While the need for wearing sunglasses is a year-round phenomenon, summer is rightly the time we think most of wearing shades or shopping for a new pair, and for good reason. The sun is at it’s brightest and hottest, and we spend more time at the beaches and out-of-doors in general.
As we now enter the dog days of August, people who are still on the fence about buying sunglasses this season—either as a replacement pair because, let’s face it, last year’s pair is sooo last year; or as their very first prescription pair because their eyes are aging and off the rack sunglasses just aren’t cutting it any more—should not lack for opportunities to find the right match for their eyes or their budgets.
The good news is that as consumers tend to make summer the time they shop for and wear sunglasses the most, eye care professionals and eyewear retailers are right there for them, too, upping their shades promotional games. So look around you as you walk the mall, the beachside kiosks, or practically anywhere fine sunglasses are sold. You’ll see opportunities to find that right pair of shades everywhere.
- In the window or countertops, you’ll see fresh new displays dedicated to the latest eyeglass fashions, and perhaps a banner or two proclaiming discounts and special promotions.
- On social media, radio, TV, and in print, you’ll see additional special offers and promotions designed to get you in the eyewear store or an eye care professional’s office to try on, try out, and buy your next pair of sunglasses.
- On local media, in blogs, and virtually everywhere online, you’ll see eyewear and eye care experts talking about UV rays and glare and how the proper sunglasses can save you from a lifetime of eye problems due to prolonged exposure to the sun. These messages not only deliver important, seasonal health information, but also build awareness and drive demand for sunglasses.
- Online and in print, you’ll see practically all of your favorite A, B, or C-list celebrities showing off their Aviators, Oakleys, and Maui Jims in hopes their star power and fashion choices will make their photo ops go viral, boost their careers, and give them 15 more minutes of recognition as this season’s sunglass fashionistas.
As a consumer in the market for a pair of sunglasses for yourself or your family, what are you doing to educate yourself on the latest trends in eyewear fashion, pricing, and safety/functionality? An educated consumer is an informed consumer, and there’s no lack of opportunity to get the information you need, especially online.
As an eyewear retailer or eye care professional, are you dedicating the time and effort to connect with your customers and prospective customers to build awareness about the importance of wearing sunglasses from a health perspective, in addition to fast becoming a must-have fashion accessory?
Consider these handy online resources:
- Check lifestyle websites like Esquire and Vogue for the latest in style trends and celebrity fashion whispers.
- Visit health websites like WebMD, the American Academy of Ophthalmology, and the National Eye Institute to find out about sunglasses and eye care.
- Educate yourself (or your customers) about the dangers of UV exposure to the eyes, including this educational flyer from the EPA on the connection between UV radiation and eye damage.
- As a consumer, connect with your favorite eye care professional or retailer like Sunglass & Optical Warehouse and ask about special promotions and finding the right pair of sunglasses for your face—or go online to research sunglass recommendations and purchase considerations for men and women, including prescription options.
- As an eyewear retailer or eye care professional, use your website, blog, social media platforms, and enewsletter to connect with your customers and potential customers to educate and inform, so that when the urge to shop for shades strikes, you’re top-of mind.
We’re Here to Help
For more than 30 years, the professionals at Sunglass and Optical Warehouse have been taking the time to get to know our customers, their eye care needs, their personal styles, and their likes and dislikes. We offer the greater San Diego area’s largest selection of prescription glasses and prescription and non-prescription sunglasses. Young or old, traditional, or high fashion—our staff can fit your face with a new pair of eyeglasses or shades that are comfortable, effective, and that help you look and see your best.