South Orange Resident Opens 'Happy Feet'

Just in time for the start of school, there is a store opening that will help make kids, parents and children's feet happy.

At the end of August, a South Orange resident, Cataldo Urso, who said he's always said he's dreamed of owning his own business, opened the doors to his own store, Happy Feet, at 514 Millburn Ave. in Short Hills.

"I wanted a business that could set an example for children," Urso said. "I wanted to show them that you could do what you want to do."

With a selection of shoes and boots for kids, boys up to the age of 4 and girls up to 5, Happy Feet will carry many popular brands such as Primigi, EMU, Boggs, Jessica Simpson, Saucony, Geox, Kenneth Cole, Pediped, Skechers and Lelli Kelly.

“I want to bring back to all of the surrounding areas a family tradition of bringing your child to a brick and mortar storefront," Urso said. "Happy Feet plus happy kids equal happy parents”.

Urso has joined the Short Hills business with more than 27 years of combined merchandising, purchasing and retail experience and is thrilled, he said. In his early career, he managed a Buster Brown franchise in Camp Hill, Pa. and when he moved to South Orange from New York City he worked in real estate. 

"I just felt I would be a good fit for the area," Urso said.

The community has been very supportive of Urso’s venture he said. He strongly feels this is where he is meant to be; that sixth sense was confirmed when he realized the owner of his rented storefront shares his last name.

Happy Feet will be open 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.