Urban Visionaries: The FEATURE Story with EJ Luera & Arjay Bouri

Vegas Circle

Embark on an inspirational tale of ambition and fashion with EJ Luera and Arjay Bouri, the masterminds behind the streetwear phenomenon, Feature. Our candid conversation uncovers the roots of their 20-year friendship and how they've navigated the treacherous waters of the fashion industry from the recession to their rise as style moguls. From sneaker boutique beginnings to luxury brand expansions, EJ and AJ unpack the strategic moves and resilience that have shaped their journey, offering a raw look into the highs and lows that come with building a brand from scratch.
As the narrative unfolds, we traverse through the complexities of retail evolution, and the duo sheds light on their savvy business maneuvers – be it braving an eight-year wait to secure top-tier accounts like Nike, or planting their flagship store in the eclectic heart of Chinatown. They generously share their wisdom on sustaining a boutique's core identity while scaling up and venturing into the luxury retail scene. Our guests don't shy away from discussing the tough battles against bots in sneaker releases, the artistry of apparel design, and the intricate balance of personal branding in retail.
Wrapping up, EJ and AJ turn the spotlight onto the vibrant city that's been their launchpad: Las Vegas. They pay homage to the local culinary delights, hint at exciting sports collaborations, and discuss the significance of community roots for a global brand like Feature. This episode is more than a peek into the fashion industry; it's an ode to the spirit of Las Vegas, the power of enduring partnerships, and the dream of leaving a global footprint that all started with two friends and a passion for streetwear. Join us for a story not just about shoes and style, but about friendship, community, and the drive to make a mark on the world.

Chapters

1. Feature Sneaker Boutique Origins and Visionaries (00:00:11)

2. Expanding a Sneaker Boutique Business (00:05:33)

3. Luxury Retail Expansion Strategy (00:15:44)

4. Competing With Bots and Building Brands (00:28:03)

5. Entrepreneurial Challenges and Growth Strategies (00:36:32)

6. Lessons From Entrepreneurial Experience and Transparency (00:41:52)

7. Las Vegas Restaurants and Community Involvement (00:47:23)

8. Building a Global Brand With VegasRcom (00:54:55)