This story was originally included in the Women In Optometry 2019 Gift Guide.
When Jessica Butler’s son was born with congenital cataracts almost eight years ago, she felt a call to lessen the stigma for kids who had vision issues and for wearing eye patches. She began creating and selling clothing that kids could be proud to wear.
She began receiving requests from eye care professionals, and about two years ago, she began to expand her offerings, to include made-to-order clothing, jewelry, ornaments and décor, such as pen, pencil and business card holders.
“I’m enjoying working with the eye care providers; they’re so interesting,” she says. People call with special requests.” she says. She hand-paints many of the items, and about 18 months ago, the company purchased a 3D printer so that she can create and assemble the pieces herself.
Doctors are ordering items for themselves and also as gifts for staff or friends. Some doctors also order some of the kids’ designs and either stock them in the office for sale or take orders for parents whose kids want t-shirts that help them express how cool their eyeglasses or patches are.
Orders can be placed via the website, and the business’s Instagram and Facebook pages often include coupons, she says.
