Hi! My name is Kira (she/her). I’m a Licensed Optician & the sole gal behind Visual Alchemy Optical Studio.

When people ask me how I got into this industry I laugh because it’s so impulsively me. With two business diplomas under my belt I was in my mid 20’s working as a window dresser for a major Canadian retailer. My best friend was working at an optical chain in my hometown. She knew I was looking for a change & suggested we apply for Opticianry school & open a store together after we got licensed. Full transparency, I really didn’t even know what an Optician was or their role outside of selling glasses but I had nothing to lose; no debt, no kids & I was newly single so I applied. It ends up she didn’t & I got early acceptance.

This is where my life changed. I thrived. I loved the hands on aspects, the using my brain in new ways ultimately merging science, math & fashion, it just clicked for me. Knowing nothing of this chosen industry, I developed an interest for independent boutique optical. The idea of these frame designers pouring passion into their art of frame design really called to me. I quit my salaried management position as a window dresser for a hip independent optical shop to sustain me & to learn from the best while I completed my diploma part time & wrote the licensing exam. I felt like I had found my niche, my calling.

Now, with 15+ years of experience under my belt exclusively in independent boutique optical, 7+ of those being a freelance optician supporting boutique optical shops around Toronto, Canada, I felt the calling once again for something more. I have always wanted to launch my own shop & after taking a Mobile Opticians course in 2022, opening my eyes once again to an outside of the box opportunities within my industry, ultimately guided me to launch my dream through Visual Alchemy Optical Studio.

Outside of my Optician life, I am a Mom of two beautiful boys with my partner of 15 years and counting. After living in Toronto for 20 years I traded in the city hustle to get back to my roots of small town living. I love hiking, camping, checking out farmers markets, SUP adventures, playing kickball (Ballbarians ftw!), a good concert & running around a park like a goofball with my kids.

I’m just a girl trying to bring her dreams into reality.

Thank you for trusting me with your sight while you contribute to my vision ♥