steppers Kicks marked its one-year anniversary with a vibrant celebration in Brawley, CA. The event included a long-awaited ribbon-cutting ceremony, which the store missed during its initial opening in 2023. The anniversary festivities also featured various games and activities for kids, commemorating the store’s journey from its inception to becoming a beloved local business. Highlights included a unique game where children had the chance to win money by picking random shoes and a basketball game at the main entrance.
Brawley City Council member Gil Rebollar attended the event and expressed his congratulations on Instagram: “Congratulations to Steppers Kicks for one year of business!”
The Journey of Steppers Kicks
Brothers Jamal and Latrell Thomas, the founders of Steppers Kicks, were inspired to start their business due to their shared passion for sneakers. “We always had a lot of shoes, so we just wanted to build a store,” said Jamal Thomas. Their dream began eight years ago, and after years of collecting hundreds of shoes, they finally opened their store in Brawley in 2023.
Steppers Kicks initially focused on rare shoes, but the Thomas brothers have plans to expand their inventory to include popular brands like Vans and Converse. “We’re just trying to give back to the community,” Jamal Thomas stated, reflecting on their mission to make quality footwear accessible to everyone.
Overcoming Challenges and Looking Ahead
Like any new business, Steppers Kicks faced several challenges in its early days. Securing the right location and navigating the complexities of starting a retail business were significant hurdles. However, the brothers’ dedication and passion for their vision helped them overcome these obstacles.
Looking to the future, Steppers Kicks has exciting plans for expansion. “We’re planning on expanding to El Centro and possibly getting a partnership with Nike. This would allow us to offer a wider range of shoes and provide better products to our customers,” Jamal Thomas revealed.
Community Engagement
In addition to their business aspirations, the Thomas brothers are committed to supporting their community. On August 9, they will host a back-to-school event where they will distribute free school supplies to children. This initiative reflects their ongoing efforts to give back and make a positive impact locally.
As Steppers Kicks celebrates its first anniversary, the Thomas brothers look forward to continuing their journey, expanding their reach, and strengthening their ties to the community. With their passion for sneakers and a commitment to service, the future looks bright for Steppers Kicks.