Pitch Perfect G

“My childhood pictures are basically me modeling shoes at every special occasion,” Bédard says. “I’d save every penny to purchase another pair, and as a teenager, if I couldn’t choose between two colors, I’d buy them both! I remember skipping meals to afford buy more shoes!”

Bédard’s love of shoes turned into a profession with the launch of Maison Bédard in 2016. The 2019 Canadian Artists and Fashion Awards nominee learned her craft studying design in New York and Milan, working at the latter alongside masters at the Arsutoria School of Design. Her overall approach reflects a Canadian design sensibility, eh. Think materials and silhouettes that can brave the elements. “Because of our four seasons climate, we select materials that are durable and can adapt to various weather conditions,” she says, adding that the collection blends European craftsmanship with contemporary design so women can “live their real lives.” The Reschio boot is a perfect example. “It’s a combat boot made of different textures and colors,” Bédard explains. “The texturized raffia combined with black calf leather and organic cotton laces is a style that can be worn every season of the year.”

All Maison Bédard shoes are handcrafted in Italy in the same factories of leading European luxury brands. The collection features the finest materials and components combined with the latest technical constructions and engineering techniques. It’s a blend of the best of the best, which is what Bédard believes her customers deserve. “As women, we’ve been conditioned to comprise comfort for style and beauty. My goal is to change this,” she says. “I believe in being able to wear beautiful and comfortable shoes—styles you can put on in the morning and take off at night without feeling them.” Bédard adds, “Enough with having flip-flops in your car to change shoes after meetings! Enough with taking off your shoes on the dance floor at a wedding because you can’t stand the pain anymore!”

To that end, every pair of Maison Bédard shoes is tested to meet the highest standards for fit and comfort. “I want to make sure our customers can stand and walk for hours without feeling their shoes,” Bédard says.

Perhaps Bédard’s determination for perfection is driven, in part, by her husband and former Major League ace, Erik Bédard. The southpaw was heralded for his nasty curveball, especially during his four years with the Baltimore Orioles. “My husband has the strongest mindset I’ve ever seen,” Bédard says. “Nothing breaks him mentally. He believes that’s just as important as talent.” She notes that her husband was told that he was too short, not strong enough, and that he’d never make it in the big leagues. “It pushed him to work extra hard,

Jessica Bédard

and he made it. This character trait definitely reflects on my work ethic,” Bédard says.

Does your husband “pitch” any design or business advice? Ha ha. Definitely not ones involving design! We’re completely the opposite when it comes to fashion. On the other hand, I truly respect his business advice. When Erik retired from baseball, he asked me what would be my biggest dream? I told him I’ve always dreamed of my own shoe brand. He supported this dream by allowing me to leave pretty much everything and go back to school at 35 years old. Erik is always really encouraging and reminds me every day to focus and block out the noise. If it’s hard, try harder!

In what ways is Maison Bédard unique among designer labels? What sets us apart is our meticulous attention to detail and unwavering commitment to quality. Each shoe is handcrafted by master artisans, using the finest materials ethically sourced from Italy. From sumptuous Italian leathers to hand-embellished accents, every aspect of our designs exude luxury at its finest. Our shoes are made of genuine leather through and through. The collections offer a mix of different textures, such as patent, nappa, and texturized leathers as well as luxurious textiles, including wool and raffia. I love our unexpected mixes of color and eye-catching details. Above all, our designs are always very elegant and timeless.

What are some signature design aspects? Each pair features genuine leather linings to ensure the best comfort. No blisters and no sweating! You’ll also often see details like a weaved or patent toe tip on a boot, or on laces to finish off the look. Our designs also feature a lot of pointed toes for an elongated and feminine look.

Who is the Maison Bédard woman? She’s between 35 and 50, loves her career, and has given most of her time to her family over the previous decades. Her kids are likely teenagers, and she’s concentrating on herself again. She’s not willing to compromise on comfort to look good anymore. She knows she deserves both! I also feel women are ready for colorful, fun shoes again! Specifically, bold silhouettes, texturized materials, and bright colors—done timelessly.

Maison Bédard is all about the textures for its Canadian chic aesthetic.

Do you have a favorite in the collection? Our Barolo boot is my favorite, at the moment. I love its tubular style, which is very current. I also designed it without zippers, buckles, or laces, which makes it very unique. I also love the lower heel, which makes it extra comfortable. You don’t feel like you’re wearing heels.

Has your overall approach to design changed since the pandemic? Back then, I was designing and selling mostly flats. People just weren’t going out much, and that was definitely hard on us. But we readjusted by producing less styles and in smaller quantities. The good news is that we were able to survive. I’m truly grateful for everyone’s support.

What is your retail distribution strategy? We’ve been a DTC online brand, and after selling thousands of pairs in six countries, we’re now celebrating our growth by expending to stores around the world. In three years, we envision Maison Bédard to be a luxury brand that’s renowned worldwide.

What is the best design advice you’ve ever received? To always come back to my why. It’s easy to get lost between everyone’s ideas and recommendations. I consistently remind myself that I am the soul of Maison Bédard.

Who are some designers you admire and why? Isabel Marant has always been my true inspiration for staying true to herself.

What shoe must every woman have in her closet? Our Elsa ballerina. I’ve never reproduced the same style in the same color, except for this one. It’s the most unique, elegant, and timeless ballerina you’ll ever wear! The lining feels like butter and the backing is seamless. Carrie Underwood was spotted wearing it in L.A., and that kicked off its popularity. We keep reordering and each time, we sell out.

What do you love most about designing? Definitely the materials selection. That is when a shoe comes to life. I feel that it accounts for 80 percent of the master piece. It gives true character to a shoe.