Maria (l.) and Carla Domingues.
By Anthony Coelho
Observer Correspondent
“Business and blood don’t mix.”
That’s a phrase that is common in the workplace, and a rule of thumb for most businesses. But at Pink Vision Associates, they see things differently and succeed as a team by doing the exact opposite of how the saying goes.
Maria Domingues founded the company in February 2011, opening its first set of offices in Irvington, then Lyndhurst later that year. Before that, Maria had attended Rutgers University and the New Jersey Institute of Technology where she received her Bachelor of Science degree in Engineering Sciences in 2005.
She then went on to attend the Nova Southeastern College of Optometry in Ft. Lauderdale, Fla., where she received her Doctor of Optometry degree in 2009. Her optometric training was completed at the Eye Centers of South Florida, and at Aran Eye Associates in Coral Gables, Fla.
Carla Domingues, Maria’s younger sibling and right hand in the business, recently received her doctorate in Optometry while enrolled at the Pennsylvania College of Optometry. She had been accepted back in 2009. Prior to that, she attended Seton Hall University where she graduated cum laude, receiving her Bachelor of Science degree in Biology.
Along the way, Carla interned at various locations including the Liva Eye Center, Omni Services, and the Veterans Hospital of Lyons. She also worked at the Eye Institute of Philadelphia.
“You can definitely say my sister inspired me,” Carla said. “But it’s always been a passion of mine. I got my first taste of it when I was 14 years old working at a local optometrist’s office in Kearny.”
Carla, now 24, hopes to acquire more experience at Pink Vision’s new office, located in the heart of Fort Lee.
“It’s really rewarding, being able to combine everything you’ve learned and see it all come to life right away. I’m truly blessed,” Carla added.
Maria — who couldn’t be more proud — remains confident in Carla’s ability to contribute to the company.
“I’m just so excited for her. She’s so driven and professional. I wouldn’t have been able to do this without her. I know that this can only mean growth.”
