An Inspired Chat with Celeste Purdie

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Celeste Purdie. Check out our conversation below.

Hi Celeste, thank you for taking the time to reflect back on your journey with us. I think our readers are in for a real treat. There is so much we can all learn from each other and so thank you again for opening up with us. Let’s get into it: What do you think is misunderstood about your business? 
What’s most misunderstood about Foot Solutions Greenville is that people think we’re just a shoe store, or that you only come to us when you’re already in pain. The reality is we are a foot wellness center. Yes, we help people with conditions like plantar fasciitis or diabetes, but we also work with athletes, professionals, and anyone who wants to perform better, feel better, and prevent problems before they start. Our team uses advanced technology for gait analysis and custom orthotics, and we curate footwear that blends comfort with style. Just as important, we’re not looking to solve this mission alone—we have a strong preferred partner and referral program and actively seek partnerships with others who share our commitment to making people better. Together, we can create a stronger, healthier community from the ground up.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Celeste Purdie, a U.S. Air Force veteran turned entrepreneur, and today I lead two very different but equally rewarding paths. I’m the CEO and co-owner of Foot Solutions Greenville, a service-disabled veteran-owned business that has grown into the Upstate’s premier destination for foot wellness—helping people walk without pain through specialized shoes, custom orthotics, and medical programs. At the same time, I lead the Greenville Dream Team at Marchant Real Estate, where I focus on helping local heroes—veterans, first responders, educators, and healthcare workers—buy and sell homes while giving back through the Homes for Heroes Reward Program.

What makes both brands special is their purpose: they aren’t just about selling shoes or houses. They’re about service, connection, and impact. We’ve been honored with awards like Greenville Chamber’s Minority Business of the Year, Best Shoe Store in the Upstate three years running, and Best Regional Shoe Store in South Carolina, and through the Homes for Heroes Reward Program we are closing in on $100,000 given back to local heroes. Right now, I’m focused on growing both organizations, building deeper community partnerships, and preparing for expansion, all while staying true to my core mission—helping people live better, whether that’s through foot health or homeownership.

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
The relationship that most shaped how I see myself is motherhood. Becoming a mother grounded me in family while also influencing the way I lead and think about legacy. Watching my daughter launch businesses, purchase her first home, and build a career has been a source of pride and inspiration. I also have a bonus son who is thriving in his education and establishing a business of his own. Their growth and achievements remind me daily that leadership is not only about building something for yourself, but about creating opportunities and setting an example for the next generation. My husband and I take comfort in knowing that if we ever needed to step away from one of our businesses, our family has both the capability and interest to continue what we’ve started. Motherhood has shown me that true success is measured not just by personal accomplishments, but by the legacy you leave in the hands of those you love.

If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
I’d tell my younger self to trust her own strength. Life is going to take you places you never imagined, and even when you feel like you don’t belong, you do. Don’t waste time doubting yourself—your courage, grit, and determination will carry you further than you realize. But just as important, remember to take time out for yourself. Slow down, breathe, and make space for joy along the way. You don’t always have to be the strong one or the one carrying it all. It’s okay to rest, to laugh, and to savor the small moments. The world won’t fall apart if you take care of you—and in fact, you’ll show up stronger and happier for the people who matter most.”

Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
My closest friends would say that what matters most to me is service and connection. Whether it’s serving my country, supporting local heroes through real estate, or helping someone walk without pain at Foot Solutions Greenville, I care deeply about making a meaningful difference in people’s lives. They’d probably also add that family, my values and belief, positive attitude, and community are always at the center of my decisions. I’m driven by the idea that when you lift others up, you rise too.

Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I only had 10 years left, I would stop putting off vacations and working as much as I do now. I’d make sure I had someone ready to step into my businesses so they could thrive without me, and I’d spend more time catching up with old friends while cherishing time with current and new ones. Family would be at the foundation of everything I do, and I’d finally check off some of those bucket list adventures I’ve dreamed about. At the end of the day, I’d want my time to reflect the people and experiences that matter most.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://purdieinc.com
• Other: All of my links for my businesses can be found at purdieinc.com including Foot Solutions Greenville, my real estate business, self storage, community volunteer work and any side hustles.