We had the good fortune of connecting with J. Christina Goodwater and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi J. Christina, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
“It is people who will stop at nothing to make a positive difference in other people’s lives. It’s rewarding to meet and work directly with a few of these game-changing people, and the desire to help (and keep up with them!) is what drives me”

What should our readers know about your business?
Shaded Eye Candi, LLC, is Houston’s newest independent fashion-forward optical and accessories e-commerce boutique. Shaded Eye Candi, LLC is a small business, and our curated collections for men, women, and kids set us apart from your typical eyewear (optical) entities.

We are excited to announce that we will start offering optical service of fulfilling non-progressive (optical) prescriptions for our customers later in Fall 2021.

We are continuously expanding and learning the layers of the optical industry along with appreciating the art of conducting good business. Owning and operating an entire business is not an easy walk in the park. It takes dedication, tenacity, and a willingness to be open-minded.

The Shaded Eye Candi, LLC brand faces challenges daily but it comes with the territory. There have been many incidents of shipping constraints and other operational challenges that have held up our entire campaign or project. We are learning that we can only control what we can control and over-communicate to our vendors and customers.

Let us be your Eyewear Dealer!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am a fan of drinking bubbly and enjoying brunch or simply enjoying a spa day with friends. Below is a couple of itineraries that I would put together for my friends.

Friday Night

6:00-7:30 p.m.

Shaded Eye Candi, LLC Private Trunk Show & Happy Hour

10:00 p.m-Midnight

Dinner & A Comedy Show

Saturday

Brunch at Lucille’s

Spa Day at Nordstroms

Shopping in the Galleria

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been blessed to build the Shaded Eye Candi, LLC brand with an amazing global network of family and friends. Networking is a beautiful tool and my friend and colleague, Allyson Buckner (Bearded By Buckner Owner) supported my passion and vision from the very beginning. Allyson identified a potential mentorship opportunity and connected me with her optometrist Dr. Green.

Dr. Green is the owner of Gulf Coast Vision Center, located in Houston, Texas. Dr. Green is heaven-sent and has been providing me gems to enhance the overall Shaded Eye Candi, LLC brand.

Mentorship is valuable which acuminates leadership qualities and direct exposure that aligns with the goals and interests of the mentee.

We are so excited for the mentorship opportunity and look forward to not only enhancing our brand but to help others along the journey.

Website: https://shadedeyecandi.com/

Instagram: @shadedeyecandi

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaded-eye-candi-llc-065923202/

Twitter: @shadedeyecandi

Facebook: facebook.com/shopshadedeyecandi

Image Credits
MUA: Luvretta Holloway (@02luvly) Stylist: Queen Toni Netter (@divazstyledbyqueen) Shoot Director: Andie James (@i_love_eloquii) Photographer: Len Bennet (@thelennzphoto)

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.