We had the good fortune of connecting with Zephan Parker and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Zephan, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting a business and keeping one running are two different thought processes.

When it comes to starting a business there is always a sense of fear one must overcome. The confidence to take that first step is predicated upon having a quality product or service you believe in that brings something unique to the consumer.

when I began making handmade cowboy boots and working in shops around Texas I realized there was a unique need for craftsmen in this industry. All of the big makers and manufacturing companies had left the heartland of the USA and migrated elsewhere.

My aim and goal was to re ignite this love and passion for things made by hand in America. This journey began with western bootmaking.

My thought process began with seeing where there was a need in this industry, then follow that trail with persistence, meeting each need of the client along the way. A process we still carry on each week. Navigating the trail ahead to bring to the table the highest quality product, that meets the demand of the consumers expectations.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art lessons began as an urban kid growing up inner city. Graffiti art or art using words and letters was my first expression in art.

This art form is very personal but has a mystery about as well. It uses words and phrases in unique styles to express ones voice or angle on how they view the world.

These curves and points that each letter has is what set the stage for how we would begin designing our boot tops years later.

We believe there is a finesse that must be present to give the boot the highest form of elevation and elegance.

Today, we try to master that feel in each pair. We take what the client lives and bend and move it with leather onto the boot top giving an elegant presentation of both their passions and our artistic expressions.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
There are many things to do in Houston, but the dining is among the best. Restaurants like Rainbow Lodge, or Goode and Co. Cantina will do the trick when I’m the Heights part of Houston.

When looking for a small place to grab a more authentic feel we often eat lunch at The Taco Stand.

A museum or evening Music venue is also great for a nice evening.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
For me it’s the small things along the way and the people who sat beside me to teach me the little tricks and tips we still use. Those like Eddie Kimmel or John Jass in central Texas, and Jimmy Morado, Dave Wheeler and other men in these small shops that gave me their time and friendship.

Website: Parkerbootcompany.com

Instagram: Parkerbootco

Facebook: Parker Boot Company

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