About Us
Who We Are
At Eyes First, we are more than just an optometry practice—we are a caring team of professionals dedicated to providing the highest quality personalized vision and eye health care for people of all ages. Proudly serving North Mississippi and Alabama for over 20 years, we have built lasting relationships with our patients, many of whom continue to trust us with their vision care—even after moving away.
Conveniently located in the Barnes Crossing area of Tupelo, MS, we offer a full range of comprehensive eye care services designed to meet your unique needs. Whether you need a routine vision exam, urgent red eye care, dry eye treatment, or advanced medical eye care, we are here to ensure you receive the best possible care with state-of-the-art technology and a patient-first approach.
Our Commitment to Your Eye Health
At Eyes First, we value the trust our patients place in us and are committed to improving your quality of life and vision wellness through:
- Superior Customer Service – We take the time to listen to your concerns and provide customized solutions.
- State-of-the-Art Technology – Our advanced diagnostic tools allow for early disease detection and accurate treatment plans.
- Comprehensive Vision & Medical Eye Care – From routine exams to specialized treatments, we offer full-service eye care under one roof.
We also believe in efficiency and convenience. Our advanced equipment allows us to minimize unnecessary specialist referrals, saving you both time and expense. You can also purchase contact lenses directly from us, with most orders arriving in just two business days. Plus, our partnership with Eyemart Express means you can get your glasses in about an hour in most cases.
Our Mission
At Eyes First, we are your expert team at the forefront of the eye care profession. With compassion and respect, we strive to positively impact every patient we serve. Our reputation for excellence is built on:
- Highly skilled and caring professionals
- Cutting-edge diagnostic and treatment facilities
- Personalized care tailored to each patient
We believe that every patient deserves the very best in vision care, and we are committed to providing it—every single day.
Dr. Steve Beaty – Optometrist
Dr. Steve Beaty’s passion for eye care began in the second grade, when he struggled to see the board in class. A visit to the eye doctor changed everything, sparking a lifelong passion for helping others achieve clear vision.
Education & Experience:
- Auburn University & University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB)
- Doctor of Optometry, UAB School of Optometry (1996)
- Residency in Family Practice Optometry, University Eye Institute, Houston, TX (Chief Resident)
Specialties:
- Family eye care
- Children’s vision
- Dry eye treatment
When he’s not in the office, Dr. Beaty enjoys spending time with his family, golfing, lifting, investing, and watching his kids play sports.
Dr. Samantha Beaty – Optometrist
A North Mississippi native, Dr. Samantha Beaty has always been dedicated to helping patients of all ages achieve optimal vision. She was the only Mississippi resident accepted to the UAB School of Optometry the year she applied.
Education & Experience:
- Itawamba Community College & Mississippi State University
- Doctor of Optometry, UAB School of Optometry
- Residency in Cornea & Contact Lenses, Houston, TX
Specialties:
- Specialty contact lenses (scleral, multifocal, & myopia control)
- Pediatric eye care
- Myopia management
Outside of work, Dr. Beaty enjoys hiking, biking, skiing, and traveling with her children.
Dr. Amanda Howell – Optometrist
Originally from Appleton, Wisconsin, Dr. Amanda Howell’s love for vision science and patient care led her to become an optometrist. She earned her Doctor of Optometry degree Magna Cum Laude, demonstrating her dedication to excellence.
Education & Experience:
- University of Wisconsin
- Doctor of Optometry, Southern College of Optometry (Memphis, TN) – Magna Cum Laude
Specialties:
- Ocular disease management and treatment
- Comprehensive family eye care
Outside the office, Dr. Howell enjoys reading, running, and spending time with her husband and their dog, Blu.
