Name of person featured: Lyndsey Drake

Name of Business: Dylan B. Belt, O.D.

Street address: 108 W. 2nd Ave., Franklin

Phone number: (757) 562-4321

Operating hours: Monday, Tuesday, Friday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Wednesday 9 a.m. to noon; Thursday 9 a.m. to noon

E-mail address: theofficeofdrbelt@gmail.com

Nature of business: Optometrist/optical boutique

owner: Dr. Dylan B. Belt, O.D.

Year founded: Dr. Belt purchased the practice in January

Prior locations: Formerly the office of Dr. Calveard and Stansbury

Number of employees: Three

How’s business? Business is steady. We love our loyal patients and are always happy to make new ones.

One thing you wish everyone knew about your business: Even without vision insurance, some eye exams are able to be billed to medical insurance at just your specialist co-pay.

Something you offer that a customer won’t find elsewhere: We accept the International Paper Vision One discount plan for frames and lenses. We also carry an exclusive line of designer frames including Sean John Eyewear and Lucky Brand. We take pride in our uptown atmosphere while keeping our small town charm.

Advice to young entrepreneurs: People will always remember their first impression of you/your business, so get a good front desk staff.

Your first job: Parker Drug

Your role model (in business or in life generally): My mom. She is a stellar woman who has instilled good morals and a strong work ethic.

The key to a successful business is:  Caring about your customers/patients