Indies Head to New York for Vision Expo East

NEW YORK—Last week, thousands of members of the optical community arrived at New York City's Javits Center to attend Vision Expo East 2023. From some of the biggest companies in the world to mom-and-pop shops in small towns, Vision Expo offered something for everyone—and indies were well represented at this year’s show. Here, we’re taking a look at social media to see how Vision Expo East shaped up for some of the visiting independent ECPs.

Eyes of Cresta Bella

The team at Eyes of Cresta Bella in San Antonio, Texas, is excited to up their merch game with mugs. Image via eyesofcrestabella on Instagram

Small Businesses Welcome Ramadan

NEW YORK—At sundown on Wednesday, March 22, 2023, the month of Ramadan officially began. Celebrated by over 1 billion Muslins worldwide, Ramadan is the holiest month in the Muslim calendar. For thirty days (this year, from March 22 to April 21), millions will fast from sunup to sundown every day. The month also involves prayer, charity, community time and introspection for Muslims everywhere, including those who do not fast during the month. Islam is the third most popular religion here in the U.S.

Funding Options for Women-Led Businesses Offer Resources and Counsel

The growth in entrepreneur-led businesses has taken off, but women-led businesses still account for a minority of those enterprises even though the percentages have increased. In 2021, there were some 49 percent of entrepreneur-led businesses. But there are over a dozen government-led agencies and organizations out there to help female-led businesses. A great wrap-up on these can be found at CO - The Chamber of Commerce resource site for small business. A special article, recently posted to CO, explains 16 sources of funding and a brief summary of how they work as well as links.

Celebrating International Women’s Day

NEW YORK—On Wednesday, March 8, 2023, billions of people around the world took the time to celebrate International Women’s Day in their own way. First officially recognized by the UN in 1977, International Women’s Day recognizes the achievements and struggles of all women around the world. From protests to parties and everything in between, there are countless ways to celebrate and honor International Women’s Day. This week, we’re taking a look at how the optical community honored women this International Women’s Day.