Sarnia-Lambton BDC – Client Profile

Meet Eye Guy Gal

Sarnia’s Eyewear Boutique

The Eye Guy eyewear boutique is located in Sarnia’s downtown Mitton village. Upon entering you may expect to be greeted by the Eye Guy only to be pleasantly surprised to meet ‘Eye Gal’, Beth Kolthoff. In 2019, when the founder of Eye Guy retired Kolthoff took over bringing her personal style and female flair to the business. While the name remains unchanged Eye Guy is newly updated with a trendy selection of eyewear including Tom Ford, Michael Kors, and Ray-Ban. With a passion for finding the perfect frame and fit, Beth Kolthoff knows how to elevate her customer’s personal style with the right eyewear.

“What I’m most proud of is my honesty. People want to know truly what looks good on them. They leave here feeling good about what they selected.” – Beth Kolthoff

After 30 years in the optical industry, Beth Kolthoff dreamed of having a shop of her own.  As a cautious buyer, she wanted to be sure about her plan. With lots of questions and the need for support Kolthoff contacted Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation (SLBDC). General Manager, Don Anderson, and his team helped with the business plan, loan, and transitioning ownership. “They did everything except guarantee that I would get the loan,” said Kolthoff. It took almost 6 months to finalize the plans and make Beth Kolthoff’s dream a reality.

“The Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation gave me the confidence to know I was making a good decision and continue to share in my success.” – Beth Kolthoff

When Beth Kolthoff took ownership of the Eye Guy she leaned on her training and past experience in the optical industry where she helped her employer’s

business grow from one to three optical stores. The clientele appreciated Eye Gal’s expertise, exceptional customer service, direct billing, and a new promotion that offered 50% off the second pair. Radio ads helped to spread the word about “Eye Gal’ and happy customers were modeling not only one but two pairs of glasses around town. The referrals poured in and sales doubled and tripled.

“Without the SLBDC I wouldn’t have been able to purchase this business,” says Kolthoff who proudly paid off her five year business loan in two and half years. Sarnia Lambton recognized Kolthoff’s leadership in the community and awarded her The Inclusivity Award for Outstanding Business Achievement. “I beautify people,” says Kolthoff, and the same message is echoed in her impact on the community. Many more businesses have opened up shop in Mitton village, supported by clientele who want to shop local. The Eye Guy is continuing to expand with the next generation of ‘Eye Gals’ – Kolthoff is now training her daughter who will soon become a licensed optician.

For more information about Eye Guy visit www.eyeguy.ca or contact eyeguy@cogeco.net.

For more information about Sarnia Lambton Business Development Corporation (SLBDC) visit www.slbdc.com or contact 519-383-1371