Harford Road Boutique an Alternative to Large Retailers

Lisa Knows Shoes is a boutique in Parkville for women who want personalized service and unique shoes, accessories and clothing.

The shop opened in 2007 and owner Lisa Nesmith prides herself on offering items that give her customers a one-of-a-kind look.

“I don’t carry a lot,” said Nesmith. “If you come in and purchase a bag and someone asks you where you got it, they’re not going to be able to come in and get the exact same bag that you have.”

She carries scarves, jewelry and several brands of women’s shoes, including Chinese Laundry, Miss Sixty and Sam Edelman, for a variety of occasions – career, casual, and weddings included.

“I have shoes for everyone,” Nesmith said. And because the shop is small, she says she’s able to offer all her customers personalized service.

Owning a boutique was a long-time dream of Nesmith’s.

“It’s just something I always wanted to do,” she said. “I worked for large companies and I thought that if I can work 12-14 hours a day for someone else, I can do the same for myself.”

She chose Parkville as the location for Lisa Knows Shoes because she lives in this area and wanted the shop to be close to her home.

At one point Nesmith ventured into online sales through Lisa Knows Shoes, but has backed away from that to focus on operating the bricks-and-mortar boutique. She also hosts shoe parties at customers’ homes, which she says are similar to Mary Kay or Tupperware parties.

Lisa Knows Shoes is located at 8118 Harford Road and is open Monday through Thursday from 11 am to 6 pm.