When Amélie finished her studies in optical dispensing[IN1] , an idea started to form in her mind: one day, she would open her own optician’s office. What once seemed like a far-fetched dream eventually became her reality.
Here’s a closer look at the journey of the optician and businesswoman who has since become a part of the big Doyle family.
From ambition to action: meeting Doyle
When Amélie Parent-Laperle met Doyle’s President Patrick Doyle and HR Director Sonia Deslongchamp, she had over of 12 years of experience as a managing optician for a well-known brand. A mother of two and a seasoned professional, Amélie felt ready to take the next step and achieve her full potential.
When she entered Doyle’s offices for the first time, what she discovered surpassed all her expectations. “It was incredible! I loved the look and the energy. I’m naturally shy, but I found the courage to talk to Patrick and Sonia about my business ambitions.”
While Patrick and Sonia didn’t have business opportunities to offer her at the time, they immediately saw Amélie’s potential. They offered her a position as a travelling optician, an experience that would reignite her passion for the profession.
“I already had a solid professional background, but it felt like I was relearning so much about my work and myself. These lessons made me love what I do even more.”
The stars finally aligned in the spring of 2023, when Amélie became the co-owner of a new Doyle boutique in Repentigny. Her dream was finally coming to life.
From one family to another: a smooth transition
Before being transferred to Doyle and Amélie Parent-Laperle, the Repentigny office was owned by Mathieu Bonin, son of Dr. Michel Bonin, who founded the Bonivision eyewear company in 1971. The family business was an integral part of the community, cherished by both staff and customers.
“I knew I had big shoes to fill,” Amélie admits. “After meeting Mathieu, I felt reassured. He’s a very genuine and down-to-earth entrepreneur.”
Mathieu Bonin stayed by Amélie’s side for the first few months to help ensure a smooth transition. Dr. Bonin himself was present at the opening of the boutique to show his support for the new co-owner. His presence reassured many, Amélie recalls.
“The support of the Bonin family was very important to me. I wanted people to see that the family business hadn’t been handed over to just anyone.”
Thanks to the smooth transition, the customers kept coming back and the team remained mostly unchanged (just two employees left because they relocated), a fact Amélie takes great pride in.
“What I love most about my job is the people,” says Amélie. “I have an experienced and dedicated team. They made me feel welcome, and we instantly connected. I still sometimes arrive at the office and pinch myself thinking, wow, this is my company and my team!”
The team from the Repentigny boutique
Thriving as an entrepreneur: a dream come true
Like many women, Amélie has faced the challenges of juggling different aspects of her life. There were moments when she felt lost in the routine, especially after her maternity leaves. A year and a half into her entrepreneurial venture, she is relishing the confidence and independence she has gained. Besides accomplishing her career dream, Amélie has grown as a person. She says that she has taken control of her life and is thriving in a community that values female entrepreneurship.
“I think women still feel more pressure to prove themselves. We still have to do more to reach the same step on the ladder. But at Doyle, we have several women partners and that’s great to see.”
Amélie also notes that more and more young female professionals are stopping by the boutique and connecting with its brand, a trend Amélie hopes to see grow.
“The customers we inherited are fantastic, but I definitely want to bring in some fresh faces. We’re a creative company with great ideas, and I think we’ve got what it takes to attract a younger, like-minded crowd.”
Some bolder and more unique frame styles might be hitting the shelves at Doyle Repentigny in the next year.
A rightfully earned place
A few years ago, the idea of having her own office felt more like fantasy than reality. Today, Amélie has never felt more confident that she’s in the right place.
“I’m right where I’m meant to be. I love the mentality and the family spirit. It feels big yet small at the same time.”
On her first day, Amélie parked in front of a small shed near the boutique. On one of the windows, she noticed her initials: A.P.L. Was it fate, or just a coincidence? Either way, that moment confirmed she was exactly where she needed to be.
