MARCH 6–8, 2026

NEW YORK CITY

EYECON[VERSATIONS] unfolds across three days of curated panels and discussions bringing together leading voices from eyewear, retail, design, and culture. The program blends insight, strategy, and perspective — reflecting the evolving landscape of modern luxury optical.

SPECIAL EVENTS PROGRAMMING

FRIDAY – MARCH 6th, 2026

  • [Panel + Q&A (ABO Approved – 1 Hour]

    Panelists:

    • Carl Curry – The Gown Man of NYC & Sales Director at Christian Siriano

    • Kweku Bediako – Founder at Chocolate Clothes Global

    • Gianluca Sardo – President at The Glasshouse

    • Moderators – Erinn Morgan, Chief Content Officer at Insight Media and Tarrence Lackran, Founder of EYECON & Host of the EYECON[VERSATIONS] podcast.

    Desire is never created by aesthetics alone — it is built through atmosphere, emotion, and the subtle choreography of human interaction. In this cross-disciplinary conversation panelists examine how fashion, architecture, and environment converge to shape perception and aspiration. From the intimacy of couture salons to the intentionality of spatial design, the panel explores how service, storytelling, and physical space work together to create moments that feel personal, memorable, and deeply engaging. At the intersection of hospitality, design, and luxury, this dialogue reveals how desire is ultimately an experience — one that is seen, felt, and carefully orchestrated.

  • [Panel + Q&A]

    Panelists:

    • Antoine Amiel – President & CEO of New Look Vision Group

    • Gary Black – President of Black Optical

    • Anne Kavanagh – Managing Director & Founder of Kavanagh Consulting LLC

    • Moderated by Marge Axelrad – Founder of Select Vision LLC & Editorial Director Emeritus, Vision Monday

    As private equity and strategic buyers accelerate their presence in independent optical, this 40-minute panel unpacks how today’s acquisition wave is reshaping luxury retail—from brand partnerships and product curation to the in-store experience itself. Featuring Antoine Amiel (President & CEO, New Look Vision Group), Gary Black (President, Black Optical), and an industry representative specializing in optical transactions, the conversation explores what investors are truly looking for, how founders can prepare for exit, and how to preserve brand identity, client loyalty, and creative vision post-acquisition. Essential insight for luxury optical owners navigating change—and anyone watching the future of premium eyewear unfold.

  • Panelists:

    • Dr. Monica Jong

    • Moderator: Erinn Morgan, Chief Content Officer at Insight Media Group

    This discussion focuses on children diagnosed with myopia and the importance of early, thoughtful intervention during key years of visual development. In this 30-minute fireside conversation, leaders from EssilorLuxottica join experienced optometric practitioners to discuss how Stellest lenses are designed specifically for children with myopia and how evidence-based innovation is shaping a new standard of pediatric vision care. Together, they explore real-world patient experiences, how to communicate myopia management clearly and confidently with parents, and the role independent practices play in supporting long-term eye health. Grounded in both clinical insight and practical application, the discussion highlights a collaborative, child-centered approach to protecting young vision and building healthier futures.

  • [Fireside Chat + Q&A]

    An intimate conversation with Selima Salaun, Founder of Selima Optique, moderated by Karen Giberson, President & CEO of Accessories Council & Editor in Chief of AC Magazine.

  • Close Day One with a golden-hour cocktail gathering on The Glasshouse terrace. Sip, connect, and unwind with skyline views, music in the air, and conversations flowing—an effortless moment to reflect on the day’s discoveries and toast to what’s ahead.


