Walks in RED (team edition!): Gina
If you’ve visited our shop in Machynlleth, emailed us or called on the phone, chances are you’ve spoken to Gina.
She plays a key role in the day-to-day running of RED, keeping things organised and on track. Gina is usually the person you’ll speak to if you get in touch with us, and as well as answering queries and taking orders, she helps keep everything running smoothly.
Gina brings a calm, positive energy to the shop day to day and we’d be lost without her!
Hi Gina!
Can you tell us a little bit about how you came to work at RED?
Hi! So, I worked in Aberystwyth at Medina shop for a number of years, where the Daveys would often come in. Ruth’s sister runs a business in town, so I would see Jen a lot, and Ruth’s mum Linda would pop in too, as well as Ruth herself. My sister forwarded me an Instagram post from RED, saying they were looking for someone to cover Margo’s maternity leave. I then spoke to Ruth’s mum in the shop about it, and she said, “Why don’t you give it a go?” So that’s what I did.
At first I didn’t think it was really me, as I had never worked with feet or shoes or anything in that line of work — I’ve mostly worked in hospitality all my life. But I settled into it quickly, and all my previous customer-facing work has turned out to be really useful in this role.
At first I was working part time alongside my work at Medina, and then came fully on board in September 2025.
What does a typical day at RED look like for you?
A typical day at RED for me is coming in, opening the shop, and making sure everything inside and outside is looking good. Music on, sign out, and computer on. I then check the inbox looks like and reply to any enquiries. After that, it’s usually a trip to the post office to send off laces, shoes, or both!
Throughout the day, I take calls and chat with customers who come in for a browse. If we have an appointment booked, I prepare as needed - whether someone is coming in for a fitting or to choose from our swatches of leather and suede colours.
Tuesdays and Fridays are usually when Sarah comes in, and she often makes me feature in reels!! ;)
(Can confrm I would be lost without her! - Sarah)
We're so lucky to live in this part of the world aren’t we! How do you make the most of it?
Yes we really are lucky to live in the area we do! I live towards Aberystwyth so there’s my hang out area. When I’ve got a bit of free time at the weekends or on Mondays I like to use the sauna (built by Heartwood Saunas run by Ruth’s brother Olly ) on Aberystwyth promenade and a quick dip in the sea .
I also live near Nant yr Arian where there’s a few bike trails to ride - accompanied by my two year old son, Finn! I also live close to Cwm Rheidol, we often go down there in summer to take advantage of a nice swimming spot.
Can you tell us a bit about your RED boots and why you chose them?
When it came down to choosing, I immediately went for a lace-up ankle boot. That’s the kind of style I like, and I needed something that would go with anything. For the leather, I really love the Diesel range we offer to customers; super soft, with a really nice finish as it wears. The lining had to be Ferrari red! It’s actually my favourite colour, but it also ties in perfectly with the brand.
They are so comfy, and I haven’t taken them off since.
What’s your favourite part of your job?
The best part of the job is when someone comes in with various needs or requirements, and then seeing the making process of what they’ve ordered come alive, and knowing it makes a real difference in their lives.
I love that we offer such a personal service, and along with our ready to wear range, customers also have the option to get a pair of shoes made exactly to the shape and requirements of their feet. Being a part of that process feels really special.
I’ve always enjoyed working with people, and working alongside my creative colleagues and our customers is a joy. I also love working on our street in Machynlleth as we’re in such good company! Hermit Crab, just a few doors up, do incredible flat whites, what’s not to like!
