Orlando company offers new sunglasses every month

Shades Club team ready for March debut

ORLANDO, Fla. – Ask T.J. Eaton and Rich Amundson who came up with the Shades Club concept, and the high-energy
marketing grads aren’t really sure.

[WEB EXTRA:  Learn how to subscribe to Shades Club]

“I think we both came up with it at the same time," Amundson says.

The 30-something business duo have been on the sunglasses circuit for five years, running Orlando-based
Dicks Cottons, an online clothing and sunglasses retail company.

But this company is different; think Wine Club meets Shave Club.

Every month, you get a new pair of sunglasses. The first three are what Eaton calls “a surprise.”

“A lot of them are made at the very same factory as the world’s largest brands” Eaton says.

The idea has captured the imagination of the Kickstarter universe, pulling in more than 3,000 members in a few months and pledges of nearly $350,000.

Amundson is amazed at how quickly the “club” has taken off.  It may be because of the price.

For roughly $200, you receive a pair of sunglasses every month delivered right to your door in a bright yellow box. There are also a few extras tucked in to add to what they call the “ultimate sunglasses experience.”

If you ‘re wondering if you have a choice of styles, the answer is you have a part in your sunglasses experience.

Amundson says it’s all about your personality. 

“When you sign up you’ll fill out a style guide so we can know a little bit more about you. And we’re going to use that to grow you," he says.

The styles are endless, with frames that include wayfarer, aviator and foldable designs.

They start with unisex sunglasses and evolve into frames and lenses of different tones and colors to create a custom portfolio of sunglasses for the customer.

With spring break fast approaching, the company is expecting a spike in orders.

You can join for one month, three months or a full year, and pause or end the membership at any time.

“It’s going to be fun, and you’re going to love the shades you get,” Eaton predicts.

 


About the Author:

News 6’s Emmy Award-winning Investigative Reporter Mike Holfeld has made Central Florida history with major investigations that have led to new policies, legislative proposals and even -- state and national laws. If you have an issue or story idea, call Mike's office at 407-521-1322.