Laura G Manifold

My soon-to-be 90 year-old granny has been looking for a pair of big, round, red frames to replace the old pair she sat on a few weeks ago.  I’ve searched and searched the Internet for a replacement pair, called her eye doctor to specially order a similar pair to no avail.  The closest I’ve come is a pair of candy red Calvin Klein sunglasses that Granny (whom I affectionately call G-funk) claims ‘aren’t dressy enough’.

On a recent trip to Chicago, I stopped by Dusty Groove to grab some records and the new Wax Poetics.  Parking the car, I noticed a vintage eyewear store with loads of goodies filling the window.  My heartbeat quickened as I approached the storefront and saw a pair that was an almost exact match of G-funk’s broken pair.  I entered and – lo and behold – six more possible replacements were found.  The young woman attending the shop allowed me to snap a few photos and put a pair on hold, in case G-funk was keen to buy the frames. 

Clutching the stylish business card of Labrabbit Optics in my hand, I immediately called G-funk to tell her the good news.  We both gushed like teenagers about what a find I had just made.  Upon showing her the photos, she agreed they were exactly what she had been looking for.

I was even happier when I called Labrabbit Optics to order the red frames.  Grown out of an ‘optical speakeasy’ in the Chicago flat of owner Coyote DeGroot, Labrabbit is an independently-owned ‘optical dispensary like no other.’  As a consumer who prides herself on purchasing products from local, independent and unique retailers, I was immediately assured of Mr DeGroot’s professionalism in his business and intelligence with his craft.  His knowledge of his product and kind demeanor were refreshing, as he knew my name and the exact pair that I had put on hold two days before.  I spoke directly with Mr DeGroot on the phone and received a receipt via email within minutes of placing the order.  He even texted me when the transaction was complete, and thanked me for my purchase.

I highly recommend Labrabbit Optics if you’re in the market for some new glasses. Check out the online shop to find the perfect pair.  Rest assured you’ll be taken excellent care of.  You’ll look good, with the added bonus of supporting local and independent business.  I know G-funk will be envy of her friends when she kicks it in her new frames.