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Cajun Classic
The last thing you would expect at a store nearing the century mark is an employee who’s outlived the original opening. But don’t tell that to Debbie Caliva, the 94-year-old salesperson and former owner at Haase’s Shoes and Young Folks in New Orleans, LA. “We’re a 90-year-old business—the oldest shoe and children’s clothing store in the city,” says Debbie’s daughter-in-law and store manager, Judy Caliva. “My mother-in-law still works here. She’s simply a phenomenal salesperson.”
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Caliva says the store has customers that have been shopping there “forever and ever,” but it also attracts a good number of newcomers as well. Being located on the streetcar line has its perks, she notes, drawing a fair share of tourists inside. “There are beautiful houses to see and a lot of mixed businesses—from the swanky Oak bar to a new burger joint,” Caliva says. “And we’re only six blocks from the river, so we’re keeping an eye on the levee.”
Inside the 3,500-square-foot space, the Calivas sell it all—from prewalkers like Roobez to Kepner Scott and children’s apparel, too. Caliva gave us a glimpse of what’s moving off shelves in Nawlins.
Hottest-selling brands and styles this season? Teva, Stride Rite and Sperry Top-Sider sandals.
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Best new brand added to the mix in the past year? Asics.
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Top-selling accessories? Bows, bonnets and summer hats.
How has the recession most affected your customers’ shopping habits? I think we’re doing very well all considered. People are very loyal. First-time customers say they’ll come back and they do.
What’s your outlook for the rest of the year? Awesome. We’re getting ready to add some new products, like boots for the fall. We’re expanding and looking forward to having a great summer and a great back-to-school [season]. —Meagan Walker
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