Today I had my annual eye exam (a year late). I've been myopic since third grade, so I'm familiar with the routine.  However, I have never had such a thorough and informed exam, and never had such attentive service.

I found Bella Vision a few months ago, after walking out of a TSO that wouldn't replace the nose pad that had fallen off because I didn't get it at their particular store (yeah, I know).  That prompted a search for a place to repair my glasses, and using their attitude about repairing and replacing nose pads as my gauge.  Some places charged (as much as $15!), some required me to sign up and wait before even asking about it.  The chain stores all failed in my eyes (pardon the pun), Texas State Optical (TSO) in particular (they still haven't responded to my letter regarding service issues).  

So when choosing a place to start, I opted for Bella Vision because the other outstanding option, when the other nosepad fell off, was South Austin Optical, only they don't do exams anymore.   

The exam included all the basics, the fun glaucoma test, and the dreaded dilation (which is still making it hard for me to read what I'm typing).  The doctor explained everything, and I do mean everything, from how my prescription changed, to which contacts she was going to try me on, and the reasons/options if/when the contacts don't work.  Like I said, thorough.

 I wasn't committed into buying frames there, but I was pounced on (in the most friendly way by) two staffers who immediately started pulling suggestions for me, based on my old frames and the prescription (hi index and -7 = thicker glasses, so smaller frames are preferred).  It was like shopping with friends - who just happened to be eyewear experts.

They had some great suggestions, from conservative to funky and were honest in their opinions and paid attention to my feedback.  The winning pair was a style I doubt I would have tried on myself; now I just have to wait a week to get them (even at the franchises, they'd always have to order lenses).  I can't wait... I think these are definitely geek-chic.

I'll be writing a letter to them after I get my glasses; I believe in rewarding good customer service. They had that right mix of informative, helpful, and attentive, and are a great example of the value of local businesses.

So anyway, here's a shameless plug for Bella Vision at 1012 West 38th Street in Austin (454-1900) - a couple of blocks from the original Central Market.  If you need glasses or contacts, check them out.  They don't have a website, or I'd post it here.  And if you do, tell 'em I sent you.