Michael Makras, Owner, Optiko
Get outside as much as possible, try not to schedule anything and allow for spontaneity ...
Even before Michael Makras was admitted to the league of bespectacled folk, he noticed a lack of variety in the range of eyewear available to Brisbane denizens. So in 2005, after working in short stints at optometrists in the CBD, Michael decided to open Optiko, his own boutique optometrist. Stocking a discerning range of handmade designer frames in striking shapes and colours, Optiko amassed something of a cult following amongst those who don glasses each morning, leading to the opening of a second store on James Street in Fortitude Valley last year. Now his James Street locale has found its footing, Michael is focusing on nurturing his fledgling range of Optiko eyewear. Each piece in the range is a one-off, and is handcrafted in Germany in collaboration with Michael. The Weekend Edition sat down with Michael to discuss weekend rituals.
How do you like to start your weekend?
A leisurely ride with my daughters along the Goodwill Bridge, Brisbane River, City Botanic Gardens and back again.
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Saturday morning?
A bike ride followed by breakfast by the river with my family.
How do you like to unwind?
In winter, driving to Maleny. In summer, at any sandy beach.
What are your essentials for a well-spent weekend?
Get outside as much as possible, try not to schedule anything and allow for spontaneity.
What’s something you’ve been meaning to do on the weekend but haven’t got around to yet?
Where do I start ? Maybe sort out that garden!
What’s your favourite thing to do on a Sunday evening?
Dinner with the family and an early movie at home.
What are you looking forward to next weekend?
I’m off to Melbourne (woohoo!) … for a conference (boo!).
What are you reading at the moment?
The Dinner by Herman Koch.
What inspires you?
Honesty, integrity and my selfless parents for their unwavering support.
What was your childhood dream?
To fly to the moon … one day.
What has been your greatest achievement?
Putting together an amazing team at Optiko and bringing up two savvy daughters.
What is success to you?
Happiness.
What are your words of wisdom?
Enjoy the good and the bad, because YOLO!
Only a local would know that … the best freshly shucked oysters are to be had at George’s Seafoods in West End.
FAVOURITE WEEKEND SPOT TO:
Perk up … On my deck with a coffee.
Relax … In the water at Greenmount Beach.
Dine … The Servery, Woolloongabba.
Indulge … Degustation at Urbane, Brisbane City.
Shop … The Outpost, Fortitude Valley.
Catch-up … Around my dinner table with friends and a nice slow-cooked lamb shoulder.
Be inspired … GOMA, South Bank.