Name: Nada Vuksic

Title: Partner, Licensed Optician, Teacher

Organization/Business: Bruce Eyewear

Social: @bruceeyewear

What do you do and how did you get here?

I am a partner in Bruce Eyewear. I arrived here very sideways from a part time job in university that became a summer job, and it was then I decided that I love the business. I am actually a teacher by profession and I have a master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Studies but I currently practice as a licensed optician in BC.

If you had 15 minutes only, in Gastown, how would you spend it?

I would run from one end of the neighbourhood to the other, stopping in at some of my favourite stores and go shopping! I love One of A Few, Lynn Steven, Nouvelle Nouvelle and any place that sells coffee.

What do you love about the neighbourhood?

I was born and raised here in Vancouver. When I was old enough to take the bus alone, I would come to Gastown and everything would smell of patchouli, there were beads everywhere and it was very boho. I have some wonderful early memories of Gastown. Today, I love how diverse it is and that there are many different cultures to be found.

What’s your most memorable moment or experience in Gastown?

It was when I had to move shop suddenly in February 2004. In under a month, I found this location, built it out and opened it up. I drove up to the store with my parents in the car, telling them how excited I was to be here.

Of all the personalities and celebrities out there, whom would you want to grab a drink with?

Well it would totally be with Gassy Jack; to find out how gassy he really is. I have had the pleasure to hang out with John Fluevog and his wife. I would definitely do it again.

What interesting thing should we know about you outside of work. Hobbies, life, etc?

I recently went surfing! I also have a very funny pyjama collection. I dig my pyjamas. I like to sport them in my yard and in places where people can see them. I really want to knit a sweater. I also have a collection of glasses. I have boxes of them and it’s almost sad but many of my friends and family have inherited them. I like to think I’m archiving them.