Exhibit 10.37

                                     [LOGO]

                                 March 1, 2004


Joe Vander Pluym



Dear Joe:

     The full year 2003 results ended with a pre-tax profit of $5,769,150. This
allows the company to pay the 25% bonus level which was the $5,500,000 pre-tax
level. Enclosed is a check representing your bonus for 2003. We are thrilled to
be able to share the success of the company's recent performance with you in
this way.

     The bonus plan for 2004 has been adjusted to reflect the goals for the
company now that we have raised additional capital and become a public entity.
Your bonus will be based on the profit after-tax using a standard corporate tax
rate.

<Table>
                                                                             
   5%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $1,066,000
  10%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $1,566,000
  15%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $2,066,000
  20%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $2,566,000
  25%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $3,066,000
33.3%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $3,766,000
41.7%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $4,666,000
  50%   of your cumulative salary if the company achieves an after-tax profit of   $5,666,000
</Table>

     The bonus period will be the fiscal months of January 2004 through December
2004. You must be an active employee of Bakers Footwear Group at the time
bonuses are paid to be eligible to receive your bonus.

     We are excited about the challenges and prospects in the coming year. We
hope it's profitable for all of us and our shareholders.



                                         Sincerely,


                                         /s/ Peter Edison

                                         Peter Edison




 2815 Scott Avenue-Saint Louis, Missouri 63103-(314)621-0699-Fax (314)621-0708