Spectacle Shoppe’s Story

Founded in 1977 by David Ulrich, Spectacle Shoppe has evolved into a respected, independent optical company, known for its personalized service, distinctive eyewear selection, and in-house lab. David’s passion for optics began while manufacturing lenses in the U.S. Army, which inspired him to pursue a career in the industry after his military service. While working for an optometrist in Oshkosh, WI, David introduced the innovative “One-Hour Service” for eyewear, establishing his reputation as a pioneer in the field.

Finding The Twin Cities

After relocating to Minneapolis, David helped launch several optical stores before opening Spectacle Shoppe in New Brighton, Minnesota, in 1977. His vision was to offer high-quality eyewear with exceptional customer care, creating a business that would stand out for both its expertise and commitment to service.

Today, Spectacle Shoppe remains a proud, family-owned business, offering over 25,000 unique frames across four locations. Specializing in rare, vintage, and modern designer eyewear from independent manufacturers, we offer exclusive selections that can’t be found elsewhere in the Twin Cities. With our in-house lens manufacturing lab, we tailor lenses to each customer’s unique needs, continuing to uphold David’s passion for innovation and commitment to craftsmanship, quality, and personalized service.

Your Exclusive Eyewear Experience

Meet the Cast

At Spectacle Shoppe, our team is made up of more than just eyewear experts—they’re the friendly, stylish wizards behind the scenes who make your experience unforgettable. Whether they’re helping you find the perfect lens or sharing a laugh over frame options, each one brings a spark of personality and passion to the table. Think of us as your eyewear family, here to ensure that every visit is a memorable adventure in fashion, fun, and, of course, fantastic vision!

David Ulrich

El Presidente

Beth Ulrich

The Bean Counter

Kristina Savoren

Queen of the Seen

Moe Strong

Lens Master Supreme

Dr. Mike Krysiak

Dr. Tyler Baars

Sight for Sore Eyes

Dr. Jacob Erickson

Dr. Tim Nelson

Optometrist

Brett Wergeland

Pierre La France

Rebecca Granroth

Girl Freyeday

Joseph Morehead

Director of Spectaclology

Carol Biederstedt

Specta Gal

Carter Anderson

Black Belt in Optics

Tara Murphy

The Warden

Rozalia Toth

Your Personalized Shopper

Dave Hirsch

Mr. Professional

Bonnie Lavell

Eye Caramba

Kimberly Subias

American Eye Doll

Rose Palmer

Vision Vamp

Sarah Rust

Eye Candy

Max Ellis

Frame Whisperer

Megan Bongers

Glasses Half Full Gal

Jess Rosenquist

Eye Got You

Logan Szalay

Apprentice of Optics

Mick Weiss

Pickin' Optician

David Landis

H-eye Roller

Lydia Peterson

Eyelicious Phenom

Cory Martineau

Jason Hedlund

Wayne Hughes

Hawk-Eye

Eyes on MN: Our Clients

Samantha

Meet local fashion star Samantha Rei. She’s been featured in Glamour and Vogue, named “Best Local Fashion Designer” by City Pages readers, authored and illustrated a book on fashion subculture, and been a star contestant on the TV show Project Runway. It should be no surprise that she’s also our customer.

Clint and Whistler

Clint Allen, producer, storyteller, Buddhist motorcyclist, actor, and a big fan of his son’s band. Whistler, his son, fast grocery bagger, serious scooter enthusiast, painter, music producer, and the drummer in Hippo Campus. They’re no ordinary pair. So why would they choose an ordinary pair of glasses?

Annamarie & Eve

Eve was born with a heart defect and underwent an extremely risky surgery at just 3-and-a-half months. The life and death crisis inspired her mother, Annamarie, to start the Newborn Foundation (newbornfoundation.org). It’s saving lives worldwide. These are our customers. They’re beautiful, with and without their Spectacle Shoppe glasses.