framed
An outside-
the-box
optical shop
By Denis Langlois
SPEX By Ryan is an optical shop located on the edge of Regina’s
trendy Cathedral Village; the creativity hub of Saskatchewan’s
capital city.
The business was opened in January 2015 by licenced optician
Ryan Horne, who had spent 22 years in two optometric practises.
As Horne puts it, the classic two-storey character brick building
that SPEX by Ryan is housed in “complements the eclectic
interior decor which features artwork, graffiti and
custom cabinetry.”
“It is a place where people can browse and be consulted in
a relaxed, creative environment,” he says.
In this installment of Framed, Horne discusses his business
and what’s in store for SPEX by Ryan.
48 Optical Prism | July 2017
Q. Tell us about the clientele at SPEX by Ryan.
A. SPEX By Ryan's clientele is as varied as its
selection. All ages and all walks of life make up
for an enthusiastic array of eyewear enthusiasts.
The most rewarding and exciting times are when
new clientele are introduced and converted to
the world of independent eyewear. SPEX By
Ryan caters to those seeking unique eyewear
that is not mass produced and available in every
store or online. It is also very important to have
the correct optics and products suggested and
dispensed to fulfill their optical needs. At SPEX
BY Ryan, an Rx is just the start of what could
be many life-changing solutions for its clients.
Ideas are not limited to the norm- SPEX looks for
ways to use that Rx in the most effective and
efficient manners.
Q. What brands are available at your shop?
A. SPEX Carries many of the world’s most
renowned and celebrated independent eyewear
collections. Some of the brands include Andy
Wolf, Barton Pereira, Matsuda, Thierry Lasry,
Theo, Ahlem, Orgreen, Vinylize, Dita, Shamballa,
Rapp and many more. The most in-demand
styles are definitely the classics, as they are the
most wearable in most situations. Many people
are choosing multiple pairs to add colour, geometry
and variety to their eyewear wardrobes.
Q. What are some of the benefits of operating
an independent eyewear shop?
A. As an independent store, SPEX By Ryan has
the freedom to market and operate however it
feels necessary. It carries the brands it wants,
without pressures from corporate suits or doctors
who feel they are fashion experts. It makes
for a much more fun and whimsical environment
and attitude. SPEX will let the chains and
many doctor’s offices and retailers keep up the
stuffy side.
Q. What does the future hold for SPEX?
A. SPEX will continue to roll along, bringing the
coolest art for your face, with pop-up shops and
runs shows from time to time, before eventually
expanding to more locations in other centres
that are lacking the SPEX vibe.