For some, opening a restaurant can be a harrowing unknown. For Chris and Katrina Shoemaker, the experience has been an extension of what started back in 1989.
"We met when we both got jobs at Pontillo's Pizzeria," Katrina said. "We were 18 and going to school, and working at Pontillo's to put a few dollars in our pockets."
Love rose with the crust, and the couple has been together ever since.
The Shoemakers moved to Valparaiso after college graduation, and their pizza days appeared behind them. That is, until last year, when they returned to Canandaigua, New York, for their 20th high school reunion.
"We ended up back in the kitchen making our own pizza, like we did 20 years ago," Katrina said, "and we caught the bug."
From there, it just a matter of time.
The Shoemakers received permission to use the exact recipe from Pontillo's owner, and found out that Buffa Louie's in Valparaiso would soon be closing. They took over the building immediately.
"Chris was a mortgage broker for 12 years," Katrina said, "but he decided to go into the pizzeria full time to make it a success."
Successful it has been. In their first full month in June, they posted a small profit.
"We're very excited with how we've started out," Katrina said. "We have quite a few repeat customers, which is great."
The Shoemakers invested personal money in the business, and also qualified for a loan from the Small Business Administration. Between the two, and a healthy does of sweat equity, they have held their own.
"Working with the SBA was a very unique experience," Katrina said. "We learned a lot about business during the loan process. But they definitely do not loan 100 percent of the capital needed, and people who are thinking of starting a business should be aware for that."
Shoe's Pizzeria has salads, subs, and wings to complement their New York style pizza. They have daily lunch specials that are quick and reasonably priced around $6 or $7.
"We have slices ready for people who are looking for a quick turnaround," Katrina said. "It's really a unique setup."