SATURDAY – MARCH 7th, 2026

  • [Panel + Q&A (ABO Approved – 1 Hour]

    Panelists:

    • Celeste Vos – SVP of Sales at Silhouette Eyewear

    • Wendy Salle – Director of Opticianry and Frame Merchandising at Keplr

    • Christos Karabelas – Founder of SOMA Optical

    • Jonathan Oberti – Founder of Tejesta

    • Moderator – Deirdre Carroll, Editor in Chief at INVISION Magazine

    A forward-looking conversation bringing together two independent retailers and two independent vendors to explore how collaboration—not competition—is shaping the future of eyewear. Against today’s backdrop of rising tariffs, margin pressure, and evolving consumer behavior, this 60-minute session (45 minutes discussion + 15 minutes Q&A) examines how brands and retailers can move beyond transactional relationships toward strategic partnerships rooted in transparency, shared storytelling, and mutual growth. Panelists share practical strategies around co-marketing, product alignment, and long-term sustainability—offering actionable insight for building resilient, future-ready alliances.

  • [Panel + Q&A]

    Panelists:

    • Dr. Jennifer Tsai – Founder of Line of Sight

    • Dr. Sophia Visanji – Founder of KUONA

    • Dr. Michael Rosen – Owner of Eye Gallery of Scarsdale

    • Jackson Davis III – District Sales Manager at InMode

    • Moderated by Dr. Arian Fartash – Founder of Corona Vision Center

    This panel explores how modern optometric practices are redefining luxury through personalized care, intentional design, curated eyewear, and high-touch patient experiences. From integrating aesthetic services and advanced technology to building brand identity and long-term loyalty, panelists share strategies for turning eyecare practices into destination-worthy environments where healthcare meets hospitality.

  • Panelist:

    • Wesley Wu - Brand Marketing Director - Luxury at EssilorLuxottica 

    This is a rare, behind-the-scenes perspective on how a global fashion house approaches eyewear as an essential expression of brand identity—not an afterthought. In this intimate 30-minute conversation, a senior leader from iconic houses such as Prada, Chanel, Versace, or Ralph Lauren share how eyewear is integrated into the creative vision of a collection, from runway storytelling to everyday wear. Moderated through a fashion-first lens, the discussion explores brand DNA, creative collaboration, and the role eyewear plays as one of the most visible and accessible luxury touchpoints—offering retailers and industry leaders deeper insight into how fashion houses expect their eyewear to be seen, worn, and sold.

  • [Panel + Q&A]

    Panelists:

    • Autianna Makarizadeh – Owner of Eyewear Love Affair

    • Carlo Sestini – Founder of Sestini Eyewear

    • Alexis Perron-Corriveau – Co-Founder of Paloceras Eyewear

    • Moderated by Tarrence Lackran – Founder of EYECON and Host of the EYECON[VERSATIONS] Podcast

    Moderated by Tarrence Lackran, this high-energy 30-minute panel brings together three next-gen vendors and one independent retailer to explore how emerging voices are redefining eyewear. From community-first brands and digital-native growth to sustainability, limited drops, and immersive retail, panelists share how they got started, what it takes to stand out, and how retailers discover fresh talent—offering real-world insight for brands scaling with intention and retailers staying ahead of what’s next.

  • [Panel + Q&A]

    Panelists:

    • Julia Gogosha – Founder of Gogosha Optique

    • Kerin Rose Gold – Founder of A-morir Studio

    An inside look at how partnerships between designers, brands, artists, and cultural creatives have shaped eyewear’s most memorable moments—and how modern collaborations continue to push the industry forward. Panelists share behind-the-scenes insight into their own creative alliances while spotlighting historic collaborations that transformed frames into fashion statements and cultural symbols, offering inspiration and practical takeaways for brands and retailers building authentic partnerships with lasting impact.

SUNDAY – MARCH 8th, 2026

  • Start Sunday with movement, community, and innovation at the KURO Performance Run powered by KURO Athletics. The experience begins with a guided warm-up at The Glasshouse, followed by a group run along the West Side Highway. Participants will also explore KURO’s athletic performance technology—seeing firsthand how precision eyewear supports focus, movement, and recovery.

    Link to Registration: www.eyecon.show/kuro

  • A soft, sunlit closing gathering to savor great food, warm conversation, and the connections sparked throughout the weekend. A moment to slow down, reflect on discoveries, and toast to fresh ideas—where friendships linger and EYECON’s energy gently carries forward.

