Beyond the Counter

Where every small business has a story.


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SEE Eyewear, located in Birmingham, Michigan, has been a local favorite for over 28 years, known not just for its unique frames but for its genuine commitment to the community and its customers. From the moment you walk into the store, it is clear that this isn’t just another eyewear shop as every detail, from the warm greetings to the carefully crafted frames, reflect a business built on passion, care, and authenticity. After visiting the store and speaking with the store manager, Jessica, it became obvious to us why SEE Eyewear has earned an esteemed reputation and why it’s a place you have to experience for yourself. 

Living near downtown Birmingham, my friend, Sophia, and I often passed by the store, always noticing its glamorous holiday lights and vibrant displays. After finally getting the chance to visit, the store exceeded all of our expectations. Even after arriving just a few minutes before closing, the staff members greeted us warmly and kindly gave us the opportunity to try on a selection of their remarkable eyewear.

The eyewear selection was extremely impressive, with a wide range of colors, shapes, and styles to suit nearly any preference. They sell a variety of eyewear styles, mainly focusing on high-quality, handcrafted frames that you can fit with prescription or non-prescription lenses. Their selection includes both eyeglass frames and sunglasses that can be tailored to your vision and aesthetic needs. For those unable to visit in person, their website features a large selection of pieces, making it easy to explore and choose various frames remotely!

During our interview with Jessica, who has managed the Birmingham flagship store for just under a year, we gained insight into the company’s operations behind the scenes. She explained that one of the main motivations for working at SEE Eyewear was the family-owned aspect and the people-focused management. She even emphasized that the supportive, caring, and close-knit workplace culture is a key factor that sets the store apart from other local businesses and corporations. 

One of the company’s most distinguishing features is its commitment to local manufacturing. Every frame is handcrafted and made locally in Michigan. Each piece of eyewear is inspected by multiple teams to ensure the product customers receive is of the highest quality. Unlike large corporations, the owners, manufacturing teams, and corporate staff are all local and equally invested in the company’s success.

Additionally, SEE Eyewear fosters a workplace built on trust. The employees are given more flexibility than in many larger companies and are strongly encouraged to share their ideas and feedback openly with the team. Customer voices are also genuinely valued, and the company actively implements visible changes based on customer feedback, showing that every voice is valued in shaping the business. For over 28 years, SEE Eyewear has consistently used customer feedback to improve experiences and create a more energetic, community-focused business. Any challenges faced are proactively addressed to ensure that customers receive the best possible service and care.

Rooted in authenticity, SEE Eyewear balances bold, colorful designs with a genuine focus on customer care. Each employee understands the importance of proper vision and strives to help customers see clearly and style boldly.

Nikki Rohmetra and Sophia Kosyakin

Co-Editors