Vance Shoe Repair 4900 Maryland 104, Ellicott City, MD 21043

"I did not leave my home for a mere errand, I embarked upon a quest to find a craftsman. Here at Vance's Shoe Repair you will find such a craftsman. I had three pairs of shoes, each pair in a condition far worse than the last. My toes were on the cusp of bursting through the soles of my plain toe oxfords, and the welts were becoming unsewn. The heels of my brandished leather oxfords were worn away as though I held them to a whetstone. You could see the sunlight through the soles of my penny loafers. I needed a master cobbler and would settle for no less. Searching the whole of Howard County, poring over review after review, I happened upon Vance's Shoe Repair. As I uncertainly pulled up to the storefront, my three ramshackle pairs of shoes in tow, I entered what felt like a cobbler's equivalent to the candy room scene in Willy Wonka & the Chocolate Factory. I have no sense of smell, but it surely would have struck me as musty. There were stacks of leather and shoe soles, there was a wall lined with half a dozen leather sewing machines each with more mileage than my car. I looked to my immediate right and saw a service flag and pictures of family; this is a family-owned business which has operated for decades. Greeting Miss Geraldine "Gerry," I was put further at ease. I was entrusting the repair of my favorite shoes with an owner/ proprietor who was both hospitable and who exuded competence in her craft. After a very brief wait (not exceeding 2 weeks) and a mere $135 later (For THREE shoes, mind you!) the final results speak for themselves. I do regret not taking photos from before, but here I can say with certainty: there is no one else I would entrust my shoe repair with other than the masterful cobblers of Vance's Shoe Repair. So long as their doors remain open, they have in me a loyal customer and brand advocate. Important Final Note: Finding Vance's via Google GPS can be tad misleading; DO NOT confuse them with Watermont Tailor & Cleaners. When you happen upon Watermont Tailor & Cleaners, just drive down the hill and you will find a rear parking lot. As you are descending this hill, look to the right and you will not miss Vance's sign."

"Master craftsman of shoe repair! The years of experience are worth every penny for the quality of work done by this shop. I've been a customer for over 30-plus years. Quality products require experienced, knowledgeable, and professional service. If it's worth fixing, go to Vance Shoe Repair!"

"Great price for great work! I brought a pair of well-worn shoes for a resole (at least the third time I've had them done, previous two at a mall shop) and Gerry was able to revive them completely to their former glory! Couldn't be happier and the price was AMAZING!"

"My 20 yr old boots needed heels, soles, and general leather repair. Gerry did the work also installed zippers for easy on/off and reconditioned the leather without being asked. Boots are perfect. Prices are excellent and outstanding service."

"Best shoe repair in Howard county. Great service and great prices. I got a pair of Clark's chukka boots resoled here and it was fast and cheaper than a new pair. Online advice said it couldn't be done with these Clark's but Vance was able to resole them. Good as new."