  • A curated speed-mentoring experience connecting emerging optical entrepreneurs with established independent retailers. Seven next-generation attendees rotate through focused five-minute conversations with Seven successful retailers, gaining real-world insight on store buildouts, buying strategy, branding, growth, and early ownership challenges. Expect rapid-fire advice, honest dialogue, and meaningful connections in an intimate, high-impact format. Participation is limited and application-based.

    Link to Application: www.eyecon.show/next-gen-retail-mentorship-lab

    Mentors: Stephen Lundquist, Gary Black, Autianna Makarizadeh, Alicia Hartman, Wendy Salle, Todd Rogers, Assia Valentin

PAST LIVE EPISODES

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists

    • Dee Carroll, Editor-in-Chief at INVISION Mag

    • Edward Beiner, Founder of the Edward Beiner Group

    • Gisela Assis, Co-founder of LAPIMA

    • Alcia Hartman, Founder of EYEQ Stylist Opticians

    Course Description: This course will explore the essential dynamics of vendor-retailer partnerships in the luxury eyewear market. Attendees will gain a deeper understanding of best practices in fostering strong business relationships, optimizing inventory strategies, and implementing innovative collaboration methods that drive sales and enhance customer satisfaction. The course will also cover the evolving challenges in the optical industry and how professionals can adapt to changing consumer trends.

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists:

    • Siria Alvarez – VIP/Restaurant Manager, Tatiana by Kwame Onwuachi

    • Jeff Rednour – General Manager, Equinox Hotels

    • Dr. Jennifer Tsai – Optometrist & Founder, Line of Sight

    • Julia Gogosha – Founder, Gogosha Optique

    Luxury isn’t just about price—it’s about emotion, storytelling, and the seamless fusion of aesthetics and service. This panel explores how leaders in eyewear, fashion, and hospitality design experiences that captivate, indulge, and inspire. From curating high-touch retail environments to crafting elevated dining and hotel experiences, our panelists will uncover the art of making customers feel exclusive, valued, and deeply connected to a brand.

  • Panelists:

    • Marge Axelrad, Editorial director emeritus at Vision Monday/VMAIL

    • Alain Mikli, Creator and Founder of Alain Mikli Eyewear

    • Tommy O’Gara, founder of The Light Co.

    • Christos Karabelas, founder of SOMA Optical

    Join us for an in-depth conversation with three visionary forces in eyewear: Alain Mikli, the legendary designer known for his avant-garde aesthetic and pioneering craftsmanship; Tommy O’Gara, the creative mind behind some of the most technically refined and beautifully engineered frames in the industry; and Christos Karabelas, founder of SOMA Optical, a boutique celebrated for its expertly curated selection and commitment to independent eyewear. Moderated by Marge Axelrad, this panel will explore the intersection of artistry and innovation in eyewear design, touching on material advancements, the evolving role of independent eyewear in the luxury space, and how designers continue to push creative and technical boundaries. Christos will also highlight the vital role of independent retailers in championing design-driven brands, fostering creativity, and shaping consumer appreciation for craftsmanship.

  • [Approved for 1 hour of ABO credit]

    Panelists:

    • Christine Yeh, Executive Editor at 20/20 Magazine

    • Will Claye, Olympic Athlete

    • Gary Black, Founder of Kuro and Black Optical

    • Drew Oppermann, VP of Sales at DITA Lancier

    Join us for an insightful discussion with some of the leading experts in sports vision, high-performance eyewear, and the growing influence of fashion in the space. This panel features Will Claye, Olympic medalist and athlete, representing DITA Lancier is Drew Oppermann, VP of Sales, and Gary Black, founder of Kuro Athletics, brings his expertise in performance-driven eyewear.

    Together, they will explore how cutting-edge eyewear technology is enhancing athletic performance, the intersection of luxury, function, and fashion, and the growing demand for sport-specific designs. With performance eyewear becoming a key accessory in luxury fashion, discover how these industry leaders are shaping eyewear not just for athletes, but for the fashion- conscious consumer. Learn about vision optimization, sustainable innovations, and the role of eyewear in everyday style.

