Phyllis Budnitz Email & Phone Number

It started as a vision. No, it started when I was 18 years old as a side hustle to help me get through college. I began working as an ophthalmic assistant at a Brooklyn-based Doctor’s office and immediately became enamored by every aspect of the optical field. I was young, but I was ambitious. So I dived head-on. I bought into his business that same year and changed career paths to become a NYS licensed optician. Fast forward a few years: I’m married, have a couple of kids and am working for an optical store in Manhattan. And as much as I loved it, I soon realized it was time to venture out on my own. I started Optique Elegance in 1986 — a small business from my basement. But after a few years, the limitations of an in-house business started to get to me. I had already begun gathering a portfolio of top-doctors’ recommendations, but operating out of a basement just wasn’t cutting it anymore. I remember the day vividly — I was driving with my husband down Ocean Parkway and turned to him. “We’re limited,” I said. “It’s time to think bigger.” And so, I began. I designed a store with one other expert optician and no sales team. And business took off. Like wildfire. I was young. I was still in the early stages of my career. I had taken many risks. But let me tell you the secret: I love working with people. I had built connections, even from my small home-bound business that kept people coming back. From day one, my business was about one thing: my customer. And that’s why my clients came from near and far — they aren’t just buying a product and I’m not just selling my skill. I had created an experience. People marveled at the warmth and coziness I had created. I even had a couple ask to get engaged in my store!I started off as a passionate optician and young entrepreneur. Today, I’ve found that my love for sales, people, and customer experience is what made my business a success. I’d love to share my experience with you. I’d love to hear about yours. Let’s connect!

Listed skills include Leadership, Customer Experience, Consulting, Sales Consulting, and 22 others.

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  Founder And Optician

  Optique Elegance Brooklyn

  Jan 1986 - Present - 1552 Coney Island Ave Brooklyn Ny