Business Spotlight: Edmonds Vision Center
Small businesses and the people who own and work in them are the heart of our Edmonds community. To keep our downtown thriving, it’s more critical than ever that we think local first.
In this new series, we will be highlighting independently-owned businesses, and learn more about the folks that make them run!
Meet Kathy Solum, OD and Art Wong, OD from Edmonds Vision Center
What is your favorite part of your business?
The people! It was always our life plan to help people. We found a profession that allows us to do that and have family time. Every person coming in our door has a unique situation with specific requirements. We work hard to ensure that everyone’s eye health and vision needs are met.
Why did you start your business?
As new graduates we had lived in other communities around the Sound, but none ever felt like home. Twenty years ago, we came to Edmonds on a recommendation from a friend and fell in love with the city! We found the people so friendly and the community very supportive. It immediately felt like home! We knew this was where we wanted to have our “forever” practice and raise our kids (and kitties)!
Why did you choose Edmonds for your business?
We both grew up in smaller communities and wanted to raise a family in a safe and friendly environment. Edmonds has all that! Practicing with a mindset that the patient comes first is our top priority. We spend a lot of time with each person to develop a personal connection and make sure all of their questions are answered. We believe that your visit should also be fun as well as professional. You will often hear laughter as the doctors joke with their patients. Our patients are our family!
What is unique about your business?
We pride ourselves in giving personal attention to each and every person that walks in our door. Our doctors and staff offer all patients a comprehensive evaluation using cutting edge technology to manage eye health conditions. There is something for everyone in our optical, including Doggles for your dog! If you prefer contacts, we have those too.
Why should people do business with you?
Our employees are friendly, knowledgable, and happy to help. We are here to take care of you and this community. Running into our patients outside the office is always the highlight of our day!
What are you currently doing differently during this time?
We have chosen to make your experience with us as safe as possible. We have many protocols in place to keep you healthy when you come into our office. All of our staff care about keeping your visit safe and enjoyable!
Tell us a fun fact about yourself!
We are a married couple with two wonderful kids, and we love spending time in and around Edmonds. Dr. Wong is from Canada and speaks Canadian, “Eh”! On his days off, you might find him at his Green Egg smoker. Recipes are welcome! Dr. Solum grew up on a farm in Montana. You can’t keep the farm life out of this country gal! Gardening is her stress reliever.
Is there anything else you’d like to tell us about your business?
We have modified our hours during this time with full staff Monday through Saturday 9:00am to 5:30pm. Appointments are available with Drs. Solum, Wong, and McFarland in person and through telemedicine visits. Please call our office if you need any eye or optical assistance!
Edmonds Vision Center
201 5th Ave S, Suite 102
Years in business: 20
Photos by Matt Hulbert