The Story Behind Our Coffee Table Book: More Than Just Sneakers
At first glance, you might expect our coffee table book to be filled with pictures of sneakers—after all, VIJZ is known for its bespoke sneaker designs. But this book tells a deeper story, one that goes beyond footwear. The cover, made from leather with embossed text, reflects the craftsmanship we’re known for, while the bronze foil details give it a touch of elegance. But perhaps the most unexpected part is the image on the cover—a picture of Sam, our founder, with his younger brother. It’s not what you might expect from a brand like VIJZ, but it holds special meaning that goes back to where it all began.
Why the Cover Image Matters
Rather than featuring a sneaker on the cover, we chose a personal photograph of Sam and his brother. This decision reflects more than just a sentimental moment—it represents the core values that define VIJZ. As Sam explains, “My interests converged when my brother and I spent a lot of time drawing and creating graffiti in our sketchbooks.” Those early days of creative expression and shared experiences shaped the foundation of what VIJZ would later become. The bond between family and creativity has always been at the heart of our brand, and this image captures that perfectly.
The Title and What It Stands For
The title of our book symbolizes the essence of VIJZ. We are a small team, but that close-knit environment feels like a family, with everyone sharing the same dedication and motivation to make the brand the best it can be. We go through challenges together, support one another, and push each other to create something extraordinary. This family-like bond is what drives our commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and innovation, and it's what has made our journey so special over the past decade.
A Journey Through the Past 10 Years
The book itself is more than just a collection of sneaker photos—it's a reflection of our journey over the last 10 years. It features the people who have been a part of that journey, the projects that have defined our growth, and the milestones that have shaped us into what we are today. Every page tells a story, not just about sneakers, but about the process behind each design, the challenges we’ve overcome, and the moments that have made a lasting impact.
More Than Just Sneakers: Stories and Meaning
While the book does showcase some of our favorite sneaker designs, it goes much deeper. We share the stories behind the shoes, describing the meaning and thought process behind each pair. From custom wedding sneakers to bespoke collaborations, every project has its own narrative, and we wanted to capture that in the book. Additionally, we highlight other exciting projects and moments from the atelier that show the breadth of our work beyond footwear.
A Unique Combination of Stories and Craftsmanship
This isn’t just a book for sneaker lovers—it’s a book for anyone who appreciates creativity, storytelling, and craftsmanship. With a mix of sneakers, personal stories, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into our projects, the book offers something unique. It's a visual and emotional journey that reflects who we are as a brand, and we believe it’s something special for anyone who picks it up.
Our coffee table book is more than just a showcase of our work—it’s a reflection of who we are, where we’ve been, and what we stand for. It’s filled with personal stories, meaningful moments, and creative projects that go beyond the world of sneakers. If you’re interested in learning more about the heart of VIJZ, this book is the perfect way to dive deeper into our journey.
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