We spoke with Jay Rojas, founder of Michael Alexander Optical Boutique in Larchmont, NY. Read our interview to find out more about Jay, how he got started in this industry and the services this gorgeous boutique provides. In addition to carrying glasses, sunglasses (prescription and non-prescription) and contact lenses, they also provide eye exams for the entire family! Be sure to follow along on Instagram and check out the website for more information.
Where are you from and where do you live now?
I was born in The Dominican Republic and raised in The Bronx. In 2016 my family and I moved to Westchester County- it was the best decision ever!
Tell us about Michael Alexander Optical Boutique!
I named it after my first born: my first business after my first baby. The shared name helps me remember the reason why I began this journey. Our reputation, ethics and customer service are our number one priority. Our services include Eye Exams, Glasses, Sunglasses (prescription and non-prescription) and Contact Lenses.
How many children do you have and what are their ages?
My wife and I have 2 children who we adore (as any parent would!) Our son Michael Alexander Rojas is 11 years old. Our daughter is Michaella Grace Rojas (aka my princess) and is 6 going on 16! She asks me all the time when I’m going to open another boutique named after her!
What is your professional background?
I am an optical technician, with over 20 years of experience in buying, selling, adjusting and helping patients see better while looking fashionable with eye glasses.
Is this always something you dreamed of doing?
A dream, absolutely! I felt intimidated about the idea back in early 2021. I reconnected with Jessica, a well-respected old colleague of mine, who I had introduced into the industry of optics back in 2010. She helped me realize my potential and open my eyes to the opportunity for me to help families in Westchester County.
We are so excited to hear that you now take insurance and have an eye doctor available!
Yes! You can request your appointment in the following link: https://michaelalexander.vision/appointment-form/
What’s new and exciting at Michael Alexander Optical Boutique?
We now carry DIFF Charitable Eyewear! With every purchase, the gift of sight is given to someone in another country. Pricing starts as low as $169 for sunglasses and $129 for a frame and lenses.
We also now carry the brand Chopard, a high-end frame collection. You can view by appointment only at Michael Alexander Optical Boutique: https://michaelalexander.vision/appointment-form/
What is your favorite and least favorite part of your job?
I don’t want to sound cliché, but I truly love everything about my career. It changes my mood just talking about optics, frames, lenses, features, and client’s needs. My least favorite part of my job back in the day was filling away patient’s records- for that reason our boutique is a paperless practice!
We love to support local! What are some of your go-to spots here in the Sound Shore area?
In Rye, NY I love The DripBar Rye and our children love Playland Park. They have done such an amazing job with their renovation. My favorite town in the Sound Shore area is Larchmont and we are in love with so many local businesses here:
For a quick casual bite- Manor Park Delicatessen
Wine- Post Wine & Spirits
Hair- The Beauty Room, Vision of Tomorrow, Salon K and Salon Firefly
Family friendly dining or brunch- Locals 10538
Flowers- Larchmont Florist NY
Live music- Billy and Pete’s
We are so thankful for our amazing community and the wonderful people and places that are a part of it. Check out our Blog page for more features that highlight local businesses! Looking for something to do in the Sound Shore area? Visit our Local Guides and Calendar pages to stay in the know!
Interview by Kelly Postiglione