Page 5 - February 2020 The Ranch Swag Runway

New-comer

shoutout

Bray’s Saddlery & Western Weary’s Saddlery & Western Wear
Bra

When was Bray’s Saddlery & Western Wear established?
Bray’s Saddlery & Western Wear was established in 1927
after Sam Nikitenko left his home country and came to the
states from the Ukraine. Sam immigrated first to Chicago
before settling in Minot, North Dakota. “Coming to the area,
he settled in town in order to find work. By trade he was a
cobbler,” said Joanne Nikitenko. Eventually Sam’s son Andy
took over the family business expanding the space and pur-
chasing another building. “That was in the late 70s, early 80s
when Bray’s was transitioning from a shoe repair and tack
store, to a western wear store,” Joanne explained. The expan-
sion included Tony Llama Boots, jeans, hats, belts and more.
During that time, Andy’s wife Wanda worked by his side.
In 2007, Wanda retired and their daughter-in-law Joanne
stepped aboard the family business. “Before the store was
geared towards all male things. When I came on, I took over
the ordering and created a place for the ladies wear.”

How did Bray’s Saddlery & Western Wear get its name?
“The name came from the shoe repair place Sam [Nikitenko]
worked at then bought the business. It was already estab-
lished and people knew the name, therefore they kept the Bray’s Saddlery & Western Wear Store in
name,” Joanne explained. Minot, North Dakota sticks out to shoppers by
the white horse that proudly stands overhead.
(Photo by Bray’s)
What products can shoppers look to find there?
“We are a full-service western store. That includes boots for How does Ranch Swag fit into your store?
men, women and children all the way to infant sizes. We also “We feel Ranch Swag will fit really well
carry apparel for the entire family, plus belts, purses, jewel- in Bray’s. Our clientele is very traditional
ry, scarves and more,” Joanne described. Bray’s continues to western and trendy western, with a big
carry on the tradition of having a full boot and shoe repair customer base including a large amount of
department. “My husband Greg works alongside his father in Canadian customers,” said Joanne. While
the boot and shoe repair. Andy is now 85 years old and still Joanne said there is a Boot Barn in town,
working every day!” Bray’s is geared towards the farm and
ranch ladies and gents.
How did you find Ranch Swag?
“Facebook. I was online and saw Ranch Swag on a side ad, Describe your store for people that have
clicked and joined. After, I waited and watched to see if we never been there before.
had the space,” Joanne said. The first design to resonate with Bray’s is located in downtown Minot, the
Bray’s was “King George at the Crystal.” building itself is long and narrow. As you