The Eyeglass Shop Scam: Why I Switched to the Only Place That Cares

Don't buy new eyeglasses until you read this. I am going to tell you exactly how I got ripped off by a major competitor. Then I will tell you how I saved $200 and stopped feeling stressed about buying new glasses.

The Trap: High Pressure and Fake Discounts

I needed a new pair of the Fashionable Reading Glasses Men Women HD Lens Round Frame Presbyopic Eyeglasses. I went to a big chain store first. I was seriously disappointed. It felt like I walked into a pressure cooker, not a retail store.

Here is what went wrong at the competitor:

• Insane Prices: The quote for my single vision glasses was shocking. This was even after they used my insurance and applied their supposed "discount." The price seemed very high.
• Double the Damage: My boyfriend needed progressive lenses. They quoted him double what they quoted me. This was for only one pair of glasses each.
• Zero Care, All Sales: The salesperson had one goal: to mark the sale immediately. They put zero effort into customer service. They did not care if we were happy. They only cared about rushing us to the cash register.

We felt pushed. We felt pressured. This was not a good way to buy glasses. We decided right then we needed to shop around. If a reading glasses shop makes you feel this way, you must leave immediately.

Verdict: If they rush you, they are prioritizing their wallet, not your vision. Walk away.

The Doubt: Online Shopping vs. Real People

After that disaster, I almost gave up. I thought maybe buying online was the only choice. I heard buying online was considerably cheaper. I did some research and found that many magazines recommended specific online stores.

Trying glasses on "virtually" online is helpful, but it is not the same as physically trying them on. You cannot feel the quality. You cannot check the fit.

I found a place that had a physical store. I called. I spoke to the manager, Latonya. I was skeptical. I asked her directly: Why should I drive over 40 minutes to see you when I can just order online?

She gave me three clear, honest reasons why the drive was worth it:

1. You can physically try on the glasses.
2. You can see them in person right away.
3. You receive personalized, expert customer service.

I explained the crazy situation with the competitor's pricing. She took the time to listen. She gave me an estimated quote over the phone. It was immediately more reasonable. Her knowledge impressed me. I told her, "You will see me tomorrow."