Meet Up Paris: A Cultural Powerhouse in the Sneaker Scene
What began as a childhood fascination with sneakers evolved into a global streetwear brand built on passion, creativity, and cultural connection. For Gregory Bellaïche and Leonardo Griss Bembe — co-founders of Meet Up Paris — sneakers have always been more than just footwear. “Sneakers were always intertwined with music, sport, and creativity.”
The Launch
That connection became the driving force behind their entrepreneurial journey, culminating in the 2018 launch of Meet Up Paris — a concept store that quickly became a hotspot for sneaker lovers, celebrities, and footballers alike. The opening was nothing short of electric.
Within a week of launching, the store had over 10,000 followers on social media. Legends like Sean Wotherspoon visited, and the energy on the shop floor matched that of the online hype. “We knew we had something special from the start,” they say. “Each day brought new surprises and opportunities.”
Built on Passion, Fueled by Drive
Gregory and Griss describe their brand as a reflection of the streetwear culture they grew up loving — one that’s always moving, evolving, and full of energy. “The best part is doing what you love, as a team,” they explain. “You travel, meet new people, and discover new ideas.”
Building Meet Up from scratch, without outside investors, taught them the importance of respect and human connection. “Some of our best opportunities came just from talking to people who weren’t even planning to buy anything,” they add. “You never know where a conversation might lead.”
The Trophy by GASSAN Connection
One of those unexpected connections turned into a fruitful collaboration with Trophy by GASSAN, introduced through mutual friend and footballer Bryan Dabo. What started with social media support led to a large order and eventually a joint presence at events like the Master Expo. “We didn’t go into it for money — it was built on mutual respect,” they say.
The partnership bridged the world of sneakers and fine jewellery, and was solidified when GASSAN’s CEO, Benno Leeser, showed up at their pop-up in Paris to personally thank them. “That meant everything to us,” they reflect. “It showed us that our values aligned — hard work, family, and passion.”
More Than a Store
Meet Up Paris is more than just a sneaker boutique — it’s a living, breathing part of global streetwear culture. Drawing inspiration from American pioneers in the sneaker scene, Gregory and Griss aim to create a space where authenticity reigns. “There’s a vibe at Meet Up you won’t find anywhere else,” they say.
Their ambition now stretches far beyond Paris. Plans are in motion for global pop-ups and even their own sneaker line. “This collaboration helped us become a brand, not just a store,” they explain. “It proved that streetwear can touch everything — from luxury and art to the automotive world.”
What’s next? They want to keep evolving. Keep inspiring. And most importantly, keep doing it as a team.
Ready for more?
Curious for more? Read the full interview with Gregory Bellaïche and Leonardo Griss Bembe in our latest issue — Life After Football Magazine, Issue 85.
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