Seeing Clearly with Star Finder Optical

I know, it sounds like an ad. And you can call it that, since I totally endorse this optical shop - Star Finder -- located on the 2nd level (counting the "basement" as 1st level) of Festival Mall in Alabang (and another near BF Paranaque). We usually take the entrance with Figaro, and from there head to the left (past NB and Bayo). Just a few short steps and you'll see their sign on the right with some Korean characters. I guess it's safe to assume that it is owned by Koreans.

My hubby and I had eyeglasses made and so went back a few times. We also went with our friend Tess on one occasion, who had glasses made but doesn't wear them now. I guess she just couldn't say "no" to her son who just started wearing them for kicks. Wait 'til his eyes start complaining!

Anyway, the whole point of this exercise is to commend the staff of Star Finder for their excellent customer service. They also gladly and gamely posed for my cellphone camera. Too bad I don't remember their names (memory gap, you understand). The lady third from left is the ophthalmologist (or optometrist?), and she was very efficient.

None of them did hard sell just for the sake of it (or a quota) and all of them assisted us as much as they could, even taking several frames out for us to fit. The trouble with other optical places (especially Sabater Optical in Festival Mall) is that (1) they only assist those they are "sure" will buy something from them, (2) they hesitate to let clients try on several pairs, and (3) they immediately keep the frames while clients are still selecting, as if afraid we'd run away with them. Duh? Oh, and they don't smile!

To cap off the excellent service, here are a few more "touches" that made our optical experience enjoyable: (1) friendly people, including the Korean guy who also assisted us, (2) efficient staff, (3) free candy on the counter, (4) helpful tips and advice regarding a few frames we selected, (5) mini screwdriver set on a keychain for each of us and (6) text updates on the status of our specs.

So, if you need to have specs made, you know where to go. Kudos to the staff of Star Finder!