Of course, the words: "eye glasses" and "optometrist" automatically invoke a mental image of "LensCrafters" or "Visionworks" or any other generic 1-hour glasses place. Drew and Bryan explained that King & Rose carried artisan frames which made me draw a big, huge blank. I had no idea what "artisan frames" meant, but after visiting, seeing the selection, trying on eyewear, and speaking with the staff I'm very pleased my glasses and Rx sunglasses.
I've worn contacts for years, but my eyes need a break periodically due allergies. Taking a break from contacts is pretty hard without glasses, so with money in my FSA and a free afternoon I stopped into King & Rose. Bryan was working and I let him know I have not picked out glasses in an extremely long-time (7 years or so). I was nervous to pick out something I would later find uncomfortable or avoid wearing because of a vibrant color. He seemed to pick up on how overwhelmed I felt and started asking me about my preferences. From when I usually wear my glasses, what my old glasses look like, what I like about my sunglasses, and what colors I prefer, Bryan took the time to understand my wants and needs (even when I was not able to articulate them).
First, Bryan had me try on a few pairs for size. He quickly knew which size frames to suggest. Then came the shape and color of the frames. Each different pair Bryan handed me to try on was accompanied with why the particular frame would work for me. He would check over the fit of the frame on my face and make sure I felt comfortable in each pair. As we moved through the store and on to different brands to try on Bryan had amazing facts about every brand they carry. He let me know which brands donated proceeds to clean up corporate pollution in the U.S., the advantage of materials the brand uses, and more. Bryan also pointed out what made each brand unique like hand-crafted glasses using vintage materials. The entire experience felt like a shopping experience with a very educated friend and my initial nerves completely dissipated.
Finally, we had it narrowed down to two pairs. I like the way each of them looked, but one of pair was very comfortable to wear. I had chosen a pair of Ahlem eyeglasses which are each hand-crafted in France with number etched in to the temple to indicate that frame's number of the total frames produced (just like a print number on artwork). They looked great and just felt right!
Since I'm sensitive to bright light and religiously wear sunglasses, I asked about prescription sunglasses to couple with my new specs. Bryan went straight to the Ahlem's sunglasses and I fell in love with the first paid I tried on! Any other sunglasses after that were just tried on for fun.
After a few measurements and using my FSA funds to cover most of the cost, Bryan said he would put in the order and should have them in between 7 to 10 business days, but the last pairs he ordered arrived in a 5 business days.
I've had my new glasses and Rx sunglasses for a few months and I am in love with them! I continually get complements on them and I highly recommend King & Rose to everyone!
To sum to all up, the staff is very friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and incredibly helpful. Their selection is hand-picked and high-quality! read more