About Eyeball

EYEBALL started with friends, a late night, and a shared vision for something better. After hosting The Eyewear Afterparty, we wanted to create a gathering that reflected the independent eyewear community—built on creativity, craftsmanship, and real relationships.

EYEBALL launched in January 2025, bringing together attendees from 21 states and over 100 independent eyewear brands for a one-day event, just weeks after the devastating Los Angeles fires. Together, we raised $5,000 for the California Fire Foundation.

EYEBALL II took place in February 2026, growing into a three-day event with attendees from 27 states and over 150 eyewear brands. We raised another $5,000 for Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, supporting children affected by rare eye cancers.

Now, we’re preparing for EYEBALL III, January 22–24, 2027, at the Ace Hotel & Swim Club in Palm Springs.Expect more independent brands, hands-on workshops, continuing education, and meaningful connections.

EYEBALL is more than a trade show. It’s a gathering of frame makers, opticians, designers, and independent thinkers united by a shared belief in independence, craftsmanship, and community.

Brett and Lauren Cates

Brett has spent more than twenty years as an optician and eyewear representative, building long-term relationships with independent shops, frame makers, and designers.

Lauren also has spent her career as an optician, and eyewear representative shares Brett’s love for objects made with intention, by people who stand behind their work.

Together, we believe the independent optical community deserves a place of its own — a place to connect, learn, create, celebrate, and support one another without losing sight of what makes this industry special.