I started in optical in 2002, following in my family’s footsteps. Right away, I fell in love with the craft but also saw a major problem: most frames don’t actually fit. Even with thousands of options in front of me, nothing worked for my own small head and low bridge.

After two decades of learning, designing, and working with some of the best eyewear shops in Chicagoland, I knew it was time to do things differently. I wanted to create a space where fit wasn’t an afterthought, pricing wasn’t a guessing game, and customers felt respected from the moment they walked in. That’s how Framed Eyewear was born.

Today, I help people find eyewear that feels as good as it looks. From handcrafted, independent brands to fully bespoke designs, I make sure your glasses are comfortable, stylish, and built to last.

Nathan Hill - the founder behind Framed Eyewear

Changing the way people experience eyewear

Most eyewear shops hand you a wall of frames and ask you to pick. At Framed Eyewear, I sit down with you first - no frames, no pressure, just conversation. I want to understand your lifestyle, your prescription, and your frustrations. Only then do I bring out options that work for you. Here’s what sets us apart:

Why Framed Eyewear is Different

Custom fit - Every detail is measured so your frames don’t slide, pinch, or break.

Independent brands - No mass-market frames here. We partner with designers who care about craftsmanship.

Concierge service - Mobile appointments and private fittings tailored to your schedule.

Built to last - With the right care, most of our eyewear lasts 20+ years.

Heather Schmitt - Executive Assistant

Amelia Moran, ABOC - Lab Manager and Optician

While I lead Framed Eyewear as the founder and CEO, none of this happens alone. Our team shares a deep respect for craftsmanship, precision, and personal connection. Any optician on the team must have at least 10 years of service.

Meet the Team Behind the Frames

Heather supports Nathan with a blend of professionalism, intuition, and creativity that keeps everything running smoothly behind the scenes. Her background as a secondary teacher gives her strong communication skills, adaptability, and a calm, steady presence in a fast-paced, high-end environment. From managing detailed schedules to coordinating partnerships and events, her organization and eye for detail show up in every task. Outside of work, she loves fishing, embroidery, and making memories with her daughter—finding the same balance of focus and joy she brings to her role.

Amelia is an ABO-certified optician with 20+ years of experience and a deep background in luxury eyewear, shaped in part by her time managing an Oliver Peoples boutique. Her expertise, precision, and warm approach to patient care make her a natural fit for Framed, where she brings an exceptional eye for quality, fit, and contemporary style.

Optics run in her family—guided early on by her father, an OD—giving her a strong foundation in vision care and a genuine drive to help people see and feel their best. She also founded Vision for Chicago, a nonprofit providing eye exams and glasses to underserved communities, reflecting the same compassion she brings to every client interaction.

Outside the studio, Amelia’s vibrant personality shines. She’s a devoted White Sox fan, a lover of all things purple, and dog mom to Pop Rocks, her playful pit bull.

Credentials you can trust

Board Certified by the American Board of Opticianry

National ABO Speaker

2x Lindberg Ambassador

Rolf Spectacles and Monoceros certified

Over 23+ years of optical experience, including boutique development and luxury eyewear fittings

Specializing in high prescription, pristine lab work, and bespoke eyewear

Obsessed with Siamese cats

Proud Whovian (Doctor Who fan)

Diehard Cubs fan despite growing up on the South Side

Dad to a 9 year old, going on 30

Get to know Nathan

When I’m not working on eyewear, you’ll probably find me cheering for the Cubs with my partner, bowling (badly), or watching Doctor Who. I’m also a lifelong cat person - my Siamese cat has been by my side for over a decade.

Fun facts about me:

Passionate about supporting minority-owned businesses

At the end of the day, this isn’t about titles or certifications. It’s about you feeling confident, comfortable, and understood.

Most people come to me frustrated - their glasses don’t fit, they slip down their nose, or they paid a premium for frames that didn’t last. My job is to solve that problem. When you leave Framed Eyewear, I want you to feel proud of the eyewear you’re wearing - knowing it fits your face, your lifestyle, and your budget.