LEF In-Sights: Julia Gogosha-Clark
Julia Gogosha-Clark - Gaga Over Glasses
by Nikki DiBacco
The epitome of the true Luxury Eyewear Specialist, Julia Gogosha-Clark is an amazing woman. Her three names have nothing to do with witness protection programs, and everything to do with one of many interesting facets of her life. She was born the first generation American of a Ukrainian family; hence the ‘Gogosha’ name. Her husband, a good Yorkshireman, is a Clark. And they both decided to hyphenate when they married.Having worn glasses since she was five, she purchased, with her own money, the LA Eyeworks “Ray” at fourteen (even then she was cutting edge!). At 18, while strolling by an optical, Dr. Bill Koppin of Shades Optical in Birmingham, MI hired her as an apprentice optician and a career was born. At 20, JGC headed to NYC to live out her dreams. She worked first for Selima, then became the Dita rep. Two years later, she moved to LA and a new position, from 2003-2010 with Anne et Valentin, Theo and later Kirk Originals and Claire Goldsmith.Gogosha Optique was born in March, 2008. Other than her husband, the optical world is the only thing that’s ever held and kept her attention. The many facets, mix of design, technology, manufacturing, fashion, and need to be a psychologist to customers at times all keep her interest.
Nikkers: What do you think is the best concept/invention to happen to the industry?JGC: In the last 15 years, chemical cutting has changed the industry, whether it be for frame construction or for decorative purposes. Digital PAL's are a massive improvement and have induced expletive laced rejoicing from people who felt restricted with traditional PAL designs. Social media has changed the landscape. My customers know my dog, my family and my manicure schedule, and I theirs. It creates a shorthand, a sense of familiarity we couldn't have had a decade ago. I wish remote video technology was utilized more to save the reps all those miles.Nikkers: Your biggest pet peeve?JGC: People with a sense of entitlement. When wanting something is equated with deserving it.Nikkers: Any famous people optical stories?JGC: From time to time we get celebrities in our stores. Most times I don't realize who they are until afterwards. Helping Elton John on set, was a thrill. I was shaking while adjusting his Derome Brenner glasses we did for him for 2012 Superbowl PEPSI commercial. I like to describe that experience as short and sweet, just like him. Christina Hendricks of Mad Men is even more beautiful and lovely in person and has a remarkably keen sense of style. We sold Lady Gaga a few dozen sunglasses for her BORN THIS WAY tour, but never got the pleasure to meet her in person. It's so cool seeing Fred Armisen from SNL wearing his glasses from us on the SNL title shots.
Nikkers: What makes a rep a ‘great rep’ in your opinion?JGC: I was on the other side for 10 years, so I judge reps through that prism. It's a hard job.1/ Know your line better than I do.2/ Nurture the relationship3/ Go the extra mile when warranted.4/ Always follow up.
Nikkers: And the kiss of death for a rep?JGC: lacking integrity, aren't truthful, reps that don't follow up, only call when they need an order, don't listen, rude-nasty attitude, tardiness, gossipy.Nikkers: Who’s smarter, DDC or Rocco? JGC: There’s no contest.There you have it, some inside information on a woman who opened a store cold in 2008, and has managed to turn the name Gogosha into a household one, simply by perseverance and a true love of all things optical and high end. We can all learn something from this woman, on attitude, on life, on loving your four legged baby (Odessa is her name) and on the positives of what we do on a daily basis. Nikki DiBacco is a writer, educator, consultant, and optical boutique owner in Panama City, FL. She is also the co-founder of The Visionaries Group. You can find out more about her at visionariesgroup.com