New Optical Shop, Boutique Has Grand Opening Saturday

EyeStyles Optical and Boutique might be a sight for sore eyes. 

The optical shop will be another option to purchase new glasses in Oakdale. But it will also offer an array of gift items — from trendy handbags to local salsa. 

EyeStyles owner Nikki Griffin, who has been an optician for 22 years, has been preparing to open her own optical shop for the past four months. She worked as an optician at the Allina Medical Clinic's eye center for about three years until the eye center recently closed. 

While Griffin was exploring her options, she felt Oakdale residents could use another option to fill their optical prescriptions. 

"This is a good border location. Century (Avenue) is less scary than going on the freeway," Griffin said. "And most people I talk to go to Woodbury." 

As she put the shop together at 1955 Geneval Avenue (right next to Rocco's Pizza) she realized she had several empy shelves. So, why not fill them with fun gift items? 

"There aren't any boutiques in Oakdale. Where are people going to go to buy a gift for their sister or mom other than ?" Griffin said.

Eventually Griffin would like to add greeting cards to mix. During the holidays she will also be offering gift wrapping.  

"I think it has a fun, open feeling," Griffin said. "I don't care if you don't buy something. I just want it to have a community feeling."

EyeStyles Optical and Boutique is having its grand opening on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. There will cupcakes, popcorn and refreshments. 

Like us on Facebook | Follow us on Twitter | Sign up for our newsletter