Living Their Vision

On the verge of becoming empty nesters, Rand and Janeel Smith, proud parents of eight children, decided to buy their own business. Janeel was a music teacher; Rand had been in the eyewear industry for decades.

They decided to use their retirement funds to start a retail eyewear business.

Rand explains, “We wanted to start our business using our 401k monies but we had no idea how to do it. Our friend told us about Guidant Financial, so we contacted them and had a great experience.”

Now, they own the thriving eyeSmith Sport & Fashion Optical store in Kansas City, Missouri. Their store specializes in outfitting sport enthusiasts with appropriate eyewear for their activities.

“We can put prescriptions in sunglasses for fisherman, for skiers, for scuba divers and motorcycle riders—so it’s a draw that people want,” says Janeel.

They attract out-of-state customers with their state-of-the-art technology for eyewear fittings and unique selection. In addition, they consider their customers their friends.

In addition to their vast product offering, they find creative ways to market their store. The latest “stunt” included a geocaching treasure hunt that landed explorers right next to the eyeSmith location.

If you’re ever in the Kansas City metropolitan area, be sure to stop in and say “hi.” You’ll be greeted with friendly smiles, excellent customer service and a beautiful store. We dare you to not try on a pair of glasses!

To learn more, visit their official website or call 816.256.5333.

Read more about the Smiths in the Kansas City Star.