New Business Week: Wolseley Eyecare & Accessories

Q&A with the Business Owner

What’s your full name?

My full name is Mary Jane Toews. I go by MJ.

When did you open your business?

 Beginning of September of last year. So, it’s been about eight months.

What inspired your business idea?

I am a licensed optician. I’ve sold fair trade products and usually worked for an optical store. I’ve always enjoyed doing my own thing, doing things how I want them done, basically calling the shots. I like doing that.

I used to be at Bay Optical, where I was the owner, at Polo Park. Unfortunately, that didn’t work out, so I started looking for a place, and this one seemed appropriate.  This was an affordable space, and because it’s on Portage Avenue, it’s got good exposure. There’s a Pharmacist next door, so I thought that would be good for business, too.

It’s working out so far. I’m contacting all my old customers from the bay and meeting a lot of new Wolseley people, and it’s slowly getting better.

What do you think makes your business different?

I’m trying to keep people off the internet. I think I’m very affordable. I have glasses starting at $99, Single Vision, and progressives at $299. And that’s a complete frame and lenses, anti-glare, and coating. I’m just trying to be somewhere in between internet pricing and Doctors’ offices, you know, the expensive guys.

I want to get into…Well, I have a key-cutting machine so I will be doing that. And I probably will branch out and do a few other little odd things as well.

What’s your message to your current and future customers?

Well, I offer great service. If you buy online, nobody wants to service your glasses when you get them online. I also have non-prescription sunglasses, accessories, and lots of stuff.

I hope that people will come shop local; that’s what’s important to me. I mean, we can be affordable, too, you know?

Giveaway Contest

Enter the contest for a chance to win one of THREE prizes.  Visit any of the participating businesses and submit your entry. Each participating business has a draw box where you can enter your name for a chance to win! No purchase is necessary; for full contest details, please click here. 

Participating Businesses

• Mofe International at 569 Ellice Ave (Open Monday to Saturday) 
• Wolseley Eyecare at 986B Portage Avenue (Open Tuesday to Saturday) 
• Som Legacy at 726 Sargent Avenue (Open Tuesday to Sunday)
• Miss Luxe Hair & Beauty at 466 Sherbrook St (Open Monday to Saturday) 

Age requirement: you have to be 18 or older to participate.

Contest running period: The contest will run from April 22nd to 30th. You can visit the participating businesses anytime between these dates. The operating hours will vary for each business, so plan accordingly.

Winner Announcement: The winners will be announced on April 30th and contacted through the provided phone number and/or email address on the card.