02/10/2026
Sometimes the path you end up on is the one that’s been quietly shaping you your whole life. 🌲👓
Hi, I’m Dr. Lauren Hazelton — and if you’ve been around White Spruce Optometry, you’ve probably seen me bouncing between exam rooms, chatting with patients, and trying to squeeze in a quick hello whenever I can. 😊
I grew up in an optometry office. My dad is an optometrist, and as a kid I spent a lot of time tagging along to his practice, watching him care for patients and build real relationships with the people in his community. Back then, I didn’t realize how much that experience would shape me — I just knew I liked being around people and seeing how something as simple as good care could make someone’s day better.
Heading into my junior year of college, I had one of those “I should probably figure out what I want to do with my life” moments. What kept pulling me back was how much I loved working with people and helping in a hands-on way. Optometry felt familiar, but it also felt meaningful — and it gave me the chance to do work that truly impacts people every day.
After optometry school, I spent three years working alongside my dad in Anchorage, Alaska, where I grew up. That experience taught me so much about patient care, building trust, and creating a practice that feels personal — not rushed or transactional. It’s also where I realized how important private practice is to me. I love the community connection, the relationships you build over time, and the ability to shape the experience for patients in a really intentional way.
When the opportunity came to become part of White Spruce Optometry, it felt like the right next chapter. Buying into an established practice meant I could honor what was already here while slowly making it feel like home. My hope has always been to create a space I genuinely enjoy showing up to each day — one where patients feel comfortable, cared for, and truly seen. I wanted to build a clinic I’d feel good bringing my own kids to and trusting with their care.
Outside of the clinic, I’m a mom of three and spend most of our free time chasing little adventures around Minnesota with my husband, Brooks. We love mountain biking in the Crosby area, skiing at Giants Ridge, fishing, camping, and finding any excuse to be outside together. Family and community are really important to me, and that carries over into how I approach my work here, too.
I’m so grateful to be part of this community and to care for so many familiar (and new!) faces at White Spruce Optometry. Thank you for trusting me and our team with your eye care — it truly means more than you know. 💚
