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  • A Mom’s Struggle Led to MIKO Eyewear: Finally Glasses for Low-Bridge Kids

Stories

September 4, 2024

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Have you ever struggled to find glasses that fit just right? If you have a low-bridge nose, this challenge might be all too familiar.

For many people, especially in the Asian community, finding eyewear that stays comfortably in place without constant adjustment is a common struggle.

Megan Miyamoto, founder of MIKO Eyewear, knows this experience all too well, and it’s what inspired her to create a brand that finally addresses this issue head-on.

The Inspiration Behind MIKO

Growing up, Megan often faced difficulties in finding glasses that fit well. She felt frustrated by the lack of options that accommodated her facial features.

“I was often told to ‘just shop the rack,’ which left me feeling like I needed to fit in or that there was something wrong with my facial features,” Megan shared with AHN.

When she became a mother, she was determined to give the best for her daughter, including the right eyewear. She didn’t want her daughter to go through the same difficulties that she did.

Through her research, Megan discovered that up to 80% of lifetime UV exposure occurs before the age of 18, leading to serious eye health concerns like cataracts and eyelid cancer. Yet, when she went searching for suitable eyewear for her daughter, she found the options disappointingly limited, especially for children with low bridges.

After trying countless samples, including private label options that didn’t meet her standards, Megan decided to give it a go and design a product using high-quality materials that she could feel good about. And that’s how MIKO was born.

Overcoming Challenges with Community Support

One of the toughest challenges that Megan faced as an entrepreneur is the sense of isolation that can come with building something from the ground up. 

“There were moments when doubt would creep in, and it was easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of work and decisions needing to be made,” she said.

Megan found strength in the community that rallied around her. She pushed herself out of her comfort zone, connecting with mentors, fellow entrepreneurs, and communities like Authentic Asian.

“If you took the time to connect with me, spread the word about MIKO, or made a purchase, sincerely thank you for being a part of our MIKO journey.”

The Creative Process

Seeing her idea turn into a tangible product that her daughter and neighborhood kids genuinely love is one of the milestones that Megan is most proud of. What started as a quest to fill a gap in the market for low-bridge kids’ eyewear has evolved into a brand that brings confidence and joy to its young wearers.

The design process was particularly special for Megan, as it was a collaborative effort involving her daughter and the neighborhood kids, and turning her kitchen island into a mini design studio.

During these sessions, Megan paid close attention to the kids’ feedback, particularly when it came to the fit of the glasses. They tried on various prototypes, providing insights into what felt comfortable and what didn’t. They also got to select the colors for the frames, giving a fresh perspective and opening Megan’s eyes to combinations she probably wouldn’t have considered on her own.

Seeing the kids’ faces light up when they tried on glasses that fit perfectly was incredibly rewarding for Megan. Their creative process reinforced the idea that MIKO isn’t just eyewear made for kids—it’s made with them.

MIKO’s Mission and Vision

MIKO Eyewear is dedicated to empowering the next generation by providing inclusive, stylish, and functional eyewear specifically designed for children with low bridges.

Megan’s vision is to redefine what it means to wear glasses, turning them from a mere necessity into a source of pride and confidence for kids. By addressing the unique needs of low-bridge children, MIKO not only fills a gap in the market but also celebrates the diversity of facial features, empowering the Asian community and beyond.

Connect with MIKO

Instagram: @miko_eyewear

Website: mikoeyewear.com

Get a complimentary eyeglass strap with your MIKO Eyewear sunglasses purchase! It will be automatically added to your cart. Available for the first 100 customers only!

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