Content paid for by Frame It Unique Optical
Nestled in the heart of Downtown Franklin, Frame It Unique Optical is more than just a boutique optical store – it’s a vision realized by Gabrielle Johnson, a certified optician with over 14 years experience who is passionate about sourcing high-quality, handcrafted eyewear from around the globe.
With a deep connection to the community and a commitment to offering exclusive eyewear, Johnson and her team are setting themselves apart from the mass-produced frames found in many mainstream optical shops.
Johnson’s journey into the optical world began when she was just 16. After years of working in the industry, she and her spouse relocated to Franklin about three years ago, drawn to the small-town charm of its downtown area. It wasn’t long before she knew this was the place to bring her dream to life.
“I’ve always dreamed of opening up an optical boutique that sources exclusive frames from around the world,” she explains. “What’s really important to us is finding frame lines that are still independently owned and not mass produced by large companies. We’re paying for the quality versus the name on the frame.”
This philosophy of sourcing exclusive, handmade frames – rather than buying into the corporate mass-production models – is what sets Frame It apart. Johnson is deeply committed to supporting small, independent eyewear manufacturers, ensuring her customers are not just getting a product, but also a story and a piece of craftsmanship from artisans around the world and right here in the United States.
At Frame It Unique Optical, every pair of frames tells a story. Johnson has worked tirelessly to build relationships with independent eyewear designers and manufacturers, bringing in lines that many customers may have never encountered before.
“We have one line in particular that’s hand made in Holland,” Johnson says. “We’re the only location in the state of Indiana that carries it. It’s exciting to be able to offer something truly unique that you can’t find anywhere else.”
This commitment to offering exclusive, handcrafted frames ensures that every customer can feel confident in their eyewear, knowing that they’re wearing something special and thoughtfully curated. Each frame is more than just an accessory; it’s a piece of art with a history, crafted by skilled hands rather than machines in mass-production factories.
At Frame It Unique Optical, they go beyond offering just frames by providing personalized lens solutions tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Many people are unaware of the wide range of lenses available to address common issues like eye strain from long hours in front of screens or reading difficulties. Frame It offers fully customizable computer and occupational lenses, designed to suit each client’s unique work environment. This level of customization sets them apart from online retailers, who often provide limited options. Additionally, their in-store design studio allows customers to create custom frames, offering a rare level of personalization for those looking for a perfect fit and style.
“The biggest thing that sets us apart is the ability to create your own frame,” Johnson shares. “You can choose everything – color, material, size and even the design. We’ve had people come in wanting frames made out of wood, for example. The customization options are endless.”
This customization feature caters to individuals with unique sizing needs as well. Whether someone has a smaller face and typically shops in the children’s section, or needs larger frames that aren’t readily available, the team at Frame It Unique Optical can craft the perfect fit.
While Frame It Unique Optical is known for its high-quality, exclusive frames, the boutique also caters to the practical and diverse needs of its customers with a variety of eyewear options. One of the unique niches they’ve established is their sports center, offering eyewear solutions specifically designed for athletes and outdoor enthusiasts.
“Whether someone enjoys playing pickleball, fishing or skiing, we have prescription and nonprescription options for them,” Johnson explains. “It’s not just about style – it’s about function too. We want people to feel confident that they can get eyewear that meets their specific needs, whether they’re on the court or out on the water.”
What makes Frame It Unique Optical truly special is the deep connection Johnson and her team have with the Franklin community. The decision to open the boutique in Franklin wasn’t just about business – it was about finding a home in a community that resonated with Johnson and her spouse on a personal level.
“We fell in love with Franklin,” she says. “We love the small-town feel and really wanted to take part in the community we live in.”
This local focus is evident in the way Johnson operates her business. The boutique is not just a place to buy eyewear; it’s a space where customers are invited to learn the stories behind the frames, engage with the craftsmanship and feel a sense of pride in supporting independent artisans.
This focus on exclusivity and craftsmanship, combined with Johnson’s personal passion for eyewear and her deep connection to the community, has made Frame It Unique Optical a standout destination for anyone looking for quality frames with a story behind them.
One of Johnson’s goals in creating Frame It Unique Optical was to ensure that customers feel comfortable and relaxed from the moment they walk through the door. She wanted to avoid the clinical, impersonal feel of many optical stores and design a space that feels warm and welcoming.
“We didn’t base our design on anything we’ve seen before,” she explains. “It was our own take on what we wanted to create – a space that doesn’t feel like a doctor’s office. We want people to walk in and immediately feel at ease. We want them to know they’re working with experienced professionals who can cater to their specific needs, whether it’s prescription complexity or frame sizing.”
Comments 1
What a great vision for a business! Are you open now? I didn’t see anything with your business hours. I just retired, but I worked in the optical industry for 29 years, most of it as an optician. I’ve always been passionate about the frames! I’ll definitely stop in and see your shop and all you have to offer!