Show-Me State Opticians Society

04/25/2026

04/23/2026

Big things are hitting the table this weekend 👀

The 2026 SMSOS Convention Silent Auction is stacked with items you actually want—premium eyewear, curated lifestyle bundles, optical tools, accessories, and some seriously fun surprises. Whether you’re upgrading your dispensary, treating yourself, or grabbing something unique, there’s something worth bidding on.

We’re also bringing in lens vouchers from top labs like AccuLab, Shamir, and more—real value you can put to work immediately.

🗓 Saturday, April 25th
⏰ 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 Kansas City
🎟 FREE entry for all optical professionals

No catch—just show up, walk the vendor trade show, and place your bids.

If you’re in the optical world and not in the room, you’re missing opportunity. Simple as that.

See you at the tables.

showmestateopticians.org/convention-2026

04/20/2026

Not everything in opticianry can be learned from a screen.

If you’ve ever wished you had more hands-on practice at the bench, this is for you.

Join us for the Sunday Hands-On Class for Developing Opticians—a full day focused on real-world skills like measurements, Optical Cross, ANSI standards, lensometry, and frame adjustment.

✔ Small group setting
✔ Practical, guided instruction
✔ Skills you’ll actually use every day
✔ Lunch included

🕘 9:30 AM – 3:15 PM

💲 $75

No need to commit to the full convention—you can register just for this class.

👉 When registering, look for:
“Sunday Hands-On Class for Developing Opticians”

🎟️ Save your seat:
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/smso-the-roaring-2020s

04/12/2026

Let’s talk myopia control.

We’re excited to have Amanda House from Essilor joining us to break down Stellest lenses—and why they’re getting so much attention.

Don’t just correct myopia—slow the progression.

Stellest lenses are a breakthrough in myopia management and are the first FDA market authorized spectacle lens designed to slow the progression of nearsightedness in children.

If you’ve had patients (or parents) asking about myopia control—or you know you should be bringing it up more—this class is for you.

✨ What you’ll walk away with:
• How Stellest lenses work
• Who they’re for
• How to confidently present myopia management options to families

This is one of those classes that helps you move from “I’ve heard of it” to “I can actually use this.”

Don’t miss it at showmestateopticians.org/convention-2026

03/29/2026

Strong organizations are built by people who care.

SMSO is currently seeking volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors. If you’ve ever thought about getting more involved, this is a great place to start.

No special experience required—just a commitment to supporting opticians in Missouri.

👉 Express interest: https://www.showmestateopticians.org/leadership

03/23/2026

Thank you to our friends:
AccuLab Optical
Safilo ST. LOUIS
David Spencer Eyewear
Shamir - USA

03/19/2026

✨ Vendor Spotlight: 141 Eyewear | Jaron Smith - 141 Eyewear

At 141 Eyewear, frames are designed to do more than look good—they’re made to feel good, perform well, and be something you’re proud to stand behind.

Crafted with advanced materials like Ultem, this collection delivers exceptional lightness, flexibility, and durability—frames built for real life. Comfortable for all-day wear, resilient in daily use, and dependable over time.

But what truly sets 141 Eyewear apart is its mission.
For every pair purchased, a pair is given to someone in need.
One for one. One Four One.

Jaron Smith is proud to support independent optical by offering a collection that aligns with your standards, your values, and the communities you serve.

Come see the line, feel the difference, and connect with Jaron at the SMSO Trade Show.

Secure booth space for the SMSO Trade Show: https://www.showmestateopticians.org/trade-show

Optical professionals planning to attend the SMSO Trade Show: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/smsos-annual-tradeshow

Register to attend SMSO Annual Convention:
https://www.showmestateopticians.org/convention-2026

11/19/2025


⭐️⭐️Let’s Celebrate Missouri’s Optical All-Stars! ⭐️⭐️


Know an optician who brings the perfect blend of style, skill, and stellar service?

Nominate them for our ✨Show-Me Appreciation✨ Spotlight and help us show off the amazing talent right here in Missouri!

How to Nominate:
1. Like and follow the Show-Me State Opticians Society page
2. Fill out this quick and fun form: 
👉🏽 https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfrB_jT-k21-5-yLtBcHLi_mxnubpgMNKJKrS-k7SrgQycTzw/viewform

💌Selected opticians will receive a complimentary ticket to our annual convention—because awesome deserves to be appreciated!

📬Nominations are open through the end of the month, November 30, 2025 and must be for opticians currently working in Missouri.

📣By submitting, you agree to let us share your kind words on our social media—we love spreading good vibes and celebrating the people who make our industry shine.

Let’s hear it for Missouri’s frame-fitting, lens-loving legends!👓💫



11/09/2025

Check the top of the page and look for "Pinned Posts". The first one gives you step-by-step screen shots to help you successfully navigate uploading your CEs. Need more one-on-one help? email us at info@showmestateopticians.org. Don't miss the 30 day deadline!

11/08/2025

When experienced opticians like Louis Loaiza recommend the Show-Me Sessions, you know it’s an event worth attending.

Join us Sunday, November 9, for 6 hours of continuing education for only $30 — live, interactive, and designed for opticians who love to learn.

Watch Louis’s message below and secure your spot today!

Register: https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fall-convention-2

Sponsored by
Jaron Smith - 141 Eyewear
and Shamir Insight - USA

11/02/2025

💡 Big News for Missouri Opticians! (And everyone else too!)

The Show-Me Sessions virtual CE event on November 9 just got even better — we’ve cut the price in half!

🎓 6 Hours of Continuing Education

💰 Now just $30 for everyone!

Don’t miss this chance to learn from top educators, connect with peers, and strengthen your professional skills — all from the comfort of home.

👉 Register today and show Missouri what professional opticians can do!
https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/fall-convention-2