Soma Optical in the South End:
Your go-to since 2019 for a wide range of independent eyewear. Founded by Christos and Alissa Karabelas, we're all about cool glasses and friendly service.
about soma south-end
Nestled in the heart of Boston's South End, Soma Optical is the kind of eyewear spot you'd expect from a real mom-and-pop business. Christos, the face of Soma Optical South End, and Alissa, the operational backbone overseeing both locations, have been holding down the fort since 2019, simply because they love glasses.
Alissa, armed with a background in finance and accounting from the University of Maryland, is the operational powerhouse. Her journey here wasn't your typical one. She and Christos used to work together at another optical shop, where he was the optician, and she was a model in New York at the time, dating Christos. Between her modeling gigs, Alissa started picking up hours at the optical shop. It was during these hours that they realized something special – they worked incredibly well together.
Fast forward to today, Alissa oversees operations at both Soma Optical locations. She's the one who ensures everything runs seamlessly from an operational standpoint. Her role is pivotal, and it complements Christos' expertise perfectly. They each stay in their own lane, creating a dynamic duo that forms the backbone of this mom-and-pop eyewear haven.
Now, let's talk about trying on glasses – it's more like getting a fresh haircut than navigating a big store. That's where Christos comes in. As a licensed optician with a background in designing and manufacturing glasses, his specialty lies in fitting people with frames that not only suit them but also align with their unique style. Christos guides you through the collection, sharing stories about each frame and utilizing his expertise to help you find the perfect fit in terms of color and design. Our collections are thoughtfully arranged, organized in flat files, and sorted by designer – not in some overly fancy setup, just simple and accessible.
For five years, Soma Optical South End has been a real mom-and-pop joint, growing because people like you spread the word. No big marketing, just word of mouth.
So, swing by Soma Optical South End. It's not just a glasses shop; it's a friendly spot where you can find frames, maybe have a chat, and leave with something that feels just right.