framed
GAUDET OP TICAL
Typical is not a word one would use to describe Gaudet Optical Ltd., a uniquely eclectic eyewear business
owned and operated by Doug and Debra Gaudet of Halifax, Nova Scotia. Situated on the west-end of the city,
independent individuality better reflects not only the co-owners’ personal outlook on life, but also what they
strive to provide their customers and, by all accounts, it is has been a very successful business model. After 29
years and a multitude of business awards and recognitions, Doug Gaudet took a few moments last month to
talk about his and his wife’s working philosophy.
by Jackie Muise
Q. What kind of clientele does your store service?
A.Not meaning to sound cliché, but we have clients from every
conceivable walk of life. I think the common bond among
them all is a sense of individuality. I am of the opinion that
spectacles have evolved into one of the best ways to convey
that sense.
customers to tell a friend about us. And they do. Practically
every new person that walks through the door has been
referred to us.
Q. What are the challenges of competing with
the chain-store eyeglass outlets?
A. Halifax is a very style conscious little city. It needs,
practically demands, that we support that sense of style by
shopping for a certain echelon of product that just isn’t anywhere else. The process wasn’t gradual, but rather something
we embraced three decades ago when we realized all of the
amazing work being done by H[