A love for fashion and a deep connection to her hometown led one Port Alberni local to turn her favorite pastime into a full-time dream. In 2022, Anita Sutherland took over the beloved local boutique, Walk the Coast, and gave it new life while honoring its strong roots in the community.
Anita, known among friends for her shopping passion, jokes about being a “shopaholic,” but her love for clothing and footwear goes beyond the average customer. “Shopping has always been a happy place for me,” she says with a smile.
Her journey to becoming a business owner was shaped by both personal ties and a growing interest in the fashion industry. Her husband, Mike, had worked with the store’s previous owners, Brent and Stacey Manson. Anita herself had long been part of the store’s extended family – not just as a loyal customer, but also as a marketing consultant. As early as 2009, she was helping out with graphic design and social media, back when online promotion was just gaining ground.
“I spent a lot of time at Walk the Coast even before we owned it,” Anita shares. “I loved the warm cedar interior and the idea that I could find stylish, quality shoes right here in Port Alberni. It felt special, and when the chance came to take it over, Mike and I were excited to make it our own.”
Together, Anita and Mike stepped into the business with a shared goal – to offer great products and even better service. Today, Walk the Coast is more than a store; it’s a destination that blends West Coast charm with friendly, expert care. Whether it’s finding a hard-to-fit shoe size or offering support for foot health, they go the extra mile.
“Above all, we want people to feel good – about their shoes, about their visit, and about themselves,” Anita explains. “We’ve worked hard to keep that personal, welcoming vibe alive while also bringing in new energy.”
That new energy includes a carefully selected range of brands that suit both lifestyle and location. From waterproof Vessi shoes made in Vancouver to rugged Blundstones and trail-ready HOKAs, Walk the Coast has options for every kind of journey.
“We focus on life in British Columbia,” Anita says. “Whether it’s hiking boots, everyday sneakers, or something dressy, we have the right fit. Our customers know they’ll find both quality and comfort here.”
And it’s not just about the shoes. Anita and Mike have created a space where shopping is enjoyable again – full of laughs, chats, and real connection. Customers often say it feels more like visiting friends than running errands.
“We really enjoy what we do,” Anita says. “It’s hard not to have fun when you get to help people every day and see them walk out feeling great. That joy is something you can’t fake – and people pick up on it, both in person and online.”
While the shop continues to grow in popularity, Anita remains focused on keeping it local. She supports small-scale makers and community events, and makes sure her team always puts people first.
Walk the Coast isn’t just about selling shoes – it’s about creating a feel-good experience. And with Anita Sutherland at the helm, it’s clear that this Port Alberni boutique owner is stepping forward with style, service, and a true love for her community.
