Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Kim Jurina. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Kim , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Coming up with the idea is so exciting, but then comes the hard part – executing. Too often the media ignores the execution part and goes from idea to success, skipping over the nitty, gritty details of executing in the early days. We think that’s a disservice both to the entrepreneurs who built something amazing as well as the public who isn’t getting a realistic picture of what it takes to succeed. So, we’d really appreciate if you could open up about your execution story – how did you go from idea to execution?
The idea for a mobile optical service came from recognizing a need in the marketplace for a specialty concierge experience in eyewear. I saw that people were looking for alternatives to the traditional brick-and-mortar model, and I knew I could fill that gap by offering a personalized, on-the-go service. The easy part of this journey was coming up with the idea—now the real work has begun.
With over 20 years of optical industry experience and the help and guidance of my mentor, Helen Whitaker, I was ready to try something new.
I took immediate action, focusing on finding the right portable equipment, building a brand identity, designing a website, and setting up logistics to ensure a seamless, high-quality service. Each step brought the vision closer to reality. The journey has been one of continuous discovery, with Helen’s support providing valuable insights along the way.
The response has been spectacular, and the excitement from those I share the model with confirms I’m on the right path. It’s an evolving process, but each step I take is reshaping how people experience eyewear.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.
I come from a family with deep roots in the optical industry. My father, an optometrist trained at the University of Berkeley, and my mother, an optical assistant, moved to Canada after their graduation and established an optometry practice in a small town in Northern Alberta. Together, they built a business dedicated to delivering the best in full-service eye care, with a mission to truly make a difference in people’s lives. Growing up in that environment, I learned the importance of treating each person as more than just a client, instilling values of respect and genuine care.
Being part of a family business shaped me in countless ways. There’s a special warmth and culture that comes from working alongside family, and I always knew I’d eventually step out to create something of my own. While I had a rewarding career working with my parents, the time felt right to try something new after they retired.
That’s when I launched my own venture—a mobile optical service that brings personalized, concierge-level eyewear experiences directly to clients. With over 20 years in the industry, I recognized a growing demand for convenience and alternatives to the traditional brick-and-mortar approach. My mobile service allows me to provide expert care and tailored solutions wherever my clients are, helping them build an eyewear wardrobe that fits their lifestyle by actively listening and understanding their needs.
What truly sets me apart is my genuine passion for helping people feel amazing in their glasses. I bring a positive attitude and a smile to every interaction, focusing on asking the right questions and making thoughtful recommendations so clients not only see better but also look and feel their best.
I’m especially proud of the excitement I see when sharing my mobile optical concept. The enthusiastic responses reaffirm that I’m on the right path, transforming the way people experience eyewear. It’s an evolving journey, and I’m continually inspired by the opportunity to make a difference in such a personal way.
On top of that, I’m thrilled to be designing my own eyewear collection. As someone who has always had an artistic side, this allows me to blend my creativity with my optical expertise, crafting frames that reflect the unique style and personality of each wearer. This new endeavor adds a fresh, personal touch to the business, making the journey even more rewarding.
We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.
One story that illustrates my resilience comes from my time growing up in my family’s optical business. As I became more involved in the practice, I realized it was essential to evolve the brand and move away from the traditional optometric model. I wanted to introduce eyewear that was not only unique but also accessible in a market flooded with ordinary options.
From a young age, I would sit beside my mom as she booked appointments with optical sales reps. I watched her interact with them and learned the nuances of the business—flipping through trays of glasses and discussing styles and trends. Her mentorship laid a strong foundation for me, and I’m immensely grateful for the legacy I was part of in our community.
Once we established a niche in unique eyewear, we decided it was time to expand by opening additional locations. Instead of purchasing existing practices like many other optometrists, we chose to open our offices from scratch. My family and I approached this venture with confidence and convocation, believing that if we built something, people would come—much like the famous quote from Field of Dreams.
While the idea was the easy part, the real work was just beginning. I quickly discovered the importance of networking as a powerful tool for growth. I joined JCI (Junior Chamber International), an international nonprofit organization for young active citizens focused on creating positive community change while developing leadership skills. Through JCI, I learned so much about relationship building and people skills, which ultimately led to incredible growth for our business.
Networking opened doors I never imagined possible, allowing me to connect with like-minded individuals and build lifelong friendships. Each connection was a step forward in my journey, reminding me that resilience is not just about overcoming obstacles—it’s also about embracing opportunities and fostering relationships that contribute to our shared success. I am so thankful for that.
We’d appreciate any insights you can share with us about selling a business.
Yes, I have sold a business, and the experience taught me valuable lessons that I believe are relevant for any entrepreneur considering a similar path. As an entrepreneur, you always have to expect the unexpected. The outcome might not align with your initial expectations, and there are often risks involved that can impact the process.
One key lesson I learned is the importance of having an exit or succession plan in place. It’s crucial to think ahead and prepare for the possibility of selling your business. A well-thought-out plan not only makes the transition smoother but also adds value to your business in the eyes of potential buyers. Without a clear strategy, you may find yourself navigating a complex situation without direction.
Additionally, there’s a reason why we show up every day in our businesses. It’s about more than just the numbers; it’s about the passion, relationships, and legacy we build along the way. Selling a business can be an emotional experience, and it’s essential to remember why you started in the first place. That passion and commitment not only drive your success but also resonate with potential buyers, making your business more appealing.
In sharing this journey, I encourage other entrepreneurs to stay focused on their vision and values while being prepared for the inevitable twists and turns. Each experience, whether it leads to success or a sale, shapes who you are as a business leader and informs your next steps in the entrepreneurial landscape.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.eyestylist.ca
- Instagram: @youreyestylist
- Facebook: Eye Stylist Inc.
- Linkedin: Kim Jurina
Image Credits
Photographer
Dallas Currow
https://luminarie.ca/