#davebarton

7 Days Theory Interviews // Dave Barton: On How David Kind is Changing The Way People Buy Eyewear:

How did you go about building your team for David Kind? 

It was purposeful, but also very organic how everyone came together. Each of us has the passion for building the very best product and making sure it is matched perfectly with the face we are styling. Trish, our Lead Stylist, is from Fred Segal and has styled thousands of people in luxury eyewear, including many A-list celebs. I met Victor, our quality expert, at Oliver Peoples and has been in the optical industry for over 30 years. Our CFO is a long time friend and mentor, and former CEO of Spy Optic. We are partners with the best dev shop on the West Coast working closely with them to build all of our tech product and execute on our brand vision.

How did you meet Trish? 

I was a co-founder in a boutique wholesale eyewear brand and Trish was managing Fred Segal Eyes. She bought our collection for the store after we convinced her to with a little cake and tequila. True story.

What is Trish’s background in the eyewear industry? 

She became an expert in her field with Fred Segal Eyes as store manager and buyer for over 5 years. She has worked with thousands of people helping them select the perfect pair of glasses, including many A-list celebs.

Being an innovative company in the eyewear space, how do you engage with people who have never used the internet to buy eye glasses? 

We have a simple strategy. If you wear glasses, and you are willing to give us a try, we know that you will be delighted to have discovered a new and better way to buy eyewear. Then via your style profile that is built with your stylist, we get to know you before hand selecting glasses for you to try-on. We have found that this starts the relationship in the right direction. Once this happens, we have found that customers who have tried us, love the process. And LOVE to tell others.

What were some things you’ve learned since starting your company? 

Listen very carefully to what the customer tells you, or doesn’t tell you. Ask questions, observe and make changes quickly.