  • Dr Fayiz Mahgoub, Sr Manager of Learning and Development Leonardo EssilorLuxottica, who will explore how this innovation is reshaping the industry and elevating the eyewear experience.

    • Karen Giberson - President & CEO of the Accessories Council and Editor-in-Chief of AC Magazine

    • Selima Salaun – Founder and Creative Director of Selima Optique

    Join Karen Giberson, President & CEO of the Accessories Council and Editor-in-Chief of AC Magazine, for an exclusive conversation with Selima Salaun, the creative force behind Selima Optique. In this engaging interview, Selima will delve into her vast archive of over 50,000 optical and sunglass frames, revealing the historical significance, artistry, and design inspirations behind some of the most iconic eyewear pieces. As a lifelong collector and industry trailblazer, she will share how her passion for preserving the legacy of eyewear has influenced her work and shaped the future of optical design. This is a must-attend discussion for optical brands and retailers looking to explore the intersection of fashion, history, and innovation in eyewear.

ADVISORY BOARD

Our Advisory Board is made up of experienced industry professionals who are here to provide event organizers with valuable insights and feedback on industry trends, attendee experiences, and educational content, ensuring that EYECON meets the evolving needs of its professional audience. They will collaborate to enhance the event's relevance, fostering a platform that supports networking, innovation, and business growth within the eyewear industry.

  • Black and white portrait of a woman with long wavy hair, wearing a black blazer, sitting on a stool against a plain black background, smiling and holding a smartphone in her hands.

    Dr. Jennifer Tsai, OD

    Founder - Line Of Sight

  • A smiling man with glasses, wearing a black sweater, sitting at a table in front of a display of eyeglasses on wooden shelves.

    Gary Black

    Founder - Black Optical

  • A woman with shoulder-length wavy hair and glasses standing in front of display shelves with multiple pairs of sunglasses, in a store or showroom setting.

    Kyly Zakheim-Rabin

    Owner - Zak.

  • A woman with dark lipstick and large round sunglasses leaning on her hand, looking out of a window with a thoughtful expression, wearing a striped shirt.

    Alicia Hartman

    Founder - EyeQ Barbados

  • A man with a bearded face and wavy hair wearing sunglasses holding a tabby cat outdoors, with a cloudy sky in the background.

    Christos Karabelas

    Founder - SOMA Optical

  • Black and white photo of a woman with short hair, wearing large, artistic sunglasses and a patterned scarf around her neck, outdoors in a sunny setting.

    Julia Gogosha

    Founder - Gogosha Optique

  • Black and white portrait of a middle-aged woman with shoulder-length hair, wearing glasses, earrings, a necklace with a pendant, and a dark collared shirt, smiling softly against a black background.

    Wendy Salle

    Founder - Salle Opticians

  • Black and white portrait of a woman with dark, curly hair, wearing a necklace, and a low-cut top.

    Cristina Frasca

    Editor-in-Chief at LYF Magazine

FEATURED EXHIBITOR

A woman with long hair lying on a pink satin sheet, wearing a pink lace nightgown, holding sunglasses. SATO EYEWEAR | EYECON SHOW
sato-ezgif.com-video-to-gif-converter-3.gif
A person with a shaved head wearing sunglasses, looking downward, with a metallic chain necklace, and the text "Too Young to Die Old" at the bottom. SATO EYEWEAR | EYECON SHOW
A man lying on a motorcycle at night, looking at his phone, with a clear dark sky in the background. SATO EYEWEAR | EYECON SHOW
A woman in pink satin sleepwear laying on a satin bedsheet with sunglasses in the foreground and the text 'Too Young to Die Old' at the bottom. SATO EYEWEAR | EYECON SHOW
A woman wearing a motocross helmet and glasses looking at the camera against a purple background. | SATO EYEWEAR | EYECON SHOW