My mum is the main influence, for several reasons. Unfortunately she developed a cancer in her left eye aged only 18. Amazingly a gifted surgeon managed to save her eye, but she continues to have complex issues to this day. Understandably, from a young age my sister Emily and I had very regular visits to Mr Kelcher, our local optician in Cannock.
My eyesight was always fine, however I remember the horrendous pink NHS frames with chunky lenses Emily had to suffer. Being a nice big brother I make sure she now has cool specs and looks amazing.
As I enjoyed my science lessons, but was always in trouble for talking, Mum suggested an opticians would be a good idea for my school work experience. At only 14, after two fun weeks at Cannock SpecSavers, I knew what I wanted to do!
Graduating from Cardiff University in 1998 with my optometry degree was the next big step. A return home for my pre-registration year was a good move, passing all 10 professional exams in 1999…I was now an Optometrist.
I then worked as a locum optometrist in a variety of high street chain opticians and established independent practices. I quickly gained a lot of real life experience, and saw first hand how a practice should, and shouldn’t be run.
I discovered it was hard to be an excellent optician when you worked for one of the big boys, who often only see their clients as numbers. But equally the dated and stuffy environment of the average independent was very unappealing.
I decided there must be a better way, so with a good dose of youthful enthusiasm, I took the plunge and opened Perspective in February 2005.
Twenty years later and our simple guiding principles of “Be Nice” and “Look after people how you want to be looked after.” seem to have worked pretty well.
Perspective has grown in so many ways, especially our reputation for being an excellent opticians. Along the way we have won awards, had lots of fun, and even appeared on national television.
The secret to our success has always been our fantastic team of eye enthusiasts, who are here day in and day out, making a positive difference to our customers lives.
On that note, a huge thank you to all our loyal clients for your continued support of our independent practice.
Your enthusiastic recommendations to friends, family, and colleagues have made Perspective what it is today….. and how bright the future looks tomorrow!
