We had the good fortune of connecting with Tami Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tami, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I started Eye Paparazzi, a black woman owned eyewear company in 2019, simply because I have a passion for glasses and I wanted to share it with the world! They’re not just glasses because they make you feel empowered and confident. I refer to them as accessories because they can truly make any outfit pop and definitely a conversation starter.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I formed Eye Paparazzi in 2019 because I want to create financial freedom and generational wealth for my grandson. It doesn’t feel like work because I’m extremely passionate and eager to share them with the world.  One of the things I contribute to my success is being consistent, having a great product, and amazing customer service. I currently work a 8-5 for a well-known brokerage, banking, and financial advisory firm, so staying balanced is the hardest thing for me to do but I have to make it work. Growing the company is very important and during the summer I set up at a lot of local events to showcase the line and meet amazing eyewear lovers. I truly love the personal interaction because you can feel their confidence and the smile just makes your day.

We offer Optical/Prescription frames for both women and men, as well as sunglasses and readers.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If I have a friend visiting, I would definitely take them for a bite to eat at Gloria’s (for some good Mexican food), Reunion Tower, The Dallas World Aquarium, Canvas Hotel, Texas Stadium, and JFK Assassination and Museum Tour just to name a few.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to thank Lakeisha Edwards for listening and lots of encouragement to start the business! She even gave me suggestions on companies to use.

I want to thank Daphne Sanders for always supporting me when I first started the business. She would let me set up as a vendor at her Paint n Sip and any events she organized. She wouldn’t charge, she only wanted to support.

I want to thank Patricia Williams for always supporting me and encouraging me.

I want to thank a co-workers Nathan Brown and Melanie Salazar. When I first started the company they agreed to take pictures for my marketing material.

I want to thank ALL MY LOYAL CLIENTS who always shop the brand and those who share and spread the love about Eye Paparazzi. Thank you to anyone who purchased glasses. I LOVE YOU ALL!

Website: www.eyepaparazzi.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/eyepaparazzi

Facebook: www.facebook.com/accessoriesthatcatchtheeye

Image Credits
Tami Smith

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