In 2016, two New York City-based optometrists, Dr. Scott Tisdale from Syosset, NY, and Dr. Pauline Leong from Queens, NY, embarked on a mission to change the eyewear industry. With years of experience working directly with patients and witnessing the challenges faced by small, independent optometry practices, Dr. Tisdale saw an opportunity to create something different: a brand that would help fellow eye care professionals compete in an ever-changing marketplace. From this vision, Vernon Gantry was born.
A Name Rooted in NYC History
The name Vernon Gantry holds a special connection to the brand’s origins in Long Island City, where Dr. Tisdale and Dr. Leong initially established their optometry business. The name combines two iconic elements of the neighborhood: Vernon Boulevard, one of the main thoroughfares, and the Gantry, a landmark located in the heart of the area’s Gantry Plaza State Park.
The southern portion of Gantry Plaza State Park was once a bustling dock facility, featuring restored “contained apron” transfer bridges, commonly known as gantries. Built in 1925, these structures were integral to the area’s industrial history, facilitating the transfer of goods via the Long Island Rail Road. Just as the gantries once served as a bridge between commerce and industry, Vernon Gantry seeks to be a bridge between quality eyewear and the independent professionals who provide it to their communities.
Filling a Void in the Eyewear Industry
Dr. Tisdale and Dr. Leong created Vernon Gantry to address a growing issue in the eyewear market: the rise of poorly fitting, low-quality frames and lenses purchased online in an effort to save money. These subpar options not only diminish the consumer experience but also undermine the expertise and personalized care that independent eye care professionals offer.
Vernon Gantry fills this void by offering well-designed, high-quality, and fairly priced eyewear that supports local, privately-owned small businesses. The brand’s focus is on craftsmanship, ensuring that every frame is built to last while providing a perfect fit for the wearer.
A New Model for High-Quality, Affordable Eyewear
Unlike traditional eyewear companies that rely on expensive sales reps, licensing fees, and large-scale advertising campaigns, Vernon Gantry operates differently. By eliminating these added costs, the company is able to manufacture and distribute premium eyewear at a fraction of the cost. This streamlined approach allows independent optometry practices to offer exceptional frames without the hefty price tag, leveling the playing field against larger chains and online retailers.
Supporting Local Eye Care Professionals
The mission of Vernon Gantry goes beyond eyewear—it’s about empowering eye care professionals to thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape. By providing access to stylish, durable frames at fair prices, Vernon Gantry ensures that small businesses can continue to deliver the personalized service and expertise that patients deserve.
Join the Vernon Gantry Movement
Vernon Gantry is more than a brand; it’s a commitment to quality, community, and the future of independent optometry. With frames that honor the artistry of design and the legacy of their Long Island City roots, Vernon Gantry is bridging the gap between exceptional eyewear and the professionals who deliver it.
Explore our collection and join us in redefining what eyewear should be: designed for eye care professionals, by eye care professionals.
