Van Brunt Optical Haus

COSTA MESA, CA

After several years as an optician in a variety of environments, Laura Van Brunt had a realization.

“I wanted to open an old-school optical shop: owner/operator/optician—no employees,” says Van Brunt.

That realization has been met at Van Brunt Optical Haus, which is part of the OC Mix, an open-air shopping center where the shops are more part of a neighborhood than individual destinations.

Van Brunt’s expertise, combined with a space that creates a full experience and caters to the many needs of the consumer, will one day be a part of a fresh concept to serve up more than eyewear.

Instagram: @vanbruntopticalhaus

AWESOME ATTRIBUTES:

• Housed in the OC Mix, where the vibe is to shop, stroll, and converse with friends.
• The small space creates a feeling of having a customized fitting.
• Laura’s extensive knowledge of the optical industry.
• Special to Me: The space itself is gorgeous with glass walls and natural light flooding the store.

iOptics Eyewear

SARASOTA, FL

Upon walking into iOptics, the first impression may be the swing. Or the bright blue walls. It could be the space, with so much room to breathe and stretch your arms.

iOptics feels like a physical reflection of the town: Sarasota, FL, a place world travelers call home. But it is the current owner, optician Holly Hassler, who makes the greatest impact. With her calm demeanor and quiet knowledge, she shares her 20+ years of optical experience in the ease of conversation.

Of her relationship with her customers, Hassler shares, “The fact that they not only trust me, but also frequently refer their friends for eyewear, makes me feel really honored.”

iopticseyewear.com

AWESOME ATTRIBUTES:

• Talking to Holly feels as comfortable as chatting with an old friend.
• Unique lighting fixtures from chandeliers to monkey statues.
• The inside of the space perfectly reflects the beachside vibes of Sarasota, FL.
• Special to Me: They have a swing!